Yesterday, an uncontrolled wildfire started in the foothills surrounding Wenatchee. The dry condition of the hillsides combined with high winds and unseasonably hot temperatures caused the uncontained fire to quickly spread. At the time of this writing, 28 homes have been reported as lost to the fire including two homes belonging to CMI employees. Several business warehouses are still burning this morning in Wenatchee.
Our hearts and prayers go out to our employees, friends, residents and businesses impacted by the fire.
Thankfully, all CMI warehouse facilities and orchards are outside the fire zone. We are operating at full capacity. We are continuing to pack and load cherries for our customers. Peak cherry production is hitting now, so it is critical that our customers understand that despite the fires our doors are open, we are shipping cherries and all orders will be filled.
For those wishing to support those impacted by the fire, donations can be made to the Wenatchee Chapter of the American Red Cross, 12 Orondo Ave., Wenatchee, WA 98801. Phone: 509-663-3907.
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About CMI
Columbia Marketing International (CMI) is one of Washington State’s largest growers, shippers and packers of premium quality pears, apples, cherries and organics. Based in Wenatchee, WA, CMI delivers outstanding fruit across the U.S.A. and exports to over 60 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.cmiapples.com
Source: Columbia Marketing International (CMI)