Community Steps Up as Firefighters Battle the Rock Fire; Copper Top BBQ Gives Back

Community Steps Up as Firefighters Battle the Rock Fire; Copper Top BBQ Gives Back

As the Rock Fire continues to threaten parts of the Owens Valley, one thing has become abundantly clear: our community is standing behind the men and women risking everything to protect it.

Since igniting near Black Rock Springs Road and Highway 395, the fire has grown rapidly due to dry fuels, steep terrain, and challenging wind conditions. The incident has prompted evacuation orders and warnings, temporary highway closures, and a massive response from local, state, and federal fire agencies working around the clock to keep communities safe.

Among those showing their appreciation is Big Pine’s own Copper Top BBQ.

Owner Matthew Kerley-Otten announced that any firefighter actively assigned to the Rock Fire would receive 50% off all food at the restaurant.

“We are constantly reminded that we would have lost everything time and time again without these hardworking men and women protecting us,” Kerley-Otten said. “Serving them is the best way we know how to say thank you.”

What began as a simple gesture of gratitude quickly turned into something much bigger.

Word spread through the fire camps, and before long firefighters from CAL FIRE, the Big Pine Fire Department, and other agencies began stopping in for meals after long shifts on the fire line.

“It was a great turnout,” Kerley-Otten said. “It made us proud to serve the guys and gals who were literally saving our town from disaster.”

Then came another act of generosity that perfectly captured the spirit of the Eastern Sierra.

After hearing about Copper Top BBQ’s offer all the way from Las Vegas, a mother called the restaurant with a simple request: she wanted to purchase 40 meals for the firefighters. Copper Top honored the order at the same 50% discounted rate, helping ensure dozens more firefighters received a hot meal while continuing the difficult work of protecting our communities.

It’s a reminder that while wildfires test our resilience, they also reveal the best in people. Firefighters spend long days and nights in dangerous conditions, often far from their families, making split-second decisions to protect lives, homes, businesses, and public lands. Behind every engine and every hand crew is someone willing to put themselves in harm’s way so others can remain safe.

Acts like those from Copper Top BBQ—and from community members who quietly pitch in however they can—may seem small compared to the scale of a wildfire, but to firefighters working exhausting shifts, a hot meal and a heartfelt thank you can mean more than most people realize.

Eastern Sierra NOW extends its sincere gratitude to every firefighter, law enforcement officer, dispatcher, public works employee, volunteer, and support staff member working tirelessly on the Rock Fire. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed.

About Copper Top BBQ

Copper Top BBQ is located in Big Pine and has become a favorite stop for both locals and travelers, serving slow-smoked barbecue, sandwiches, sides, desserts, and its popular snow cones during the summer months. To learn more, view their menu, or contact the restaurant, visit their Facebook page or stop by the restaurant in Big Pine.

If you’re in town, consider supporting businesses like Copper Top BBQ that are giving back to those who are giving everything for our community.

News Staff