Visit to Salem Oregon

[bobmulk]

Colorado's population is pushing 5 million. Oregon's is pushing 4 million. Of course, Denver is much larger than Salem; it's larger than Portland.

[esya]

One of the characteristics of this country is its interstate system, but other countries have rail lines or buses or worse. The amount of money spent on permanent infrastructure is huge because we are a huge country, whether it's buildings to last or roads to last (Colorado is big on roads to get through the open country). I agree with the observation of how different it was, for example, on the wooden chinese buildings and American ones that require constant painting. China is trying hard to keep up. Roads and buildings all do require upkeep but short term projects don't provide long term stability for families, communities, etc. At this point I think we are all aware that we have to bend the balance a bit to provide futures for more workers, even if they work at self owned businesses.

I thought Salem was beautiful esp the area around the capital, even in January. But it is set in beautiful country regardless--the hills, rivers, and all. There is nothing more beautiful to me than rivers and farmland.

[Jasmine Moon]

I am considering a move to Salem. I have done much research about the area. Much of what I read is wonderful, but I found that there are 5 mental hospitals and 5 prisons and I wonder how safe is Salem to live in? If someone could tell me there spin on this it would help me to feel a little more certain of how to decide about a move to Salem.