A German Acropolis - The Most Extraordinary Monument In Bavaria

By Susanne Lindner

There are sights and tourist attractions that completely make sense. To everybody. At once. Like the Eiffel tower, for example. It is a gorgeous tower, an architectural masterpiece and when you take the elevator up, you have the most magnificent view over Paris. There is not much of an intellectual challenge in visiting the Eiffel tower. And then there are places that only unfurl their captivation and their splendor when you know the background story and the meaning of it. The Walhalla certainly belongs to the latter category. Without knowing the background story, you take a picture because it is a pretty building, shrug and move on.

So, why is there a Greek temple with a Germanic name in the middle of Bavaria?

The story takes us back into the days when Bavaria had just become a kingdom and was allied with the most powerful man in Europe at the time: Napoleon Bonaparte. The centuries-old Holy Roman Empire had just fallen apart in the turmoil of the Napoleonic Wars and was about to end. For Napoleon, an alliance with Bavaria was desirable as the princedom borders on Austria and was the perfect concentration area for the French emperor's troops in his wars against his most important adversary: the Habsburgs. Bavaria, on the other hand, had this old fear of being annexed and swallowed by Habsburg Austria and needed a strong and powerful collaborator. So, in autumn 1805, Napoleon and Maximilian Joseph of Bavaria entered into an alliance. Napoleon elevated Bavaria to the rank of a kingdom. King Maximilian I. Joseph, in return, promised Napoleon troops for his never-ending campaigns. In 1812, over 33.000 Bavarian soldiers marched with Napoleon's "Grande Arm�e" to Russia. Barely 3000 returned from this ill-fated adventure. Bavaria's crown was paid for in blood...

The later king Ludwig I. of Bavaria was 20 years old when Bavaria became a kingdom and Ludwig became crown prince (no, he is not the one who built the fairytale castles. Altogether, there were 3 Bavarian kings named Ludwig which makes it easy to mix them up. The one with the castles was Ludwig II., grand-son of Ludwig I.) The sensitive young man was a fervent advocate of the German National idea that was born in the Napoleonic Wars: all Germans should unite and form a strong confederation. Instead, and completely against Ludwig's own will, his father formed an iron-clad alliance with the enemy and young Ludwig was forced to march across Europe and fight along Napoleon's troops against fellow Germans. It left a deep, traumatic impact on him and it was during the war against Prussia and Russia in 1807 that Ludwig first had the vision of building a particular national monument: a hall of fame for great minds of German origin, tongue and culture. A reminder for all Germans of what they had in common - language, culture, history, spirit.

Many years later, these visions became real. Ludwig succeeded his father to the Bavarian throne in 1825, four years after Napoleon had died on the far-flung island of St. Helena. The idea of a German nation was still dear to him and together with his favorite architect Leo von Klenze, Ludwig finally designed his temple. Originally, Ludwig planned to name the temple "Pantheon of the Germans", but when the Swiss historian Johannes von M�ller suggested "Walhalla", Ludwig was at once convinced. After all, Walhalla is the place, where Germanic heroes go after their death on the battlefield - what an apt name for a German hall of fame!

In 1826, after a pretty long search for the right location, Ludwig decided that the lovely rolling hills along the Danube east of Regensburg was the right place. The slope in question was owned by the Prince of Thurn und Taxis who assiduously hastened to present the terrain to his king as a gift. Work began in on October 18th, 1830. This date for laying the foundation stone was chosen by Ludwig for its symbolic meaning: October 18th, 1813 had been the main day of the Battle of the Nations in Leipzig when the united German armies had first defeated Napoleon after which the French troops were driven out of Germany once and for all (Bavaria had broken off the alliance with Napoleon only 10 days before this important battle). 12 years later, the magnificent temple was completed, and the opening ceremony took place again on October 18th, 1842.

But why a Greek temple? Both Ludwig and Leo von Klenze followed a popular theory of 19th century historians that all European peoples as well as their culture and their architecture are linked and rooted in ancient Greece. If you follow this chain of thought, it is not only logical, but even compulsory to model a German national monument on a Greek temple.

