News

Aug 11, 2010

Are home prices still too high?

Some economists see the direction of home prices as a key factor for the fledgling economic recovery. The big question both sellers and buyers want to know is with prices down almost 30 percent over the past three years, have they reached the bottom yet? Dr. Mike Walden, North Carolina Cooperative Extension economist in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University, weighs in. 

Aug 10, 2010

Is debt a problem for everyone?

Economists have pointed out that American households took on substantial debt over the past 30 years. Many households are now scrambling to pay down on debt, and this is one reason why consumer spending has been slow. But do all households have to worry about debt? Dr. Mike Walden, North Carolina Cooperative Extension economist in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University, responds. 

Aug 10, 2010

N.C. State workshop explores new technologies for re-using water and increasing water supply

A North Carolina State University workshop focusing on how local, state and regional businesses and communities can recycle and re-use water to save money and replenish the local water supply will be held Aug. 24-26 in Greensboro. 

Aug 9, 2010

Not your mom’s 4-H

In July, N.C. Cooperative Extension and 4-H worked with Trading Spaces designer Edward Walker to develop a green design competition for 4-H’ers interested in fashion and interior design, encouraging their ambition while helping to change public perception of 4-H – an organization that does so much more than livestock exhibitions and canning competitions. 

Aug 9, 2010

Social Security payouts

Many people think of Social Security as almost a bank account: You put your money in while working, earn some interest and then withdraw the funds when you are retired. But is that the way Social Security operates? NCSU's Dr. Mike Walden responds. 

Aug 6, 2010

You Decide: What should be done now?

Worries persist about the economy. Progress is being made in very small steps, and some economists openly talk about a return to recessionary conditions (the “double dip”) within a year. People want something done, and they’re looking to government -- particularly the federal government -- to get the economy moving. Economist Mike Walden comments on options. 

Aug 6, 2010

Are we still competitive?

Most people know the economy has become globalized and the United States is in direct competition with other countries for jobs and production. Some say we are losing this race; others say no. Dr. Mike Walden, North Carolina Cooperative Extension economist in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University, takes a look at what the numbers say. 

Aug 6, 2010

New pink hydrangea is Invincibelle®

A new variety of hydrangea, developed by N.C. State University horticulturist Dr. Tom Ranney, will have gardeners thinking pink this year. Hydrangea arborescens ‘NCHA1’ Invincibelle® Spirit is a hybrid of… 

Aug 5, 2010

Cautionary statistics

It is often said you can prove anything with statistics. This is why some people avoid looking at information and data and concentrate on what they feel or believe instead. Should we always raise an eyebrow when presented with statistical information? Dr. Mike Walden, North Carolina Cooperative Extension economist in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University, responds. 

Aug 4, 2010

Getting home sales back up

After some good months home sales seem to have slipped again. Nationally sales are still off by double-digit rates compared to before the recession. What's it going to take to get home sales back up? Dr. Mike Walden, North Carolina Cooperative Extension economist in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University, responds.