Lions Club, Das Kraut Haus snag chamber honors

ODESSA - In a spirited nod to March Madness, a small-town chamber banquet turned into a casual bash with game-day grub, comedy and a lively auction, uniting locals for awards and fun.

The Odessa event Saturday at Old Town Hall highlighted community honors, as Vice President Zach Schafer, 45, of Odessa, touted its role in building ties under a "big game day" theme.

The Odessa Chamber of Commerce named Das Kraut Haus Business of the Year, praising owners Alyssa and Winston Wade for growing it into a catering hub for weddings and events, plus weekly meals in a dining-scarce town.

"They both ... have a full-time job, and Alyssa keeps very busy with raising kids ... and they're just very hardworking folks, and [we] just couldn't be happier to have them as a part of our business community in Odessa," Schafer said.

The Odessa Lions Club earned Volunteers of the Year for aiding diverse projects, from their own to chamber and nonprofit efforts-a first for group recognition.

"The Lions Club has been so helpful with ... projects ... taking place in Odessa over the last year," Schafer said. "They've helped not only with the projects that they themselves are leading, but have also really leaned in to help with some other projects."

Attendees sported team T-shirts or hoodies for a relaxed feel, contrasting past St. Patrick's themes.

"We've always tried to do a theme that's fun," Schafer said. "With it being in March, we kind of went with a college or March Madness type feel."

The buffet offered Philly cheesesteaks, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers and Crumbl cookies, inspired by sports viewing and planned via a local catering tie-in to keep it casual versus upscale local dinners.

"What do you eat when you're watching sports? You know, wings and hot dogs and Philly cheesesteaks," Schafer said.

Guests liked the pick-and-choose buffet for its ease.

Comedy from Spokane's Robert Jeffers, Josiah Carlson, Charles Hall Jr. and Chris Jessop in that order stood out for its rarity and reception, differentiating from music-heavy events.

"We don't get a lot of comedy out in Odessa, so ... people look forward to it," Schafer said.

A happy hour boosted networking in the supportive community.

"Odessa always does a good job of coming together," Schafer said.

The Chinese auction included chamber donations like an inflatable hot tub and wine cooler; plus items from locals like gift cards, baskets, a dog stay, a Coeur d'Alene package and free monthly lunches.

Attendance matched priors despite tournament overlap, with positive casual-format feedback guiding futures; awards eyed ongoing impact.

"All the feedback was positive," Schafer said.