Author: Dee Shore

Jul 25, 2012

Worker incentives

Companies want to get the most out of their workers. This goal has created a long-time issue of how to structure worker pay and other incentives in order to promote the best productivity. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes a look at new research on the question. 

Jul 24, 2012

Improving household balance sheets

The recession has had a dramatic impact on household wealth and debt. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden gives an update on where these important financial measures stand. 

Jul 23, 2012

Private versus public job growth

Sometimes the private economy -- meaning private businesses -- and the public economy -- meaning government -- go in different directions. Has this been the case recently with jobs? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jul 20, 2012

Age and unemployment

The slow job market and high unemployment are still putting a damper on the economy. But when we look at job prospects by age, do some age groups have it better than others? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jul 19, 2012

It could be worse

The slow progress in the economy continues to be a major issue for most people. But sometimes it’s good to put issues in perspective. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers how the U.S. economy has performed relative to other countries. 

Jul 18, 2012

Some good economic news for North Carolina

There are many measures of the economy, but one economists are fond of is gross domestic product. What do the recently released the numbers for gross domestic product for 2011 for all states. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden highlights what these statistics show for North Carolina. 

Jul 17, 2012

Micro-financing

One role of the financial system is to match up lenders with borrowers. However, sometimes it’s difficult for small unknown business persons to acquire funds in this kind of system. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether there is an alternative for small beginning borrowers. 

Jul 16, 2012

Extension Master Gardeners turn barren lot into peaceful park

What was a narrow, barren lot beside the Clay County administrative office building in downtown Hayesville is now a peaceful park, thanks to recent efforts of Cooperative Extension Master Gardener volunteers. Their donated work saved the county more than $10,000. 

Jul 16, 2012

What would Hamilton do?

There’s still a lot of attention focused on the problems in Europe with Greece, Spain, Italy and the euro. Some say the problems there are reminiscent of similar issues in the early years of our country, which were solved by our first Treasury secretary, Alexander Hamilton. What did Hamilton do? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jul 13, 2012

On the front lines of an invasion

A new invasive pest from Asia likes fruits and berries as much as you do. A Cooperative Extension entomologist at is working to stop the hungry fruit fly, or at least slow it down. Read more in N.C. State's Bulletin.