2012

Aug 24, 2012

The economic value of social media

Most users of social media -- such as Facebook and Twitter --probably look at them as ways to have fun and communicate with friends and family, but is there a serious side to these technologies, says N.C. State University economist Mike Walden. They are becoming a big part of the business world. 

Aug 23, 2012

More QE?

Many people speculate that the Federal Reserve will soon embark on another round of QE, or quantitative easing. What would this mean? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Aug 22, 2012

WVa workshop will address firewood processing

Extension agents and firewood-related businesses are invited to attend the Profitable Firewood Processing Workshop, Sept. 27, at the Wood Education and Resource Center, Princeton, W.Va. The day-long workshop (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.) is hosted by the Wood Products Extension Department at North Carolina State University, Wood Education and Resource Center and Independent Sawmill and Woodlot Magazine. 

Aug 22, 2012

Charles Stuber receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Charles Stuber, professor emeritus of genetics and director of the North Carolina State University Center for Plant Breeding and Applied Plant Genomics, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Association of Plant Breeders. 

Aug 22, 2012

Big changes are happening

Much of the economic news we hear is dismal, yet often we can see a glass half full rather than half empty. N.C. State University economist provides some glass-half-full examples… 

Aug 21, 2012

N.C. State's 'Pack 'N Cool' provides farmers with mobile refrigeration solution

N.C. State University’s Plants for Human Health Institute (PHHI) has developed a new mobile cooling unit for farmers. The five-by-eight-feet refrigerated trailer – called the “Pack ‘N Cool” – is designed to keep fruits and vegetables at ideal temperatures during transport to and from farmers markets or as they’re harvested in farm fields. 

Aug 21, 2012

Why does manufacturing matter?

Manufacturing is relatively a much smaller part of our economy than in the past. Some worry that eventually manufacturing in our country will disappear entirely. What would we lose if this happened? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Aug 20, 2012

Horn of Plenty is Extension's big 'thank you' to counties

Amidst dinosaurs, whales and science of all descriptions, more than 500 guests – county commissioners and their families – enjoyed all the features of Raleigh’s newest museum at N.C. Cooperative Extension’s annual Horn of Plenty dinner Aug. 17. The appreciation dinner is held during the N.C. Association of County Commissioners’ annual meeting. 

Aug 20, 2012

Peanut field day set for Sept. 6

N.C. State University's 60th Peanut Field Day will take place Sept. 6 at the Peanut Belt Research Station in Lewiston-Woodville, N.C. The event highlights the latest research into peanut breeding and variety development, disease and insect management and agronomy. 

Aug 20, 2012

What can states do to improve economic growth?

Most states, including North Carolina, want to create more jobs and lower their unemployment rates. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes a look at what can they do to accomplish these goals?