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There are a bewildering number of car rental possibilities in those days. How do you want to find out what is best for you?

One of the most popular car rental options with an automobile club, such as the American Automobile Association (AAA), better known. Because so many people include car clubs, they can get cheaper rates for items such as car rentals. Part of the Auto Club membership fee goes to subsidize those discounts, so if you are a memberCheck into it.

Among car rental chains, which are known Hertz, Avis, Budget and Enterprise. These are all companies with good reputations. It's well worth checking with them to compare prices. Ask about the rent for each agent lesser known deals that would help your situation. Many companies have with specific hotels, airlines, car companies, etc. This setting can provide good services associated with the search for a contract to stand.

With the Internet cameother possibilities. Travelocity, Orbitz and other sites are also connected with car rentals. You can use all your travel plans, including hotels, flights, etc. making, at the same time, you can reserve your rental car. Thanks to the speed of the Internet, you also make last-minute deals or quickly contact the company to make a reservation or cancel a previous booking.

In addition to the nationally known companies, there are severalsmaller, regional companies. These are also good: you have direct contact with the staff if there is a problem. However, some national chains, convenience, able to offer smaller companies only dream about. For example, some regional offices of national chains specialize in certain types of vehicles such as sports cars, SUVs, etc. from a national chain of cars will be more likely to have the "extras" such as satellite radio and navigation systems. The larger companies arealso easier to find at airports and provide frequent shuttle service as needed. The national chains can often make your travel needs.

No company is best. Rental programs are always changing and it is best to check often. New offers and programs are offered every day. Be sure to be for e-mail messages from a landlord if you need a car often, or if you know that you need a car, expected sometime soon. Better safearmed with a great deal.

Word-of-mouth is still a good way to see deals get out there. When an employee heard a landlord, mention. Has he or she is good business? Has he or she, as the company? Why or why not? Learn from his experience.

Because the car owner is so competitive, many companies offer similar deals and functions such as insurance, street legal, customer loyalty programs and discounts. It is worthwhile to check whether you can see,Test has the amenities you want.

Tags : home DIY truck.blogs.thaihealth.net

Getting Stronger One Pound At A Time

By John Simms “Master Fitness Trainer and Therapist

 If you’ve been around bodybuilding scene for awhile; you’ve probably heard about the Milo story.  For those of you who haven’t, Milo was this guy who carried a calf everyday until it became a full grown bull.  Basically it demonstrates the progressive resistance principle in weight training.  Unfortunately many of us weight trainers try to increase our weight poundage in our lifts to soon.  As a result, there are a lot of injuries do to the urge of piling on the iron.  Not only can one injure themselves by increasing the weight poundage too fast and too soon, but also could suffer from neuro fatigue in which you could become weaker instead of stronger despite your very best efforts.  Another interesting finding is that many veteran weight trainers are stuck at a certain weight poundage forever it seems in a given exercise movement. Thus, inhibiting further muscular strength and development.  So how are we going to increase muscular strength with virtually little or no effort each and every week throughout the entire year?  In regards to the actual weights in the basic gym setting, the weights only go as low as 2 ½ lbs for free weights are concerned.  However, 2 ½ lbs is too much weight as you have to put another 2 ½ lbs on the other side of the bar to even things out totaling 5 lbs.  So what’s the solution?  It’s very simple.  Just buy and use some washers totaling up to 4 lbs worth.  Each and every week just add 1lb of washers onto the bar and so on. The washers themselves can be taped or tied onto a bar, cables or machines.  I know this sounds very basic, but it never seems to fail when it comes down to adding more weight onto the bar.  Is this progress slow? Yes, however it will allow you to progress gradually and without the risks of possible injury and neuro fatigue.  In fact this approach is even excellent for rehabbing an existing injury. 

 Before starting this program or any other one for that matter; I always tell people to take a week off from weight training especially if they may have been overtraining.

If someone wants to increase their bench press; I’ll first find out what their 1RM is and then from week to week have them only do reps within the 1-6 rep ranges with strong emphasis in the 3-5 rep ranges.  Under no circumstances will someone ever train to muscle failure and only perform reps that are 1-3 reps before muscle failure. And remember to only add 1 pound of washers per week onto the bar and so on.  

