GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES PLAN TO SAVE 20,000 HOMES FROM FORECLOSURE

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley today called on the General Assembly to give quick approval to legislation that will help thousands of homeowners with exploitive subprime mortgages avoid foreclosure.  The legislation requires that borrowers receive at least 45 days notice before foreclosure proceedings are started and directs the state Banking Commissioner to work with individual borrowers and their lenders to find ways to save their homes. “Many subprime borrowers were placed into loans in which interest rates increased, and which they simply could not afford,” Easley said.  “This legislation will do something no other state has done; bring the expertise of the state government to help borrowers find a way to save ...

GOV. EASLEY MARKS 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PUBLIC SCHOOL INTEGRATION IN N.C.

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley today honored seven surviving former students and a school administrator who helped open the doors for all North Carolinians to attend the same schools 50 years ago.  The honorees attended a reception at the Executive Mansion commemorating the 50th anniversary of the integration of public schools in North Carolina. “It took determination and courage for these individuals to do what was right during a turbulent time in history and in the face of tremendous adversity,” said Easley.  “What could have been just another hot September school day was so much more for these children.  They had a date with destiny and today we honor their ...

GOV. EASLEY APPEARS ON “EXPLORING NORTH CAROLINA”

What makes a child explore, grow and blossom? When and where do they learn to take chances? Have they learned to fear the wrong things? Have we taught them to feel safer in gated communities and lighted shopping malls?  Gov. Mike Easley recently appeared on UNC-TV's "Exploring North Carolina" as the show examined American children's need to spend more time in nature.  Click here to watch the episode, titled "Logos vs. Leaves."

GOV. EASLEY PROCLAIMS MOUNTAINEER FOOTBALL DAY

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley today welcomed the Appalachian State University football team to the Executive Mansion and proclaimed the day “Mountaineer Football Day” in honor of the team’s 3rd consecutive NCAA national championship. “Appalachian State’s commitment and determination have created a football dynasty in North Carolina,” said Easley. “I congratulate the team on its 3rd NCAA championship title and look forward to cheering on the Mountaineers again this fall.” On Dec. 14, 2007, ASU defeated the University of Delaware Fighting Blue Hens 49-21 to capture the 2007 NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA) in Chattanooga, Tenn.  It was the culmination of a season that included a spectacular ...

GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES 1,000 JOBS AT GLOBAL TRANSPARK

RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley announced today that Spirit AeroSystems Inc., the world’s largest independent supplier of commercial airplane assemblies and components, will open a manufacturing plant at the N.C. Global TransPark in Kinston. Plans call for investment of more than $570.5 million and the creation of 1,031 jobs during the next six years. State grants from the One North Carolina Fund and Job Development Investment Grant program and a grant from the non-profit Golden LEAF Foundation to the Global TransPark Authority helped make the project possible.    ''The Global TransPark was built to help this region make the transition from a tobacco-dependent economy to one that attracts knowledge-based, high-tech industries,'' said Easley. ''Today’s announcement not only shows that eastern North Carolina ...

GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES BUDGET THAT BUILDS ON EDUCATION PROGRESS

Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley today released his recommended budget adjustments for the 2008-09 fiscal year that provides $12.5 billion for education, improves the state’s ability to compete for jobs in the global economy, increases funding for mental health services, expands oversight of prison parolees, and helps communities better plan to deal with droughts.    The budget also better prepares the state to deal with the uncertain economy by expanding the Rainy Day Fund to $848 million. Unlike most states that are facing shortfalls, North Carolina will end the current fiscal year with a $152 million surplus. The budget also includes $396 million in general fund budget cuts, nearly 2 percent of the total operating budget.   ''As I release the 2008-09 budget proposal, ...

GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES GROUNDBREAKING HEALTH CARE INITIATIVE

New Program Will Improve Basic Patient Care And Save Millions of Dollars

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley today announced a plan to fundamentally restructure the delivery of health care in North Carolina by standardizing the level of care and insurance coverage for the five most chronic conditions.  This unique plan will do more than any other in the nation to improve citizens’ health, help doctors deliver the quality care they strive for and save hundreds of millions of dollars in medical costs. “This is going to be a revolutionary approach to the delivery of health care in North Carolina,” Easley said. “We have worked with the top medical experts across the state, health insurers and physicians to design a health care delivery system that ...

Gov. Easley Featured in New Drought PSA

Click here to watch Gov. Easley's new water conservation PSA.

Gov. Easley Announces Legislative Plan to Modernize Water Systems, Mandate Conservation and Upgrade Emergency Response

Unveils SaveWaterNC.org Website to Raise Public Awareness on Drought

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today announced a three-part legislative package to modernize North Carolina’s public water systems, mandate water conservation and efficiency, and upgrade the response to water emergencies. The governor also unveiled a new website, SaveWaterNC.org, aimed at continued water conservation.    ''This legislation will help North Carolina's public water systems improve their services to customers and be better prepared to deal with future droughts, but we also need to change our attitude about using water in North Carolina,'' said Easley. ''We can not let up on our conservation efforts and that is why today I am announcing a public awareness effort to encourage citizens to save as much water as possible ...

Gov. Easley Speaks at 2008 Emerging Issues Forum

Watch footage of Gov. Mike Easley's address to the 2008 Emerging Issues Forum here.  Gov. Easley announced the creation of the Advanced Transportation Energy Center at North Carolina State University during the 2008 Emerging Issues Forum: "North Carolina's Energy Futures; Realizing a State of Opportunity".  The Center will serve as a catalyst to attract innovative jobs to the state, contribute to reducing the nation’s dependence on imported oil and cut greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change.

