December 2011

Dec 12, 2011

Good news on GDP

Most economists seem to cheer the latest news on the economy. Gross domestic product, the broadest measure of the economy, rose 2.5 percent on an annual basis in the third quarter. What does this mean? Why is it important? And should we be happy? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Dec 12, 2011

Scholarship to honor innovative agribusinessman

The late Livio Ferruzzi, an agricultural business entrepreneur and innovator with a global reach and local presence, was honored Dec. 8 when family, friends and associates gathered at the Center for Marine Science and Technology in Morehead City to establish an N.C. State University scholarship endowment in his name. 

Dec 9, 2011

Right as rain

When it comes to lessening the effects of water pollution, residential and commercial rain gardens are becoming increasingly popular in North Carolina, thanks in large part to N.C. State University and its Cooperative Extension Service. 

Dec 9, 2011

YOU DECIDE: Why is it hard to get a loan?

Why aren't banks and other institutions making loans? Mike Walden discusses. 

Dec 9, 2011

New poverty measures

Poverty is a major barometer of our economy, but measuring it can be tricky. The U.S. Census, which counts poverty, made some major changes in its calculation methods. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Dec 8, 2011

Organic meat processor approved, NC Choices announces

In a boon to the local and niche meat industry in North Carolina, a Taylorsville meat processing company has been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to process certified organic meats. 

Dec 8, 2011

The age wealth gap

A report was just released documenting how differences in wealth between the young and the elderly have changed in recent decades. In terms of wealth, are we coming together or growing apart? N.C. State University economist answers. 

Dec 7, 2011

Is the import honeymoon over?

Products from foreign countries are often lower in price. But is this advantage of imports disappearing? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden discusses. 

Dec 6, 2011

Researchers seek new treatments for strawberry diseases

Researchers at North Carolina State University will use funding from a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant to help southern strawberry growers battle some common plant diseases. 

Dec 6, 2011

Cheaper to buy?

There are really two real estate markets for consumers: the buying market and the renting market. They don’t necessarily move in the same direction. What has been happening to prices in each market, and what does that imply about the relative benefits of buying a home or renting? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.