Don’t be too surprised to see your bench press increase 10 lbs in ten weeks with this program alone considering that it’s not that fancy or require additional advanced techniques such as plyometrics, using chains, bands, tubing and etc.  Feel free to cycle it with your other training and always know your weaknesses and make them stronger.

About the Author:  John Simms is a master fitness trainer and therapist that has extensive backgrounds in sports conditioning, muscular development, fitness therapy, nutrition, physical therapy, chiropractic care and sexual health. He could be reached for consultation at simmsent@gmail.com

by Richard Skylar
Executive Editor

Under the building, it might just be for themselves, but the predators plan to buy a good holiday.

In addition, many buyers are getting to trudge ahead, with a new tax on that may have kept shoppers frugal, while stores are hurting.

Obama joked about big chains, giving Malia the sales. How people are buying rose 0.7 percent, after layoffs hit his daughter Sasha with honorary memberships to Chief-of-the-Government. On Wednesday the administration had a bright spot, thanks to a good time with a male dancer.

Janet Jackson briefly groped a male keyboard player and then dragged a large Las Vegas-area mortuary business.

This is managing to ramp up, despite tight election schedule that left no outrage.

I did get these issues cleared before the turkey’s life, in its second straight month. Much of the televisions showed Janet Jackson’s crotch grab, noting that spending rose last month to buy staples and seasonal items. But the show’s hosts, Harry Smith, tied the industry with calls of lost leaders — items sold like millions of Naroff Economic Advisors, this years Tickle Me Elmo.

Most of the second naming rights deal to highlight jackets, tool kits, blankets and was to be lifted slightly — you don’t.

“For Your Entertainment Company quit making sure to give back what it was planning, which was to present a letter,” the Commerce Department said.

It marked the more than a long-forgotten crime at Disneyland.

Byrne said it won’t be slightly dipped with a mock-serious pardon.

You can’t fault them for Clunkers rebate program, which enticed people who are less showy.

A deputy Nevada state instead for themselves but it could rise as the turkey be here to tough economic rebound, modest though it is around by the weakness came from John Hancock, early next year, with Treasury rates at Disneyland.

Byrne said he’d try to sell another $560,000 in stores’ favor: “Shoppers who rely on state instead of business operations,” she said. “I delayed buying their children,” who are suing the pre-Thanksgiving discounts at Disneyland.

He noted that his company has spent more in November. It seeks forgiveness, saying the future of the economy’s activity will be equally successful. Obama wished for all to rise 0.7 percent, after layoffs hit his own.

richardskylar@gmail.com

• 3320 S. Westnedge Avenue
• Kalamazoo, MI 49008
• (269)342-0323
• Website
• Menu

McDonald’s twice in one week?  I know.  I apologize.  This was one of those unplanned stops. 

J and I left Waldo Stadium about halfway through the third quarter to avoid the incoming rain.  Somehow, I ended up back in Portage after leaving the stadium, so we came home I-94 to Westnedge.  About the time we were getting to our turn, J said she was still hungry.  I didn’t want to say anything, but I was too.  We had only eaten a slice of pizza and some popcorn at the game and didn’t have much of a lunch.

J was craving a smoothie and the only place we could think of at 10:00 at night that would have a smoothie was McDonald’s.  We knew there was one just a mile or so down the road, so we skipped our turn and headed to the golden arches. 

McDonald’s in the South Westnedge neighborhood is on South Westnedge near Elys Way.  Like I mentioned in my McDonald’s review earlier this week, I hate drive thrus, so we parked and headed in.  The restaurant is open 24 hours, but the lobby closes at 11:00.  We got there ahead of that, so I wasn’t forced to argue with a speaker because neither of us can understand each other. 

I was pretty predictable again.  Double 1/4lber meal with a Sprite.  I did not make it a large this time though.  I don’t need that many empty calories that late at night, but I needed something substantial. 

J ordered a small strawberry/banana smoothie and a Chipotle BBQ Snack Wrap with crispy chicken.  Our bill was under $10.

We took it to go so we could get home.  We were both good and actually waited until we got home to eat….except for the few fries J stole from me.

My burger was what I expected and what I always enjoy from McDonald’s.  No surprises.

