Like Magic (Music and Poetry)

Like Magic is an original Indie-Rock project created by Dylan Joseph Ledford in Eugene, Oregon during February 2013.

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Inductive arguments are likely to be much more complex than deductive arguments, and the premises are proven to be true. The difference between formal and informal inductive arguments is that formal inductive arguments are complex, and start with premises that are proven true. On other hand, an informal inductive argument relies on analogies and lesser forms of evidence. A formal inductive argument is a more serious argument.

 When referring to weak and strong inductive arguments, weak inductive arguments are based on a very small sample. On the other hand, a strong inductive argument is based on more data. Overall, a strong inductive argument is more reliable than a weak inductive argument. Validating inductive arguments is complex and time consuming.

 There are two types of inductive arguments, that are formal and informal. An example of a formal argument is when a scientist collects data about how many red and white blood cells are collected from one human being. An informal argument is when a person does not collect data about how many red and white blood cells there in a client, but in return guesses that there are more red blood cells than white blood cells.

 A strong inductive argument is based on more data. The larger the sample size, the narrower the margin of error, and the more precise a prediction can be. The types of population sampling methods that are used in creating inductive arguments are used with statistics with a sample size, margin of error, and the confidence level in the results. There is also random sampling done; such as, polling organizations that go through great lengths to determine where their samples should come from.

 Slanted questions can affect a public poll in a negative way. Therefore, a slanted question is a “subtly inappropriate or intrusive question asked without the intention of being so.” A slanted question is asked with a predisposed idea, and they can come off as biased in a scenario. These can be assumptions that are made. So, people in a public poll often make biased decisions.

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Smoking and Quitting

So, I was just looking back at some photos of myself from a few years ago, and notice how manic and crazy I was. I'm now in such a better place in my heart and mind. Detoxing from nicotine is a very hard thing to go through. I would actually cry a lot because of the with-drawls. Unfortunately, I only quit for a month during that time period and started again. As of now, I am planning on quitting again, and this time around I'm on depression and psyche meds, so that should help. My partner is planning on quitting too, due to the effect from nicotine counteracting the estrogen that she is taking. I already know that there are alternatives for smoking, such as the patch and vaporizers. It would probably be a good idea to start with one of those, but eventually ween ourselves off of nicotine. It is really hard to just quit cold turkey. Like I said, I did it for a month and I was mentally a wreck without it. Nicotine is more addictive then we all think. Oh, did I forget to mention that it is the number one cause of heart disease, cancer, etc. Some people say that they aren't quitters, but it would be good to quit. Save your teeth while you can.

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Global Business Environment

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The External Environment

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The Human Memory

Sensory memory is the reaction to sensitivity, such as sounds and static that shocks us. It is very

  short-term

  Short-term memory has chunks of memory, that are short-term.

  Long term-memory are memories that we do not forget, “names” “faces” etc.

    Retrieval cues are difficulty in recalling information.

  Implicit and explicit memories refer to “conscious recollection and unconscious recollection” of

  memories.

  Flashbulb memories are memories related to a specific, important memory.

  We rebuild information from reprogramming ourselves.

  Proactive interference “disrupts the recall of new memory” and retroactive interference “refers to

  the difficulty of recalling information.”

  Humans should approach and solve problems by reminding the “self” that we need to be on a schedule. Drugs and alcohol impair our judgment. We need to remain aware.

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Professional Musician Reference Page

Dylan Ledford

EN1150

11/02/2014

Professor Vanderlinde

National American University

Lp3.4 Assignment: Reference Page

References

Bergland, C. (2013, December 11). Why Do the Songs from Your Past Evoke Such Vivid

Memories? Retrieved from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-

      way/201312/why-do-the-songs-your-past-evoke-such-vivid-memories.

Brabec, J., & Brabec, T. (2011). Music Money Success: The Insider's Guide to

Making Money in the Music Business. (7th ed.) (pp.1-58). New

York/London/Paris/Sydney/Copenhagen/Berlin/Tokyo/Madrid: Schirmer Trade Books.

Campbell, R. (2011). Pro Tools 10 advanced music production techniques (p.1).Boston, Mass.:

Cengage Learning.

Christiansen, M. (1998). Guide to guitar chord progressions (pp.3-12). Pacific, MO: Mel Bay

Publications.

Christiansesn, M. (1994). You can teach yourself guitar by ear (pp.1-15). Pacific MO: Mel Bay

Publications.

Cook, F. (2011). Pro Tools 101 an introduction to Pro Tools 10 (pp.56-57). Boston, Mass.:

Cengage Learning.

Curran, M.W. (2004). Getting gigs!: The musician's and singer's survival guide to booking better

paying jobs : With or without an agent (2nd ed.) (pp.77-124). Simi Valley, California:

NMD Books.

DuBrock, A. (2014). Play acoustic guitar in minutes (pp.2-4). Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia:

Hal Leonard Corporation.

Hall, J. (2013). The crystal bible (2nd ed., Vol. 1). United States: Walking Stick Press.

Marcone, S. . (2010). Managing your band: Artist management : The ultimate responsibility (5th

ed.) (pp.1-22). Wayne, NJ: HiMarks Publishing.

Owsinski, B. (2013). Social media promotion for musicians: The manual for marketing yourself,

your band and your music online. (pp.1-23). Burbank, CA: Bobby Owsinski Media

Group.

Video games vs. music (poll). (2008, November 1). Retrieved from

http://www.gamespot.com/forums/offtopic-discussion-314159273/video-games-vs

music-poll-26648387/.

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Peace of Soul: A Higher Consciousness & Spiritual Awakening Connection

 My friend from class wrote this and did an amazing job! (This is her paper, and I own no writes/rights to it.)

Shantelle Garcia

National American University

  Abstract

This research paper seeks to explain that sustained inner peace is obtained by an understanding of one’s “true self or soul” and its relationship to the Universe through connecting to one’s higher consciousness and awakening their spirit. It will reveal that emotions are connected to ego which is outside of one’s higher self and that the ego must be subdued before transformation of true inner peace can be achieved. Eastern religious philosophies such as Buddhism or Hinduism have understood this concept for centuries. Increasingly, others around the world have adopted aspects of Eastern religious philosophies into their daily lives and have come to find lasting internal peace where it was once void or temporal. The more widely practiced aspects and concepts adopted by masses include meditation, yoga, chanting, and subscribing to a universal oneness or connectedness resulting in holistic wellness and self-evolution. This paper attempts to support that the process of connecting to one’s higher consciousness will directly lead to awakening one’s spirit. An awakened spirit is able to lose their ego, understand their place and purpose within the Universe, reorganize their thoughts thus creating sustained emotional peace within their physical life. The reader will gain an understanding what is meant by the phrase “peace of soul” and the difference between “self” and “soul” and levels of higher consciousness which connect to a spiritual awakening.  

Keywords: Higher consciousness, Holistic wellness, Meditation, Mysticism, Ego

  Peace of Soul: A Higher Consciousness & Spiritual Awakening Connection

            “On the path to joy, we proceed to subtler and subtler realms of the mind, and with each step, new levels of energy become available. At the highest levels of consciousness, all energy becomes available. At that point, all of your wishes and desires are in alignment with the universe, God, or spirit. You are able to create with effortless ease and you experience the spontaneous fulfillment of your desires.” Chopra, D. (n.d.). 8 Secrets to Free Your Spirit and Find Joy. Chopra Centered Lifestyle.

