Author: Dee Shore

Apr 23, 2012

Predicting presidential elections

Many political analysts say the condition of the economy is a key determinant of presidential election contests. But just how do economists think the various aspects of the economy factor into elections? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Apr 23, 2012

Foundations for Intervention

Each year, foodborne microbes make millions sick, lead to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and kill more than 3,000 people in the United States alone. In her Schaub Hall laboratory, N.C. State University’s Dr. Sophia Kathariou works to reduce that toll by unraveling the molecular mysteries of two particularly problematic pathogens. 

Apr 20, 2012

Message from Dean Wynne

In a memo to CALS faculty and staff, Dean Johnny C. Wynne discusses the creation of a College of Sciences at N.C. State and the process to be followed over coming months for identifying faculty members who will reside in that college. 

Apr 20, 2012

Job growth picks up

All eyes are on the job market for indications the economy is getting better. Here in North Carolina, we’ve been disappointed that our state unemployment rate continues to track higher than the national rate. But N.C. State University economist Mike Walden says there is some good news about the state job picture. 

Apr 19, 2012

Rebuilding our finances

Household finances took a big hit during the recession. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes a look at a new status report from the Federal Reserve on household assets, debt and net worth to determine if we are collectively making progress in getting our financial house back in order. 

Apr 18, 2012

Premium-supported health care

As N.C. State University economist Mike Walden gets older, he and his wife, Mary, are paying more attention to Medicare, which helps pay seniors’ medical costs. The program’s expense is rapidly increasing to the point it’s long-run viability is in question. Walden shares some ideas on how to address the issue. 

Apr 17, 2012

'Almanac Gardener' returns

"Almanac Gardener," a popular UNC-TV show featuring gardening experts from North Caroline Cooperative Extension, has entered its 29th season. Segments will highlight community gardening, rain gardens, water conservation, produce selection and preparation -- and much more. 

Apr 17, 2012

Can the world support U.S. debt?

When it comes to the national debt, we see three facts: First, the debt has increased. Second, foreigners have bought much of the debt. And third, interest rates paid on the debt are very low. Here’s the big question. Can these three facts continue? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Apr 16, 2012

Regional differences in gas prices

Among different areas of the country, there are big gas price differences. Why are many East Coast gas prices higher than Midwest prices? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Apr 13, 2012

America’s economic position in the world

It’s commonly thought that our country’s position in the world has slipped in recent decades. What kinds of measures can we use to judge this? And what do those measures indicate? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.