Gov. Easley Announces Transportation Energy Center at N.C. State

Public-Private Partnership Puts N.C. in Forefront of Growing Technology Sector

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley today announced the creation of the Advanced Transportation Energy Center at North Carolina State University that will serve as a catalyst to attract innovative jobs to the state, contribute to reducing the nation’s dependence on imported oil and cut greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change.  The center is a public-private partnership to include the university, Progress Energy and Duke Energy to explore and develop practical technology for plug-in hybrid vehicles and other energy-efficient transportation.  The announcement came during the annual Emerging Issues Institute’s conference: “North Carolina's Energy Futures; Realizing a State of Opportunity.” “It is our patriotic duty to free ourselves from dependence on ...

Gov. Easley Challenges State Education Leaders to Continue Building Nation’s Best Education System

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today called on the top education leaders from the Department of Public Instruction, State Board of Education, the University of North Carolina, N.C. Community Colleges and the N.C. Independent Colleges and Universities to continue working together to expand educational opportunities for citizens across the state.  Easley spoke to more than 150 education leaders at the annual meeting of the North Carolina Education Governing Boards at the William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education in Chapel Hill. "During the past seven years we have worked with the legislature to make groundbreaking progress in public education," said Easley.  "We focused our efforts and resources in the classroom and we refused to make excuses.  It is up to you ...

Gov. Easley’s UNC-N.C. State Basketball Game Interview

Gov. Easley attended the UNC-N.C. State basketball game January 12 in Chapel Hill.  Listen to the Governor's interview with Tar Heel Sports Network here.

Gov. Easley Asks Worst Hit Water Systems to Take Action Now to Ensure Water Will Be Available for the Future

Calls for Regional Interconnections, Water Audits and Conservation-Based Rates

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today told water system managers from the state's 30 most vulnerable communities they need to take certain actions now to make sure they will have adequate water supplies for their citizens during the long, hot summer if North Carolina's historic drought continues.  He called on these communities to set up interconnections to other water supplies, conduct water audits and adopt conservation based price structures to encourage citizens to conserve water. "Public water systems should act now, not wait for an emergency, to set up interconnections with other water systems and seek backup supplies, whenever those options are possible," said Easley.  "I have directed the Department of Environment and ...

Gov. Easley Appears on “North Carolina People with William Friday”

Gov. Easley joins William Friday for an end of year interview on UNC-TV's "North Carolina People." Part One Part Two Part Three

Gov. Easley to Appear on “The Woodwright’s Shop”

Watch a clip from an upcoming episode of "The Woodwright's Shop" featuring Gov. Mike Easley here.  The full episode will air on Saturday, December 29 at 4:00 p.m. on PBS.  

Gov. Easley Wins Approval of Plan to Get Hay to Drought-Stricken Farmers

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today presented a plan that was approved by the Council of State to provide up to $3.5 million to get hay for drought-stricken farmers who are running out of feed for their cattle and horses.  The plan will provide money to purchase hay from other states, transport it to North Carolina in the most efficient way and sell it to farmers at the lowest cost possible. "We can use the state's purchasing power to get much-needed hay at the lowest price possible," Easley said.  "This way we can sell it to the state's farmers, who must be able to feed their 800,000 head of cattle and horses, help them keep farming and avoid selling off their herds." The ...

Gov. Easley Accepts Holiday Decorations for State Capitol

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today accepted, on behalf of the state, an assortment of Christmas trees and holiday wreaths from the 2007 North Carolina Christmas Tree Association Grand Champions.  Each year, the association donates trees and wreaths to decorate the state Capitol during the holiday season. "Millions of Americans will choose North Carolina Christmas trees as they celebrate this holiday season," said Easley.  "I am pleased to display the beauty of our state's natural resources at the state Capitol and I am especially proud to share them with the rest of the nation." North Carolina leads the nation in the farm sales of Christmas trees, $134 million, and is second in the number ...

North Carolina Claims Nation’s Top Business Climate for 3rd Year in a Row

'Site Selection' Magazine Recognition Puts State In the Lead for Six of Last Seven Years

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today announced that North Carolina, for the third consecutive year and the sixth in the last seven, is the state with the "Top Business Climate" according to Site Selection magazine.  Site Selection is one of the nation's premier magazines for economic development, providing expansion planning information to more than 44,000 corporate executives.  "Corporate executives know North Carolina is listening to them and we understand what they need to succeed," Easley said.  "We are investing in education to provide a skilled workforce, making regulation and permit procedures clear and reasonable, and offering a low state and local tax burden.  All these make our state the top choice for companies looking to grow." Site Selection magazine's annual "Top Business Climate" ...

Gov. Easley Testifies Before U.S. House Committee on Agriculture

Asks for More Assistance for North Carolina Farmers Suffering from Drought

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Full Committee on Agriculture about how the drought has affected farmers and agriculture in North Carolina.  The purpose of the hearing was to review agriculture disaster conditions from across the nation.  Easley was the only governor to testify before Committee members. "In North Carolina we have asked citizens to stop watering their lawns, to take shorter showers and to avoid washing cars, but these conservation efforts will do little to resolve the devastation the drought has brought to our agriculture industry," Easley said during his testimony in Washington, D.C.  "Some of our crop yields are at the lowest levels we have seen in 50 years and many farmers predict ...

Gov. Easley Announces 375 Jobs in Guilford County

JDIG Helps Skybus Establish a Base at PTI Airport

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today announced that Columbus, Ohio-based Skybus Airlines Inc. will make Piedmont Triad International Airport its second "focus city," with 11 flights each day from PTI to cities in the U.S.  The company will create 375 jobs and invest more than $350 million in aircraft and other equipment as part of this project, which was made possible in part by a Job Development Investment Grant. "This innovative airline's decision to locate in the Piedmont Triad should bring significant economic benefits to the region and the state," Easley said.  "North Carolina was First in Flight more than a century ago and we continue to lead the nation in pioneering approaches ...

