Here are a few of the many thank-you
notes we have received.
Dear Maria,
Just a note to thank you for the good work on my car. I really
appreciateyour honesty and attention to detail on explaining the
intricacies of an automobile. It's important to feel comfortable
with those who work on my car. You and your staff have provided
that with the utmost professionalism.
Thanks again, CS
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This one was a "letter to
the editor" and forwarded to me by the Argus Courier:
11/21/00
Editor,
I want to share with your readers the incredibly empowering encounter
I had Aug. 18 at Out West Garage in Petaluma. The person I dealt
with was the owner, Maria do Céu.
As with other women, and perhaps men, I disliked dealing with
garages servicing or repairing my vehicle. I had my share of being
patronized by car mechanics. I am sure there were repairs done
which the car didn't need. But that day, for a change, I found
myself in the presence of a woman who knew what she was talking
about when discussing cars, and wants you, the customer, to understand
it without belittling you or insulting your intelligence.
She conducted the procedure of determining what the car needed
in an easy and ethical way. She was patient and willing to explain
details, pointing out the areas I needed to pay attention to and
prioritizing the future needs of my vehicle to keep it safe and
operable. She was helpful in providing practical information on
how to purchase new tires, clueing me into what I needed to consider
and how not to get swayed by certain things. Her garage does not
sell or replace tires, thus she had no monetary interest in the
outcome.
The positive energy Maria infused into the transaction energized
me for the rest of the day. Compared to some of the experiences
I had, where deceptions and mind games left me drained of energy
and feeling like I had been through the mangle, Maria was the
proverbial sent from heaven. To see people like her in this world,
and in this town, who act with integrity toward others, was heartwarming
indeed.
I was raised on another continent, brought up to treat others
with respect. I understand it used to be valued in this country
once. But there has been a grievous erosion in the ethical fiber
of people's conduct toward each other, and it is detrimental to
the humanity of all of us. Maria represents in my mind a counterbalance
to this sad trend. Petaluma is really lucky to have her among
its citizens.
May she prosper in her work here, and continue to provide such
a stellar example to us all. EZ
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July 21, 2000
Maria,
Just a note to say thank you for taking care of my aging Accord.
It passed the 300,000 mile mark this week and I want you to know
I am glad to have you for my mechanic. It is reassuring to have
someone competent and professional available when you need her.
I apologize for my stupidity around the radiator. I should not
have made my finances your concern. I'll try to be more conscientious
in the future.
Thanks again, ST
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June 24, 2000
Dear Maria,
Your courteous response to my stupid "problem" on Friday
was remarkable.
My only excuse, if that term can be used, is that I just was totally
unaware of the window lock button and just pushed it inadvertently.
Thursday evening I drove home in the dark, which I hate, and the
rheostat must have been in the dark position. I was sure I'd tested
it when I got home, but I was so tired I obviously did not. I'm
embarrassed, JS
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Dear, Maria,
Your unexpected gift of kindness was overwhelming - I hung up
the phone after speaking with you and promptly burst into tears...
We wouldn't know where to begin to tell you how much this means
to us and how incredibly grateful we are, so we'll just leave
it at this and needless to say you have yet again thrilled us
to the tits!
Thank you, wonderful woman - S & J
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Dear Maria,
No more oil changes for me in this millennium - but plenty of
blessings for you with my gratitude for your unending patience,
generosity and kindness. May your holidays be filled with love
and laughter, and the peace that's at the core of all things.
With appreciation and affection, Z
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