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.

National Volunteer Week - Idahoans are Generous with their Time

This is National Volunteer Week, and according to NationalService.gov, Idahoans volunteer almost 54 hours per person, per year. That ranks the state third nationwide in terms of most time served. Almost 375,000 of us volunteer each year. The Idaho Food Bank sent out a special call for volunteers this week to prepare for the Letter Carriers Food Drive in May. Looking for other volunteer opportunities? This federal government link has an interactive program to hook people up with programs.