Gov. Easley Dedicates Highway in Honor of Racing Legend Benny Parsons

Story Featured on NASCAR.com

Gov. Easley was in Wilkesboro October 11 to dedicate a five-mile stretch of U.S. 421 in Wilkes County in honor of famed racecar driver and Emmy Award-winning commentator Benny Parsons.  You can view NASCAR.com's coverage of the ceremony here or at the link below. http://www.nascar.com:80/2007/news/headlines/cup/10/12/bparsons.highway/

Gov. Easley Gives Keynote Address at National Education Conference

Focuses on Increasing High School Graduation Rates, Helping Students Get to College

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today said American education must be reformed to become more innovative and break down the barriers between high school and college so citizens can succeed in the global economy.  Easley's remarks were part of the keynote address he delivered in Washington, D.C. at the Jobs for the Future conference, "Double the Numbers 2007." "We must break down the barriers between high school and college," Easley said.  "No matter where people live, what their economic circumstance, age or school experience, we must help them succeed.  That means we provide every citizen the opportunity to be successful in school and graduate ready for college so they can get a skilled job and become informed, contributing members of their community." The ...

Gov. Easley Announces $1 Million to Support Military in North Carolina

Funds Support Morale, Welfare and Recreation Activities for Military Personnel and Their Families

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today announced he will distribute $1 million to the seven military bases and installations in North Carolina.  The distribution is part of the "2007 Appropriations Act" (House Bill 1473) which the Governor signed July 31, 2007.  The money will be used to expand programs that improve quality of life for military personnel and their families based in North Carolina. "Our support for and commitment to our military families is unwavering," said Easley.  "We are dedicated to helping these soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines and their families in every way we can." The "2007 Appropriations Act" provides a total of $1 million to be distributed on a per capita basis ...

Gov. Easley Vetoes Bill That Gives Businesses Unfair Breaks

Offers Responsible Alternative To Aid Growing Firms And Protect Taxpayer Dollars

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley today vetoed House Bill 1761: "An act to create the job maintenance and capital development fund."  Easley said the bill would present a dangerous precedent for North Carolina's economic development policy by providing up to $40 million in state funds to a single company without regard to how much the company pays in state and local taxes, wages it pays now or in the future and whether it lays off nearly 25 percent of its workforce. In its place, Easley has recommended the General Assembly adopt his "American Productivity And Competitiveness Act of North Carolina" so large existing employers can modernize their North Carolina operations, stay ...

Gov. Easley Signs Bills to Protect Borrowers

New Laws Require Lenders To Disclose More Information, Prevents Sub Prime Loan Abuses

Raleigh- Gov. Mike Easley announced today he has signed legislation to reign in abusive lending practices, provide consumers with more information and protect unsuspecting homebuyers and tenants from unfair fees and penalties.  The three bills signed into law are: House Bill 1374: "An act to overturn the Shepard case and amend the limitation regarding actions to recover for usury; to overturn the Skinner case and amend the long-arm statute to allow North Carolina courts to exercise personal jurisdiction over certain nonresidential defendants; to require that a notice of foreclosure contain certain information; and to provide for mortgage debt collection and servicing." House Bill 1817: "An act to protect consumers regarding covered loans and ...

Gov. Easley Signs Bills Expanding Ethics Rules for Public Officials

New Laws Open Ethics Commission Hearings and Regulate Political Legal Defense Funds

Raleigh-- Gov. Mike Easley today signed legislation to open state Ethics Commission hearings and regulate funds set up to raise legal defense money for public officials.  The bills are: House Bill 1111: "An act to make clarifying changes to the State Government Ethics Act, the Legislative Ethics Act and the lobbying laws." House Bill 1737: "An act to regulate legal expense funds for elected officers, to provide for the disclosure of contributions and expenditures and to limit certain contributions." House Bill 1110: "An act to make technical changes to the State Government Ethics Act, the Legislative Ethics Act and the lobbying law." "North Carolinians have the right to expect their ...

Gov. Easley Signs $20 Billion State Spending Plan

Watch WRAL-TV's coverage of Governor Easley's signing of the 2007 State Budget here.

Gov. Easley Signs Bill Broadening Insurance Coverage for Mental Health

New Law Puts Mental Health Coverage on Par With Coverage for Physical Illnesses

Raleigh-- Gov. Mike Easley today announced he has signed into law House Bill 973, "An act to require mandatory health insurance coverage of certain mental illnesses and to require at least a minimum benefit package for other mental illnesses."  This new law requires insurance companies to cover mental illness in the same way they cover treatment for physical illness. "This legislation ends what has effectively been a form of discrimination in the health insurance coverage of those with mental illness," Easley said.  "Requiring insurers to provide the same coverage for co-payments, doctors visits, and hospitalization means patients will be treated fairly, whether being seen for physical or mental illnesses." Currently, health insurance policies ...

North Carolina’s Revolutionary High School Reform Model

Gov. Easley writes about North Carolina's Progress in Education on "Ideas Primary"

Although North Carolina was slow out of the gate in providing high school education after the turn of the 20th century, we are determined to take the lead on transforming high school education in the 21st century. We hope that reformers across the nation take special note of our high school reform initiative which CBS News has hailed as “revolutionary.” Our goal is simple. Every North Carolinian — no matter their background — must be able to graduate from high school ready for college and the world of work. Failure in high school prevents many capable students from landing jobs that empower them to become contributing members of our communities and reach their full potential. We are especially proud of our Learn ...

Gov. Easley Directs $114.4 Million to Schools Amid Budget Impasse

Makes Sure More at Four, Class Size Reduction and Funds for Disadvantaged Students Continue

Raleigh-- Gov. Mike Easley today ordered the State Budget Office to release up to $114.4 million in additional resources to North Carolina public schools for class size reduction, disadvantaged students and pre-kindergarten programs.  Easley's action comes after the state legislature's efforts to enact a budget have stalled.  The current continuing resolution expires on July 31. "If I saw indications that we would have a budget next week that I could sign, I would have waited until the first of the week," said Easley.  "School is starting soon and we need to get contracts in place so we can hire teachers and make sure our children have the tools they need to succeed." Easley ...

