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Store closes after fire cuts power supply ASHLAND -- A fire Tuesday afternoon damaged the apartment atop the Northwest Nature Shop, and a power shutoff linked to the fire may force a temporary closure of the downtown store. The shop itself, which occupies the downstairs portion of 154 Oak St., was not damaged by the fire. But Assistant Fire Chief Don Paul said that overall damage to the building could exceed $12,000, depending on how much of the roof will have to be replaced. Paul said inspectors would determine today whether it was safe to turn on the power, allowing the business to reopen. Paul said the fire, which occurred after 2 p.m., started in the heating unit upstairs. No one was in the apartment, which the fire made unusable. "It is obvious to us where it started," he said. "But we have not determined why yet." Bystanders said they could see smoke coming from the attic. Paul, who also is fire marshal, said investigators would take another look today. Owner Mike Uhtoff was not at the shop, but co-owner Kathy Uhtoff was busy moving books and other materials to prevent damage from water seepage from upstairs. Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1998, Medford, Oregon USA