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July 2011

Jul 8, 2011

Dueling studies

In debates about the impact of the state budget, studies are often provided measuring the impact on jobs as a result of various policies. For example, one study might show how many jobs might be kept if spending in a particular program is maintained, while another might show job creation if certain taxes are reduced. N.C. Cooperative Extension economist Mike Walden discusses ways the average person can judge these various studies. 

Jul 7, 2011

Turfgrass Field Day takes place Aug. 10

The latest research related to turfgrass will be the focus of an N.C. State University field day set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, in Raleigh. 

Jul 7, 2011

North Carolina’s economic recovery

One of the most watched economic barometers is something called the gross domestic product -- or the value of everything produced in an economy. We now have this measure for all states for 2010. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains what it shows for North Carolina. 

Jul 6, 2011

State FFA officers elected at Raleigh Convention

Four FFA members were elected state officers at the 2011-2012 State FFA Convention held at the Raleigh Convention Center June 21-23. New officers are State President John Stewart of Knightdale; State Vice President Caroline Tart of Goldsboro; State Vice President Beverly Hampton of Mount Ulla; State Vice President Katie Cauthen of Mount Pleasant; State Vice President Hannah Russell of Asheboro; and State Vice President Alyssa Ramsey of Marshall. 

Jul 6, 2011

Energy use

When it comes to energy and especially oil, we’re in a world market. This means changes in purchases of oil by other countries can impact the price we pay. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden gives examples of how this global market has impacted all of us. 

Jul 5, 2011

In Lee County, Extension supports tornado recovery

On April 16, Seth Holt was working on his farm in Lee County, when he saw a dark cloud headed his way. Holt, a Lee County agricultural Extension agent, took shelter from what turned out to be a major thunderstorm on his farm. But later he realized how lucky he had been when he saw the devastation that tornadoes had done to his county. 

Jul 5, 2011

Behnke wins national eXtension award

Dr. Andrew Behnke recently won the national 2011 eXtension Community of Practice Achievement Award. He was cited for his "technological innovation and extraordinary inclusiveness and generosity in sharing his skills and resources at the local, state and national levels." 

Jul 5, 2011

Used car prices

More people are going to car showrooms to shop for vehicles. For those shoppers who want a one-, two- or three-year-old car, the prices could be shocking, says N.C. Cooperative Extension economist Mike Walden. 

Jul 4, 2011

Tax facts

Taxes are always a subject for lively discussion. Do we have new data that show how North Carolina stacks up compared to other states? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jul 1, 2011

Household wealth update

Wealth, or the value of our assets minus our debts, is important to everyone. Each quarter new numbers on household wealth are released. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden discusses the latest batch.