The primary research focus of the Center is a biennial study of consumers, both visitors and residents, in the Valley during the winter time of the year. These studies, published since 1986, are designed to determine the activities and spending of visitors to the Valley and the opinions, attitudes and activities of all consumer markets about issues important to the Valley. Additionally, a variety of research-based publications, both academic and applied, covering the above topics are produced and disseminated regionally, statewide, and nationally. Research findings have been quoted in numerous newspapers and magazines such as: The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, New Yorker Magazine, Southwest Hotel-Motel Review, Home & Away, Des Moines Register, New York Times, Houston Chronicle, Fort Worth Starr-Telegram, Dallas Morning News, Austin Statesman, San Antonio Express, plus local newspapers, radio and TV.