Laurel Elementary Principal Melinda Lee and parents Eileen Collins and Holly Lilienthal were named citizens of the month at the May 27 City Council meeting because of their tireless efforts in spearheading the campaign to make a new school playground a reality. The playground was installed by volunteers from the school and community on May 30.

"They wanted this playground so badly and were so focused on getting it for their kids, they slept, ate, breathed, fought and lived playground for the past two years," said Council President Gayle Snyder.

The playground was funded by a grant from KaBoom, a national nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance for groups to build playgrounds.

In accepting the plaque from the city, Lee thanked those who worked on the playground campaign and said, "Everybody in the city helped make this possible. If not for your support, it wouldn't have been possible."

Also during the council meeting, Laurel resident Bobbi McCeney was recognized for receiving the city's Golden Shovel Award for excellence in landscaping. Her yard at Fourth and Main streets is landscaped with azaleas and flowers. (For a photo of the award presentation, go to www.laurelleader.com).

The Laurel Civic Improvement Committee gives the award monthly during the growing season to residents and businesses who have beautified their property.

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