Today at 3pm - Governor Otter will present his State of the State (and Budget) address... last year his opening line of this same speech was:
"It's my great pleasure to report to you today, Idaho's economy is fundamentally sound..."
Oh, what a difference a year makes! Today, we'll most likely hear about our tough economy, job cuts, and where our state lawmakers plan to spend (or not spend) money. We'll have live coverage at 3pm, and then analysis from the KTVB team right after. You can also watch it all online at ktvb.com if you don't have access to a TV.
New numbers released say 50,000 Idahoans are looking for work right now! The unemployment rate is at 6.6%. I'm sure you know people who have recently lost jobs. I certainly do. It's so horrible. And you know what? I don't hear a lot of friends, family etc. complaining about their jobs these days, I used to hear that a lot. I think people are just grateful to be working... and realizing how fortunate they are. I know I am.
Just so the blog isn't all doom and gloom today - (that's never good on a Monday!) here is some positive news. Mortgage rates are down... Financial Planner Dave Petso says it's a great time to refinance, or buy if you are in a position to do so. There are some great deals out there in the housing market. You can get so much more house for your buck in this market! (Of course, I bought my house at the peak of housing prices... oh well, that's life as it is!)
One more thing to leave you with... Zoo Boise's baby red panda has come out of hiding to meet her public! She is super cute but looks more like a racoon to me, than a panda. What do you think?
This little panda is only one of 12 red pandas to have survived in the United States this year. We are so lucky to have her! She will be part of the African Plains Exhibit. The baby panda does not have a name yet, but there will be a competition to do that in the near future. I have a couple of ideas... how about Racoon-da? Panda-coon? I'm sure some smart kiddies at one of our local elementary schools will have way better ideas! They always seem to get to name the new animals at the zoo...
Enjoy your Monday!
