On Saturday, parents of children attending United Preschool were invited to join staff, Board of Directors members and other volunteers to help update playground equipment. Deteriorating pieces were removed and a new super-sized sandbox was added.

According to United Preschool Director Judith Kluever, &8220;We are very fortunate to have this group of dedicated volunteers. People willing to open their hearts and share their time and talents are part of every successful nonprofit organization.&8221; The 2007-08 school year represents United Preschool&8217;s 46th year of educating Albert Lea&8217;s children. Registrations are currently being accepted for the 2008-09 year.

When asked what the children thought when they saw the new sandbox, Kluever replied, &8220;They all wanted in at once! There were trucks, buckets and shovels in every hand possible.&8221; According to Kluever, the sandbox provides United Preschool children with new and exciting opportunities for exploration, creativity and problem-solving which are a part of the foundation for more advanced academic learning in the years to come.

A very special &8220;thank you&8221; is also extended to the following Albert Lea businesses for their generous donations to this project: Albert Lea Paint & Glass, The Home Depot and Ulland Bros.