In fact, the Walhalla follows the outline and measurements of the Parthenon temple in Athens nearly to the inch. Like its famous paragon, the Walhalla has 8 columns at the front ends and 17 on the sides which makes the Walhalla a classic Doric hall temple. The similarities with ancient Greece end when you enter the hall through the wooden, bronze-clad, 22 feet high doors. Large windows in the roof shed soft light on the marble inside the hall and on the busts on the little pedestals along the walls. The hall is magnificently yet reservedly adorned so your focus is not distracted from the main purpose: the busts and plaques of the great spirits who are commemorated here.

The first 160 persons were still chosen by Ludwig himself. There are plaques for those of whom we don't know what they looked like, marble busts for all the others. The Walhalla is still in use: every few years a new person is admitted into this venerable hall of fame. So, who is worthy of having a bust in the Walhalla? According to Ludwig, they must be men or women who contributed something extraordinarily meaningful or important to the well-being of the German nation or German culture. You see military men, rulers, scientist, artists, composers and poets - a "marble who is who" so to speak.

Today, the illustrious assembly comprises 196 persons of significance, among them 12 women. Ironically, the last person admitted so far, was the poet and writer Heinrich Heine - he was a contemporary of Ludwig I. and commented on the construction of the Walhalla in the press, denouncing the whole idea of a German hall of fame as pathetic and ridiculous...

German history comes alive in this stunning monument and there are so many more stories to tell- our Black Forest tours also operate here, and our expert guides won't fail to enchant you even this far beyond the Black Forest.

To book your private Walhalla Tour email us on susanne.lindner@blackforestandbeyond.com

Genetically Modified Mosquitoes: Dropping the Dengue Fever by 91%

By Muhammad Qasim Iqbal

The new dreadful disease, Zika Fever strikes with a little headache, little fever, little joint pain and most of the people who have had it, don't know they have had it. Recently, just a year ago, the outbreak of Zika Virus in Brazil caused a peak of Microcephaly- Children born with a deformed i.e. small size and small brain. It was in the children of the mothers who were infected with the virus. The new England Journal of Medicine published a paper on May 29th, 2016 Entitled "Zika Virus and Birth Defects-Reviewing the Evidence for Causality".

The Zika virus broke out from a monkey at the Zika forest in Uganda identified by the researchers of the Yellow Fever Research Institute. The first cases were ever reported was in Tanzania, Uganda and that's how it got spread through West and East Africa then through Equatorial Asia like India, Pakistan, Malaysia and Indonesia but it was just in Mosquitoes and Monkeys. The one of the biggest outbreaks were in the French Region which had 30,000 reported cases in 2013, from there it causes various outbreaks in the islands on the south coast of America. Then, there was an outbreak in the Natal, Brazil which were thought provoked by the people that it was either the 2014 World Cup that brought it or the Canoe Championship races held that year in Brazil.

Now. Let's leave the fuss about its transmission in Miami and talk about the treatment. You can get Vaccinated but sadly, there is no vaccine discovered till now and maybe there won't be in the next couple of years. But, viruses like Zika and Dengue are being killed by the insecticidal sprays but they sadly, the bigger amounts of insecticides can have severe reaction and can even kill the person then the infection of the virus. 'I am a very big fan of Biological Controls and I share that with Rachel Carson, the Author of the Silent Spring" she said. And then because of that she had interest in using the different approach for the treating the viruses like Zika and Dengue.

The Aedes Egypti, the vector for the transmission of the viruses like Zika, Dengue, West Nile, Ancient Plague and many others. It's the female mosquito which is responsible for this bad work, male doesn't even have the mouth parts to bite. She bites so she can get a blood to feed her off springs. A British company called OXITECH modified the mosquito in such a way that the female eggs don't develop to adulthood.

The scientists added a gene in the genome of the mosquito which encodes a protein which feedbacks on itself so it can crack a lot of protein, making the extra copies and where ever they go, kill the organism and now to keep it running, they added tetracycline which shuts down that gene for the promotion of its normal growth. They added another gene which glows under the UV light and they can monitor where it goes? how far it goes? How much time he lives? Now, the male Friendly Aedes was released around in the city of Piracicaba, Brazil by the mayor himself. They were guided by the GPS and the most inspiring thing, just in one year, they brought down the cases of Dengue by 91 percent. Something Impressive? Right.

They are not even being released in the U.S because of the regulation for the Genetically Modified Organism. Some may even call them the "Animal Drugs" but to be fair the results were better than insecticide or any other vaccine treatment. Now, the only reason I picked this was why not in Pakistan? Maybe, no one even heard of this Friendly Aedes. Guess what? We need it more than any other country because of the reported cases of Dengue fever emerging every year or the other viral infections caused. But, the truth is maybe, even in a decade, it won't happen or maybe it could. Who knows?