Gov. Easley Announces 70 Jobs in Alamance County

JDIG Helps Bring Honda Aero to Burlington-Alamance Regional Airport

Raleigh-- Gov. Mike Easley announced today that Honda Aero, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Co. Ltd., will establish its headquarters and jet engine manufacturing operations at the Burlington-Alamance Regional Airport, including production of the engine for its new HondaJet.  The project, which was made possible in part by a Job Development Investment Grant, will create 70 jobs during the next five years and invest $27 million. "When innovative, world-leading companies such as Honda Aero choose to locate in North Carolina, it proves we still are first in flight more than a century after the Wright brothers took off from Kitty Hawk," Easley said.  "We will continue to make the smart ...

Gov. Easley Appears on “N.C Bookwatch”

Governor Mike Easley sat down with D.G. Martin on "North Carolina Bookwatch" to discuss his children's book Look Out College, Here I Come!  Watch a portion of the interview here.

Rules Tighten for Hazardous Waste Storage

News and Observer A bill aimed at preventing another disaster like the massive chemical fire in Apex last year became law today. Gov. Mike Easley signed a bill into law today that requires more frequent inspections and closer monitoring of companies that store hazardous waste. “This new law makes our permit requirements stricter and improves communication to make sure our citizens are protected in case of a hazardous waste accident,” Easley said in a media release. A fire at Environmental Quality Co. in Apex on Oct. 5 forced the evacuation of thousands of local residents and fueled concerns over loose regulations governing such sites. The bill drew on recommendations of a task force Easley created after ...

Chertoff, Governor Urge Preparing for Hurricane Season

Associated Press RALEIGH - Homeland Security chief Michael Chertoff joined Gov. Mike Easley on Monday to urge North Carolina residents to prepare themselves for this year's hurricane season by stocking emergency supplies and making disaster plans with their families. While the federal government stands ready to help the state if necessary, disaster planning must start on the local level, Chertoff said. "The primary responsibility for dealing with a hurricane event lies in the hands of the local and state first responders," he said. "It's the local government in places like North Carolina that are going to develop the emergency plans for the localities, work on evacuation routes, provide public transportation for those who need ...

Gov. Easley Announces Ocracoke Named America’s Best Beach

North Carolina Beats Hawaii, Florida for Dr. Beach's #1 Beach of 2007

RALEIGH- Gov. Mike Easley today announced that Ocracoke Beach on Ocracoke Island has been named the No. 1 beach on "Dr. Beach's Annual America's Best Beaches" list of 2007. The announcement marks the first time a beach outside Florida or Hawaii has been named to the top position on this celebrated annual top 10 list. "We are proud that Ocracoke Island has been recognized as the home of America's best beach," Easley said. "The unmatched beauty of our coast has for decades been a favorite of visitors to get away and relax along the quiet natural shorelines, explore the wildlife, meet unique people and hear the compelling stories of the Outer Banks." Stephen P. Leatherman, better known as "Dr. Beach," directs Florida ...

Gov. Easley Presents Jimmie Johnson with Laurel Wreath Award

RALEIGH-- Gov. Mike Easley today presnted NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson with North Carolina's Laurel Wreath Award, the state's highest honor for outstanding athletic achievement by residents or those representing the state. "Jimmie Johnson is a tremendous driver, businessman and friend," said Easley.  "I am proud to recognize him for his achievements, and to be his backup driver." Johnson, age 31, drives the No. 48 Lowe's car for Hendrick Motorsports in NASCAR's Nextel Cup series.  He started racing a 50cc motorcycle at age five.  His parents and two younger brothers spent their weekends either preparing for or participating in races.  By age eight, Johnson had won the 60cc class championship.  He gained experience ...

Gov. Easley Dedicates Hendrick Center for Automotive Technology

Central Piedmont Community College partnership helps N.C. compete in the global economy

Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley today praised the Joe Hendrick Center for Automotive Technology at Central Piedmont Community College for the cooperation it represents between education and business helping North Carolina attract 21st century jobs. The center offers cutting-edge training and instruction for technicians who need to update their skills as well as those who aspire to be automotive technicians. ''The Joe Hendrick Center for Automotive Technology is much more than a place for education,'' Easley said. ''It represents the kind of partnerships North Carolina needs to continue building among the growing business, education and economic development sectors so our state prospers in the global economy.'' The center, on Central Piedmont’s Levine Campus in Matthews, is a partnership between Rick Hendrick Automotive ...

Governor Races For a Cause

WRAL News CONCORD— Some families of deployed National Guardsmen continue to struggle financially, and Gov. Mike Easley has taken up their cause. This past weekend he raised money by getting behind the wheel at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Concord. “I’ll try to bring [the car] back in one or two pieces,” Easley joked. After a handshake here, an autograph there, and lots of pictures, it was show time. In his specially tailored National Guard racing suit, the governor hit the track to raise money. Robert Johnson of the Charlotte Bobcats was one of the ...

Gov. Easley Races To Urge Support For N.C. National Guard Families

Click Here To Find Out How To Help

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley will take the wheel of Casey Mears' No. 25 National Guard/GMAC "American Heroes" Car Saturday (May 19) to raise money for the North Carolina National Guard Family Readiness Program. The Governor, who will race a few laps around the track prior to the start of the NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Concord, has already received numerous pledges for the program from private donors. "The men and women in the North Carolina National Guard make significant sacrifices being overseas serving our country," said Easley. "Their families feel their sacrifice and our National Guard Family Readiness Program helps out with such things as car repairs, late mortgage payments, or things that families with an ...

Is D.C. in Politcal Future for Easley?

