WILKES-BARRE -- This was the last day of operation for a cab company in Wilkes-Barre. Posten Taxi had been in business for more than 100 years.
One of the last people you'll see driving a Posten Taxi in Wilkes-Barre was behind the wheel Friday. She and all the other Posten cabbies were told Friday morning to drop off the taxis and go home when the Posten Taxi owner suddenly decided to shut down.
"They're a good transportation department and that was my favorite cab company, so I wish them all good luck and they would reopen as soon as possible," said Marcy Stelma of Wilkes-Barre.
But that doesn't seem likely.
Posten Taxi released this statement:
"After 100 years of faithfully serving our community, it is with great sadness that Posten Taxi announces it will no longer be providing taxi service. We are deeply honored to have had the opportunity and wish to extend our heartfelt thanks for many years of loyal patronage."
Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton told us that this is a loss to the city, but history tells us when one business closes, another will soon open up.
The Posten Taxi owner told Newswatch 16 he was closing because of hard economic times, but those who use Posten Taxis don't buy it.
"All of a sudden, they just closed down and I don't understand why they did that because I know they was making their money," said Mark Stelma, of Wilkes-Barre.
"I would at least expect a warning or something."
Latrice Smith lives in Edwardsville but works in Wilkes-Barre. She says she uses Posten Taxi every day and isn't looking forward to using other cab companies.
"Now I have to walk halfway or take the white cab, but I don't like the white cabs, but I got to do what I have to do," said Latrice Smith, of Edwardsville.
We were told there was no notice given to Posten Taxi employees or its customers before Friday.
Four full-time employees are being let go as well as a number of independent contractors. Customers are being directed to call Burgit City Taxi, now the only cab company left in Wilkes-Barre.