Yellowstone tourism creates $560 million in economic benefits
A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows 3.8 million people to Yellowstone National Park in 2020 spent more than $444 million in communities near the park.
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Grand Teton tourism creates $754 million in economic benefits
A new National Park Service report shows almost 3.3 million visitors to Grand Teton National Park in 2020 spent more than $598 million in communities near the park.
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Idaho Falls, Pocatello Texas Roadhouse locations to host hiring event
As local diners return to their favorite restaurants, Texas Roadhouse is staffing up.
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Idaho Dept. of Finance warns investors about virtual currency
The director if the Idaho Department of Finance is warning people of the risks of investing in cryptocurrency.
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Pocatello Mayor fears new property tax law will jeopardize growth
A new property tax law that aimed to lessen the burden on homeowners has city officials sounding the alarm.
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Report: More women in Utah leaving health care industry
A newly released report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has shown more women in the health care industry are leaving the profession as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
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Help Wanted: Idaho’s “job-seeker market” makes it hard to hire
‘Help Wanted’ signs are glaring at drivers along Yellowstone Ave. in Pocatello, begging people to apply for a job.
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Used car prices rising as new vehicles in short supply
Car dealerships in the area are having a hard time keeping their new vehicle inventory stocked, so buyers are turning to used cars instead.
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Housing shortage impacting first time buyers, renters
A cutthroat housing market is seriously impacting first time home buyers and renters in Southeast Idaho.
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New wedding venues to open near Pocatello
The Gate City area is expanding the limited options for couples to tie the knot.
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Strike teams armor Idaho ag and mining workers against COVID-19
Idaho’s agriculture and mining industries are protecting themselves against the coronavirus.
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Do stimulus payments affect your taxes?
You probably got a stimulus payment in 2020 and possibly another one in January 2021 or you’re still waiting on it.
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Economists predict avoiding another housing bubble
As we head into a new, long-term housing boom, there are concerns this phenomenon combined with staggeringly high unemployment levels could send us into another economic crisis.
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ISU Professor reacts to crazy week on Wall Street
It was a tumultuous week on Wall Street, with the gaming company GameStop’s stock being the subject of controversy.
Users of the website Reddit collaborated to push the stock of GameStop up by 400%.
East Idaho job market recovering, some counties faster than others
Due to Idaho’s diverse economy, some counties have had a more difficult time bouncing back, while others seem to be blooming.
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Employment numbers improve in much of Idaho
The Idaho Department of Labor reports the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in December.
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Analysis: Idaho enjoys $277 million surplus
The independent Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy reports that when budget cuts, holdbacks, and Medicaid savings are excluded, Idaho’s budget surplus is estimated at $277 million.
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#IdahoKind campaign aims to serve one million hungry Idahoans
The Idaho Foodbank is asking Idahoans to show them just how kind we are.
Continue Reading Retail sales decline for third straight month
US retail sales dropped last month, the Commerce Department said Friday, marking the third straight month without any growth. Retail sales fell 0.7% in December from the month prior. Economists surveyed by Refinitiv expected sales to be flat. The Commerce Department also revised November’s data lower from a 1.1% decline to a 1.4% drop. America’s
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Idaho group to try for recreational marijuana in 2022
Groups of Idaho activists are renewing the effort to legalize marijuana, both for medicinal and recreational purposes.
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New CEO takes over Bannock Development, to focus on digital footprint
There’s a new face at the helm of Bannock Development, a nonprofit focused on the continued growth of the county.
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Wyoming announces hospitality and non-profit relief
Wyoming has launched a new relief program specifically for the hospitality and non-profit sector.
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Celebrating Small Business Saturday will help local shops stay open
Your part in this year’s Small Business Saturday is more critical than ever before.
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Small business gets day of recognition
As part of a national movement, the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce has proclaimed November 28 as “Small Business Saturday.”
Continue Reading Farm Bureau survey shows food cost decline
The American Farm Bureau says the cost of an average Thanksgiving dinner is down 4% this year over last.
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Millions out of work, economists claiming different story – here’s the lowdown on the ‘hidden’ gig economy
We’re seeing a record number of people out of work, and what could be an even larger, unprecedented number of gig workers who are unaccounted for, yet economists continue to claim our unemployment numbers are lowering.
