@ the OP......
Because it just is.
^^^ This!!!
BTW, when I moved from San Diego to La Grande in 1980, I moved here because of the many natural attributes and the culture; one of those that did not want to change anything here. Gradually the college seems to be taking over and since timber is no longer king, along with the proggies from Bend, the area does seem to be changing to a more prog outlook. Fortunately it is not more than 50/50 so far, maybe less. I hope less. (see what I did there?)
Last Edited: