Local businesses chilled by fires

With the evacuation of Black Butte Ranch and closure of Highway 20 due to the Cache Mountain fire, Sisters' businesses saw a sharp decline in sales Monday.

"Black Butte Ranch is the hub for the retail business in Sisters, that and Highway 20," said John Keenan, owner/manager of Bronco Billy's Ranch Grill.

There were 60 percent fewer customers at Bronco Billy's Monday, forcing the restaurant to cut its wait staff in half Monday evening.

Jeff Perin, owner/operator of The Fly Fisher's Place, confirmed the negative effect that the Cache Mountain fire has had on business.

With the closure of Highway 20, the main entrance to Camp Sherman and the Metolius River was cut off from Sisters.

"This is definitely our worst day since February," said Perin who was focusing on internet sales and booking guide trips for next week.

While sales were slow, The Sisters Pumphouse gas station made a last minute decision to stay open 24 hours a day until the fire becomes contained.

"There's not a whole lot we can do in town, we figure this will help," said Assistant Manager Jennifer Sears.

Sears said that the gas station, which normally closes at 10 p.m., sold gas all night Sunday to evacuees and firefighters.

While many businesses suffered, the Bright Spot espresso stand kept busy through the day.

"We're getting a lot of the firefighters and the regulars," said barrista Resa Hodson.