Something’s not adding-up.
Idaho processes over 8 thousand new unemployment claims
8,143 claims for continuing unemployment insurance benefits were filed with the Idaho Department of Labor in the week ending November 7.
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City Council discusses economic development during work session
The Pocatello City Council gathered at City Hall for their regular work session. As part of their agenda, the council talked about the economic development in Pocatello and the surrounding region.
Continue Reading Fiscal group calls out economic hardship in Idaho
The independent Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy reports pandemic-related unemployment and income loss are still widespread across the state, especially among middle and lower income families.
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Idaho businesses urge people to use ‘common sense’ as COVID-19 cases rise
The Idaho Business for Education published an open letter, urging Idahoans to listen to doctors and use “good old Idaho common sense.”
Continue Reading Study: Federal emergency funding boosted state income
Idaho’s share of federal pandemic aid has effectively boosted the state’s annual personal income by at least 5.4% or an average $2,723.
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Idaho experiencing “shecession” as local moms take brunt of economic crisis
Moms are taking the brunt of the economic crisis, leading some to call this a “shecession.”
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Pocatello airport recovering from COVID-19 shutdowns
The air travel industry has taken a hit from the pandemic. Even small airports, like the Pocatello Regional Airport, felt the impacts.
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Wyoming oil, gas downturn continues to take toll on economy
Low oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic continue to take a toll on Wyoming’s economy, according to a new state report.
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A thrift store is doing its part to help the community
First Street Thrift in Idaho Falls is open and serving the community during the pandemic. “If it wasn’t for the community, we couldn’t exist, and the other way around,” Executive Director of the Idaho Falls Rescue Mission, Tyler Perkins said. “We have to exist to have a healthy community.” Just like other stores, the Rescue
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BBB says scammers are out taking advantage of the pandemic
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – The Better Business Bureau says scammers are out taking advantage of recent natural disasters and the pandemic. A new strategy is that they will call or send a fake COVID-19 test. “You know unfortunately we see this type of scam here in Eastern Idaho, all over the state of Idaho,
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Chubbuck asking for public input on plans for Downtown
The City of Chubbuck is asking the public to weigh in on their plans to create a downtown.
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Idaho Falls development continues; Intermountain Packing to open beef and bison processing plant
As the pandemic has ripped away the greater sense of normalcy around the world, many businesses are continuing to feel the financial effects. The economic development coordinator for the city of Idaho Falls, Dana Briggs, says our community may not belong within those statistics.
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Elevation Labs celebrates 25 years of business
Unlike most businesses, they are booming during the pandemic.
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Housing Preservation Program provides rental assistance for those affected by COVID-19
A Housing Preservation Program is providing rental assistance for those affected by COVID-19.
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New market in Old Town Pocatello aims to support local artisans
There’s a new place for Pocatellans to support local artists.
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Tax professionals are calling this season a horror story
This year’s tax season is being referred to as a horror story, with the IRS experiencing a backlog and more people needing professional help.
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Wyoming governor: 10% cuts submitted, 10% more to follow
Wyoming state agencies have submitted plans for 10% budget cuts that could eliminate services for children and the elderly and slash funding for mental health programs, Gov. Mark Gordon said.
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Pay It Forward: God’s Home of Compassion
A small local food pantry helps people meet the challenges of the COVID-19 shutdown.
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Saturday is ‘Back in Business Day’ in Idaho Falls
In an effort to encourage community members to shop local, Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper proclaimed tomorrow, Saturday June 27th, as ‘Back in Business Day’.
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Incoming cold storage facility expected to heat up ag industry
The facility is expected to help the local ag industry reach across the nation and into other countries.
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Idaho unemployment rate falls to 8.9% in May
Idaho’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 8.9% in May.
Continue Reading Utah says economy recover plan won’t risk residents health
Utah state leaders said Wednesday that updated plans intended to help drive economic recovery won’t compromise the health of residents even though the state is experiencing a multi-week rise in cases.
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Grand Teton creates $796 Million in local economic benefits
A recent National Park Service report shows in 2019, 3.4 million park visitors spent an estimated $630 million in local gateway regions while visiting Grand Teton National Park.