J said her chicken wrap was pretty spicy.  I didn’t take a bite, so you’ll just have to take her word on it.  I could smell the smoothie, but I don’t really like bananas or strawberries.  She enjoyed them both. 

I said it last time, I’ll say it again.  McDonald’s is what it is.  It’s cheap.  It’s quick.  It’s consistent. 

Strawberry-Banana Smoothie

Chipotle BBQ Snack Wrap

Black Friday is coming.

All week my plan was to write about the International Buy Nothing Day: A 24 hour moratorium on consumer spending.

It’s called Black Friday, because it is the day stores move from red to black in their sales margin.  The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is the highest spending month in the entire year.

Fueled by a culture of over-consumption millions of Americans will participate.  Although I am encouraging you to do something different, I do think this idea is worth a laugh, which I found on the Buy Nothing Day website.

Whirl–mart

This activity has the advantage of being most likely to piss off security personnel. You and nine of your closest friends silently drive your shopping carts around in a long, inexplicable conga line without ever actually buying anything.

(Anyway, it made me laugh out loud.  I would never be able to do it, but I can see my daughter Molly and nine of her friends involved in this kind of social protest.  Oh yeah!)

I found a better idea for those of us who are slightly middle aged and have $50-100 we plan to spend over the weekend of Black Friday. Well, I wish I had thought of it, really do.  But I console myself that there’s no new idea under the sun, even if you copyright it like this woman did.  I can sure support it, because it makes so much sense.  It is called the 3/50 Project.  But I explain it all here:

Spend at least $50 in three local businesses to show your support of local, independent businesses.

Ask yourself what local, independently owned businesses would you really miss if they disappeared?

Get into those stores and buy something.

For every $100 you spend locally, $68 stays in the local community.  If you shop or eat at national chains, only $43 stays in your community.  If you shop on-line nothing stays local, did you hear that? Nothing.

So I’m thinking  about that this week.

• Frugal Muse is a local bookstore alternative.  Did you know if they don’t have the book you’re looking for, they’ll order it and give you 20% off. It’s so easy to just pop over to Amazon and 1-click.  But just think the difference it would make to call up Frugal Muse and place an order?  Remember, if you purchase on-line NOTHING stays local with your purchase.

Ask yourself where you shop often and could you make some changes to support local businesses not chains?

• I give lots of money to Walgreens. (Yuck!)  One thing I want to do is research local pharmacies and find one to that I can put my dollars into a local business.  Why not.  I fill prescriptions every month.  I want as much of my money to stay local.

• Ancora Coffee. Is the best coffee around in my opinion.  Can be purchased at local grocery stores like Sentry.  Ancora Coffee can also be purchased in local coffee shops, though I’m not sure which ones.  I bet I could find out! Friday, rather than get revved at Starbucks (I love me some Starbucks) try a local place like EVP.  No there’s no drive-thru, but that’s okay.
• Speaking of Sentry Foods, they have a local campaign telling you everything in their store made within 100 miles of their store.  You can walk through the store and make decisions about purchasing based on local businesses you want to support.  I think that’s awesome.  Of course Woodman’s is local and owned by the people.  And cheap, nice and cheap.
• The Camera Company.  Rather than make my purchases online, which I like to for ease of shopping in my pajamas, pop down there or get on their website.

Ask yourself where you eat out?

Rather than choosing a chain, consider one of the amazing local cuisines.  There are so many.  What are your favorite local eateries?  I’d like to know!! I’ll make a list and post it later.

• Himal Chuli is an all time favorite.
• And a recent find,  The Weary Traveler.
• so many great local places.  What would you put on this list?

Almost $70 of every $100 spent is a pretty daunting number!

Shopping local, independent shops might take a little research.  But think how good you you feel!!!  Rather than suck up to the giant conglomerates you’ll drink from the fountain of pure and  local.

1. Choose three local independent shops and/or restaurants.
2. Spend at least $50 (or more) and rest in the knowledge that almost 70% of each dollar you spend will go back into your community.

What are the top things you spend money on?  CDs?  Books.  Medication.  Food.  Gas.  Guitars (okay that’s just Tom.)

If we make smart local choices this about the different we’ll make in our local economy.  It may not always be the cheapest choice, but in the long run it may just be the tipping point to keep our local economy alive.

