News

Dec 12, 2012

Better spending power

Economists and others are always looking for indicators for future trends. One indicator suggests consumer finances are vastly improved, thereby setting the stage for faster growth. What is this positive measure? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Dec 11, 2012

Is more borrowing a good sign?

Government data show consumer borrowing for mortgages, car loans and other reasons is beginning to rise after several years of falling. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether this is a positive sign for the economy – or if it means trouble ahead. 

Dec 10, 2012

Workers and economic growth

Although the economy has been expanding and jobs have been increasing, the pace of improvement has been slow. Does this mean we’re stuck with unemployment rates much higher than we’d like? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Dec 7, 2012

YOU DECIDE: Can we make sense of deficits, debts and all that?

The nation is focused on the fiscal cliff and efforts to tame the federal government's financial affairs. Mike Walden explains the major elements of the conversation. 

Dec 7, 2012

The up, down and up of housing

There’s finally some optimism about the housing market as prices, sales and construction have all begun to rebound. But how far does housing have to go to get back to where it was? And will it ever get back to that level? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Dec 6, 2012

More than 380 attend meat conference

More than 380 meat producers, butchers, Extension agents and chefs turned out Dec. 3-4 for NC Choices’ second Carolina Meat Conference held at the WinMock Dairy Barn and Event Center in Bermuda Run. 

Dec 6, 2012

Morrill Act celebrated as part of N.C. State's 125th anniversary

As N.C. State University celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, all land-grants around the country are celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Morrill Act that led to the creation of land-grant institutions. Last month, N.C. State looked back at the Morrill Act and how it helped shape this institution. 

Dec 6, 2012

Union County 4-H’ers light up lives of area seniors

Union County 4-H’ers have been spending time off from school installing water-saving aerators and energy-saving light bulbs and water-heater blankets in the homes of area senior citizens. In return, they’ve gotten plenty of hugs, as well as lessons in community service, leadership and energy conservation. 

Dec 6, 2012

Suffering from a cost disease

There are certain parts of our economy -- such as health care and education -- where prices seem to be rising consistently faster than in other sectors. Is there a fundamental economic reason behind this? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Dec 5, 2012

Growing green

The loss of burley tobacco production and a glut in the Christmas tree market delivered a one-two punch to rural Madison County in recent years, but North Carolina Cooperative Extension and partner Madison Family Farms are helping the agricultural industry rebound through a grant-funded project aimed at opening up retail markets for locally produced Christmas trees and wreaths.