Dresden Porcelain - White Gold From Saxony

By Susanne Lindner

August the Strong, Prince Elector of Saxony, was intrigued. In 1701, he received a letter from a young man named Johann Friedrich B�ttger who was an alchemist and had been arrested in Wittenberg, a town outside August's realm. B�ttger claimed that he could turn base metals into gold. If there was something August loved more than women (rumor has it that he fathered about 300 illegitimate children), it was gold.

The art-loving ruler amassed heaps of treasure during his lifetime some of which can still be seen in the Green Vault in Dresden. The temptation to have his own gold-maker was irresistible: after a short dispute with the Prussian king who also had his eye on B�ttger, August discreetly moved B�ttger to Dresden where he was strictly guarded and in fact imprisoned so he would not flee and take his secret knowledge about gold-making with him.

This went on for years. B�ttger failed to make gold, always claiming that he was "nearly there". In 1704, he was paired with Walther von Tschirnhaus, another alchemist in August's "custody" who had initially been on a search for the "philosopher's stone" on August's request but had turned to experimenting with substances to make porcelain. B�ttger never succeeded in making gold and Tschirnhaus never found the philosopher's stone. But together they developed the formula how to make "white gold" - hard paste porcelain.

Tschirnhaus did not live to the immense success of their invention. He died in 1708, 2 years before the delighted August the Strong founded the first European porcelain factory in Meissen in 1710. B�ttger was finally granted his freedom in 1714 under the condition that he would not leave the country nor share the secret about porcelain-making with anyone. Oh, and finally, make gold... He passed away in 1719, being only 37 years old. Porcelain became the pride and a treasured export of Saxony, providing employment to many people and luring great artists to Saxony to work in the industry.

There is a lot of confusion about "Meissen porcelain" and "Dresden porcelain" as they are often used interchangeably in the English-speaking countries. The mistake is understandable when you know that Meissen and Dresden are only about 16 miles apart. Meissen is the location of the first porcelain factory founded by August the Strong, but he resided in Dresden and his porcelain, characterized by the blue cross-swords stamp, was rather associated with this city, as the much of it was sold here.

But in fact, "Meissen porcelain" and "Dresden porcelain" are 2 very different things. I don't mean to slight the great craftmanship and art of the Meissen porcelain. Its excellent reputation around the world is well-deserved and after all, it is the oldest porcelain factory in Europe. But you find it everywhere, new and old, handed down, auctioned off on eBay... Dresden porcelain on the other hand, is not that ubiquitous. You can find it on eBay, but it is still something not everybody has, something for the porcelain connoisseur.

So, what is "Dresden porcelain"?

Carl-Johann Thieme was a skilled porcelain painter who owned a small porcelain and antique store in the center of Dresden. In 1872 he decided to follow his biggest dream and produce his own porcelain. He found a suitable place for his enterprise in the industrial district Potschappel just outside Dresden and the "S�chsische Porzellan-Fabrik Carl Thieme zu Potschappel" opened in September 1872.

The factory prospered from the beginning and this success was largely due to porcelain modeler Carl August Kuntzsch who also happened to be Thieme's own son in law. Kuntzsch created a floral d�cor that would become a unique trademark of Dresden porcelain and became the factory's director after Thieme's death in 1912. The world wars affected the factory quite heavily as exports caved in and valuable workers left or were killed in the wars, but the factory survived only to be expropriated step by step by the GDR government. Outside socialist East Germany, the beautiful porcelain was quite popular, and the 180 workers mainly produced pieces for export to West Germany and the rest of Western Europe.

Following the German re-unification, the Dresden porcelain factory experienced turbulent times. From a "people-owned socialist" enterprise it went into the hands of a trust until it was bought by French investors who went bankrupt not long afterwards. It passed through the hands of several owners until the Russian businessman Armenak S. Agababyan bought it in 2008 and gave it the much-needed financial stability to continue the production. Despite some ups and downs, the factory nowadays has again an excellent reputation for its handmade and artistic porcelain.

