Product Origin and the Impact of State-Pride Logos, e.g., Pride of Dakota and Ohio Proud (with Curtis P. Haugtvedt, Associate Professor of Marketing, Ohio State University). Our studies investigate the effects of product origin and state-pride labels on information processing and product acceptability.  Based on previous research on Country-of-Origin Effects and the Elaboration Likelihood Model, these studies examine whether state-pride labels serve as positive or negative promotion cues, arguments for the product (e.g., an important attribute of the product–the best wheat is grown in ND), or influence individuals’ thoughts about products.  Using state-of-origin information in different ways has important implications for development of favorable attitudes that will guide purchase behavior and facilitate the creation of brand loyalty.  We plan to conduct additional studies to gain insights into reactions to the Pride of Dakota logo and the Ohio Proud logo on a variety of products.  The studies will use focus groups, mall intercept studies, and experiments on the NDSU and Ohio State campuses.  Follow-up studies will use field experiments with samples drawn from the general population.  It is expected that results from this research will allow us to better understand the image of state-pride logos in the minds of consumers and the fit of products using the logos.