WRAL News RALEIGH— With about 20 months until he leaves office, speculation is growing on where Gov. Mike Easley will head next. Easley has said he wants to continue in public service in some form, but state law prevents him from seeking a third term as governor in 2008. When questioned about his future, the only thing he has been clear about is that he doesn't want to run for the U.S. Senate against Sen. Elizabeth Dole. "They need to quit coming to me because I just would not fit in the senate very well," he said. Yet, Easley regularly shows up on the national stage, talking about the National Guard or education reform. Ferrel Guillory, who founded the Program on Public ...

Getting a Head Start on College

Dual degree programs helping at-risk high schoolers keep their focus and their dreams

Dahleen Glanton, Chicago Tribune JAMESTOWN, N.C. -- In many ways, Jequetta Williams is a typical 9th grader. Some days she thinks it would be nice to start a clothing line or own a hair and nail salon. Other days she wants to become a professional singer and dreams of winning a spot on "American Idol." Most of the time, however, Williams has no idea what she wants to be when she grows up. But at age 15, she is already well on her way to whatever career she chooses. By the time she graduates from high school, Williams not only will have earned her high school diploma but will hold an associate's degree, the equivalent of two years of college. In a growing number ...

N&O Editorial: Governor on Guard

Let's hope members of Congress were listening to Governor Easley, in addition to the few who bothered to attend a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing where he spoke about the need to strip away a change to the Insurrection Act. Congress, it seems, last year amended the act, which dates to the 1800s, to expand the powers of the president to "federalize" the National Guard during terrorist attacks, natural disasters, disease outbreaks and other such crises. Sen. John Warner, the Virginia Republican, said he wrote the amendment and had the good intention of making it simpler for the president to coordinate the Guard in emergencies. Warner noted that no one in Congress seemed to object at the time. Indeed, it appears that ...

Control of the Guard

Winston-Salem Journal Gov. Mike Easley and Missouri Sen. Kit Bond, a former governor, are absolutely correct when they say that recently expanded presidential powers over state-based National Guard units should be repealed. Guard units are elements of state governments, not the federal government. The president should not have wide-ranging power to nationalize these units. Before 2006, presidents had all the authority they needed to nationalize Guard units. The law gave them the authority to call up troops in times of national emergency, such as an urban riot. The law also gave the president the power to call on the Guard to enforce laws when state governments refused to do so, such as the implementation of federal court orders during the school-integration ...

Easley Wants Debt-Free Education for Some Students

WXII News RALEIGH- Gov. Mike Easley has made creating a "seamless education system," from pre-kindergarten through college, the hallmark of his time in office. Now he wants to end his tenure by making low-income students a promise found in no other state: earn a four-year degree without going into debt. To do it, students would have to forgo the traditional experience of spending four years on a university campus. Instead, they would earn two years worth of college credit by spending an extra year in high school. Then they would move into college for two years with annual grants of $4,000. That's enough to replace low-interest Stafford loans in the package of federal financial aid offered to low-income students.

Preschool Programs Get Kudos

Doris Steele works with preschoolers in March at Hillcrest Elementary School. The preschool class is part of the state's More at Four program.

Brandee Hayhurst, Burlington Times-News GRAHAM - Walking into Sherri Spraggins' classroom at the Ray Street Center, it's hard to know where to look first for all the shelves overflowing with toys, brightly colored pictures, and letters and numbers dancing across the walls. But her preschoolers have had a few months of practice, learning where to find their favorite games and the all-important skill of putting everything back in its place. "Clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere. Clean up, clean up, everybody do your share," Spraggins sings while clapping. The children hang strips of freshly painted paper on a drying rack and put toys back in bins. They run over to the carpet, where ...

Gov. Easley Named One of Nation’s Top Governors for his Leadership on Pre-Kindergarten

A leading advocacy group for pre-kindergarten education programs has named Gov. Mike Easley as one of the nation’s top governors for his commitment to pre-k education.  A report released today, Leadership Matters: Governors’ Pre-K Proposals Fiscal Year 2008, calls Easley an “established champion” for his continuing efforts to expand North Carolina’s More at Four academic pre-k program, which he created in 2001.  “When I came into office, we were one of two southern states that did not have an academic pre-k program for at risk four-year olds,” said Easley.  “In North Carolina, we have found the right formula to make sure children head to school ready to learn.” In March, Easley announced that More at Four was one of only two pre-kindergarten programs ...

Editorial: For the Birds

A federal official offers common sense on the Navy's proposed landing field near a wildlife refuge: Birds and planes don't mix

So far, the U.S. Navy's campaign to build a so-called outlying landing field on a tract straddling the Washington-Beaufort county line has been based on repetition. Say it enough times that it would be safe to build a field where pilots could practice carrier landings in Super Hornet fighter jets just five miles from the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, and maybe it will be believed.But that contention remains a stretch. Thousands of large migratory birds winter in and around the refuge. Among other serious concerns, there's the possibility of a goose or swan being sucked into a jet engine, or smashing into a windshield or wing. It's not rocket science that such collisions can destroy an aircraft and put ...

Outlying Landing Field

News and Observer, Dwane Powell

For a full size image click here .

Let’s have more More at Four

Wilmington Star News, Editorial March 19, 2007 North Carolina's pre-kindergarten program is one of the two best in the country, according to a new report from the National Institute for Early Education Research. But thousands of our children aren't participating. They deserve that chance at better lives. Dubbed "More at Four," the program offers classes for 4-year-olds who face obstacles of income, language, disability or health. About 18,000 children are enrolled. Gov. Mike Easley, who got the General Assembly to create the program in 2001, hopes to enroll an additional 10,000. To pay for those slots, he proposes fiddling with the lottery, which the General Assembly seems unlikely to do. Then the General Assembly should find the money elsewhere. Research continues to confirm that early ...

