UPDATE: Snapshot of Avant Focus Group Meeting

University City Patch has asked for feedback from U City residents who attended any of last week's focus meetings.

So far, only two attendees have emailed U City Patch with their perceptions of the gatherings. Below are their observations: Patch is not identifying the individuals who responded per their requests, but can confirm they did participate in the focus group meetings.

"I would say that it was fairly varied yet, with a couple of exceptions on specific points, quite harmonious."

This attendee came away with the following observations:

• undefinable pride we all take in being "UCitians"
• the real love we have for our parks
• the value we give to The Loop, 
• the  concern about the continued unattractive state of Olive...
• The problem with our schools did come up (once and then dropped) 
• The group hinted at  - "yes, we have a diverse community, but no, the different groups don't mingle."

Earlier this week, U City Patch published remarks from another attendee. Below are the person's observations.

This particular meeting consisted of 10 University City residents. It was a mix of men and women - blacks and whites - and ranged from middle age people to senior citizens.

The group was asked the following questions, according to the participant who contacted U City Patch.

• How would you describe U. City to an outsider
• What are the city’s strengths and weaknesses
• If you city were a person what would he/she look like
• What are your personal values

The attendee said that when asked - what is U. City’s biggest weakness. The group answered - the schools.

The attendee said that when asked - what is the one thing U. City could do to improve its image? The group answered - improve the schools.

The group was then shown six “value statements”  - one at a time  - and asked to respond with what they liked and didn’t like. They were asked to pick their favorite and least favorite.

The attendee said that for the most part, the group was in agreement on most everything.

Avant is a St. Louis-based firm that specializes in market planning, brand development, and market research

Remember, this was a snapshot of one focus meeting. Avant held three meetings in all with U City residents.

U City Patch welcomes responses from other participants. Feel free to email myra.lopez@patch.com