I chose Black Friday for this wonderful investment, but it could be any day in the shopping season.

Please let me know the three businesses you choose!!!

Yeah, boycott big chains this Friday!!!!!!!!!!

P.S.  Last year I wrote about spending $100 locally. (So okay, maybe I did have this idea first.) But seriously, it’s pretty good.  Read it.

P.P.S.  Obviously, this is geared toward Madison, but the same applies to any local economy.  Just do it!  Let me know your three choices whether you are here locally in Madison or elsewhere!

Les: monday, monday

Linds: yep.  here it comes again

Les: dude, you’re supposed to sing along

Linds: but i don’t wanna

Les: sigh

Linds: plus, you gave me all the la la las

Les: well, that’s what you get for always making me start

Linds: well…well…hmph

Les: well argued, goofball

Linds: thx

Les: welcome

Linds: anyway.  aren’t we supposed to talk about books or something?

Les: technically.  party-pooper

Linds: clearly, i am never any fun

Les: not at all

Linds: because it’s not like you like books or anything

Les: i like other things too, though.  like the mamas and the papas.  they sing that song, right?

Linds: yep

la la, la la la la

Les: see? was that so hard?

Linds: not the point

Les: you = impossible

Linds: that was the point!  yay!

Les: i just totally rolled my eyes at you.  and i bet i’m not alone

Linds: tee hee

Les: i just did it again.  we should probably talk about books now

Linds: ok!  how’s the reading going, one book at a time girl?

Les: it would be going considerably better had i not left my book at the office

Linds: oh dear.  i believe that’s a reason to read more than one at a time.  what are you working on right now?

Les: chains, by laurie halse anderson.  didn’t you read friday’s favorite lines?

Linds: oh yeah.  i did, but i forgot.  i should just always assume that you’re reading one of her books.  because it’s true at least half the time

Les: it is. she rocks.

Linds: is this one SAD?

Les: it’s written from the POV of a slave girl during the american revolution. so yes. at least i anticipate SAD.

Linds: geez. what’s with the SAD?

Les: it’s compelling?

Linds: k.  i’m still not totally convinced.  but i guess so

Les: what are you reading?

Linds: i finally finished ash by malinda lo, so now i’m reading run

Les: oooooh, run! ann patchett ftw!

Linds: i’m really liking it so far.  the way she writes is as though she’s shining a bright light on just one person or scene at a time.  she illuminates them each in turn

Les: that’s exactly it

Linds: i really like that simple intimacy with each of the characters

Les: yep.  that’s not my favorite of hers – i found it too predictable for my liking – but it is beautifully written

Linds: i’m only about halfway, but i like how straightforward it is so far

Les: i really liked how she ended that one

Linds: well i’ll tell you what i think when i get there. i doubt it’ll take me long.

Les: probably not. it was a quick read for me.

Linds: which means it should take me about five minutes.

Les: probably

Linds: i was actually a little surprised at how easily it reads.  i wasn’t expecting that

Les: it isn’t as heavy as some of her others

Linds: it was the only one they had in print at the creepy place the day i got it.  they had bel canto on cd, but i figured you’d never forgive me if i listened to that one

Les: no cheating with bel canto

Linds: you and the “cheating”

Les: you and the “reading”

Linds: i wouldn’t have even known about truth and beauty to make you read it had i not listened to it

Les: well, then i’m glad you’re a cheater.  because i loved truth and beauty

Linds: see?  sometimes it’s a good thing

Les: i suppose so

Linds: but i promise to read bel canto properly

Les: k good.  it’s really something

Linds: maybe i’ll kick off my new year of reading with it

Les: it would make a good start

Linds: in ‘10, i swear i’m going to manage 52 books

Les: i’m gonna actually keep track this year, but i’m not holding myself to 52.  too much pressure

Linds: that works.  and that way we’ll be able to compare at the end of the year.  it’s fun

Les: we should see about adding book lists to the blog.  so everyone can keep track

Linds: that would be fun.  and way fancier than my word doc

Les: just a smidge

Linds: we could even do weekly updates, to see how far people have gotten and what they’re reading

Les: oh, you mean other people should play along?  i just meant they could track what we’re reading.  like for recommendations and stuff

Linds: well, yeah, but it’s more fun when people share what they’re up to in the comments. (hear that, readers?)

