News

Feb 1, 2013

YOU DECIDE: What’s the best “COLA”?

There's a COLA war in progress, and the outcome could have an impact on anyone who is or will in the future receive Social Security payments. Mike Walden discusses. 

Feb 1, 2013

The COLA debate

In the fiscal-cliff discussions, there was a proposal to change the cost-of-living-adjustment formula for Social Security. It wasn’t adopted. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains what that was about. 

Jan 31, 2013

Nominations sought for 2013 Borlaug Award

Nominations are being accepted for the 2013 Norman E. Borlaug Service to Society and Environment Award. Deadline is March 11, and the award will be presented April 16 at the annual Borlaug Lecture. 

Jan 31, 2013

Chinese investments

China now has the second largest economy in the world, second only to ours. What kinds of impact is this having on our economy? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jan 30, 2013

‘In the Garden’ wins second regional EMMY Award

N.C. State University’s television show, In the Garden with Bryce Lane, won a regional EMMY® Award last weekend in the Instructional/Informational Series category. Bryce Lane, the show’s host and instructor in the Department of Horticultural Science, brings more than 30 years of teaching experience to television. 

Jan 30, 2013

The payroll tax hike

In recent resolution to the so-called fiscal cliff, income tax rates are rising on a very small percentage of high-income earners. But, as N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains, there was another tax increase that will affect many more people. 

Jan 29, 2013

How much has tuition really increased?

Our country has seen big college tuition increases in recent years. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether the numbers we hear quoted tell the whole story. 

Jan 28, 2013

Using less electricity

Mary Walden says she’s running out of electrical outlets at home. “Between our appliances, TVs, computers, and smartphones, it seems like we don’t have an available plug. And I’m guessing we’re not alone. I imagine our nation’s electricity use must be skyrocketing. Am I correct?” Her husband, N.C. State University economist Mike Walden, responds. 

Jan 25, 2013

North Carolina job growth

North Carolina added around 60,000 jobs in 2012. Is this a good number, and will it continue into 2013? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jan 24, 2013

Sources of the debt problem

Recently the national debt as a percentage of annual national income reached 100 percent. It’s the first time since World War II that it has been this high. Why has it increased so much? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.