Dear Editor,
Carol Martinez has taken on the worthy role as champion of the Wreaths Across America project for our Valley. She and her fellow volunteers should be commented for their dedication and hard work because it is very hard work to lead an effort such as this. This project is to purchase a Christmas wreath so it can be placed on a grave of a loved one or a fallen troop member, whether at Homelake or another cemetery.
Carol has the very lofty goal this year of being able to place a wreath on all 1,508+ veteran gravesites at Homelake at Christmas time. Many of these gravesites do not have family living here in the Valley or some family members do not participate.
Carol currently has sufficient commitments to cover about one-half of the wreaths as of now with some commitments still coming in. I am asking the SLV community to come together and help Carol with this wonderful project she has taken on. The people who have been buried at Homelake at some point gave a significant portion of their life to serve our country. Or as the case of Carol and Ron’s son, Glen, who is buried at Homelake, the ultimate sacrifice – his life defending all of us. If you have not been to Homelake to see the wreaths when they are in place, it is extremely beautiful.
I am respectfully asking all SLV residents to think about contributing what they can for the Wreaths Across America project at Homelake. You can also purchase a wreath and take to another cemetery. I do this as not all military veterans are buried at Homelake, plus wreaths can be placed on anyone’s grave  to honor that special person at Christmas time. The cost of a wreath is $15 each. I know for some, even the purchase of one wreath would be a very significant financial commitment, but how good would that make you feel, particularly at Christmas time. An example if want to purchase more wreaths, five wreaths would cost $75. Please consider contributing what you can. Carol’s contact info is 719-849-1830 or P.O. Box 181, Monte Vista, CO 81144. Orders and payments are due Nov. 22.
There are actually several wonderful projects going on at Homelake. The church has been totally remodeled and will be dedicated on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov.  11 at 1 p.m. Come and check the church out that day. Plus, the “old Administration” building is also in the process of revitalization lead by a group of volunteers.
Please help support this great cause with a dollar contribution that meets your financial condition. Thanks,
Karla Shriver,
SLV resident