June 2011

Jun 14, 2011

Dueling inflation measures

People are increasingly worried about inflation, but to know if inflation is a problem we have to be able to accurately measure it. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains various options. 

Jun 13, 2011

The Baltic Dry Index

We’re always looking for indicators of the economic future. One rather good indicator is called the Baltic Dry Index. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains what this simple index is. 

Jun 13, 2011

'Almanac Gardener' resumes on WUNC-TV

“Almanac Gardener” resumes its run on WUNC-TV on June 18. Taking viewers through the finer points of garden planning, maintenance and blooming innovation, the show features Mike Gray and fellow experts from the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at N.C. State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. 

Jun 10, 2011

YOU DECIDE: What's holding back the economy?

Spring brought us hot temperatures and a cool economy. Mike Walden evaluates the chances for a robust economic recovery and better job growth. 

Jun 10, 2011

Renting makes a comeback

Owning a home has long been a part of the American dream, but, of course, home buying has gone through a tremendous financial upheaval in recent years. As a result, are we seeing this part of the American dream change? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jun 9, 2011

Private and public jobs

We’ve had fairly good job reports in both the nation and North Carolina during the past couple of months. However, one big negative sticks out -- the decline in public-sector jobs. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains what's going on. 

Jun 8, 2011

N.C. Hay Field Day set for July 19

The latest technology and research related to hay production will be the topic of an N.C. State University field day July 19 at the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville. 

Jun 8, 2011

Look for gas prices to drop

Gas prices have begun to fall. Why? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Jun 7, 2011

Bertie County farmer: Investment in Extension and research yields big-bang gains

Colerain farmer and agribusiness owner Norman Perry is not a fan of what he calls big government. But when it comes to public funding for North Carolina agricultural research and extension, he’s sold. The money that goes to North Carolina Cooperative Extension and the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service “is some of the best bang-for-the-buck money that you can achieve,” he said. 

Jun 7, 2011

Where do we stand?

Whenever a North Carolina budget is passed, it looks like a reduction in the state corporate income tax rate will be a part of it. Is the move to reduce this tax rate because we are far out of line with other states? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.