In the early days of founder Carl-Johann Thieme the main designs mirrored forms and shapes of the Baroque and Rococo era. Nowadays, the preferred design language ranges from Baroque to Classicism and into Biedermeier art. Floral designs, opulent painting and rich gold decor are trademarks and give    Dresden Porcelain such an elegant and classy touch. Dresden porcelain is a piece of Saxony just like the iconic dome of the church of our lady in Dresden, the "Eierschecke" cake that the Saxons love so much or the stunning crags and stone pinnacles in the Elb Sandstone Mountains. It survived world wars, the socialist regime of East Germany, mismanagement and changing owners. It is hard to believe that there is such a turbulent history behind these serene and delightful pieces of porcelain.

Visit the ultimate source of gifts and art from the Blackforest and Germany http://www.blackforestgifts.shop

The Mummelsee - The Black Forest's Dark And Mystic Eye

By Markus Brall

Once, this was the most isolated lake high up in the Black Forest on an elevation of 3399 ft. Nestled into a ravine on the foot of the mountain "Hornisgrinde", the nearly round Mummelsee is geographically spoken just a cirque from the latest Ice Age. It's dark and abysmal waters cover an area of about 9 acres and reach nearly 60 feet deep. But there is more to it than its location and impressive depth. Since the days of yore, people have told stories about who lives in the lake, deep down on the bottom, in shimmering palaces and mansions. It is the Mummelsee king who rules over his wet kingdom and keeps a strict eye on the "Mummeln", his lively and beautiful band of nymphs who love to go gallivanting in the world of the humans.

"Mummeln" is a difficult word to explain. It is a local term for "waterlilies" which used to grow in abundance in the lake. According to local lore, they would turn into fair nymphs at dusk and are also often called "Mummeln or "M�mmlein". Some language experts say, the word "Mummel" is derived from the German word for "murmuring" which is "murmeln" which refers to the sound of the waters when rippled by the winds coming down from the Hornisgrinde. Whatever the etymological root of the name Mummelsee really is, the people living around the lake have formed a close relationship with its mythical inhabitants over the centuries. That is the reason why the Mummelsee is the scene of more legends and tales than any other lake in the Black Forest.

You certainly need to know some rules before visiting the lake: never throw stones (or anything else, for that matter) into the water or you will feel the anger of the Mummelsee king! Within minutes, thunder, lightning, torrential rain and storm will appear and ruin everyone's day in the area. Oh, and the nymphs will throw the stones right back at you! Rubbish, you say, or maybe some weird local weather phenomenon. Maybe. But there are plenty of accounts of such events going back hundreds of years. Most notably, a report from some 250 years ago when the margrave of Baden himself visited the lake along with his party-loving entourage. After feasting and drinking on the shores of the lake, they started throwing things into the lake. A terrible thunderstorm broke loose and raged in the area for no less than 7 days. The margrave's party fled in horror as a dreadful beastly monster rose from the waves which had never been seen before. Probably that was the Mummelsee king himself in his anger because there are not even passing mentions of a monster in the lake and nobody has ever believed that something like Nessie's little cousin lives in the Mummelsee.

But it is the home of the fairylike ethereal nymphs, the M�mmlein. They are of a friendly and helpful nature, but again, you must know how to treat them right. At dusk, you can see them dancing on the dark surface of the lake. Among the people living close to the lake, the M�mmlein were always welcome guests: they would come early in the morning to help in the fields and stables, they also attend weddings, bring wonderful gifts and join in the dancing. There are many tales of young men who fell in love with the nymphs, but these always end tragically as the Mummelsee king expects his nymphs to return to the bottom of the lake at nighttime... so when they bid you farewell, they must return to their master and mustn't be late. Don't follow them down to the lake. The king doesn't like human curiosity and will punish the nymphs for it. You might suddenly see blood on the waves...

When you take a little hike around the lake and gaze over the dark waters, you start believing in nymphs, palaces at the bottom of the lake and the reign of an irritable lake king. Over the years, tourists have discovered the Mummelsee and there is some touristic infrastructure here, of course, like the venerable "Berghotel" where you should treat yourself to a piece of Black Forest cake after the hike. Many visitors come here on Black Forest tours. But even on busy days, you will always find a spot on the shores where you can feel the tranquility of the place. It is stunningly beautiful at on a sunny day when the calm surface mirrors the blue skies. But it is even more impressive in the Fall when the mists flock over the lake just above the surface and you hear the wind in the trees. It is in these moments that the mystic nature of the Mummelsee truly comes to light.

