Durham County commissioners Chairman Michael Page spent most of his first State of the County speech recounting past achievements, but finished with a somber reminder of the economy.

"We must acknowledge our economic engine has stalled," Page said. "All levels of government are going through unprecedented financial uncertainty."

Michael D. Page (left),chairman of the Durham Board of County Commissioners, gives his first State of the County address at 7 p.m. March 12, preceding the board's regular meeting.

According to a county release, his speech will recount achievements in the past year and set out Page's priorities in the year ahead. Like the City of Durham, Durham County is dealing with revenue shortfalls due to the national recession, which are considered likely to continue through 2009.

Page succeeded commissioner Ellen Reckhow in the board's chair, taking over following last year's commissioner elections. Reckhow is now the board's vice-chairwoman.

He will make his address in the commissioners' chambers, on the second floor of the Old Courthouse, 200 East Main Street.  The public is invited, and the speech will be carried live on cable channel 8 and the county Web site, www.durhamcountync.gov.