Changing seasons bring shifts in business – and daily life – across Central Oregon
BEND, Ore. {KTVZ} — Central Oregon’s familiar sunshine is slowly giving way to chilly mornings and crisp evenings. While the changing colors and cooler weather paint a beautiful picture, the seasonal shift is having a noticeable impact on both local businesses and people living on the streets.
As summer fades into fall, the rhythm of life across the region begins to change. Fewer tourists fill the sidewalks, and the busy hum of summer starts to quiet down.
“It can get a little bit slow in between, said an employee at 3rd Street Beverage. “And in the summertime, we're really busy with all the people coming here for the water, recreation and everything. And all the hiking and stuff we have around here. And leading into the wintertime, we get the skiers and of course the holidays. Everybody comes in and gets their alcohol and other beverages for other parties or, you know, family coming in.”
For some store owners, that slowdown provides a chance to regroup before the holiday season. But for others — especially those without a place to call home — the changing seasons can be at times, unbearable.
“Drastic. You can die out here,” said Nicholas Reta, a man and his fiancée, who are originally from California, but later moved to Redmond. Now, they are looking for shelter in Bend.
The arrival of fall often brings a mix of anticipation and concern across Central Oregon. Businesses prepare for the seasonal dip in foot traffic, while service providers brace for higher demand as temperatures drop and nights become harsher.
And as winter edges closer, it’s clear the change in seasons affects everyone — from those running a small business to those just trying to stay warm.
While Central Oregon winters can be unpredictable, one thing remains constant: every year, the shift from sunshine to snow brings big changes for everyone who calls this region home.