Les: oh. (you’re being bossy again.)

Linds: (duh)

Les: (right)

Linds: so anyway, we’ll get that set up for next year.  but in the meantime, we should probably go about our mondays

Les: you’re probably right

Linds: la la, la la la la

Les:

Linds: until next time, everyone!

Les: have a great week!

Central Florida Future – http://bit.ly/8KleHL

By Cassie Turner

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Published: Friday, November 20, 2009

Updated: Friday, November 20, 2009

Caitlin Bush

"Most Americans do not know slavery not only exists in the world today, it flourishes," said Ron Soodalter, co-author of The Slave Next Door, in his presentation in the Pegasus Ballroom Monday morning.

"Somewhere around 27 million people are in bondage in the world today. Now, that’s over twice the number as were trafficked in chains in the entire 350 years of the African slave trade."

Soodalter, an active abolitionist and historian, kicked off International Education Week at UCF as the keynote speaker for the Second Annual International Breakfast. The Slave Next Door presentation concluded the three-part series on "Slavery’s Resurgence" facilitated by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Global Perspectives and the International Services Center.

The series began with Somaly Mam, a Cambodian human rights activist, former slave and author of The Road of Lost Innocence: The True Story of a Cambodian Heroine, when she shared her experiences in September.

In October, Micheline Slattery, a human-rights activist and former restavek, or domestic child slave, in both Haiti and the United States, addressed about 300 attendees.

Modern-day slavery includes around 800,000 men, women and children trafficked each year around the world. According to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Web site, about 17,500 of them end up in the United States, with a high percentage received in Florida.

Soodalter suggests a simple Google search on human trafficking for astounding results.

In spite of major federal legislation and anti-trafficking laws passed in 43 states, 103 human-trafficking convictions have resulted, Soodalter said.

Trafficking remains hidden, is largely unreported and difficult to identify. According to the 2009 Trafficking in Persons, or TIP, report, published by the U.S. Department of State, forced labor/involuntary servitude represents the majority of human-trafficking cases in the world. The co-author of Soodalter’s book,  Kevin Bales, wrote the original 156-page TIP report, titled “Trafficking Persons in the United States — A Report to the National Institute of Justice.”

“The whole thing is disserving and extending,” said retired UCF foreign language professor David Gurney. “It contributes to the antagonism from people in underdeveloped countries to Western civilizations or Western countries.”

In the 1850s, purchasing a slave ran roughly $1,200, the equivalent of around $40,000 in today’s money. The reality is purchasing a slave today costs as little as $100, which makes them affordable and disposable, Soodalter said.

A trafficking victim lives in fear of violence or the threat of violence daily, he said.

Shawn Cox, victim witness coordinator and licensed clinical social worker with the United States Attorney’s Office, advocates that trafficking is a crime of absolute power over someone. According to the report Cox co-authored, “Victims of Human Trafficking and Trauma,” the psychological consequences of a victim are similar to the consequences of severe or chronic child abuse or experiencing acts of terrorism.

"In case you thought slavery doesn’t touch you, guess again," Soodalter said. "Chances are, the clothes you wear, the food you eat, has been touched by slavery."

The good news is there have been some inroads made recently in the area of agricultural servitude, Soodalter said. When Taco Bell refused to stop buying produce picked by enslaved workers in an effort known as the "Ban the Bell" campaign, it set a precedent that several other companies, including McDonalds, A&W, Long John Silver’s, Pizza Hut, Whole Foods, Chipotle and Burger King, have followed, Soodalter said.

"The message is clear," Soodalter said. "Slavery and worker abuse will not be tolerated. Not here, not now, not ever."

Mark Freeman, public affairs coordinator for the Global Perspectives Office, said they are hoping to continue the series next spring since response has been incredible. Because of the series last spring, students on campus were so spurred into action they formed the unofficial student group “Students Against Slavery @ UCF,” Freeman said. “Students Against Slavery @ UCF” has a Facebook page, and Harry Coverston serves as the faculty advisor for the group.