Gov. Easley Announces N.C. Ranks Among Top Two States For Pre-K Programs

More at Four Meets All 10 Quality Standards Developed By Institute for Early Education Research

RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley announced today the More at Four pre-kindergarten program was one of only two in the nation to meet all 10 quality standards developed by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). The rankings were published in “The State of Preschool 2006: State Preschool Yearbook” released today by NIEER, a research institute based at Rutgers University. “A strong pre-k program helps students grow in language, literacy, math and social skills,” Easley said. “Although we began this program in 2001 during the worst deficit in state history, this study shows we are leading the nation in pre-kindergarten education and we should continue to invest in helping those most ...

Gov. Easley Urges Fellow Hunters to Press Congress to Stop OLF

Gov. Mike Easley today sent a letter to his fellow hunters, including members of Ducks Unlimited, urging them to appeal to members of Congress to withhold funding for the U.S. Navy's proposal to put an outlying landing field in Eastern North Carolina. The site is near one of the most important waterfowl reserves in the Atlantic Flyway near the Beaufort-Washington county line. The text of the letter is below. "Dear Fellow Hunter: "The U.S. Navy's proposal to build an outlying landing field in Washington and Beaufort counties near the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge includes a plan that may well eliminate the waterfowl there. This world-renowned refuge for migratory birds serves as the winter home to more than 100,000 ducks, swans, snow ...

Governor Says Congress Needs to Withhold Funding of OLF Project Until Navy Considers Suitable Alternative

Below is the text of a letter Gov. Mike Easley sent today to North Carolina’s Congressional Delegation concerning the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement released by the U.S. Navy today concerning the proposed outlying Landing Field (OLF) in eastern North Carolina. “I am writing to express my frustration and disappointment with the Navy’s decision to again identify Washington County as its preferred site for the proposed Outlying Landing Field (OLF) through its draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS). “I have spent a great deal of time with the higher command of the Navy and top Pentagon officials, and with people here and in Washington discussing alternatives to the Washington County site. Our Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources has repeatedly talked with ...

Jimmie Johnson’s Radio Show

Listen to Gov. Easley on Jimmie Johnson's 'Not What You Expected' on XM Satellite Radio February 22, 2007 http://www.xmradio.com/jimmiejohnson/

Governor Proposes Nation’s Most Ambitious Education Budget

Gov. Mike Easley today released the nation’s most ambitious budget for public education. His budget provides funding for a new “EARN” scholarship initiative that will allow students from low and moderate income families to earn a debt-free university degree. At the same time, the budget expands the early-college Learn and Earn program statewide. The budget increases spending for public schools, community colleges and universities by 7.8 percent to $11.6 billion. “In North Carolina we place a premium on hard work and it should pay off for our people,” said Easley. “Making college more accessible to hard-working students, making high school more relevant and challenging, and making sure low income families can keep ...

State of the State Address

Gov. Easley Calls on North Carolina to Blaze a New Trail to Prosperity

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Easley Says New Presidential Power Over National Guard Unwise

Gov. Mike Easley has sent a letter to the Senate National Guard Caucus, on behalf of the nation’s governors, urging repeal of a section of the National Defense Authorization Act that jeopardizes states’ abilities to respond to emergencies and unnecessarily expanded the authority of the President to federalize the National Guard. Sen. Pat Leahy (D, Vermont) and Sen. Kit Bond (R, Missouri) are chairs of the National Guard Caucus. The letter was sent through the National Governors Association, where Easley serves as co-lead on the National Guard along with South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford. Sanford also signed the letter. Text of the letter follows: Dear Senator Leahy and Senator Bond: Section 1076 of the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act (Public Law 109-364) ...

Gov. Easley reads “Look Out College, Here I Come” on News 14 Carolina

Mike Easley's first children's book, "Look Out College, Here I Come" was published in February 2007. Listen to Easley read the book to students at Washington G.T. Magnet Elementary in Raleigh on News 14 Carolina.

Easley to Lead National Education Board

The Business Journal of the Greater Triad Area Monday, January 22, 2007 North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley has been appointed co-chairman of a national education organization targeting academic standards and high school reform. Easley will lead Achieve Inc.'s bipartisan board made up of other governors and a number of corporate executives. Easley joined the board of Achieve in June 2005 as it began work on the American Diploma Project Network, a 13-state network focused on raising high school standards and accountability. The network has since grown to 28 states. Other members of the Achieve board of directors include Prudential Chairman and CEO Arthur Ryan, Washington Mutual CEO Kerry Killinger, Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher and former ...

CBS News on Gov. Easley’s High School Education Reforms (Video)

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CBS News Calls Gov. Easley’s High School Education Reforms “Revolutionary”

Gov. Mike Easley’s initiatives to reform high schools in North Carolina were praised as “revolutionary” in a national network news broadcast Thursday. CBS Evening News Correspondent Lee Cowan characterized the Learn and Earn program as high school reform “on steroids” and a “jumpstart that saves time and resources.” Learn and Earn high schools are located on university or community college campuses. In five years, students can earn their high school diploma and an associate's degree or two years of college credit. CBS News spent almost a week in North Carolina looking at the state’s high schools, visiting Learn and Earn programs, and talking with administrators, teachers and students. The report is posted on the CBS News web site at:...

UNC Women’s Soccer Team Recognize by Easley

WTVD 12/07/06  RALEIGH - The UNC Tar Heel's soccer team just won a national championship and Thursday they were honored by the Governor. Coach Anson Dorrance and the women from his soccer squad were the guests at the Executive Mansion in Raleigh. Governor Mike Easley met with the team just four days after they won their 18th national championship. Governor Easley commented, "They lost five seniors and seven freshman stepped up. There's something special about the UNC the tradition, the dynasty that they have created and we're showing that we can continue in that," he said. Calling the women's soccer team a dynasty isn't a stretch. Carolina has won 18 of the 25 women's championship. They have never gone more than three years without winning ...

