2012

Jul 13, 2012

Operation Twist

What kind of dance will the Federal Reserve be doing now that it’s renewed its version of the Twist? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jul 12, 2012

The latest on consumer debt

Updated numbers on consumer debt were just released. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes a look at the numbers and what they mean for the economy. 

Jul 11, 2012

Debate over dentistry

There’s a controversy playing out in North Carolina in the halls of the legislature as well as on the airwaves. It concerns the role of the State Dental Board in approving management contracts for the state dentists. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Jul 10, 2012

Juntos summit unites Latino students in quest for higher education and rewarding careers

Seventeen-year-old Arely Vasquez may not know what college she is going to attend or what she’d like to major in, but a couple things are for certain: She will be going. And she credits the Juntos program and its summer summit for keeping her motivated to do what it takes to get accepted at a top-tier school. 

Jul 10, 2012

Whole Foods Triangle stores join North Carolina’s 10% Campaign

Whole Foods Markets has pledged its support to the NC 10% Campaign, an initiative of the Center for Environmental Farming Systems that encourages consumers to purchase locally produced food. 

Jul 10, 2012

Stocks and bonds

The stock market has been riding a roller coaster recently. Is there any way for an investor to protect against the downs of the stock market and still earn a decent return? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jul 9, 2012

Tomato growers take note, late blight is early this year

Late blight, a plant disease that can kill tomato plants, has been found on North Carolina tomatoes earlier in the growing season this year than usual, and home gardeners who grow tomatoes may want to be aware of the threat. 

Jul 9, 2012

Why are gas prices down?

It seems like the unthinkable has happened. Gas prices -- after jumping in some regions to over $4 a gallon -- have now dropped for several months. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains what’s up – or, more precisely, down -- with gas prices. 

Jul 6, 2012

YOU DECIDE: Is the true inflation rate being hidden?

It often seems the inflation rate reported by the government doesn't square with our personal experience with the cost of living. What's going on? Mike Walden explains. 

Jul 6, 2012

A global slowdown

We’ve heard about the economic problems in Europe, and some economists now think Europe is in a recession. The recent job numbers in our country have also been disappointing. Is the entire world now going in reverse? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.