Quick hits: N.C. is fourth-fastest in growth and hog riders can show their love of the Parkway

N.C. is No. 4 on list of fastest-growing states
"Utah is the nation's fastest growing state, knocking Nevada from its usual top spot," according to the Associated Press.

"Utah's population climbed by 2.5 percent from July 2007 to July 2008, according to new population estimates from the Census Bureau. Arizona is the second-fastest growing state, followed by Texas, North Carolina and Colorado.

"Nevada, last year's fastest-growing state, fell to eighth. Nevada had been among the four fastest-growing states each of the last 23 years. ...

"California remained the most populous state, followed by Texas, New York, Florida and Illinois."



State tag lets motorcyclists support Blue Ridge Parkway
"A new North Carolina license tag is set to go into production for motorcycle riders who want to help the Blue Ridge Parkway.

"The Winston-Salem Journal reported Monday that enthusiasts have nearly reached the required threshold of 300 bike owners committed to buying the Blue Ridge Parkway motorcycle tag," again according to the AP.

"The cost is $30 more than the regular license fee. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation would get $20 for its work; another $10 will go to the state's roadside wildflower program. ..."