It has been five years since the Creek Fire became one of the largest wildfires in California history. The fire destroyed more than 850 homes, burned nearly 380,000 acres across Fresno and Madera counties, and left mountain communities forever changed.
Among the most iconic losses was Cressman’s General Store near Shaver Lake. The landmark had been a hub for locals, cabin owners, and travelers for more than a century. When the Creek Fire swept through in September 2020, the store – and the home and business of Ty and Tara Gillet – was reduced to rubble.
It’s overwhelming, but you don’t have that luxury or that option of being overwhelmed. You just do what you have to do, whatever it takes to take care of family…