Gov. Easley Welcomes Stanley Cup to State Capitol

Gov. Mike Easley welcomed the National Hockey League’s Stanley Cup, captured by the 2006 champion Carolina Hurricanes, to the State Capitol.  Easley received the oldest trophy competed for by professional athletes on behalf of all North Carolinians. “It is appropriate that the cup come to the Capitol because the historic win by the Hurricanes will be as much a part of North Carolina history as the people and events that we traditionally celebrate here,” Easley said.  “We are delighted and honored that the Carolina Hurricanes have included us, the people of North Carolina, in their victory celebration.  North Carolina’s citizens and hockey fans are proud of the Carolina Hurricanes for winning the ...

Governor asks Commission to protect Guard

N.C.'s Easley tells group that troops are needed in home states

Tim Funk and Scott Dodd WASHINGTON - Though the National Guard in both Carolinas say they're ready for another hurricane season, N.C. Gov. Mike Easley warned a federal commission Thursday that escalating demands on the Guard at home and overseas could erode morale and readiness. "It seems now that every time there's a problem in the country, they say, `Well, use the National Guard,' " Easley told the U.S. Commission on the National Guard and Reserves. "We've got border control problems? `Use the National Guard.' We've got a flood? `Call the National Guard.'... I just believe they're stretched too thin and they can't continue in this capacity." The biggest strain in recent years has ...

Easley Talks High School Reform

WXII12 Greensboro, N.C. - Gov. Mike Easley on Monday discussed North Carolina's high school reform efforts with educators at the third annual N.C. New Schools Project Summer Institute. Easley told the group that small, redesigned schools and the early college high schools are already showing positive results. His remarks followed his announcement last week that high schools across the state that do not meet 60 percent proficiency standards will have to be restructured. Schools such as Dudley and Smith high schools in Greensboro could be among those affected by the crackdown. "Together we have launched one of the most aggressive and ambitious high school reform agendas in the nation," Easley said. "We knew that if we were going to develop ...

Editorial: State budget - Easley offers guide to resolve differences

The Daily Reflector North Carolina residents will be watching Raleigh closely in the coming days as the state House and Senate look to resolve differences in their respective budgets. With the House's vote on Thursday, each chamber has now approved a budget proposal and will enter negotiations to produce a final spending plan. Those negotiations are of vital importance to the state's future, as they will determine how North Carolina utilizes a rare budget surplus projected to be $2 billion. While the emphasis should be on pay raises and tax relief when employing that surplus, lawmakers should look to Gov. Mike Easley's original budget proposal for guidance. The House gave final approval on Thursday to an $18.9 billion state budget. ...

Gov. Easley’s Learn and Earn Program Featured in Newsweek

In the June 12, 2006 edition, Newsweek looked at promising efforts to prepare people for globalization and changing economic times in the 21st century.  “The Future is in their Hands” described North Carolina’s high school reform work and its effort to overhaul “its education system to create a 21st century work force.”

Easley Delivers

Winston-Salem Journal May 11, 2006 Gov. Mike Easley promised to dedicate all funds from the North Carolina Lottery to education and, on Tuesday, he delivered. Easley's 2006-07 budget contains education initiatives that more than consume the $425 million that state officials expect to clear from the lottery in the coming budget year. That's good news. Tracking the real beneficiary of the lottery won't be easy, and the governor unnecessarily made that job more difficult by moving existing education programs from the General Fund to the lottery fund. That created suspicion that Easley might then free General Fund revenues for spending in other areas. Easley would have made it far easier to follow lottery funds had he identified new education programs and ...

Schools win in Easley budget

By Gary D. Robertson, The Associated Press May 10, 2006 Raleigh (AP) - Gov. Mike Easley rolled out an $18.9 billion budget proposal Tuesday for the next fiscal year that tilts heavily toward education as he tries to keep a pledge to raise teacher salaries above the national average. The education package also would add middle school literacy coaches, expand specialty high schools, spend more in the state’s poorest school districts and pay for expected enrollment increases for public schools, community colleges and the UNC system. "I think we can say without question that this is the strongest education budget ever seen in the history of North Carolina," Easley said in unveiling ...

Easley pushes to fund justice

By Mike Baker The Associated Press May 9, 2006 Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley proposed $47.7 million in additional spending Monday for law enforcement and state courts, blaming the federal government for funding gaps. "We have to do more to make sure North Carolinians are secure and safe," said Easley, flanked by the state’s top crime and justice officials at a news conference. The announcement is part of the budget proposal that Easley will unveil today, the same day the General Assembly reconvenes for its short session. "Good," was the reaction from Buncombe County District Attorney Ron Moore, who has said the county needs more assistant district attorneys, more court clerks and more judges. Easley’s recommendations include spending $5.1 million to hire ...

Easley petitions for protection of forests

Land in Pisgah forest included in the acres N.C. wants preserved The Associated Press Gov. Mike Easley petitioned the federal government yesterday to protect nearly 174,000 acres of pristine national-forest land in North Carolina from development. "These forest areas are vital not only for their natural beauty and the recreational opportunities they offer, but also for their environmental benefits, including providing clean water and wildlife habitat," Easley said in a statement. "They are unique places of unspoiled wilderness and beauty, and must be protected and preserved." Before leaving office in January 2001, President Clinton issued the Roadless Area Conservation Rule in an effort to do just that. Under the rule, development and road building would be banned on almost one-third of the ...

Easley lacks flashy style, but not results

Approach differs from predecessor's, yet many of his proposals pass Charlotte Observer January, 27 2006 Raleigh - State lawmakers have grumbled for five years about how Gov. Mike Easley is distant or unengaged, but then they turned and voted for his education programs, his lottery and his tax increase. For all the criticisms of his style, Easley has proven at least as successful at getting his proposals through the General Assembly as his predecessor, Jim Hunt, who routinely backslapped and cajoled legislators. "He's either real good or real lucky," N.C. Sen. Jim Forrester of Gaston County, a Senate Republican leader, said of Easley. Easley heads into his last three years in office aiming to improve on gains he already made: constitutionally restricting ...

