Missouri State University News » Hot Topics

Thanksgiving stuffed with food, chances to change traditions

University Communications — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:57:06 +0000

Thanksgiving is a holiday stuffed with feasts of great proportion eaten at family gatherings for most Americans; however, with weight-related diseases on the rise, these celebrations now add to a national epidemic. According to Natalie Allen, dietetics instructor in the department of biomedical sciences at Missouri State University, families need to begin new traditions for Thanksgiving that will allow for a longer, healthier life for all involved.

Stores start early to capitalize on seasonal shopping

University Communications — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:02:57 +0000

The holiday season seems to start earlier each year, now with holiday decorations and promotions beginning as soon as back-to-school shopping has ended. According to Dr. Linda Pettijohn, professor of marketing at Missouri State University, this isn’t a way to spread holiday cheer; it is a competitive retail strategy to win consumer’s disposable income first.

Classic literature brings many chills, much contemplation for readers

University Communications — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:50:02 +0000

Spooky music and haunting scenery typically elevate the suspense of horror movies, but according to Brian Shawver, associate professor of English at Missouri State University, the horror genre’s origination in 18th century gothic literature had other goals than just to frighten – it was designed to “prod the reader to think about memory, sorrow, conscience and the figurative meaning behind the things that frighten us,” he said

Dating digitally heightens communication, regrets

University Communications — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:03:43 +0000

The process, formality and expectations of dating changes with each generation, and with the advent and popularity of social media, communication in dating relationships has made an even more dramatic change. According to Dr. Kelly Wood, department head of communication at Missouri State University, technology speeds up self-disclosure which can end the relationship sooner.

Health policy, politics author examines reform

University Communications — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:55:28 +0000

President Barack Obama addressed the nation early in September to propose his plan for health care reform, but according to Dr. Mark Rushefsky, professor of political science at Missouri State University, the speech was “more a presentation of ideals,” primarily due to the reaction to a similar speech by President Bill Clinton in 1993.

Letter from Senator Kennedy spotlights Vietnam War

University Communications — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:49:26 +0000

The 1970s were a time of great political and social turmoil as the controversy surrounding the Vietnam War increasingly mounted. A letter sent from the office of the late Senator Edward Kennedy captures a portion of that turmoil for researchers using the special collections and archives at Duane G. Meyer Library at Missouri State University.

Looking like a million bucks doesn’t have to wound the wallet

University Communications — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:16:32 +0000

In a typical, economically healthy year, the fall season (including the back-to-school season) is considered the second-most-important buying season. With unstable economic conditions, many people are attempting to be more frugal, and according to Jenifer Roberts, instructor of fashion and interior design at Missouri State University, you don’t have to spend much money to look like a million bucks.

Blockbuster movies bank on special effects, simple concepts

University Communications — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:00:23 +0000

In the summer of 1975, a low-budget film became a surprising summer favorite. According to Dr. Karen Buzzard, professor of media, journalism and film at Missouri State University, this surprise summer hit called “Jaws” and the 1977 movie “Star Wars,” were the frontrunners to today’s summer blockbusters.

Migraine season caused by weather, allergens, stress

University Communications — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:59:41 +0000

For some, migraines are completely debilitating, and that is why they are one of the main focuses of study for Dr. Paul Durham, professor of biology and director of the Center for Biomedical and Life Sciences at Missouri State University.

Stages of grief help broken hearts

University Communications — Thu, 14 May 2009 19:59:17 +0000

As Memorial Day approaches, memories and thoughts turn back to lost loved ones. Though sad at times, those memories are a safe place, according to Renee White, licensed clinical social worker and instructor in the School of Social Work at Missouri State University.