Idaho Matters

As Idahoans endure weeks of wildfire smoke each summer, a neurologist is warning that what we breathe doesn't just irritate our lungs — it may be harming our brains as well. 

It’s Friday, which means it's time for our Reporter Roundtable when Idaho Matters gets you up to date on all the news that made headlines this past week.

A new podcast is telling the story of a group of surfers who trained alongside firefighters and were put to the test when one of California's most destructive wildfires tore through Los Angeles County. 

In rural Fremont County, the Idaho Art Lab is inspiring creativity with hands-on classes, maker spaces and exhibits that showcase artists of all levels. 

It's Wednesday and time for our Doctor Roundtable with Dr. David Pate.

Over a 20 year period ending in 2023, Idaho's population grew abut three times faster than the U.S. average. With that growth came a lot of changes to the Gem State, especially in rural areas. 

The Community Canvas project in Elmore County is bringing beauty to the walls of businesses, parks and sheds for free. 

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to focus on the role that consistent, supportive adults can play in the lives of young people. 

Roughly two-thirds of teenagers are using AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, when they need someone to talk to. People are drawn to AI for mental health because it's free and accessible, but experts stress it does not replace the empathy found from real people. 

You can get a grant to fund your own 250th anniversary project from the City of Boise.