Optimistic us

According to survey results from MTSU's Officer of Consumer Research, consumers in Middle Tennessee have a more positive outlook than do consumers nationwide. Twenty percent of MTs said U.S. business conditions are good, compared to 14 percent nationwide; 55 percent of MTs said conditions will be better six months from now--to 13 percent nationwide; 15 percent of MTs felt that jobs are easy to find--to 12 percent nationwide; 38 percent of MTs said there will be more job openings six months from now--to 11 percent nationwide; and half of all MTs say their personal financial situation will be better a year from now; only 16 percent nationwide agreed.

Contact Dr. Tim Graeff, director of MTSU's Office of Consumer Research, at 615-898-5124.
tgraeff@mtsu.edu

McLoyalty

Companies that sponsor children's programs recognize the importance of building brand loyalty among children, says Dr. Don Roy, assistant professor, management and marketing. However, it's the marketer's responsibility to insure that the brand continues to satisfy the needs as the child grows older. "McDonald's is a great example of a company that has not succeeded in this area. It was very successful acquiring young customers through fun characters and Happy Meals, but as their customers become adults, they often tire of the menu selection or have concerns about the nutritional value." McDonald's is struggling to curtail defections, he adds.

Contact Roy at 615-904-8564.
droy@mtsu.edu

What's hot in research?

What are the hot research topics in academia? Today from noon to 4 p.m. in the Alumni Center, numerous MTSU faculty will exhibit posters on their various research topics and be there to discuss their work with guests. Some of the research topics are "Minorities and Crime," "Ozark Wildflowers," "Why Some Students Work and Some Do Not," and Teaching About Women and the Holocaust." A variety of display formats will include free-standing exhibits, posters, videos, computer presentations, visual art displays, and publications. Refreshments will be served. Media welcomed.

Contact organizer Dr. Suzanne Prevost at 615-898-5957.
sprevost@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA: TODAY, at 8:30 a.m.--Competition at the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association National Championship gets under way at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum (324 West Thompson, M'boro). Events will continue through Sunday. For a schedule, go to http://www.ihsa.com/2003Nationals/Schedule.asp. Contact Anne Brzezicki at 615-904-8481 or the NPA office at 615-898-2919. Media welcomed. (A working Media Room will be set up in the adjacent Horse Science Center, where a media kit, IHSA program and results will be available. Food and beverages will also be available.)
TODAY, 6:30 p.m.--A free and open lecture on "Star Clusters," in Wiser-Patten Science Hall, Room 220, followed by a star gazing through telescopes on the front lawn, weather permitting. These lectures are suitable for all ages and do not require technical knowledge. For more information, call Donna Wolke at 615-898-2130.