Delving into the topic of the soul, in a large collective sense, is a widely speculative and subjective issue. The vast perspectives and interpretations given to the eternal soul show as evidence that there exists no single identifying definition which can be understood and wholly accepted by the global masses.  Thomas Scheff, a noted licensed counselor, wrote an article entitled “Role-taking, Emotion and the Two Selves” (2014.) Canadian Journal of Sociology/Cahiers canadiens de sociologie 39(3). Here he compares Cooley and Mead’s concept of role-taking which asks individuals to perceive their selves through another person’s situation. He mentions that Cooley, broadened the scope of the concept which considers that each person unconsciously lives within the mind of one another. In this, Scheff presents opposing or contradictory schools of thought about the soul, based on states of science which reflect the conscious mind and spirit which reflects the unconscious. He suggests that individuals identify their selves with others creating a connection associated with pride or disconnection resulting in shame. (316, 317) With all thoughts considered around true self and soul, the pursuit of understanding the soul presents concrete revelations of how its effects produce long-term mental and emotional stability or lack thereof.

Over the years, thousands of clinical studies have been conducted on the topic of the effects of meditation and self-actualization in relationship to spirituality. Equally, they’ve concluded that having patients connect to their higher selves through such practices lends itself to the notion that a link does exist and leads to some type of spiritual awakening. It is that awakening which allow patients to deal with their afflictions in a more mentally or emotionally balanced perspective than in previous times. Scheff, references his own participation as a counselor in a clinical research project headed by his colleague, Marilyn Nadler. The research was to assist clients with difficult cases to see the root causes of their emotions and get them to find ways to deal with them. Nadler guided Scheff and other hand-selected counselors to treat a group of sixty clients referred to her over the course of two years using holistic techniques for clients to release emotions the first half of a week followed by introspection and re-evaluation the second half of a week. Upon completion of the study, counselors reported a 100% success rate. “Role-taking, Emotion and the Two Selves” (2014.) Canadian Journal of Sociology/Cahiers canadiens de sociologie 39(3). (pp 318, 319.) How did Nadler achieve a 100% success rate and know exactly which techniques and methods to use for clients that other counselors had to refer? Scheff came to the understanding that Nadler was intuitive and could connect to her higher self which in turn guided her practical knowledge to accurately help each client. The results of the study, to add that 100% success is astonishing for any study, goes to support that at least the precept of higher consciousness should be entertained.

Attaining Peace of Soul

What exactly is meant by the phrase “peace of soul”? Most would conclude that the concept of the word soul deals with the eternal, the everlasting, the infinite “self”. Thus, the suggestion from the phrase would imply that of infinite peace within one’s self. Before exploring the “how-to’s” of obtaining inner peace, the origins of its residence along with its polar opposite, turmoil or confusion, also within the same residence, must be understood. It would be obvious to suggest that peace and turmoil are both housed in the mind. However, delving further into the matter, one should explore reasons why the experiences of peace and turmoil exist within their minds. One should ask their self, why they think, feel and believe as they do? Then ask even further, to what purpose does their thinking, feeling and belief serve? And even deeper lies the question, Why does that purpose need to be filled? This will reveal the root cause of the matter at hand, which most psychologists and sociologists would conclude is “Ego”.

Death of the Ego

Our central task on this journey through earth-school is to live in the physical world while staying connected to the spiritual realm. Our daily dramas and personal agendas trip us up. Most people do their daily living and that’s all. They don’t know there is a soul journey unfolding. Being so focused on ego demands and agendas, we forget we are spiritual beings. If you don’t pay attention to your spiritual life, you will feel depleted and frequently stuck. Connecting the two realms, using spiritual guidance to move through your human experiences, builds personal mastery to stay grounded through the shifting sands you experience. Inner struggle comes when you are not expressing unconditional love. Inner peace comes from complete acceptance of what is, acting from a place of love and grace.

Ferguson, L. (2011). Mastering spirit and matter as one. Interbeing, 5(2), 9-11.

If ego be the culprit of one’s turmoil then death or modification of the ego must be the key to one’s peace. The ego dwells within a lower consciousness state of being. It is the “I or me” centered identity based on one’s perception of their relational value within their world in comparison to individuals, groups and value systems around them. It is void of interest of anything outside of self and is driven by or reactionary to whatever may feed or starve it. Due to the fluctuations and volatile nature of ego and its lack of connection to the higher self, either death or transformation of one’s ego must take place in order to sustain any level of inner peace.  Rindfleish, J. (2007) writes an essay within Zygon: Journal of Religion & Science exploring the views of six Western practitioners and their adaptations to Eastern philosophies requiring the “Death of the Ego” take place before transformation to begin. Based on her exploration of the practitioners’ views, Rindfleish concluded “…East-meets-West spirituality in Western consumer cultures tends to emphasize the acceptance and transformation of one’s ego rather than its death.” (p 65.)

Transpersonal psychology. Whether one chooses the route of death or transformation of the ego, the process encompasses the realm of “Transpersonal Psychology”. Strohl, J. (1998) sought to provide understanding of transpersonal psychology in an essay within the Journal of Counseling & Development. Fall 1998 vol. 76. In the essay, he cites Lajoie and Shapiro (1992) to provide definition around the science.

Transpersonal psychology is concerned with the study of humanity’s highest potential, and with the recognition, understanding, and realization of unitive, spiritual and transcendent states of consciousness (p. 91)

  Strohl (1998) credits Carl Jung (1917/1953) for the initial concept of transpersonal unconscious as meaning the collective unconscious. He then further identifies 5 main themes of the tenant based on the studies of Lajoie and Shapiro. (1992) He shares those themes as states of consciousness, highest or ultimate potential, beyond ego or personal self, transcendence, and spiritual. In considering how one is to alter the state of their ego, transpersonal counseling should or could be considered as an option. This type of counseling utilizes multiple forms of traditional and nontraditional techniques to remove areas of the ego which prevent the highest levels of consciousness to be achieved. Strohl explains “The ego or personality is viewed by transpersonal counselors as the outer expression of one’s greater multidimensional self and as only one facet of one’s total identity.” “Transpersonal counselors facilitate the development of a stable, cohesive ego, and the exploration of the existential self. However, they view these processes as incomplete and believe people cannot be whole until they awaken to the deeper levels of human existence. (Wittine, 1993)” (p. 400). In other words, that which makes up the sum parts of an individual extend beyond the physical self. The “essence” of a person is not only comprised of the mind and body but also embodies a soul and possesses a connection to all that is around them both seen and unseen. At the point that an individual becomes aware of these multilayers, the process of taming the ego and connecting to their higher consciousness can begin.

Soul-to-Soul

            “The soul is the vitalizing or life force which transforms the inanimate into the animate, clay into flesh…It is a part of a person that exists beyond matter, beyond the body, beyond the senses. It is our essential identity or raison d'être, the manifestation of the divine intent and vision in creating a particular human being.” Berke, J. H., & Schneider, S. (2006).