North Carolina regains copy of original Bill of Rights

By Emery P. Dalesio, Associated Press Raleigh, N.C. - An original copy of the Bill of Rights that was given to North Carolina by George Washington back in 1789 was returned to the state yesterday, culminating a bitter legal tug-of-war with Connecticut investors over the historic document. Gov. Mike Easley accepted the document at a brief ceremony in the capitol after a judge ordered federal marshals to turn it over to the state -- the first time North Carolina has owned the document since the end of the Civil War. "I am pleased to accept this document on behalf of the state and look forward to having a grand celebration ...

N.C. Leaders Testify Before BRAC Commission

WRAL Jason Stoogenke and Melissa Buscher June 27, 2005 CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Gov. Mike Easley joined other state leaders and military personnel Tuesday to testify before a commission that has recommended closing Pope Air Force Base and sending as many as 4,000 more soldiers to Fort Bragg. North Carolina officials, including U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole, U.S. Reps. Bob Etheridge and David Price and Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue were given two hours to make their case to the Base Realignment and Closure Commission. They made it clear that the BRAC Commission's decision will have a huge impact on the state, where the military is an $18.1 billion industry and represents over 6 percent of the state's gross product. "Our bases, all of them together, are the ...

Carolinas spared in Pentagon proposal

History, Local Lobbying Pay Off for Region May 14, 2005 Tim Funk and Henry Eichel, Charlotte Observer WASHINGTON - While other states reeled at the likelihood of losing major military installations and their jobs, the Carolinas exhaled Friday as the Pentagon released its long-dreaded list of proposed base closings and realignments. Only four military bases in the Carolinas, none of them large, were targeted for closing. And several bases -- including Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, S.C., and especially Fort Bragg in Fayetteville -- would see their missions and payrolls grow. The good news came after months of behind-the-scenes lobbying by a bipartisan coalition of political and community leaders. And it offered fresh evidence that the two ...

Toast of the town

Easley, lawmakers fete national champion Tar Heels

Sports Illustrated Tuesday, April 12, 2005  RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- One by one, Gov. Mike Easley shook hands Tuesday with the 17 players on the national champion North Carolina men's basketball team, pausing to pass along some words of encouragement or congratulation before they moved past him to pick up a flute of orange soda and climb the central staircase at the Executive Mansion. Easley, the basketball players and coach Roy Williams then raised their glasses of orange Crush -- the spoils of a good-natured bet with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich -- in a mock toast to the chief executive who had seemed certain before last Monday night that his Fighting Illini would be ...

For Businesses, N.C.’s a Low-Tax State

North Carolina's business taxes are remarkably low - 47th in the country, according to a research outfit that studies taxation for hundreds of large, multi-state corporations. And North Carolina's business climate is the best in the country - and for the third year in a row, according to Site Selection magazine. So whatever might be wrong with North Carolina's economy, it isn't taxes or regulations. They remain among the least burdensome in the United States. Yet to hear some politicians and business people tell it, the state's corporate income tax is driving away business. They are determined to lower it in this election-year session of the General Assembly. Their argument rests on a ...

For Businesses, N.C.’s a Low-Tax State

Wilmington Star North Carolina's business taxes are remarkably low - 47th in the country, according to a research outfit that studies taxation for hundreds of large, multi-state corporations. And North Carolina's business climate is the best in the country - and for the third year in a row, according to Site Selection magazine. So whatever might be wrong with North Carolina's economy, it isn't taxes or regulations. They remain among the least burdensome in the United States. Yet to hear some politicians and business people tell it, the state's corporate income tax is driving away business. They are determined to lower it in this election-year session of the General Assembly. Their argument rests on a single statistic: ...

Gov. Easley Announces Site Selection Magazine Ranks State Top in Nation for Best Business Climate

Gov. Mike Easley today announced that North Carolina, for the second consecutive year, has been named the state with the "Top Business Climate" by Site Selection magazine. It is the fifth time in the last six years the state has received the magazine's top ranking. "North Carolina has maintained this No. 1 ranking for five out of the last six years," said Easley. "It is further proof that our aggressive economic development efforts are working. Our investments in infrastructure, education and workforce training continue to meet and exceed the needs of companies that choose to locate and expand in our state." Site Selection, one of the nation's premier magazines for economic development, based its rankings on performance in several areas including new ...

Gov. Easley Announces Prescription Drug Care Plan for Seniors

When Mike Easley was campaigning for governor last year, one of his key proposals was a program that would help senior citizens avoid having to choose between antibiotics and pain relievers because they couldn't afford both. He proposed paying for it with part of this state's share of a national tobacco settlement. Now Gov. Easley and Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue, who also supported the idea, have come through. They have persuaded the N.C. Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission, which Lt. Gov. Perdue chairs, to provide funding for a modest, three-year program. It will pay up to $600 a year to help eligible senior citizens defray costs of prescription drugs to treat the three most common diseases seniors face - cardiovascular ...

N.C. Ranked 4th in Fiscal Management

How the 50 States Rank in Taxing and Spending Wisely

USA TODAY analyzed the financial health of all 50 state governments. The study assessed how states managed their finances during a five-year period in which the economy went from boom to recession. States with "excellent" ratings       How the 50 states rank in taxing and spending wisely USA TODAY. McLean, Va.: Jun 23, 2003. pg. A.02 Copyright USA Today Information Network Jun 23, 2003 Correction ran 6/27/2003: A chart on Page 2A Monday gave Florida an incorrect rating in one of three categories used to rank the 50 state governments in financial management. Florida's score in the effectiveness of state tax systems should have been two stars instead of the maximum four it ...

N.C. Ranked 4th in Fiscal Management

How the 50 States Rank in Taxing and Spending Wisely USA TODAY June 23, 2003 USA TODAY analyzed the financial health of all 50 state governments. The study assessed how states managed their finances during a five-year period in which the economy went from boom to recession. States with "excellent" ratingsRead the entire article here.