February 2011

Feb 28, 2011

Why aren't jobs returning?

Many economic indicators have improved over the last year, but one that has trailed in gains has been jobs. Why is that? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Feb 28, 2011

Happy Campers

Like many university-owned facilities, North Carolina’s five 4-H camps and educational centers suffered from years of deferred maintenance. And though the familiar rustic facilities held fond summer camp memories for generations of 4-H’ers, 4-H youth development leaders knew it was time for an upgrade. In 2007 and 2008, the N.C. General Assembly allocated $11.5 million for renovations and new facilities at the state’s 4-H camps. Summer 2010 marked the first camping season that 4-H’ers were able to utilize many of these new facilities. 

Feb 25, 2011

We're back to where we were

By one economic measure, the economy has finally recovered -- what was lost, by that measure, has been regained. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Feb 24, 2011

Safrit receives Meritorious Service Award

The National Association of Extension 4-H Agents (NAE4-HA) has honored Dr. R. Dale Safrit of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, N.C. State University. 

Feb 24, 2011

Workshops on farmers' market management planned

N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will offer day-long workshops on farmers' market management in Union and Pasquotank counties in March. 

Feb 24, 2011

Some improvement in the housing market

There were some big smiles among workers in the housing industry when the latest sales numbers were released. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden talks about the source of that optimism? 

Feb 23, 2011

Extension unveils latest "Showstopper Plants" at upcoming garden shows

Cooperative Extension will debut the 2011 “Showstopper Plants” at two garden shows this spring. Look for the Extension Gardener display at the Southern Spring Home & Garden Show, March 2-6, at the Park Expo and Conference Center in Charlotte, and at the Southern Ideal Home Show, April 1-3, at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. 

Feb 23, 2011

CEFS' Creamer to speak at USDA forum

Nancy Creamer, director of the Center for Environmental Farming Systems, will participate Thursday in the USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum 2011 in Washington, D.C. In a session titled Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Through Regional Food Sheds, Creamer will speak about North Carolina’s leadership in building local food economies. 

Feb 23, 2011

Atchley awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine

One of the the most prestigious awards granted by the governor of North Carolina, the order is presented to individuals who have a proven record of extraordinary service to the state. 

Feb 23, 2011

How did we do?

As the economy slowly begins to turn for the better, maybe it is valuable to look back and see how North Carolina did economically speaking in recent years. Some say we made very little progress at all. Did we? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.