            Berke, J. H & Schneider, S. (2006) lend reference to the Kabbalah as they suggest that two types of souls exist both being spiritual entities. The first is the “animal soul” known as klipot in Kabbalah ruled by the darker more corrupt self which is driven purely on self-gratification.  It is the “animal soul” which is the lowest form of consciousness and farthest removed from the process of spiritual awakening. The second is a “Godly soul”. The “Godly soul” seeks to connect to the Godhead by complete removal of self. Its desire is to commune with the Universe and serve its godly purpose. Within the median of each extreme are soul levels of transcendence and ascension or levels of higher consciousness. Berke & Schneider explain that the soul’s process of ascension begins by the transferring of love and fear between one’s self, others and within the cosmos. “…the soul is to change one’s personal orientation from personal survival to communal belonging.” They further explain the next levels pertain to an intellectual relationship to the Godhead and one’s interconnectedness then a more far reaching view which is able to see matters through spiritual eyes.

Higher Consciousness Existentialism. Many scientists have attempted to discount the validity of higher consciousness and higher dimensions of existing. Angel, L. (2004) argues “The physical causal completeness principle, often more simply called the principle of physical completeness (PPC), states that the only causal factors deterministic or probabilistic-for the occurrence of a physical event are themselves physical… the argument is inattentive to the basic elements of the reasons for believing in PPC re human functioning, then there is a serious lacuna in the discussion. Indeed, the lacuna is double, or triple.” Angel goes further into detail expounding on the mysticisms surrounding Universal Self Consciousness and its lack of credibility.

However, there exists more proof of higher dimensions of consciousness than not which is experienced by people quite frequently within their daily lives. Beichler’s philosophical discussion (2009) supported credence to the existence of a higher consciousness within ourselves through reflection of Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity and Theodor Kaluza’s electromagnetic theory and general relativity. “The existence of this higher spatial dimension is also implied by general relativity (Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity) when the curvature of space-time is interpreted as an ‘extrinsic’ property of the four-dimensional space-time continuum. A scientist named Theodor Kaluza even used this higher dimension to unify electromagnetic theory and general relativity in 1921, while Einstein and his colleagues worked on further developing the Kaluza five-dimensional model of space-time throughout the 1930s.” A Mysphyt Revolution: The Logical Nature of Spiritual Enlightenment. Journal of Spirituality & Paranormal Studies, 32(4), 184-185.  To some, this language sounds foreign or fiction, yet if, there is wide acceptance of the theories of relativity and MC=3sq, how then, can one not subscribe to the existence of higher consciousness from the same science?

Conclusion

For as many that may dispute the connection of one’s higher consciousness and spiritual awakening to sustained inner peace, are thousands more who would subscribe to the concept. More and more, combinations of various religious philosophies such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Kaballahism have melded together across the globe and evolved into what has become known as “Spiritualism”. This concept to break-down ego, connect to a higher consciousness, become spiritually awake and realize that we are all one, living in unison with the Universe assists to understand that we all have a responsibility to each other and to the cosmos. Those who have come into this realization have undertaken Earth-friendly initiatives like “Go Green”.  There is a level of compassion, empathy and humanitarianism associated to those who are spiritually awake. The mere acts of meditation or incorporating elements of Feng Shui into one’s living space can completely transform one’s negative energy to something more positive even for just a short period of time. Thus imagine the long-term effects for one who completely chooses to transcend their life energy or soul and ascend to levels of higher consciousness and awaken their spirit!

    References

Angel, L. (2004). Universal Self Consciousness mysticism and the physical completeness

            principle. International Journal For Philosophy Of Religion, 55(1), 1-29.

Beichler, J. E. (2009). A Mysphyt Revolution: The Logical Nature of Spiritual Enlightenment. 

Journal Of Spirituality & Paranormal Studies, 32(4), 184-191.

Berke, J. H., & Schneider, S. (2006). The self and the soul. Mental Health, Religion &

 Culture, 9(4), 333-354. doi:10.1080/13694670500116888

Chopra, D. (n.d.) 8 Secrets to Free Your Spirit and Find Joy; Chopra Centered Lifestyle

Retrieved from http://www.chopra.com/ccl/8-secrets-to-free-your-spirit-and-find-joy

Ferguson, L. (2011). Mastering spirit and matter as one. Interbeing, 5(2), 9-11. Retrieved from

 http://search.proquest.com/docview/927961106?accountid=36299

Rindfleish, J. (2007). The “Death of the Ego” in East-Meets-West Spirituality:

Diverse Views from Prominent Authors. Zygon: Journal Of Religion & Science, 42(1), 65-76. doi:10.1111/j.1467-9744.2006.00805.x

Scheff, T. (2014). Role-taking, Emotion and the Two Selves. 

Canadian Journal of Sociology (Online), 39(3), 315-329. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1614289366?accountid=36299

Strohl, J. E. (1998). Transpersonalism: Ego Meets Soul. Journal Of Counseling &

            Development, 76(4), 397.

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Ultra-Violet & Infra-Red Colours and Auras

SECRET: Look further into viewing people's auras and you can tell if they are filled with rage "red" or despair "black" or cowardly "yellow" or envy "green." Now eye sight can be trained to view the higher color spectrum, yet we have been evolving with this since biblical times, when God created the earth and the skies which do not describe colors. Humans used to see only black and white, but through cosmic consciousness and soaking up light, we shine, yet we become more blind by bright colours, such as infra-red, (the sun, our light bulbs, etc.) Put your palms over your closed eyelids, massage your eyes and release tension form the muscles behind your eyes and (the temple) this creates better eye sight, because the darkness releases the tension behind the strain of your muscles in your eye sockets, or put a chair in the closet and turn off the light, rub your hands together, then separate them, then you will see your aura if you practice this 5 minutes a day, every day, and you shall "GLOW IN THE DARK." In theory, if you want to find out who the killers are, view their auras. If they're red, their mad, but if they're purple, they are pure. These people are also know as Indigo children who were incarnated for earth's evolution, and the healing of lost souls trapped in these vehicles made of salt and sulfur. Sorry if I lost you, and I got into too much depth, but this is true. I've known it ever since Tim started teaching me Yoga while I have been transcended on Earth (Urantia) since I was I was 13 years old. Now, Tom is teaching me Yoga, and I am initiated to teach myself. See the resemblance in their names? T= t= (cross), which creates the personality, and in this case, a spiritually healing type of personality. This is also called Nomenology & Numerology. People who are divine are also known as Gurus, wise men, etc. Many believe that Jesus is/was a Guru, (the gap between his birth through Mary and the lost years between his birth and the parables written by the Apostles. He did walk on water, he did levitate, he did heal the blind, he did heal the sick, and he did rise from the dead. He IS pure ultra-violet light. Also, similar to Krishna, etc. Indigo-children. -Hindu. I am one. This is my destiny. This is where wisdom transcends, and healing takes its place. This is the secret to living a long life, and favor among GOD. Though I am just an initiate, but I Feel that anyone who reads this, is meant to read it, and it is a part of their destiny, because SOMETHING lead them to it, for SOME reason, and maybe that reason is I, who am becoming a gentler vessel of light. Sincerely, best wishes, blessings and love. There is a higher consciousness, so follow your light. -D.J.