If you travel in the Black Forest, make sure you visit this wonderful place. It will refresh and inspire you! And if you come with us on a Black Forest day trip, you will hear all the intriguing legends that make this place so special!

Book your own private tour to the legandary Mummelsee by emailing us on susannelindner@blackforestandbeyond.com

Youth Leaders Dress for Success - 7 Tips

By Stephanie Harbin

When looks matter, it matters how you look. First impressions go a long way, so dressing for success cannot be underestimated. Clothing makes a statement! Hence, this article covers tips that will help teens and young adults project a professional image yet maintain their uniqueness.

7 Tips

Avoid inappropriate clothing.

What's inappropriate? Anything that's too tight, too short, cut low, revealing, sagging, or bagging is inappropriate. All of the aforementioned send the wrong message. A leader is always under the microscope; someone is always watching.

Build on the basics.

First of all, young ladies need at least one dress. Yes, dresses are still in vogue. Second, young ladies need at least two skirts and two blouses; white is not only classic, it is a necessity. By the way, if the dress or skirt is not lined, invest in a slip. Third, find a jacket that can be worn with either a skirt or slacks.

Even a tailored jean jacket can be worn with dress slacks or khakis. Fourth, young ladies should purchase at least two pair of dress shoes, flats and heels. Finally, jeans are okay as long as they are clean, ironed, and a good fit. Unless you're working for a sports organization, avoid tennis shoes.

Young men, on the other hand, need at least one suit, two shirts, two ties, and a nice pair of dress shoes. Occasions will arise when you need to attend a special event. As for daily attire, a pair of khakis, a shirt, and casual shoes will work.

Where can you find these items? If you're short on cash, visit a local thrift store.

Accessorize with taste.

Less is more. With that said, avoid large, bulky, and gaudy jewelry. On the other hand, a pearl necklace is classy and essential. Think twice before piercing your lips, nose, and eyes. If they're already pierced, remove all jewelry before going to an interview unless you're applying at the tattoo shop.

Wear clothing that fits your body type.

Nothing is worse than seeing a nice outfit on the wrong person. If you are not sure about what works best for you enlist the help of a fashion consultant. While you're at it get your measurements and find out what colors complement your complexion. Once you discover what fits your build, stick with it.

Make sure your clothes are presentable.

Leaders don't look like they just rolled out of bed. So, make sure your clothing is clean and ironed. If you've never ironed, now is the time to learn.

Keep hairstyles conservative.

Stay away from loud flashy colors and wild hairstyles. Braids, locks, and natural looks should be well-maintained. A fresh hair cut for a young man does wonders.

Try to avoid tattoos.

Tattoos tend to send the wrong message. If, however, your goal is to lead a motorcycle gang, it really doesn't matter.

In closing, youth leaders exude confidence, and their style of dress says it all. Make the right statement by looking like the leader in charge. Remember, you don't get a second chance to make a good first impression.

You're invited to visit    https://www.everythingleadership.store to receive a FREE special report on resources for parents, educators, facilitators, and trainers. Stephanie Harbin, a motivational speaker and training specialist has developed and presented a wide range of programs for business, government, educational institutions, and nonprofits. Her focus is on leadership, strategy, training, career and personal development.

Handy, the Unfortunate Traffic Cop

By Harrington A Lackey

Lieutenant Robert Handoff started working as a policeman who directed traffic thirty years ago. He became famous as one of the best-known traffic director somewhere in Georgia because he went out of his way to make drivers feel special and safe. He was known for waving his hands at drivers so much that he was known affectionately called "Happy Hands" or simply "Handy." But one day, Robert's luck changed. As he was leaving from being on duty at an intersection for a weekend of fishing, he spotted a little boy walking across the road who was about to get hit by a car, driven by some speeding maniac. Robert was close enough to get the child out of harm's way, but in the process, he got hit himself. He almost got run over, but somehow his left hand got underneath the car's tire and crushed it.

The pain was excruciating. Robert howled as people flocked to him. Several motorists stopped. A young woman dialed 911. As they anxiously waited for an ambulance, they tried to comfort Robert whose hand was bleeding profusely. The wait felt like an eternity for Robert. Within ten minutes, an ambulance roared to the scene. Paramedics shot the stretcher out of the ambulance's back and Robert was quickly, but carefully hoisted.