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Yellowstone tourism creates $642 million in economic benefits
A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows 4 million people visiting Yellowstone in 2019 spent $507 million in communities near the park.
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Idaho ‘Economic Reboot’ conference set for 1 p.m., open to the public
A community meeting is helping local businesses get back on their feet after being shut down for more than a month due to the pandemic.
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Bannock County property values keep rising as assessments go out
Property assessments were sent out on June 1.
Continue Reading Amy’s Kitchen confirms employees test positive for COVID-19, working with SIPH to ensure safety
Amy’s Kitchen confirmed on Wednesday that an employee at the Pocatello plant tested positive for COVID-19.
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“Losses are outstanding:” bar owners hit hard during shut down
Zero bar sales, no patrons and little financial guidance made it difficult for bars to get through the spring.
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Movies are back: theaters plan to reopen after Governor gives OK
Royal Theaters plan to open the Blackfoot Movie Mill and the Paramount Theater in Idaho Falls on Saturday.
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How is COVID-19 impacting Eastern Idaho’s economy?
“Each county in Idaho when you compare the economies of each county they’re very different from each other. “
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Meat Madness: local vendors, restaurants impacted by meat supply chain
Prices rising, restaurants nixing menu items, and animals going to waste: the state of the supply chain in a nut shell.
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“Just want to put Pocatello on the map:” new podcast spotlights local entrepreneurs
Ward features a different community leader in each episode to talk about their trials and successes in the business world.
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Drivers urged to use online services as DMVs tackle backlog from COVID-19
The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is urging drivers to use online services to help reduce crowds and wait times at our local DMVs.
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Farm-to-table CSAs growing during pandemic, saving local farm
Community Supported Agriculture, or CSAs, are gaining popularity across the country. And they’re saving farmers.
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Showing and selling cars in a new way
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – The COVID-19 pandemic has also hit car dealerships. One in East Idaho is getting creative with how they sell. “You know it hasn’t been as crazy as we thought it would be,” Stones GM, Kyle Stringham said. Stones Automotive Group has brought in digital retailing. It helps them find what
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USDA food purchase benefits potatoes and dairy
A new USDA program will allow the government to purchase $470 million in food during the third quarter of 2020.
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PRT asking for $3.4 million from CARES act
With travel limited to essential trips, Pocatello Regional Transit is seeing significant revenue losses.
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Small Businesses need to apply quickly for second round of PPP loans
Small businesses that were left out of the first wave of SBA loans are being urged to quickly apply for the next round of loans available through the Paycheck Protection Program.
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Northgate development finishing “phase two”
Developers are finishing what they call “phase two” of the project.
Continue Reading Supply chain issues impacting local cattle market
Coronavirus has impacted the supply chain for much of the food industry and the local cattle market is feeling the effects.
Continue Reading Local businesses excited to reopen under Gov. Little’s plan
Businesses such as salons and restaurants will be able to resume regular business during the second stage, should all criteria be met. With a target date of May 16, many businesses are hoping to see things get back on track.
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Wyoming working towards “re-opening”
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon unveiled a plan Thursday aimed at easing restrictions and resuming some activities in the state.
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Teton County works towards “stabilization”
Teton County officials are shooting for a mid-May reopening of parts of the Jackson Hole business community.
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EIPH hope for economic recovery and safe openings for businesses
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – Businesses have been creative in taking new approaches to keep customers safe during this pandemic. The Eastern Idaho Public Health Department is trying to get more places back up and running. “We talked about the social distancing measures and it’s something that we need to maybe consider as a new
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Small business emergency money runs out, new grant opens today
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce created the Save Small Business Initiative, which starts accepting applications at 1:00 p.m. on Monday.
Continue Reading Small business struggles as loan program dries up
Some small businesses in Eastern Idaho are being dealt a blow in terms of assistance.
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Diaper donation arrives at the food bank
A large donation arrived Thursday morning at the Idaho Community Food Basket warehouse.
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Using your new money wisely
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – You may be checking your bank app waiting for the government to send you a direct deposit. Many Americans are starting to get their stimulus checks from the federal government this week. Financial experts say you need to use that money sparingly. “Everybody’s situation is going to certainly vary in
Continue Reading Tough times at Tough Guy Lanes
Many businesses are facing hard times due to social distancing protocols, especially ones that rely on customer participation. For example – bowling.
