Letter to the Editor

I am writing this public expression with deepest gratitude for the incredible yard work assistance I received, provided by the United Way of Eddy County and the Intrepid Cares Yard Assistance Program.

Thanks for the wonderful partnership and coordination of the recent lawn service program, which is such a meaningful project. The program assists residents who are financially or physically unable to maintain their properties. I especially want to commend the Executive Director of the United Way, Kyle Marksteiner, for his continued outstanding leadership and oversight of this initiative and overall other services and projects in our community.

We are so lucky to have such a driving force in our community. It is very admirable to see Kyle engage in projects, not just on a professional or physical level but on a personal level as well. I am a great believer in Stewardship to all, and Kyle exemplifies just that.

My lawn was recently completed at the end of May, and the peace of mind it brought is unmeasurable. As a proud longtime resident of Carlsbad approaching my senior years, who needed a helping hand, United Way and Intrepid volunteers and two sweet teens stepped in, along with myself doing what I could to assist with my lawn that was overrun with weeds.

We certainly had our work cut out for us, and Kyle and the volunteers did not hesitate to jump right in, from cutting tall weeds with pruners in comparison to being in a cornfield maze, to Jazmine and Daniel moving BBQ grills to make clearance to do mowing and weed-whacking, they truly went above and beyond by going out of their way to track down the right equipment for the task at hand. And the two teens tirelessly bagged all the debris and placed the bags curbside; their muscle and hard work did not go unnoticed.

I was so touched to see these beautiful two young teens willing to step up to take this task. I hope they continue the path of having a kind spirit and heart of Service to anyone in any situation. I wish them both the best. Shout out to the parents doing the work every day to raise respectful, kindhearted humans. You are appreciated.

I deeply appreciate the volunteer’s thoughtfulness in starting in the early morning to beat the sun. Although we did catch a glimpse of it, we managed to brave the heat to finish the project.

Thank you, I sincerely appreciate everyone’s help. God bless you and yours.

Sincerely, Antonia Robledo