The emergency team tried to calm him down as one of them gave him a pain-numbing sedative. The other carefully wrapped his hand around in a gauze to ease the bleeding. As the ambulance roared to the closest hospital, Robert was already feeling the effects of the sedative. The paramedic team raced him into the ER, a doctor was already waiting at a table and hooked him up to all sorts of hospital equipment. Then, they rushed him into surgery.

The operation took a grueling three hours. After the operation, Robert was placed in ICU. When he woke, Dr. Fingers, the surgeon came to talk to him. "I have some unfortunate news," he said. "We were able to save all of your fingers, except one - the middle finger."

Robert laughed slightly and said, "I'll bet I'll become real popular with drivers." The doctor smiled. "I remember you. Aren't you 'Handy'?" "Yes. I always used both my hands to direct traffic and wave at people. "But I won't be doing my job anymore." He sighed. "If I go out there in traffic, I'll make a lot of drivers mad because I'd have to use my middle finger."

Once out of the hospital, "Handy" left the police force to become a greeter at the local Walmart where he only waved at people with his right hand.

Document Automation or Document Risk Mitigation?

By Ewan McDonald

Document automation, document assembly, and document generation - these are all ways of describing the process of using templates to create error free documentation.

But are any of these the most accurate description of what the software actually does?

Different industry verticals identify different strategic advantages in document automation software. Organisations such as banks or large legal firms often use document automation technology to reduce risk by minimising human interaction with the documentation.

Legal documents, such as contracts, insurance forms, wills, etc. are notoriously unstable-every time a governing body meets, the laws governing the documents could change. This reality-the instability of legal documents-gave way to platforms designed specifically to automate legal documentation.

When it comes to banks or financial institutions, the main value proposition that attracts them to document automation software is better documentation (and again, less risk). Every institution in the sector-from global banks to local agricultural credit unions-has the same problem: non-legal experts generating and executing binding contracts worth a significant amount of money. Consequently, banks need a document assembly platform that can generate complex, business-ready contracts. The business-ready part is critical, since it is the human element in preparing the contracts that can lead to legal exposure.

Document automation systems began service in law firms in the late 1980s, but are equally applicable to any business environment where complex legal documentation is regularly produced.

For example, a document automation system could be used to capture the expertise of a senior lawyer in a bank's legal department. This in turn would enable non-legal staff in remote locations to generate legally binding loan documents with expert precision. Such a system would work by guiding a loan officer through the complex business rules of loan document preparation, providing safeguards and expert advice at the point of data entry.

Then you have the advantages of using this type of software as part of a more wide ranging business process management (BPM) solution. Companies regularly integrate specialist document automation software with their chosen BPM system due to its far greater ability to cope with immensely complex documents. This is done even though a number of BPM solutions come complete with basic document creation tools. The requirement for a more sophisticated document production solution is at least partially to address risk.

Enterprise-grade document automation systems, while different from expert systems in developing a procedural approach to defining business rules, have long been used for a similar purpose as expert systems: capturing and using an expert's knowledge for the purpose of enabling non-experts to achieve the same results. In document production terms, this is again about risk reduction.

The repeated use of words like automate, generate or assemble when discussing the functionalities and capabilities of this type of software encourages the idea that the naming conventions I began by mentioning are accurate. However, I would counter that the overriding theme of industry use of this kind of technology is to better manage risk.

Based on this observation I propose we rename the software definition to "document risk mitigation software". I'm not sure if it'll catch on but every revolution has to start somewhere.

To find out more about how HotDocs can help your organisation to reduce risk, schedule a 30 minute demo - http://go.hotdocs.com/schedule-a-demo-blog

Free Digital Signage Software Is Not A Solution

By David Little

Here are key facts to know about free digital signage software:

Digital signage media players are never part of freemium services because they cost money. Yes, you will need to BUY a digital signage media player-despite all the luring advertising copy that repeats "free" all over the place. A digital signage solution requires hardware to make it work.

Freemium signage software does not offer free support! Instead, you get do-it-yourself (DIY) support. That's right, rather than playing golf in your spare time, you will have to learn a new hobby called "tinkering" to keep your so-called free system running. How much is your time worth? Free software will likely end up costing you a fortune in "sweat equity" alone. But this is only the beginning of your woes.

Speaking of DIY support, you also get DIY software support, DIY network support, DIY media player support, DIY system support, etc. Again, how much is your time worth? With epic amounts of wasted time tinkering, you could have paid much less to a reputable company that has a reasonably priced system with built-in support. Such a company has pride in their workmanship and doesn't intend to profit from your pain.

