Kehr is new Chamber board chairman

Published 12:00 am Friday, November 30, 2001

Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce selected Randy Kehr as its new board chairman.

Friday, November 30, 2001

Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce selected Randy Kehr as its new board chairman. Kehr addressed the organization’s members at its 122nd annual meeting Thursday.

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Kehr emphasized that the chamber would more actively involve itself in local public policy.

&uot;It’s my belief that a community’s environment is a reflection of the way it acts. If we desire a change in our environment, we must begin to act differently,&uot; Kehr said.

He stated the chamber has been taking stands on policies that directly affect the welfare of the local community.

Commitments to support the school levy referendum and to encourage cultural diversity are among recent examples, according to Kehr.

Kehr asked the members to be active participants in the Chamber’s efforts. &uot;All points of view are welcomed and will be considered. We will always attempt to make informed, educated decisions,&uot; he said.

Kehr also asked members to support each other.

&uot;We must make conscious decisions to do business with our fellow members and, though them, the community as a whole,&uot; he said.

&uot;You may have to make an effort by having a retailer order your product, by sitting through an interview with a banker, or looking a little longer for your product,&uot; he said. &uot;It might even cost you a few dollars more. But consider the paybacks that come with it.&uot;

Referring the stagnated-looking local economy, Kehr stressed that the future of Albert Lea can be better only through actions. &uot;Tough times never last, but tough people do,&uot; he said.