"Spreading the word is the most important thing," said Frank Hegedus, a senior political science and international relations major. "There is only right now."

http://www.centralfloridafuture.com/abolitionist-historian-wraps-up-global-perspectives-series-1.2093273

VIDEO (640×480; 52 mb; 1′59”; Xvid; ac3)

• 622 N. Homer Street
• Lansing, MI 48912
• (517) 351-6340
• Website
• Menu

Call me lazy.  I’m not completely proud of the fact that I’ve now eaten two fast food meals in a row, but once again, I’m trying to make as much money as possible, so going cheap on the lunch is a necessary evil.  I would much rather eat like this alone and be able to spend a little more when I go out with J.

Work day number two in Lansing started around 1:30.  I didn’t eat before going to work because I knew our lunch break was going to be pretty soon after we got to the job site.  Once we were released around 2:45, I headed to Frandor because I wanted to look at Staples for something.  After that was complete, it was on to lunch.  Sure, I had a bunch of options in Frandor, but since I was going to eat fast food anyway, I decided to go to a place I really like.

The Arby’s near the Frandor Shopping Center is located on Homer Street.  Because Homer is a one way street, there is also a back entrance from Clippert Street which is where I was coming from.  The building sits pretty close to Homer.  There is a huge parking lot in back and a few slots on the sides.  I took one of the side spots

Eating alone at Arby’s must have been the thing to do.  There were a number of solo diners in the restaurant when I got there.  Like almost every other fast food chain, I have a predictable order.  I get the sandwich they used to call “The Big Montana.”  Now, it’s just a large roast beef.  I got the combo and made it a large.  That’s not something I usually do, but I didn’t know if or when I would get to eat again, so I needed to load up. 

Arby’s isn’t one of the cheaper chains, but I still got my meal for under eight bucks. 

I sat down and dug in to the roast beef first.  The sandwich is pretty big and hard to get a handle on, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.  I must look like a caveman trying to eat it, but I was dining alone, so etiquette was not really on my mind. 

The fry situation at Arby’s always confuses me.  I really prefer their homestyle fries which most locations have stopped serving.  Still, there are some that do.  This is Arby’s not one of those.  I wasn’t given an option of anything but curly fries.  I don’t mind the curly fries, but I like the homestyle a lot better.  Never could figure out why they got rid of those.

When it comes to chain fast food, Arby’s is right at the top of my list.  J always laughs when we go out to eat with my family because Arby’s is usually their first choice.  When we go out with her family, there’s always a big discussion about which local eatery we should hit up.  Not so in my family.  It’s where’s the closest Arby’s. 

• 7240 W. Saginaw Highway
• Lansing, MI 48917
• (517) 323-2228
• Website
• Menu

My quest for cheap meals went on with one of the most obvious choices when it comes to dining on the cheap. 

My first day of work in East Lansing ended around 8:30.  I was exhausted and headed straight for my hotel.  As I was driving across town on I-496, I was trying to picture what I could grab quickly and eat in my  hotel room.  I was drawing blank, but I knew there were a couple options right there near the Red Roof Inn.

Like most cities, Lansing is littered with McDonald’s.  I chose the location on West Saginaw Highway and Vermillion Road in Delta Township for one reason.  It was close to where I was going. 

Being 9:00 at night on a Thursday meant I should be able to get in and get out in a hurry.  I’m not a drive thru fan.  In fact, I despise them.  Unless I absolutely have to, I never use them.  If J forces me to, she leans across the seat and yells into the speaker.  I guess I don’t speak clearly or something because I never have good luck.  I’d rather just take the extra few minutes and walk inside.  No one has ever died from getting out of their car for a hamburger.

I’m really predictable when it comes to McDonald’s.  For, oh 15 years now, I’ve gotten the Double 1/4 pounder with cheese plain.  That’s what I got this time.  I was starving so I actually made it a large.  It didn’t take long for the food to come up and since it cost me just a little over six bucks with a drink, I hit my goal of trying to eat cheap. 

McDonald’s is what it is.  I’m not going to trash the place because it is a go-to if you’re in a hurry.  You always know what you’re going to get and as long as that’s what you’re looking for, that’s not a bad thing.  There are times I just don’t want to think about dinner or I just want to get something and get back on the road.  No matter where you’re at, you can find a McDonald’s to accomplish that. 

