It was really -1.7%. Second quarter numbers are at -1.1%. Both quarters combined come to -2.8%. but if they report the numbers as is, then it qualifies as a recession. So they report -2.9% in Q1 and +0.1% in Q2. Overall number is the same, but no recession.
The goal here is to be able to report positive growth in second quarter. And the only way they can do that is to exaggerate the decline in quarter one.
No 2Q is still ongoing... (ends 6/30) The first report of 2Q14 GDP will be in July 30th.