Harris County District Clerk (HCDC) Loren Jackson and Comcast today announced a new public service announcement (PSA) promoting Jury Service in Harris County. The 30-second spot, which is a generous in-kind donation from Comcast, will air from Tuesday, Sept. 1 to Saturday, Oct. 31.

“I would like to thank Comcast for their willingness to provide production services and lend expertise in helping us promote this important message,” Jackson said. “Jury Service is fundamental to our democracy. As our courts depend on citizens to participate in this critical judicial process, my office will continue working to promote this vital civic service.”

Today’s announcement with Comcast is part of Loren Jackson’s initiative to increase jury service participation in Harris County. By raising Jury Service participation by only five percent, Jackson’s efforts would save taxpayers up to $100, 000 a year in associated mailing and processing costs. In conjunction with the Jury Service PSA, the HCDC office will host Juror Appreciation Week, Sept. 14 - Sept. 18, 2009. 

“Harris County District Clerk Juror Appreciation Week was created to thank all of the citizens of Harris County who report for Jury Service for their participation and contribution,” Jackson said. “A lot of our citizens still do not report for Jury Service. I believe it is because they are unaware of the value of our judicial system and the vital role of jurors. Increasing participation in Jury Service will help to ensure that our juries are reflective of our county’s rich diversity. ”

The PSA is centered on the theme, “What Did You Do Today?” which kicks off the overall message that participating in Jury Service can be exciting and rewarding and potentially change what could be just another ordinary day.

To learn more about Jury Service, visit the HCDC Web site at http://www.hcdistrictclerk.com.