OK, here's the real deal. After you fill your diary with cuss words and you decide to reach out for help, the freemium company will now step in with an exorbitant fee to fix all of your problems-and this is how they make their money-charging you a premium for support and add-ons because you made an emotional commitment to the nebulous concept of "free" and just want it to all work. Of course, a company with a non-gimmicky approach using a reasonably priced SaaS fee will cover all of these support issues at no extra cost-usually the same day!

Finally, let's consider another pricing gimmick that is the opposite of free-paying too much! Yes, there are specific pricing models where the gimmick is to get you to think that if you spend more you get more. This trick is typically called something like "master licensing fee," or whatever name you want to give a fee to hide unnecessary costs.

Why not find a digital sign company that doesn't insult your intelligence by overcharging you for nothing more than the privilege of using their signage software?

Or, why patronize a digital signage company that insists on profiting from your pain? The more you suffer, the more they will charge you! Where's the incentive to build a great product?

Of course, it's always a good idea to search for the best value when shopping for digital signage software, which is based on the best fit for your needs. Consider doing your due diligence to understand better what you need now and in the future. Such self-knowledge also tells you when it makes sense to buy a mix of products or services that will earn you better value. The more you learn beforehand about the tweaks in each vendor's approach, the better you'll know when a seemingly good deal might come back to bite you and eat your lunch, too.

I'd encourage you to ask for references and seek out those who have an unbiased opinion on the matter. I've been involved in the digital signage industry for about 20 years doing both consulting and design. I never had a serious person ask me on a scope-of-work if the digital signage was free, but I have been asked many times the cost of ownership.

Do you want a good laugh at your expense? Tell people who are executing a digital signage strategy mixed with omnichannel integration overlaid with vertical content parting that is cued by real-time activity triggers that you found the perfect solution-and it's free!

When it comes to building solutions on the pillars of technology, it requires trust, gravitas, ingenuity, engineering, genius, and old-fashioned customer support. As you may have guessed by now, free is not a factor if your job or the outcome really matters to you.

Bottom line: Free digital signage software is not the same as a digital signage solution.

David Little is the owner of Little & Associates LLC that specializes in marketing techniques that stimulate business growth. David developed a strong background in emerging digital technologies as a product engineer during the advent of digital video before becoming involved with marketing in the high-tech industry for the last 20 years. Today, he enjoys applying his marketing insight to overcome business stagnation, create growth solutions, and enhance customer experiences. For further insight on how digital signage can help your business communicate, visit Keywest Technology. Or, simply call 800-331-2019 or email  Sales@KeywestTechnology.com for expert digital signage assistance.

Social Apps: How They Are Raising The Teenagers Network

By Rob Stephen

Long gone are the days when social networking sites could be accessed only on the web. Facebook, Orkut or MySpace, were the ones that trended all over the internet. However, in few years, practically everything switched to mobile, like shopping or travel reservations. And, so did social networking! With teens being immersed in their mobile screens most times, isn't it clear that apps meant for social interaction will become an exciting trend among them? Moreover, long-time researches on the common networking sites revealed that they struggled real hard to come up with features that would give some meaningful purpose to the budding generation through social apps besides ensuring their security.

Unlike earlier, parents today are also supporting some moderate use of such apps by their children because that makes them internet savvy and a social person. So, while most teens are flocking to social apps, here are some prominent features or utilities of social media apps.

#1 Creation and customisation of user profiles

Every social app allows the users to create their customised account or profile that is every way true to their identity. Users are provided with the option to put display pictures, space to fill in all personal details, from birthdays to school/institution they studied from. Such options to customise their profiles the way they want work best in the interests of youngsters.

#2 Conversation on the go

That's the key aim of every social network or app. Helping people to chat with people in their circle on the go. Apps come with wide-ranging texting features (Multilingual typing, Emojis, GIFs, Stickers, fonts styles, etc). Not only that, there are major tangible features like voice/video calling which tie up the teenagers to the app for hours.

#3 Newsfeed

Social media apps that are beyond messaging, have a news panel or space that compresses the activities of all other users. So, one can see the photos, events and other whereabouts of the people within his or her network. This gives them a chance to start interactions with others by liking, commenting or sharing their posts.

