January 2014

Jan 15, 2014

Salary trends

Many of those concerned about the economy have focused recently on the unemployment rate and jobs. Perhaps an equally important issue is pay. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains that, over the past five years, salaries have not kept up with inflation. 

Jan 14, 2014

Prestage family donates 200 turkeys as part of N.C. State fundraising challenge

The second annual “Recent Grad Holiday Turkey Challenge,” a fundraising campaign led by the North Carolina State University Annual Giving Program, brought in $28,056 for the university, as well as 200 turkeys for those in need. 

Jan 14, 2014

The supply side of the health-care debate

To say that the new affordable care act has sparked controversy is an understatement, especially over consumer issues such as insurance costs and access to doctors and insurance. But some issues come from the producers' or suppliers' side, says N.C. State University economist Mike Walden. 

Jan 13, 2014

Competing economic outlooks

It’s been said that if you ask 10 economists a question, you’ll get 10 answers. As economists look into their crystal balls for 2014, what are their alternative views on… 

Jan 10, 2014

Should we revive apprenticeships?

Years ago, one way young people could train for an occupation was to work with experts in the fields they were interested in entering. These on-the-job programs are called apprenticeships, and some say we should bring them back. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains why. 

Jan 9, 2014

What are bit coins?

Host Mary Walden admits she's not a tech person but knows that bitcoins are a type of cyber mobey. Where do they come from? Who controls the amount? And why would anyone use them? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jan 8, 2014

The next big housing problem

The housing market appears to be recovering from its worst crash in history, but just as we are seeing the market return to some semblance of normality, there are warnings of another possible housing problem. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains the problem to host Mary Walden. 

Jan 7, 2014

Differences in jobless rates

Although the economy is improving and unemployment rates are falling, the job market is not good for everyone. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains to host Mary Walden who's having the toughest time landing a job. 

Jan 6, 2014

N.C. Cooperative Extension Service makes progress with reorganization

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service has wrapped up a series of 14 public listening sessions and is moving forward on schedule with its system-wide reorganization effort in 2014. Nearly 2,000 employees, volunteers, elected officials, agricultural producers and others participated in listening sessions in November and December. A new plan for Extension is expected by spring. 

Jan 6, 2014

Should we bring back apprenticeships?

Host Mary Walden remembers the father of her husband, N.C. State University economist Mike Walden, talking about coming home from World War II and becoming an apprentice. The economist a revival in apprenticeship programs in different areas of the country.