Author: Dee Shore

Mar 24, 2016

You Decide: Why are there new sales taxes?

North Carolinians having repairs made to their vehicles are now in for a little bit of a shock. With a few exceptions, they will now have to pay state sales tax on the labor cost of those repairs. So, too, will folks paying for repairs to their computers and for installing modular homes. These are some of the new sales taxes that began March 1. NC State University economist Mike Walden considers whether such taxes go against a trend in North Carolina. 

Mar 24, 2016

Maggots modified to help heal human wounds

In a proof-of-concept study, NC State University researchers show that genetically engineered green bottle fly (Lucilia sericata) larvae can produce and secrete a human growth factor – a molecule that helps promote cell growth and wound healing. 

Mar 23, 2016

Barrangou wins esteemed medical research prize

Rodolphe Barrangou, an NC State professor and pioneer of the discovery of the adaptive bacterial immune system known as CRISPR, has been named a recipient of the 2016 Canada Gairdner International Award, one of the world’s most esteemed medical research prizes. 

Mar 22, 2016

Farm Bureau gift to enhance plant sciences

With strong grassroots support, an initiative aimed at making North Carolina the global hub for plant sciences innovation got a big boost when the North Carolina Farm Bureau Federation pledged $500,000 to start the Seeds of Success Fund. 

Mar 21, 2016

New taxes

Recently North Carolina residents began paying a new tax -- one on repair services. What's behind this new tax? NC State University economist Mike Walden explains. 

Mar 17, 2016

Blacklin honored for fresh perspective

Sarah Blacklin, of North Carolina's Center for Environmental Farming Systems, has been recognized as one of 100 leaders in the United States who are changing rural communities and agriculture for the better. She is program director for CEFS’ NC Choices initiative. 

Mar 16, 2016

North Carolina invests in world-class plant science research

Voters approve an infrastructure bond package that includes NC State University’s plant sciences research complex. 

Mar 15, 2016

Health Rocks!

Through Health Rocks!, North Carolina 4-H engages young people in hands-on activities that help them resist drug, alcohol and tobacco use while developing healthy behaviors. 

Mar 14, 2016

Could negative interest rates come to the United States?

Janet Yellen, chair of the Federal Reserve's Board of Governors, recently commented on the possibility of negative interest rates occurring in the United States. Could this happen -- and, if so, should we look forward to it? NC State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Mar 10, 2016

You Decide: Why are people angry?

Political pundits following the presidential campaigns of the candidates have agreed on one conclusion – many people appear to be angry. Experts offer this as the reason voters are backing non-traditional candidates – or outsiders. If the analysts are correct, then the follow-up question is, why? Why are so many people angry? NC State University's Mike Walden offers an economic explanation.