This week on the Forum, listen to four soccer-team organizers and players talk about how the growth in the US popularity of the game has helped bring to the Mid-Willamette Valley community many economic benefits, as well as a rallying point for residents and immigrants,  and even a region-wide theme for a library reading program.

This week on the Forum, Hear a review of plans and accomplishments in the annual “State of the County” address by the three Marion County Commissioners. From eclipse emergency planning to the red-hot issue of the third bridge over the Willamette river, the insiders gave the lowdown on how they’ve coped with the big issues facing local government, and what’s ahead.

This week on The Forum two separate recordings are combined. First, it's Oregon Governor Kate Brown delivering her "State of the State" message. Second, the inimitable Peter Courtney, president of the state senate, outlines priorities for the short legislative session this year.

This week on the Forum, the pollution-management programs called “Cap and Trade” are part of national and world negotiations, as utilities and state leaders consider putting a price on Oregon’s carbon emissions.

Bill Bradbury is a former state lawmaker, secretary of state, and even ran for governor a few years ago.  Today, he serves on the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. In this week’s edition of The Forum we hear him review some facts and statistics about the effects of climate change in Oregon.

Miriam Sontz sees a new generation of readers growing up with "real" books in their laps, but also sees business owners and employees struggling with the competition of online sales and the urgent cost of living and need for healthcare.

Advocates discuss pros and cons of the upcoming statewide vote on Measure 101, a tax expansion measure aimed at countering the rising cost of healthcare and shrinking federal funding for health coverage for many Oregonians.

Forum producer, Stella Shaffer, compiled a "Best Of" Forum episode for a year-end look at 2017.

Mary Lou Boderman, music and drama program coordinator for Salem/Keizer public schools, speaks to Salem City Club about how music program in the district builds community.

Marion County Deputy District Attorney Paige Clarkson and Sheriff Jason Myers explained how local law enforcement tackled the opiate crisis locally, and how they’ve teamed up to combat addiction.