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Marketing Strategy Review

     When the marketing strategy started, I created Grapevine Music 1.0, and my current product was just the Sonic 1 mp3 player. Grapevine Music was only serving the Standard Segment, and won against five competitors by a total marketing contribution of $43,434,330. The business spent a total of $7,600,000 on advertising. The annual marketing budget to spend was $25,224,000 with an available $724,000 available left over to spend after a total of $25,724,000. The past sales revenue for the first year (2015) was $93,632,181 with a marketing share of $18,124,100 toward product marketing and firm marketing, which is found in the Industry Benchmark Report under reports. The amount of units that were sold is 1,390,852 with a total of 1,617,700 units ordered for the 2015 Product Contribution. Units did satisfy all of the available demand because there is still units left over. On the other hand, it would be nice to have sold more units because of the Max Possible Sales of units being 1,418,669. The retail price on my product was $99, costs of goods sold is $55,634,080, with a retail margin of 32%, and a gross unit margin of 41%. For the product strategy, I intended to be a high volume/low cost manufacturer, because of my desire to sell my music (personally). My strategy was to stock as many products as possible, but starting with lower product stocks at first, finally leading to higher product stocks after higher advertising and promotional activities for the retail margins. The plan was to create a product for the standard, sports and youth segment. The goal was to sell as many units as possible.

     The plan that I implemented was strongly effective due to the high amount of units, and high prices for the sports segment product launch, which brought in roughly around a few billion dollars in profit. Now that I launched a youth segment product called “Lite Audio” and another sports segment product called “Wave Micro,” sales should incline. I am still beating my opponents by about $250,000,000. My total marketing contribution was higher, but I spent a lot of money launching new products so incline sales and product width and depth. In the “Sonic 1”standard segment and “Wave Audio” sports segment, I lowered the unit inventories to save money, and lowered costs on advertising and promotion. For the new products that were launched, I maxed out on the inventory units, because I expect sales to be high. It is noticeable that units left over should “phase out” and then upgrade the old products before dumping them.

     Now that I have more total marketing contribution, I created more existing products for future sales. So, I feel that the more products that are launched into the market segments, the more total marketing contribution will be a lot higher. It really makes sense that the quality and quantity of a product determines the price of the product and how sensitive each segment is toward the price. Quality is important, and upgrades are relevant toward the success of a business’ products.

     Referring to my competitors prices’ and sales promotion, it is important to reflect off of their mistakes and create better prices, and better products. In other words, it is a competition against many competitors, and the product details reports reveal the market competition. It is all about making as much profit as possible, in a quick amount of time. My strategy is to keep the price the same for new products for a few turnovers, and then lower the price when new products are launched and they are expensive. Low prices should catch the attention of potential buyers, and they won’t hesitate to make the purchase.

     In the future I expect to spend money to make money. Launching new products and inquiring the time to invest in them is hard to accomplish, but it pays off. So, I just have to keep in mind that the TMC will go higher, and then low, then higher, then lower, and eventually very high. Well, I look at it like it is an investment, and the more time spent researching and being actively strategic determines a high success rate. I’m looking forward to understanding who I am competing against, and what my customers desire in their purchases.

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"Child Abuse: The effect it has on Society" by Le’Vedra Vincent October 19th, 2014 Composition II National American University

