By Sam Wilmes

Riverland Community College was named the Large Business of the Year Thursday at the annual Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce membership celebration at Wedgewood Cove.

Riverland was awarded based on scholarships the college has awarded, sponsored events and Riverland’s effort to provide the workforce the community needs, said Randy Kehr, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce.

“They are extraordinary partners in our community,” Kehr said.

This year is Riverland’s 75th anniversary. At least 300 tickets were sold last month at a Riverland Community College gala at Northbridge Mall.

Named as Medium Business of the Year was Erbert & Gerbert’s.

Kehr said the company, which opened in Albert Lea in 2012, was awarded for its involvement in education, including partnerships with local elementary schools and Albert Lea High School.

“This is a shining star in an organization that has more than 90 units throughout the upper Midwest,” Kehr said. “For them to have this kind of success is a testament to their owner and manager.”

Named as Small Business of the Year was Southern Lock & Glass.

Kehr said the company has been in business since 2008.

“They’ve achieved rapid growth,” he said.

According to Kehr, the company’s service area covers more than 400 miles in a five-state area.

“It’s a family owned business that understands customer service is everything,” he said.

Brian Olson was named as Ambassador of the Year, and Ruth Vermedahl was awarded a Lifetime Member Award.

Carole Bower was named Volunteer of the Year.

It was the chamber’s 135th annual meeting and membership celebration.

The speaker was Bill Michael, forensic specialist for Computer Forensic Services.