Bruce Willis closes some businesses at Hailey during slack' season

HAILEY, Idaho -- The cottage industry referred to by some as "Willisville" has hesitated, causing concern for some locals.

Last year, actor Bruce Willis reorganized his Valley Entertainment venture by refocusing operations at The Mint and putting up for sale property in the Wood River Valley and Boise.

Earlier this month, The Mint's marquee which names the upcoming bands was changed to "Closed for Slack," the first time the establishment has done so. Slack is the slow time between skiing season and when tourists start to arrive in numbers.

And patrons of Shorty's, Hailey's most popular breakfast restaurant, were greeted by a locked door and "Closed Until Further Notice."

"Shorty's and The Mint are closed as a direct function of slack," wrote Valley Entertainment president Michelle McElroy in a statement.

"With the exception of real estate, it is nearly impossible to keep a business open 12 months a year in this valley unless it is well subsidized. We have seen how slack hurts our local businesses by the many openings and closings over the last three years." She said The Mint has shows lined up.

Shorty's opened about two years ago and the vintage diner is generally crowded all day long.

"The good thing is that we've had somebody like Mr. Willis make a major contribution to the benefit of our city," Mayor Brad Siemer said. "The downside could be an all-our-eggs-in-one-basket' scenario and any ramifications from that."