‪#‎ChildAbuse‬ ‪#‎ChildNeglect‬ ‪#‎DrugAbuse‬ ‪#‎ChildrenUnfed‬ ‪#‎BestPaperEver‬A student from my class wrote this (which I evaluated), even with errors, I would give her an A+.:  "Child Abuse: The effect it has on Society" Le’Vedra Vincent (This is her paper, not mine.) October 19th, 2014 Composition II National American University Draft #1 "In 2009, the (US Department of Health and Human Services, (2010)) reported that 1,770 children,, or 2.34 per out of every 100,000 children, in the U.S. died as a result of abuse or neglect. Most of these deaths were caused by a parent or a caregiver (Kunz and Bahr, 1996).  Although these numbers are most likely higher (Ewigman et al., 1993; Herman-Giddens et al., 1999)., Tthere are a lot of many reasons why a child becomes abused or neglected, such things are as active assault/ and shaking, or passive behavior such as neglect/ and lack of supervision). As a society, I don’t think that we look at child abuse as serious as we should. In the United States, the strongest risk factor is age. Children, under the age of one are mostly likely to be killed easier. Numbers show that in 2009, 36.7% of the 1,770 children died from abuse and neglect, while 35.8% died from neglect only, and 23.2% died from physical abuse. In 2009, data collected shows that 53% of victims were male, while in 1976 and 1985, 55% of victims were male (Kunz and Bahr, 1996).  The majority of those that are causing the abuse are parents. The National U.S. statistics reported that 75% of fatalities in 2009 were caused by the biological parent(s). For 32% of those numbers, the crime was committed by the mother or the mother and someone else, 16% of the crimes were committed by the father or the father and someone else, and 22.5% were committed by both parents., Wwhile the rest were committed by a caregiver or someone that was not related to the child or the parents (US Department of Health and Human Services, 2010). Most of those that cause the abuse toward a child are under the age of 30 (Chance and Scannapieco, 2002; Herman-Giddens et al., 2003; Kunz and Bahr, 1996) A small handful of studies have shown that those that cause the abuse have a mental illness (Fein, 1979; Korbin, 1987; Margolin, 1990), especially among older children (Lucas et al., 2002). There are major things reasons that are contributing factors that can cause a person to begin abusing a child. Such things reasons are moving, unemployment, and birth of a child are present in many of the families who fatally abuse or maltreat a child (Lucas et al, 2002). A study shows ed that 26% of families that experience ing a CMF, are unemployed, 40% of the families had moved within the last year and, the families had a high degree of mobility (Anderson et al., 1983). Children who live with non-family members are ten times more likely to become CMF (Child Maltreatment Fatalities) than those children that live with both biological parents (Stiffman et al., 2002).  Myths and facts about child abuse and neglect are never spoken within society because then it becomes an issue that needs to be dealt with. Some myths that our society believes are 1.) it’s only abuse if it’s violent. Wrong fact is that physical abuse is only one type of abuse of a child. Neglect and emotional abuse is just as damaging to a child as physical abuse, 2.) only bad people abuse their children. The truth is as easy as it is to say that the people who abuse their children are “bad”, not every abuser intentionally plans on abusing their child. Many have been abused or victims of some sort of abuse themselves., Aand some may be dealing with a mental illness. 3) Child abuse doesn’t happen in “good” families. This is a big misconception because abuse can happen in any type of family. Although, a family may seem like they have the perfect life on the outside, they could be hiding a terrible story behind closed doors. 4) most child abusers are strangers. This is one that society needs to understand, that most abusers are family members or someone close to the family. 5) Abused children always grow up to be abusers. Yes, it’s true that most of children that are abused may become abusers themselves, : although on the other hand, some of those that are abused, in adulthood they overcome that situation and never abuse anyone because of the motivation to protect their children against what they have gone through. Emotional child abuse is one that is over-looked in society because we believe that if it isn’t violent then “how bad could it have been?”. Emotional abuse on toward a child can cause as much pain and hurt as physical abuse. Some things that are considered to be emotional abuse are: 1) Constant belittling, shaming, and humiliating a child, 2) Calling names and making negative comparisons to other children, 3) Telling a child he or she is “no good,” “worthless,” “bad,” or “a mistake,” 4) Limited physical contact with the child, such as no hugging, kisses, or the signs of affection.  Child neglect is one of the most common types of child abuse. This is where when a parent or caregiver fails to provide the child with their basic needs. This is but not limited to clothing, food, hygiene, or even supervision. Although, this is a common type of child abuse, it may not be easy to spot. Sometimes, a parent might become physically or mentally unstable or unable or unstable to care for of the child. Things that may cause this is a serious injury, untreated depression, or anxiety. Alcohol or drugs can also play a part in the misjudgment of the parent or caregiver in the safety of a child. Even though older children might not show signs of neglect, they usually have become complacent and are able to show a competent face to the world. Physical child abuse seems to be the only type of abuse that our society talks about. Physical abuse is when a parent or caregiver causes physical harm or injury to a their child. This may be a deliberate act to cause harm to the child, but this is not always the case. One thing that has recently become a form of child abuse is hitting you children with a belt, or physical punishment. A lot large amount of parents or caregivers that hit or abuse their children claim that the abuse itself was a form of discipline. Even though that may be the case, there is a big difference between abuse and disciplining your children. The warning signs of a child that is being abused may be hard to spot or sometimes it’s is even easily noticeable. Some of the signs that people should look for are: 1) Excessively withdrawn, fearful, or and anxiety ous about doing something wrong, 2) Doesn’t seem to be unattachment ed to the parent or caregiver, 3) Acting s either inappropriately with an adult, and 4) Is a Always being “on alert” or watchful, as if waiting for something bad to happen. Child abuse Psychologically ruins a child, and a child that has been abused may in their adulthood develop psychiatric problems in their adulthood. For example, A a study that was done by Dante Cicchetti found that 80% of abused and maltreated infants exhibited symptoms of disorganized attachment [72][73]. There is little or limited evidence that children that have a disability are more likely to be abused than non-disabled children.  One of the things reasons that play a part in child abuse that no one speaks of, is drug abuse. Drug abuse plays are major part and factor to child abuse. A U.S study found that parents with the drug addiction to of alcohol, cocaine, and heroin, were much more likely to mistreat their children, and were also much more likely reject court-ordered services and treatments [124]. Another U.S study found that those parents that use alcohol were more likely to cause physical abuse, while a parent that is on cocaine is likely to cause sexual abuse [125]. In 2009, CBS News reported that the amount of children abused in the United States had increased during the economic recession [129]. This shows that even something that a person cannot control can cause them to do something that they may have never done if the situation was different. Even though child abuse isn a large problem in the United States, we are not the only country that has a problem with child abuse. Child abuse is an International phenomenon. The difference in cultural perspective, plays a huge role in the treatment of children. In the countries of Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, and Moldova, in these countries 33%, 42%, 18%, and 43% of their children reported at least one type of child abuse [135]. Three-out-of-four of these countries’ drug abuse by the parent was considerably correlated with the present of child abuse [134].  The National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System Child File- which is a federally funded project. F shows that from the years of 2004 to 2011, the data showed that nearly 5.7 million children during that time frame had experienced maltreatment. Out of those cases, between 70% and 75% involved neglect (Wildeman). In the United States, more than 12% of children will experience a confirmed case of maltreatment, neglect, or abuse by the time they turn 18. Among African-American and Native American children, the number is larger. 1 in 5 black children and 1 in 7 Native American children experienced maltreatment during that time (published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics).  After reading and looking through all the articles that I could find, I have come to accept and understand that child abuse is a big problem and not much is being done. I mean yYes, we have the support groups and the websites that are out there, but I’m talking about society itself. I have to after comeing across an article that stated what can and what could be done to stop or prevent a child from being abused. For me I think the only way we as a society can slow this down is to become more involved., I’m not just talking about parents, but teachers, bus drivers, counselors, friends, neighbors, anyone who thinks a child may be in an abusive situation. Stop and ask, sometimes just asking can make a world of a difference, for it could save a life. General Statistics • A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds • More than four children die every day as a result of child abuse.1  • It is estimated that between 50-60% of child fatalities due to maltreatment are not recorded as such on death certificates. 3 • Approximately 70% of children that die from abuse are under the age of 4. 1 • More than 90% of juvenile sexual abuse victims know their perpetrator in some way. 4 • Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and at all levels of education. • About 30% of abused and neglected children will later abuse their own children, continuing the horrible cycle of abuse. 5 • In at least one study, about 80% of 21 year olds that were abused as children met criteria for at least one psychological disorder. 13 • The estimated annual cost of child abuse and neglect in the United States for 2008 is $124 billion. 6 • Top ↑ Child Abuse & Criminal Behavior • 14% of all men in prison and 36% of women in prison in the USA were abused as children, about twice the frequency seen in the general population. 7 • Children who experience child abuse & neglect are about 9 times more likely to become involved in criminal activity. 5 • Top ↑ Child Abuse Consequences • Abused children are 25% more likely to experience teen pregnancy. 5 • Abused teens are more likely to engage in sexual risk taking, putting them at greater risk for STDs. 5 • Top ↑ Child Abuse & Substance Abuse • One-third to two-thirds of child maltreatment cases involve substance use to some degree. 11 • In one study, children whose parents abuse alcohol and other drugs were three times more likely to be abused and more than four times more likely to be neglected than children from non-abusing families. 11 • As many as two-thirds of the people in treatment for drug abuse reported being abused or neglected as children. 9  • More than a third of adolescents with a report of abuse or neglect will have a substance use disorder before their 18th birthday, three times as likely as those without a report of abuse or neglect.12" References: "Retrieved from http://www.usnews.com/…/study-1-in-8-american-children-will… Retrieved from http://www.helpguide.org/…/abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect.htm Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Child_abuse Retrieved from http://web.b.ebscohost.com.nauproxy01.national.edu/…/pdfvie… Retrieved from http://www.helpguide.org/…/abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect.htm Retrieved from http://library.national.edu/"

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Airalynn Grace Winton (Happy 3rd Birthday Baby Girl! I Love You!)

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The Real Benefits of Playing a Musical Instrument Draft #1

 Dylan Ledford

EN1150

10/20/2014

Professor Vanderlinde

National American University

Lp3.2 Assignment: Draft #1

Benefits of Playing a Musical Instrument

                                                    Abstract

Learning music is one of the most essential skills to learn on the planet. Writing music is much better for people than playing video games, because it creates neural networks in the human brain, and helps musicians to open up other parts of their brains, or possibly a large part of their brain. Research data points out that there is a ratio of 27:8:8. 27 people choose music over 8 people choosing video games, and 8 people choosing both. The majority of the world knows that music is better for your health than playing video games. Music is proven to heal people and build better characters than video game players. Instead of playing video games on the computer, why not further your education in music production and convert the gaming computer into a recording studio. There are many benefits of playing a musical instrument ranging from skills to confidence, to money, songs and fame. Performing music live on stage in the spotlight is enlightening, and thus creates a better life for people. All of the attention that successful musicians get is a large portion of the global market. They are ranking in a high level of attention while making good money. There are so many instruments to choose from, and our voices are musical instruments. Music is perhaps the best life-style possible.