Additionally, many entertainment/media channels, business companies, communities, are joining the social networking bandwagon by opening up a customised page. So, users can view the news posts about their respective fields.

#4 Share and upload

Most apps rule the social world because of their matchless benefit to share photos/videos along with safekeeping them in the cloud. That is, once you upload a picture or video, that gets saved on the network for the lifetime of your account until you wish to remove it. Every account has their own storage space. Also, the chances of the data to get deleted from there is too rare.

#5 Polls and Q/A

Many social apps give users the option to engage in some real constructive activities apart from sharing photos, videos or clicking selfies! A poll-based or Q/A based feature in many apps, including Facebook, lets youngsters post a question and let the followers answer them. Thus, users can indulge in some actual informational discussion and enhance their knowledge on the go.

In short, besides letting youngsters to expanding friend circles, sharing opinions, events, photos/videos, the social media apps are also allowing them to absorb a lot of information about anything and everything. Newsfeed, Public pages, Advertisements, Promotional videos, are becoming a core part of the apps. Surely, these are making them more interesting and purposeful for the teens, especially for the oblivious ones.

Rob Stephen is a well-versed app developer at GetAProgrammer, which is a distinguished Android and iOS app development company based in Sydney. Having handled multiple numbers of app projects he have enough knowledge on apps development and keeps him updated with latest trends and technologies. Follow up the   LinkedIn page to know the trends and technology GetAProgrammer has worked around for a while.

What Making America GREAT Should Mean?

By Richard Brody

There's often considerable difference, between, a politician's or elected official's rhetoric, promises, and slogans, and reality! We have had politicians, base their campaigns on security/ safety, the economy, change, and, in the Presidential campaign, of 2016, the successful candidate, used the catch - phrase, Make America Great Again. However, like all slogans, reality is rarely, as simple, and/ or simplistic, as making a statement, promise, or using some rhetoric, because, there are generally, several possibilities, and every action taken, or avoided, leads to some form of ramifications! This, most recent slogan, combined a great degree of vitriol, and pitting certain groups against others, using the basics of political populism, and political agenda, rather than seeking the common good. How can anyone enhance America's greatness, until/ unless, the emphasis is, on protecting the freedoms, and liberties, which are central, to our American way of life? With that in mind, this article will attempt to briefly consider, examine, and discuss, using the mnemonic approach, what GREAT, should represent.

1. Growth; generate goodwill: America must constantly evolve, if it is to remain great! This internal growth, must be based, on enhancing, those things, which have always distinguished this nation, from most of the rest of the world. We cannot deny science, because it is inconvenient! Whether one supported or opposed Al Gore, we should agree, climate change, and the need to protect the environment, to protect future generations, is, indeed, An Inconvenient Truth! Political leaders should seek to generate goodwill, among all citizens, rather than playing politics, and focusing only on their core supporters!

2. Relevant; rational; rights: Being a relevant leader, does not mean, being a populist, and only looking at today's obstacles! Rather, quality leadership means pursuing the best, most sustainable future! It also means respecting all our rights, freedoms and liberties, and not being selective, and self - serving!

3. Empathy/ evolve; emphasis; excellence: One's definition of great, must be, both evolving, as well as empathetic! The primary emphasis should, and must be, on seeking excellence, and the best, for everyone, being represented!

4. Articulate; advancing freedoms; attention: The message, one articulates, must be, based on advancing freedoms, in an evolving way, focused on, what's best for the nation, as a whole! Examine what a particular individual focuses on, and pays most of his attention!

5. Timely; truthful; time - tested: Rhetoric and promises, are far different from quality, strategic, and action planning! One must use, the best combination of time - tested approaches, combined with outside - the - box, planning, based on both short - term and longer - term ramifications, and needs/ goals/ priorities. Wouldn't it be nice, if this was done, in a truthful way?

This political slogan, probably, began with an improper perspective, because it should have used the word, greater, rather than GREAT! What value and values, will America possess, and how will we deserve to be the world's leader, and conscience, if we fail to remain loyal, to our Bill of Rights?

Richard has owned businesses, been a COO, CEO, Director of Development, consultant, professionally run events, consulted to thousands, conducted personal development seminars, and worked on political campaigns, for 4 decades. Rich has written three books and thousands of articles. Website: http://plan2lead.net and LIKE the Facebook page for common sense politics: http://facebook.com/commonsense4all