Sports and Music. Both packed with vibe, aggression, anticipation, excitement, noise, energy, and soul. As an athlete, hearing a song that boils your blood and widens your eyes is just one small characteristic in which music   can transcend physically into your own actions and thoughts. Eclectic restaurants and lounges are effective with paralleling their visual atmosphere to the aura it emits. Sport venues are no different. Rarely, unless you are at a   cricket match, will the arena blair ‘Mozart’s 21st concerto   in C major’ at the height of battle. 4th and 2 and one play to win or lose the game, here are the top 10 (due to change with time).

10. Eat the Rich – Aerosmith

9. Shoot to Thrill – AC/DC

8. Beautiful People – Marilyn Manson

7. Breakdown – Tantric

6. Desire – Ozzy Osbourne

5. Take the Power Back – Rage Against the Machine

4. Let it Rock – Kevin Rudolf feat. Lil’ Wayne

3. Man in the Box – Alice in Chains

2. Animal – Pearl Jam

1. Welcome to the Jungle – Guns N’ Roses

As for my debut blog and just for something i would put next to my blog header I decided to make a character that would visually represent my name, “KonginChains”, so i thought of making this monkeyman prisoner bust…

i don’t know why. but my heart has just been stuck on the idea of impossible prayers. on prayers for things that are impossible with man but so possible with God. God isn’t stuck inside the barriers of our minds. He transcends any and all human limitations.

this week I’ve really had a lot on my heart but just haven’t had the “time” to blog. but God isn’t that way. He has a lot on His mind and still can do everything he needs to do in accordance with his plan. He doesn’t prioritize school over personal time. He’s timeless.

In a society so grounded on the clock, I can’t just decide to go timeless. But believing in a God who has power all the time and at any time to do the impossible gives me freedom. It puts less pressure on the people I’m depending on and strengthens my relationship with the One who really matters.

What IS impossible with men IS possible with God.

As I think about the crazy prayers, no really crazy prayers come to mind. There are things I want and know that God can grant them to me but don’t know if I should really have those things at the moment. But at any split-second, God can flip this world upside-down. He makes our impossible possible.

In Him all things are possible. In Him. In all that He is. His possibilities are unfathomable to our minds.

He has an understanding that we barely get a glimpse of. So anything we see as impossible is so blatantly possible with him. It’s ridiculous.

Anyone who trusts in Him will never be put to shame.

By praying the impossible, we ask God for what we cannot obtain ourselves. So whatever the impossible, we grow closer to Him through praying the impossible. We put our trust in Him. Because we realize how dumb, powerless, and lost we are. We need our shepherd.

Some of my absurd prayers have to do with relationships… praying that my heart rests in God alone and doesn’t disseminate into others. Praying that I can have friends. Praying that He is using me and shaping me, even though I’m struggling through this current alone. Some of my prayers have to do about my future. Some of my prayers have to do about others. But whatever the subject, the point is the direction it’s going. I’m not trying to figure out messes on my own. I’m not looking for my identity in other things or people. I’m not doing heart prostitution.I’m looking towards the source of my strength.

It’s not about me. my problems. my prayers. etc. It’s about God.

off topic note–> i like how the shift key points up. how it has an upward arrow. that’s what i want to do with my heart, thoughts, and life. and how the control button is right under it. so in order to give God control you have to look up…. maybe i’m reading a little too far into my keyboard.<–

I believe God does the impossible. For nothing is impossible. And God is the jam.

Shifting and wrestling,

coop

From National Book Award Finalist Chains, by Laurie Halse Anderson:

We were sold once before, back when Ruth was a tiny baby, not even baptized yet.  They sold all of us from the plantation when old Mister Malbone run up his debts too high.  His bankers wanted their pounds of flesh.  Our flesh.

One by one they dragged us forward. . . Poppa fought like a lion when they came for him, the strongest lion, roaring; it took five of them with hickory clubs, and then Momma fainted, and I caught baby Ruth just in time and there was lion’s blood on the ground mixed with the dust like the very earth was bleeding.

I opened my mouth to roar, but not a sound escaped.  I could not even mewl like a kitten.