     Keywords: Music, Learning Music, Music Production, Music Performance, Song-Writing, Money, Fame, Health, Benefits of Playing a Musical Instrument

     Constructive music is more than just strumming nickel and copper strings connected to platforms of mahogany or spruce wood, because it transcends your brain into another gear and everyone miraculously learns life values and ethics because of it. Picking up a guitar and writing a song is so much more fun than sitting on a computer and playing video games all day. If you want to sit on a computer, consider moving into the Music Production life-style. Books such as “Pro Tools 10 Advanced Music Production Techniques” by Robert Campbell and “Pro Tools 101 -An Introduction to Pro Tools 10” by Frank D. Cook are beyond just typically interesting manuals to the creative part of music. That being said, recording, mixing and editing music is a beautiful auditory universal aspect of itself. Electronics are actually bad for your health though, and it is proven through healing remedies by Judy Hall, who explains that TVs and computers are toxic in her Definitive Guide to Gems and Crystals “The Crystal Bible (vol. 1-3).” On the other hand, no one in this day and age is going to be able to survive in this world without computers. Although, that is not my point, the beauty of creating music is another mystery of its own. Therefore, everyone on planet earth should depend on music to guide them to their greatest and highest self. To write a good song, is to write a master piece. They require meaningful lyrics, remembering the lyrics, singing along to chords, fast and correct key changes, a good voice, fast and tech-savvy hands, overall confidence and good health. A general to extensive education of music business is important to consider in the “song-writing life-style,” because there is a global market for being a musician. Consider playing shows all around the world for millions of fans in a short period of time, and selling millions of albums. Specifically, this sounds like the best life-style in the world. Who could argue that it isn’t? What would you rather play for the rest of your life, music or video games?

     Learning music instead of learning video games creates a better life for a child because they feel more valuable as they get older. Playing video games typically has nothing to show for, while playing music has so much to show for, and this is one reason why musicians perform live on stages. A poll on Game Spot “video games vs. music” proves that music is better than gaming at a ratio of 27:8. Back to Judy Hall, she explains that electromagnetic smog from computers is bad for the brain, eyes and cells of the human body. Music, on the other hand, is healthy for your mind, body and soul because self-expression is a great value that creates self-confidence. Performing music is a workout of itself while being active with singing, strumming, picking and chord changes, or drumming. Musicians tend to move around a lot and sweat while they are on stage, thus creating even more of a masterpiece while jumping around alive; after all, their souls shine as bright as light through darkness. In contrast, the human body, mind and soul concerning technology is both despised and loveed among people. For instance, Judy Hall writes about blockages and energy that are released through technology that causes stress, disease and death. So, if you want to make your musical area more stress free from computers, consider obtaining a certain geode or gemstone that will dispose of electromagnetic stress. For example, if someone were to tape a quartz crystal to the fuel line of their car, they are likely to save gas and energy. Keep in mind that electronics cause internal and external stress from electrical wave forms that cause people to get sick. The human body, mind and soul crave creativity through expression, such as song-writing, thus it is a much better way of life. “You are what you eat.”

     Did you know that playing a musical instrument creates strong neural networks in the human brain? For example, everyone has heard a song playing on the radio that triggers past memories which make us happy, sad or blissful. Through muscle memory, the human brain learns from hands on experiences such as playing music and painting. This is a very interesting concept because it can be very complex at a higher degree, yet simple and easy for some folks. Ways to keep your neural networks flowing are examples such as writing, reading, singing and playing a musical instrument. “Play Acoustic Guitar in Minutes” is a great guitar-learning book by Andrew DuBrock for beginners who do not have as much self-esteem as advanced music learners. It teaches easy chords, basic fingerpicking, strumming, patterns, chord progressions and more. This is one of the better guitar-learning books because it teaches in chapters, yet the book is three-to-four times longer than the basic guitar-learning books. People who play music are likely to learn much about music and adapt their brain to it through neural network learning and communication within it. Similarly, writing at long periods of time creates flow in the brain with neural networks, thus people can access this advantage of flow by learning music through neural networks in the brain, just like writing. Playing musical instruments also has a high-impact on neural networks in the brain and releases dopamine in the brain. This is common sense. For example, when a person picks up a musical instrument and starts to play it, they instantly have fun. This is also common sense, because people who play music enjoy playing music. So, performing music is great for keeping a good mood, high self-confidence and appreciation toward ourselves. Levels of high self-satisfaction leads to better lives and higher self-esteem. Every time a musician performs live on stage, they are applauded by an audience. Thus, “Getting Gigs!” is a book written by Mark W. Curran who explains how to get gigs! Technically, he has spent over 40 years touring and playing shows around the world. He talks about the book being a survival guide for musicians and singers, and how to “book better paying jobs with or without an agent.”

     The benefits of playing a musical instrument statistics are helpful for expanding the mind and higher-self. Especially, if we compare and contrast the strengths that playing guitar builds in the hands to video games, and the benefits of playing video games. Yes it is common sense that playing video games expands the mind, but it is even more common sense that playing guitar opens different parts of the human brain that excel posture, hand, eye and ear coordination through memory, and this is all learned through the mind, not a computer screen. The acoustic guitar is a six-string instrument that most musician singer-songwriters sing along to while playing. If it hasn’t clicked yet, it might be best to remember that playing the guitar is a progressive way of life, just like playing any other instrument. Mike Christiansen teaches a book about guitar chord progressions, thus music being progressive in form and nature. On the other hand, playing piano extensively builds ear, hand, foot and eye coordination. The visual piano is the structure of every instrument, for each piano key resembles a note corresponding to other instruments’ notes. Singing and playing piano at the same time is complex. Issac Slade, singer-pianist of the band “The Fray” from Denver, Colorado does an amazing job at writing complex music, for singing and playing piano is technical in its form. Drummer, Michael Wisdom from the band “The Digital Wild” from Austin, Texas has a powerful beat and rhythmically approach through his drum playing. In fact, he easily switches from indie-rock beats in his songs, over to hip-hop-RnB beats like there is no challenge for him. The cool thing about The Digital Wild is that they combined indie-rock with hip-hop, and they are the first to do it. Real drummers can make a beat out of any every day activity such as tapping their hand or foot, and psychologically, they become better time keepers. Last, singing with vocal chords expresses awareness of thy self and teaches us to appreciate ourselves and our health. Thus, especially singers should be healthy and express themselves as healers, not drunks and drug addicts. Suppose a singer’s voice might sound horrible from smoking every day for 30+ years. It is possible to heal the throat chakra with herbs and roots such as throat tea and ginger. 

