Recent Trends Autumn has arrived in the Mid-Columbia region and pear harvests are under way with some varieties remaining in the fields well into October. Public schools are back in session, and Columbia River windsurfers and kite boarders sail away with the warm weather. Recreation and tourism-dependent businesses like accommodation and food services will cut seasonal jobs. Unemployment levels will fall in Hood River County, reflecting its pear harvest, while Gilliam, Sherman, Wasco and Wheeler counties will see a gradual rise in jobless Published Oct-1-2009 ...more
