OHA Reports Deficiencies in Student Health
A new report from the Oregon Health Authority reveals that more than one in five Oregon eighth- and 11th-graders had unmet mental or physical health needs in 2022. Students cited barriers such as lack of insurance, long wait times, and stigma around seeking help. Researchers say emotional isolation and feeling unheard are major themes. Deputy State Health Officer Dr. Tom Jeanne says the findings show many students are struggling and don’t feel seen — and that mental and physical health are deeply connected. The report urges stronger school-based and community support to help Oregon youth access care and thrive.
Triangle Lake UTV Death
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a recurring phone scam. Callers posing as deputies are claiming victims missed jury duty or court and must pay fines to avoid arrest — often demanding payment through Bitcoin or other digital methods. Officials emphasize the Sheriff’s Office will never ask for money by phone, text, or email, and will never call about missed jury duty. Anyone who receives such a call should hang up and report it to law enforcement.
Scam Alert
Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a fatal UTV crash Monday evening on BLM Road 16-7-30 near Triangle Lake. Fire personnel determined a male passenger was deceased at the scene. Investigators say the UTV rolled, fatally injuring the passenger, who may have been wearing a seat belt but not a helmet. The driver, 49-year-old Walter Frederick Rogers of Gresham, showed signs of impairment and was arrested for DUI. Rogers was lodged at the Lane County Jail, and additional charges are pending. The victim’s identity is being withheld until family is notified.
Deflection Program Anniversary
Lane County’s Deflection Program is offering a successful alternative to jail and prosecution for people facing low-level drug or quality-of-life offenses. Instead of arrest, eligible individuals are connected to treatment and support through peer navigators and partner organizations. In its first year, the program has graduated 23 participants, with 71 more currently enrolled and on the path to recovery. An open house celebrating the program’s first year will be held Wednesday, October 22, from 1 to 3 p.m. at 680 Tyler Street in Eugene.
Gas Prices
Gas prices are cooling off like the fall weather. The national average for a gallon of regular has slipped three cents to $3.05, and the Oregon average is down seven cents to $4.01 — nearing its first dip below four dollars since early September when the Olympic Pipeline outage sent prices soaring. AAA’s Marie Dodds says drivers should continue to see slow and steady relief at the pump, with some stations across the country already selling gas below two dollars a gallon. Crude oil prices under $60 a barrel, lower demand, cheaper winter-blend fuel, and increased production by OPEC+ are all helping push prices down. The average price in Florence is currently $3.89 a gallon.
