Forum History

Founded in 1956, the Public Affairs Forum provides a common meeting place for the interchange of ideas and to stimulate thinking on civic matters. Each week the forum brings together community leaders, members, and guests who care about what happens in Washington County, the Metro region, and our state.

Our season starts the first Monday after Labor Day and runs to early June. We meet at the Beaverton Elks Club, 3500 SW 104th Avenue, Beaverton, Oregon 97005-1941 from 11:45 am to 1 pm on Mondays except on major holidays. Occasionally, the forum sponsors a special program to discuss an issue of special importance.

Speakers from a wide range of disciplines in government, industry, science, the arts, and education address the Forum. Debates between candidates and speakers for and against ballot measures are a staple during election seasons. Members of the Forum are afforded the opportunity to question speakers, sometimes the most interesting part of the program.

The Forum is a neutral arena for education of members and the public by speakers on public policy. The Forum endorses no particular point of view and takes no responsibility for the opinions expressed by speakers, which are not necessarily the opinions of the Forum or its members.

Programs are videotaped by Tualatin Valley Community Access for broadcasting the following week. Annual dues are $30.00. Luncheon attendees pay $9.50 for lunch. The Forum is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected annually by the membership.