10/18/2017
Thank You!
We appreciate the many concerned inquiries, thoughts, and prayers from our customers, vendors, and friends of Cable Car Classics. We are glad to report that we are back open, ready to serve our customers after evacuating our campus for a few days in the midst of nearby Sonoma County wildfires.
The Tubb's and Pocket fires burned closest, reaching 4-5 miles away at one point, which is nothing if winds shifted as forecasted. Flames reached 50 feet from our president, Matt Etchell's home as he and his brother Greg (a firefighter) defended it. Thankfully, a bulldozer came along just in time to cut a fire break as it was reaching trees adjacent to the house.
We salute and affirm the dedication and tireless efforts of thousands of first responders, firefighters (10,000, from as far away as Canada and Australia), law enforcement, National Guard, PG&E utility workers; as well as the amazing Air Attack tanker planes and helicopters that reached steep rocky ridges and canyons inaccessible on foot. Their combined service for over a week now has these and most other area fires nearing containment. Evacuation Orders are being lifted, and roads reopened.
As final containment and mop-up continues; now begins the long process of re-population, cleanup, rebuilding, grieving losses, re-establishing a sense of normalcy; and for many, dealing with PTSD. Our communities in Sonoma and Napa Counties have seen an outpouring of love and bonding together, not unlike I recall experiencing after 9/11. People wave to strangers, we ask how each other are doing, we share our stories, we encourage each other to be safe, and acknowledge that we're all in this together. We pray for healing, restoration, and blessings during these trying times, and those that follow.
Despite the permanent changes to our landscape, some historic landmarks, and our collective psyche's, we will move forward. Despite this devastating tragedy, the smoke is lifting, and October/November are still beautiful here in the North Bay Wine Country. Businesses are reopening, many that depend on Fall tourism. So, please don't forget that despite our losses, there is still plenty to come see. World famous vineyards, wineries, restaurants, and other attractions located on the valley floors are mostly untouched. Soon we will reach out with open arms to welcome you back.
Meanwhile, our little trolley world at Cable Car Classics is also ready to resume creating beautiful theme transportation, and providing ongoing customer service, and replacement parts.
Thanks again,
Rick Ward
Sales & Marketing Director