While credence is due to the investigative reporting that uncovered the lack of data collection of Eugene’s Community Court program (“Courting a Problem,” Jan. 31), along with the need for further refinement prior to touting the program’s success, we should also recognize the benefits of the innovative program.
Kudos are due to those city officials who spearheaded the effort to receive $200,000 in federal dollars for program creation, mitigating the cost for the Eugene tax-payer.
Secondly, recognition that our traditional court system is failing us and taking a step towards something more collaborative shows that our leaders may just be listening to their constituents. Gratitude is owed to the volunteers and staff, including the amiable law enforcement officers, who are always present at the event openly building relationships with vulnerable community members.
Lastly, the data shows more than 1,800 persons have used Community Court to access supportive services and community resources, a lifeline for those in need. Creating no-barrier and equitable access to area resources serves as an innovative and invaluable diversion effort for Eugene.
For those who may find themselves in a hard place, all are welcome to access area supports every Friday, from 10 am to 3 pm in the first-floor conference room of the Eugene Library.
Travis Baker
Eugene
A Note From the Publisher
Dear Readers,
The last two years have been some of the hardest in Eugene Weekly’s 43 years. There were moments when keeping the paper alive felt uncertain. And yet, here we are — still publishing, still investigating, still showing up every week.
That’s because of you!
Not just because of financial support (though that matters enormously), but because of the emails, notes, conversations, encouragement and ideas you shared along the way. You reminded us why this paper exists and who it’s for.
Listening to readers has always been at the heart of Eugene Weekly. This year, that meant launching our popular weekly Activist Alert column, after many of you told us there was no single, reliable place to find information about rallies, meetings and ways to get involved. You asked. We responded.
We’ve also continued to deepen the coverage that sets Eugene Weekly apart, including our in-depth reporting on local real estate development through Bricks & Mortar — digging into what’s being built, who’s behind it and how those decisions shape our community.
And, of course, we’ve continued to bring you the stories and features many of you depend on: investigations and local government reporting, arts and culture coverage, sudoku and crossword puzzles, Savage Love, and our extensive community events calendar. We feature award-winning stories by University of Oregon student reporters getting real world journalism experience. All free. In print and online.
None of this happens by accident. It happens because readers step up and say: this matters.
As we head into a new year, please consider supporting Eugene Weekly if you’re able. Every dollar helps keep us digging, questioning, celebrating — and yes, occasionally annoying exactly the right people. We consider that a public service.
Thank you for standing with us!
Publisher
Eugene Weekly
P.S. If you’d like to talk about supporting EW, I’d love to hear from you!
jody@eugeneweekly.com
(541) 484-0519
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