By Geri McShane, assisstant editor

Laverne Peters of Albert Lea has been recognized as a Hometown Hero by Modern Woodmen of America, a fraternal organization represented locally by Lynda Vermedahl of Twin Lakes.

Modern Woodmen of America presents the Hometown Hero Award each year to people dedicated to serving others. With the award comes a $100 check to present to a local charitable organization of the honoree’s choice. Peters chose to donate her check to Semcac Senior Dining.

Peters said she hopes helping older adults. &8220;It’s been my life work for 30 years,&8221; she said.

When her husband of 48 years passed away seven years ago, she began to put a lot of time into helping at the Albert Lea Art Center and at her church.

&8220;If someone needs help, I try to be there for them,&8221; she said. &8220;Whenever anybody calls, I come.&8221;

Peters has a son, Curtis Peters and his wife, Jennifer, who live in White Bear Lake. She also has two grandchildren, Blake and Lauring.