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Tax day is not today in Idaho
This April 15 is like few others before.
Continue Reading COVID-19 changing real estate practices
Coronavirus-related safety precautions may make real estate traditions, like open houses and agents driving potential buyers from house to house, things of the past.
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Airports to receive federal CARES funds
Regional airports will land a share of Federal Aviation Administration funding under the federal CARES Act.
Continue Reading Policy watchdog reviews Idaho unemployment
The Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy says Idaho has taken steps to protect workers, but could do more.
Continue Reading Movie theaters looking for silver linings during closure
Nobody knows for sure when the next time you’ll be able to walk into a movie theatre is. But, despite the closures, there’s still some action going on at area theaters.
Continue Reading Local business alternatives for groceries
RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK)- What’s old is new again at two Eastern Idaho dairy farms. At Reed’s Dairy, the classic milkman is appearing on more doorsteps. Alan Reed the dairy’s president says demand for their drive thru and delivery service has grown. Reed says, “This has become very popular over the last month with all of
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People buying more chicks thanks to coronavirus
People nationally and locally are buying more hens in order to prepare for a potential egg shortage (there isn’t one).
Continue Reading Low gas prices and slow business: Local gas stations feeling the effects of coronavirus
Normally, low prices drive people to the pumps, but the coronavirus has seemingly caused many to step on the brakes.
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How to make rent during the pandemic
They say home is where the heart is but that can be a big issue for renters.
Continue Reading Videographer helping local businesses stay active on social media
Times are tough for numerous local businesses. One local videographer is working to help keep them active on social media.
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With slack demand gas prices continue to dip
A lack of demand and cratering oil prices continues to push gas prices lower.
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Resources for small businesses affected by coronavirus
Small businesses are experiencing the collateral damage of the coronavirus shut downs.
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Report: Big travel, tourism hit likely in Wyoming from virus
A report says Wyoming could lose more than 26,000 jobs by summer as a result of business shutdowns and isolation measures to contain the coronavirus.
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Teton Valley: Come visit some other time
Mayors of Driggs and Victor are asking people not to visit.
Continue Reading Idaho unemployment claims skyrocket
Idaho’s claims for unemployment insurance jumped by 1200% this week.
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Essential businesses to remain open, Who qualifies?
The state is working on a comprehensive list of essential and non-essential businesses, but here’s some guidance.
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Relief in the form of food for Idaho educators
RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK)- In difficult times we can always find comfort in Idaho’s best. For, Jefferson Joint School District 251, that relief came in the form of potatoes. Employees lined up this morning to get a bag of potatoes from the district offices. Cars and district staff maintained social distance as they handed them out.
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Restaurants are trying to deal with the stay at home order
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – Restaurants are used to competing for diners throughout the year, but due to COVID-19, local restaurants are just trying to stay afloat. “Being in this community and our kids growing up in this community, it’s a difficult deal right now,” Owner of The Firehouse Grill, Kevin La Fleur said. For
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Gas prices drop to lowest level since 2002
As the Coronavirus destroys oil demand, the world is seeing the lowest oil prices in 18 years, according to GasBuddy.
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Grocery stores hanging “help wanted” signs to meet COVID-19 demand
Some stores that are remaining open during the outbreak are offering a little financial relief for those laid off.
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Local grocery stores take a stance on shoppers over-purchasing
Starting this week at least 5 local markets are taking steps to reduce shoppers over-purchasing.
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Governor Little and state health director address COVID-19 concerns
News anchor Todd Kunz talks with Idaho Governor Brad Little and Dave Jeppesen, Idaho Director of Health and Welfare about the current COVID-19 assessment in the state.
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3 steps to staying in business during COVID-19 outbreak
Businesses are quickly feeling the global impact of the coronavirus, but there could be a glimmer of hope.
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USPS to fill 80 positions in Idaho and Utah
The United States Postal Service is looking to fill 80 positions in Utah and Idaho immediately.
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Local restaurants adapting to coronavirus changes
Local restaurants are making tough decisions to maintain safety and keep business running.
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