Kemmerer and Diamondville came alive on Saturday, Sept. 6, as nearly 150 community members gathered for the Fossil Basin Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala. The event brought together business owners, employees, nonprofits and citizens for an evening filled with laughter, recognition and community spirit.
The gala has become one of the area’s most anticipated events, serving as both a celebration and a fundraiser. Proceeds go directly back into chamber projects that fuel the local economy, support business growth, expand community events and fund new initiatives that strengthen the community.
“This night is about more than awards,” the chamber said in a statement to the Gazette. “It is about giving business owners a chance to let loose, celebrate each other, and feel the appreciation of a community that recognizes how hard everyone works year-round. Every person, every business owner, every employee, and every volunteer plays a role in creating a community we can all be proud of.”
The Fossil Basin Chamber continues to evolve, with recent accomplishments including new community events, expanded member benefits, and successful fundraising efforts that directly support revitalization projects.
“What we have accomplished so far is just the beginning,” the statement said. “We plan to keep fine-tuning what we offer and making everything we do even better.”
The chamber also emphasized the importance of volunteer involvement.
“The more volunteers we have, the more we can accomplish. Anyone can join the Chamber as an individual and help us support our community. Fresh ideas and helping hands are what keep us moving forward.”
2025 award winners
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of eight awards recognizing excellence in business, service and community leadership:
• Business of the Year – Anderson Tax & Consulting
• Community Impact – Willow Springs
• Excellence in Service – In Stone Fossils
• Employer of the Year – Bomgaars
• Legacy Award – Neilson’s Furniture
• Citizen of the Year – Vance McGahey
• Volunteer Spirit – Vance McGahey
• Nonprofit Organization – Hamsfork Museum
“Each recipient and nominee exemplifies the qualities that make our community unique: commitment, integrity, generosity and a dedication to lifting others up,” the statement said.
Chamber officials said this year’s gala would not have been possible without the generous support of the following sponsors: Popp Media Group, Krell Enterprises, Willow Springs Natural Artesian Spring Water, Nicole & Trevor Anderson, TerraPower, Wyoming Range Hunting & Fishing Expo, Opera House Store, Tynsky’s Fossils, Williams Companym, Kemmerer Operation, Guild Mortgage and Star Valley Health.
The chamber also extended its gratitude to all the businesses and individuals who donated items and experiences for the auction and raffle. Their generosity allowed the chamber to showcase local talent and hard work while raising funds to reinvest in the community.
A night to remember
The rustic atmosphere, heartfelt speeches, and overwhelming community support created a memorable evening. Guests enjoyed great company, celebrated their neighbors’ achievements, and left with a renewed sense of pride in the place they call home.
“This gala proves just how strong our community is,” the chamber’s statement said. “When nearly 150 people come together to celebrate, it is proof that what we are working toward matters. The spirit of our community is alive, and it is contagious.”
