Pump Prices Ease
Pump prices are easing across much of the country, including in Oregon. The average price of regular in Florence is currently $3.73 a gallon. Nationally, the average fell seven cents to $3.17, while Oregon’s average dipped two cents to $3.98. Crude oil prices have plunged to around $60 a barrel due to global economic concerns and increased output from OPEC+, putting downward pressure on prices that typically rise this time of year. AAA Oregon’s Marie Dodds says market volatility and refinery maintenance continue to play a role in regional fluctuations.
Transit District Survey
Lane Transit District passengers can take an online survey starting Tuesday, April 22, to help LTD assess customer satisfaction and identify service improvements. The confidential survey, available at LTD.org through May 19, takes about five minutes to complete. Paper copies will also be offered at the Eugene and Springfield stations. Participants will be entered to win one of two $100 Fred Meyer gift cards. LTD, which operates daily service between Florence and Eugene, is one of 25 U.S. agencies participating in the national benchmarking study.
Alcohol Awareness Month
Three Oregon agencies are recognizing April as Alcohol Awareness Month, highlighting the dangers of excessive drinking. The Oregon Health Authority, Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission, and OLCC say heavy and binge drinking is the third leading cause of preventable death in Oregon, contributing to liver disease, cancer, injuries, and motor vehicle crashes. About one in five adults in Oregon drinks excessively. Officials urge reflection on drinking habits, especially around youth, and encourage safer community environments through education, ID checks, and healthier social norms.
Organization Looks for More Finances
A state-funded matched savings program has helped low-income Oregonians for over 25 years. But now, backers say it needs more funding to continue. Participants in the Oregon Individual Development Account Initiative save money toward specific goals – like buying a home or vehicle, or going to college – while working with local nonprofits. Once they reach their savings goal, the state matches it at a 5-to-1 ratio, helping build long-term financial stability. Abi Brambila is a first-generation college graduate and small business owner – who credits the I-D-A program. She says the financial support made college possible, and its budgeting classes gave her confidence.
“These skills are going to take you further than any amount of money. For me, it really has been life-changing, and I do believe that other people deserve to get into a program like this.”
Despite rising costs for goals like education and homeownership, I-D-A program funding has remained flat for 15 years. Advocates are asking the legislature to update the funding to reflect inflation.
