Gov. Tim Kaine’s administration is seeking ways to close a persistent budget gap. While the prospect of further layoffs and program cuts is an unhappy one, it might have a silver lining. May we suggest, both as a cost-cutting measure and a sound policy decision, that the attorney general’s office reassign those staffers who chase down price-gouging allegations?

Economics has long been neglected in high school curriculums—with unfortunate results for public policy and family budgets. Virginia has been making progress, though, in part thanks to the state’s increased appreciation for the importance of economic education. Several local groups have been leading the charge for years, including the Virginia Council on Economic Education and the Powell Center for Economic Literacy. The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond has always been at the forefront of efforts to teach young people about markets and money. Its annual Fed Challenge gives high school students an opportunity to explore the intricacies of banking and monetary policy.

Tough times have become the norm, panelists said yesterday at a Public Square gathering at the Richmond Times-Dispatch office downtown. But it’s a teachable moment in history, a time to learn lessons so that if history repeats itself, consumers will be better prepared to survive economic storms and learn to save money. More than 30 people weathered yesterday’s rain to attend the “Money Wise in Tough Times” question-and-answer discussion.

Dr. Matthew Parrett, a native of Richmond, has joined the faculty at Bridgewater State College in Bridgewater, Mass., as an assistant professor of economics in the school of arts and sciences. Parrett, who holds a doctorate from Virginia Tech, comes to Bridgewater from Emory University.

Henrico supervisors have voted unanimously to raise the fares for taxis operating in the county, starting Jan. 1. This leads to an overwhelming question: Why in the world are political leaders setting prices for services in a competitive marketplace?

Americans have lost a great deal in recent months. Hundreds of thousands of jobs have disappeared. Retirement portfolios have imploded. Families worry about making next month’s mortgage. Venerable names in banking and finance are no more.

The financial crisis and economic slowdown has raised questions about how supply chains, immigration and financing for small businesses will be affected. At least seven speakers will address those and other topics at the 2009 Virginia Economic Outlook Forum, held by the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce. The event is scheduled for Dec. 2 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at SunTrust Bank in Richmond. The fee is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers.

The economic turmoil of recent months has transformed the country in many ways. How did we get here? Where is the economy going? What is the long-term impact? Those and other questions will addressed Nov. 18 at the Richmond Times-Dispatch’s 21st Public Square. A panel of experts will discuss the state of the economy, the effect on the region and where we might find ourselves in the next few months. The panel includes: