Eight Counties Lose Population

The U.S. Census Bureau is out with new population numbers for legislative redistricting. Eight counties have seen population declines: Shoshone, Clearwater, Elmore, Minidoka, Butte, Clark, Caribou and Bear Lake.

Commute to Work in Idaho: Plan on 20 minutes

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it takes about 20 minutes to get to work each day in Idaho. True for you?

Idaho Fire Fighter Pay - $17.06/hr

According to the Idaho Department of Labor, fire fighters in the Gem State earn an average of $17.06 per hour.

Flu Makes Appearance in Idaho

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reports cases are resulting in hospitalizations. Cover your sneeze, please. And still time to consider an immunization. Stats from last year's flu season: 23 people died of flu complications and 309 were hospitalized.

Great American Smokeout: 17.9% of Idahoans Smoke

Today is the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout. The idea is for smokers to prove to themselves that they can quit for 24 hours, and to encourage them to make a plan to quit forever. The American Cancer Society's most recent survey shows 70% want to kick the habit. 187,000 Idahoans smoke, according to the CDC, which also blames those cigarettes for 1,500 deaths per year. Cold turkey used to be a popular option for those wanting to quit, but it's not the best method anymore, with an ACS expert explaining that there is more nicotine and additives in cigarettes these days that make addiction stronger.

Idaho in the Middle for Everything...Except Income

Source
American life expectancy, education and earnings by state

Idaho 7th "Most Conservative"

The latest political tracking by Gallup pegs Idaho as 7th most conservative. Those surveyed were asked to self-identify along the political spectrum for this project.