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Bozeman in photographs: A new normal

Bozeman in photographs: A new normal
The Rialto Theater sits closed until further notice in accordance with Montana's shelter-in-place order.

The growing influence of the COVID-19 pandemic has altered Bozeman on many levels and transformed the day-to-day routine of students and residents. Shelter-in-place guidelines implemented across the nation in order to slow the spread of the virus interrupted popular Bozeman habits, leading local businesses to close or limit their services. The transition to online coursework for MSU after Spring Break emptied campus, and adapted plans for graduation eliminated the traditional commencement ceremony. 

Although the new and isolated routines adopted by residents may have left the town with an unfamiliar face, Bozemanites have found ways to maintain its familiar culture by supporting fellow residents and small businesses and enjoying the outdoors in new ways. Just because the town may look deserted does not mean that the people who form its personality are gone.

The billboard of the Ellen Theater displays an optimistic message for passersby.
A customer enters Rice to pick up a carry-out order, one habit that is supporting local businesses in the midst of the pandemic.
An empty Main Street is reflected in the doors of the closed El Camino bar, one of many businesses which has altered its services in response to the virus.
Common spaces in Jake Jabs Hall are packed up for the semester as the MSU campus is closed to in-person classes.
Skiers trek up the slopes of Bridger Bowl, which shut down operations for the 2020 season on March 15 in response to the rapid spread of COVID-19.
Norm's Cafe, a space commonly occupied by students, sits empty following the transition to online learning at MSU.

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