     The creativity of playing a musical instrument has a shine on the personality of a musician. Being creative helps an individual become satisfied and content with their life. It is amazing what music artists can create from their tools and effort, such as the book “You can teach yourself guitar by ear” by Christiansen. Some people believe that playing a musical instrument is the golden key to life because is expresses our vessel and reflects light through our souls. Performing on stage under the spotlights are beautiful memories that humans shine through. Musicians get paid high-amounts of money more now than before, and it is easier to get paid through self-promotion such as the video uploader Youtube, which extends globally. Bobby Owsinski talks about this in his awesome up-to-date book “Social Media Promotion for Musicians: The Manual for Marketing Yourself, Your Band, and Your Music Online.” Music in general has a mathematical structure with a universally unlimited range of options. Chords, scales, intervals, and notes are musically written and interpreted. Gigs, social media, money and fun describe the life-style of being a musician. Art in general has its own mathematical and intelligent structure through the color spectrum, size and medium, which is similar to the musical structure. Painting is similar to music; for example, a person could create their album cover by painting it themselves, photographing it, and then printing and pressing it. Music created a revolution of recruited musicians, and since the early days to modern times, musicians learned a revolutionary way of life. Living the musician lifestyle is far from boring, but it does own its challenges. The gypsy life is similar to the fact that they travel around the world on a regular basis. Yet the business lifestyle has to take its part in it, because succeeding as a musician requires an income. Dr. Stephen Marcone talks about branding, fan bases, contracts, touring, merchandise, web use, marketing entrepreneurship, trademarks, etc. in his book “Managing Your Band.” “Music, money and success” is another useful book, written by Jeffrey and Todd Brabec who explain knowledge of musical success in depth. Living the modern lifestyle that most adults live is boring. Musicians thrive on their success, and the real ones easily live for it. The earliest musicians used different sections of their brains while composing and constructing their music. Consider the right-hand left-brain movement. So, Beethoven was a genius and created music as complex symphonies, and Mozart used almost his entire brain to create and compose his music. Pop culture in many genres has create a vast majority of title and subtitle levels of musicians in their careers. Some great examples are: of a very famous pop-singer Lilly Allen, famous pop-rock band Third Eye Blind, very famous pop- singer Katy Perry, famous pop-punk band Blink 182, very famous pop-rock-alternative band Oasis, and new rising famous pop-indie-rock-RnB-hip-hop band The Digital Wild. That being said, Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, and Austin are the places that musicians are most successful. In fact, The Digital Wild are gaining their fans and fame through Austin and other toured states they have hit. They are quickly becoming a success.

     After all, the human brain creates beautiful masterpieces creatively through music when the neural networks in the brain contribute to muscle memory techniques. The creativity of playing music is an outstanding form of art, and our modern and historical musicians recently evolved society through pop-art culture while extending the musical lifestyle. Every beginner musician who is interested in learning music should follow up on the sources that are available for them, whether it be a library or online data base, there is a lot of useful information and facts about learning music. Evidence proves that music is changing the world in a better way, day by day, hour by hour, beat by beat.

                                               References

Bergland, C. (2013, December 11). Why Do the Songs from Your Past Evoke Such VividMemories? Retrieved from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201312/why-do-the-songs-your-past-evoke-such-vivid-memories.

Brabec, J., & Brabec, T. (2011). Music Money Success 7th Edition. ; The Insider's Guide to Making Money in the Music Business. (7th ed.). New York/London/Paris/Sydney/Copenhagen/Berlin/Tokyo/Madrid: Schirmer Trade Books.

Campbell, R. (2011). Pro Tools 10 advanced music production techniques. Boston, Mass.: Cengage Learning.

Christiansen, M. (1998). Guide to guitar chord progressions. Pacific, MO: Mel Bay Publications.

Christiansesn, M. (1994). You can teach yourself guitar by ear. Pacific MO: Mel Bay Publications.

Cook, F. (2011). Pro Tools 101 an introduction to Pro Tools 10. Boston, Mass.: Cengage Learning.

Curran, M.W. (2004). Getting gigs!: The musician's and singer's survival guide to booking better paying jobs : With or without an agent (2nd ed.). Simi Valley, California: NMD Books.

DuBrock, A. (2014). Play acoustic guitar in minutes. Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia: Hal Leonard Corporation.

Hall, J. (2013). The crystal bible (2nd ed., Vol. 1). United States: Walking Stick Press.

Marcone, S. . (2010). Managing your band: Artist management : The ultimate responsibility (5th ed.). Wayne, NJ: HiMarks Publishing.

Owsinski, B. (2013). Social media promotion for musicians: The manual for marketing yourself, your band and your music online. Burbank, CA: Bobby Owsinski Media Group.

Video games vs. music (poll). (2008, November 1). Retrieved from http://www.gamespot.com/forums/offtopic-discussion-314159273/video-games-vs music-poll-26648387/.

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New Product Launch Review

   Technically, I went over my forecasted sales (1,999,998), and reached a high amount of 2,400,000 actual sales. This is really nice to see that the new Wave Audio product is a success in Music2Go. Therefore, I reached my sales objective that I was hoping to reach, because my total marketing contribution is now $208m. These reports will have a significant effect on my decisions going forward because there are many options to choose from and many reports to that have information available for purchase. Under the product contribution report, my new product has a contribution after product expenses amount of $91,826,136, and it seems to be a very good success. Also, I have tripled the advertising and sales promotion costs to reach out to more consumers for a possible higher sales growth in the year ahead. Sales of the new product  have reached their growth stage because the product is of higher quality than the product from the standard segment. Compared to the competing brands of MP3 players, my company is winning. The product launch when to plan well because my sales have reached a nice growth. So, I am really trying to determine my possibilities in Music2Go, for a better outcome each year ahead. The pricing strategy for the new MP3 player was successful because I placed the price at the highest price possible for the launch. Competitor prices must have been lower that the price I set mine at, because the quality is of high value. If I could go back and change any aspect of this new product, I would not change anything about it because I seemed to have had a success from my product strategy. Going forward, I am contributing to more sales promotion, market reports, unit costs, and advertising. Yet, I believe that these concepts will help increase sales for a short and temporary period of time before sales decline. Around the time that sales decline, I will l ower my contribution of sales promotion, marketing reports, unit costs, and advertising. Last, when sales decline, I will introduce either: A) a new technical product, or B) upgrade the original sports segment product for moderate to increased sales. Eventually, the goals is to have as many products available for sale, because it is best to have width and depth when it comes to products. In other words, marketers so keep releasing new products in new segments to keep a sales increase at a higher rate than their opponents. For example, Apple Co. keeps releasing new computers through out the years since their business has been active. If they keep updating their products and releasing a wide range of products, they will always be leaders in the computer industry by creating the best machines on the planet. After all, my plan is similar to Apple’s plan because I am going to keep releasing music, and promoting it on the market.

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Marketing Applications

Dylan Ledford

MG1050

10/20/2014

Professor Lenz

National American University

Lp5.1 Assignment: End-of-Chapter Exercises 

Marketing Applications:

Chapter 10: Question 1: (p.288)

Buffalo Exchange in Eugene, Oregon is a horrible clothing market with employees who under evaluate their customers’ items being sold. For example, when I walked into their store last year, they didn’t have very low prices and their clothing is used, yet they do not know how to treat their customers. In other words, the last time that I came into Buffalo Exchange, they did not give me any money for the nice shoes that I was trying to sell them, but they were still willing to put them on the shelves. Its depth is probably small because they have the same store name located in many areas like California, and it has a wide width because they have so many products from so many different original clothing store outlets. I’ve recently been convinced to never purchase from the Eugene, Oregon Buffalo Exchange again. Honestly, I hope they get shut down.

