I must admit the state of homelessness in Eugene is indeed very sad. Every time I see a homeless person walking around with all their worldly belongings I feel so horrible for them. I’m also so grateful that it is not me. I truly cannot imagine what life would be like being in that situation. A daily nightmare.
With the recent clear-out under the Washington Jefferson bridge, I can’t help but wonder how difficult this decision must have been for our city leaders. I realize the action seems quite harsh but, sadly, I feel it is necessary. The level of filth that must have been accumulating, coupled with the proximity of its occupants, was ripe for a super spreader situation in this time of global pandemic. The level of tolerance and empathy Eugene’s citizens have is refreshing.
I say to these people, reach out and invite one of those so many that need help to come to your house. Perhaps they can set up a camp in your backyard. You can provide them sanitation stations and food. I am sure it would be greatly appreciated. So, who is ready for that? Anybody?
John Carlson
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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