Marketing Applications:

Chapter 11: Question 2: (p.322)

There is a Dairy Mart positioned a few blocks down the road from where I live. It is a very small outlet and it is hard to see. Recently, my girlfriend started buying 32 oz. sodas there, which I find repulsing. They should reposition their market next to Albertsons and 7Eleven down the street because it is hard to see their store, and I didn’t even know it was there until I was informed. Actually, I walked by this Diary Mart many times and never even noticed it. If they repositioned their market, they would make a lot more sales, and this market is a drive through. The store is very small; therefore, they would make a lot more money if their store was large. Maybe I should suggest this to them.

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Marketing Strategy Report, Before and After

     Alternatively, the segment that I launched is called “Wave Audio;” therefore, I launched the product into the Sports segment, because the new segment gives an option to choose between Sports and Youth, and I found the tech-savvy Sports segment more fun to my first approach of launching a new product. The amount of sales in my forecast for the new Sports segment has 2,000,000 units, and the 2018 forecast increased largely due to the tech-savvy new product being wanted. The price I set the new MP3 player is the highest price it can go, with the lowest retail margin. Since it is a high-quality product, it deserves a high amount of cost value. Technically, I played around with numbers on the calculator until it seemed to be the right price. In the advertising mix, I spent about all of the money I could on my budget for the advertising mix and set the most percent to magazines and newspapers, and then TV and radio. More people are reached through magazines and newspapers than TV and radio. Typically, I keep the retail margin low to get as much money as possible per unit product, depending on the segment. The numbers in the forecast results explain a marketing contribution of $108,826,150 which is at a variance of 313%. The percent of sales are to be at 28%. Because of launching a new product and trying to be tech-savvy at it, I’ve tried to use my brain better at calculating estimation of total marketing contribution. My plan is to keep the product growing and upgrading; also, to limit the dumping waste amount of older products. It is appropriate to save as much money as possible, and keep high-quality products updated and in-line. My uncertainty lies within the question concerning how many sales will actually be made, due to the high cost amount of the product. This new product fits with my overall marketing strategy because it is guaranteeing a success rate due to the free ability to test out large fake amounts of cash to play it. It’s a fun, repetitive game of playing with fake money and learning how to estimate costs.

     I’m really curious as opposed to how people take out business loans and afford to pay for their businesses. There has to be a way to look into stocks and other forms of capitalism and duplicating your money to become a billionaire. Ever since I was a young child, I always dreamed of being a billionaire. Through checking the reports and calculating costs, it must determine the amount of money an investment may be making in a year period of time. Companies probably plan their marketing contribution all year long, and spend all year developing marketing strategies to multiply their money as quick as possible, while creating the best results in consumers, and filling their needs.

References

(Unknown). Music2Go Intro Players Manual (Revision C). Smartsims. Retrieved from http://ftp1.smartsims.com/versions/nau/manuals/m2gPlayersManual.pdf

The firm that I created is called Grapevine Music 1.0, and my current product is the Sonic 1mp3 player. Grapevine Music is currently serving the Standard Segment, and I seem to be winning against my competitors by a total marketing contribution of $43,434,330. There are atotal of five firms in my market who I am competing against. Currently, my business is spendinga total of $7,600,000 on advertising. The annual marketing budget for me to spend is$25,224,000 with an available $724,000 available left over to spend after a total of $25,724,000.The current sales revenue for the last year (2015) is $93,632,181 with a marketing share of$18,124,100 toward product marketing and firm marketing which is found in the IndustryBenchmark Report under reports. The amount of units that my firm has currently sold is 1,390,852 with a total of 1,617,700 units ordered for the 2015 Product Contribution. I did satisfy all of the available demand because I still have units left over. On the other hand, it would be nice to have sold more units because of the Max Possible Sales of units being 1,418,669. The retail price on my product is $99, costs of goods sold is $55,634,080 with a retail margin of 32%,and a gross unit margin of 41%.

     Each segment is sensitive to price, advertising, distribution, and product development in theirown unique and specific way by reaching out to different groups of people. Considering price sensitivity, the standard segment has high price sensitivity, while the youth segment has medium price sensitivity, and the sports segment has low price sensitivity. Advertising for the standardsegment has medium sensitivity, while the youth segment has medium sensitivity to advertising,and the sports segment has low sensitivity to advertising. The standard segment has high sensitivity to distribution, while the youth segment has medium sensitivity to distribution, and the sports segment has medium sensitivity to distribution. The product development of the standard segment specification preferences change slowly, while the youth segment product development changes moderately, quickly due to being a fashionable segment, and the sports segment product development changes quickly due to technology demands of sports segment consumers. The standard market is the largest market with minimal growth, the youth market is the small with high growth as the market excels, and the sports market is the smallest with moderate growth as the market excels. The price of the standard segment is medium ($85-$95) with high price sensitivity, the youth segment is competitively priced ($55-$65) with medium price sensitivity, and the sports segment is high priced ($100-$135) with low price sensitivity.

The media channel that is most important for the standard segment is the newspaper andmagazines, while the media channel that is most important for the youth segment is TV andradio, and the media channel that is most important for the sports segment is magazines and newspaper. In the future, I expect each segment to grow significantly because of the populationgrowth of the earth’s revolution.

     For my product strategy, I intend to be a high volume/low cost manufacturer, because of mydesire to sell my music (personally). Considering that I am a musician, I intend to enter the standard segment, the youth segment, and the sports segment as soon as possible. In my opinion, I feel that the youth segment is very important in the music industry, so I plan to enter that segment first, but in Music2Go, we have to start with the standard segment. In Music2Go, I plan to enter all segments as soon as possible because the more markets that I enter, the more sales contribution I will achieve. My strategy is to stock as many products as possible, but starting with lower product stocks at first, finally leading to higher product stocks after higher advertising and promotional activities for the retail margins. The positioning and differential advantage I came up with is to be “cool” and encouraging to the segments in the music industry and reaching out to as many children and teenagers as possible. The quality is important in music because the best music gets the most hits on radio stations and television, which eventually leads to the most sales potential. My music is original, but I have to keep in mind the “trend” analysis. The price of my product should be fairly low, the promotion price will be extremely high because music is promoted in all ways unless I get signed to a record label and they pay for it, and the distribution is going to be high priced because of the high amount of geographical segment locations for many areas, which includes all of the fifty U.S. states and other countries and continents in the world. In other words, I eventually plan to reach out to all of them. The product specifications to position my products (CDs, t-shirts, stickers, posters, mugs, etc.) requires the cost and time of song-writing, song-recording, CD mastering, and CD and merchandise screen printing. This will probably be a high cost on my budget, but a considerably low cost compared to the product specifications of computers and technical advancement distribution. Being a successful musician requires quality and quantity of the written and recorded songs which are eventually produced into markets.

     A tactic that I have come up with is to create as many units as possible and promote them, and advertise them. It is also a really smart idea to ship as many products to distributors for high retail margins to build market share, and then gradually reduce them because when a product is new, it is more likely to sell fast within a short period of time. Eventually,the product will notsell as much as before because a large portion of people have already spent money and boughtthe product, so there isn’t as many people who “haven’t purchased the item.”

References

(Unknown). Music2Go Intro Players Manual (Revision C). Smartsims. Retrieved from http://ftp1.smartsims.com/versions/nau/manuals/m2gPlayersManual.pdf