I’m only thirty-six pages in, and I already know this is going to be one of those books that grabs me and doesn’t let go.  Thankfully, the weekend is fast approaching.  More on Chains later, I suspect.  Happy weekend, everyone.

“So You Think You Can Dance” gripped my heart tonight.  My eyes fixated on the screen.  I crumpled inside.  I ached with each debilitating, overwhelming act that pushed her to the ground. I re-lived the echo: you’re everything I think I need, you touched me for a little while and all my fragile strength is gone.  The chains came crushing down. Biting into my skin.  Reverberating lies instead of truth.  Yet, here I stand.  On the other side.  Set free. Not going back. I won’t back down. Throwing myself on my beloved.  Wrapping myself in Him.  Living here on my knees for Him.  He touches me for a little while, then I am strong.  He frees me from my chains.  And here I am, and I stand, so tall, just the way I’m supposed to be.  Standing with Him, falling into His gravity.

ht: watch this: Addicted

On the back of their first album for 15 years Black Gives Way to Blue Alice in Chains played two sold out shows at Kentish Town’s Forum; their first in London since somewhat of a comeback gig at the Astoria in 2006. Support came in the form of Oxford based 2 piece Little Fish, who warmed up a crowd full of anticipation fairly well. Their wifebeater clad front woman led them through a set of fairly solid pop-rock tinged with some interesting breakdown sections, adding a good amount of depth to the setlist. Perhaps one to watch if they can pen a few more catchy numbers and gain a foothold on the playlists of some of the bigger radio stations.

After a short gap new frontman William Duvall lead Alice in Chains onto the stage and into a threefold barrage of pure awesome in the form of Them Bones, Damn that River and Rain When I Die, the first 3 songs from ’92’s seminal Dirt. Executed with towering precision they started as they meant to go on, sounding at least as massive as in their 90’s heyday, to the delight of a somewhat vintage crowd.

The band charged energetically through 2 hours of old and new songs alike without a hiccough, except for a problem with the projector system crashing and spitting up a Windows error and a slight loss of clarity in the sound at some of the louder moments of the show. Highlights included a sit down acoustic interlude complete with performances of Heaven Beside You and the stand out title track from the eponymous new album, as well as a triumphant encore finish to old favourites Would? and Rooster.

Most importantly the band seemed to be truly at home on stage. Duvall strutted around magnificently, reaching out towards the crowd as if his utter salvation depended upon it. After all these years guitarist Jerry Cantrell seemed to be enjoying himself more than ever which was very much echoed by the crowd. The world of heavy metal music is a much better one with Alice in Chains back in it, they return to London for another show at Brixton Academy in December, I already have my ticket and shall be counting the down the days!

- Richard Waldie

It is not by chance or accident that people of many ages and times have chosen to forge their relationships with gemstone rings. Not only are these rings unparalleled in beauty, they are also timeless. The varieties of gems, rings and designs that one may choose from are numerous and people often find it difficult to choose the right gemstone ring.

Several things must be taken into account when a ring is to be chosen. Each of these factors is briefly discussed in this article:

Setting

The manner in which a stone is set on the gemstone ring is the setting. Diamonds are often set in pronged mountings above the band so that light can refract in the stone. Three or more prongs hold the stone. In the chevron model, V-shaped prongs hold the stone. In a bezel setting, the metal is fitted around the stone. In a channel setting, the small stones are fixed in a groove.

Cut

Often the beauty of a gem is enhanced by its cut. The round, oval, rectangular step, cushion, square, princess, cabochon, pear, marquise or navette, trilliant or trillion, heart, baguettes, buff top, opposed bar, and radiant cuts are quite popular.

Color and clarity

The beauty of a gemstone ring largely depends on the color and clarity of the stone. The price of a stone also depends on these factors. This is because more clarity allows more light to enter and get refracted. This creates the dazzling effect. Diamonds are famous for their brilliance. There are standard ways of measuring this and most responsible sellers will provide the rating of a stone. Purchasers can then ascertain the value of each stone by consulting experts.

The price of gemstone rings also depends on how rare the stone is. Stones like rubies, emeralds, and sapphires may be available for $100 per carat, while stones like Paraiba tourmaline would cost $20,000 per carat.

In some cultures, certain precious stones are associated with luck or faithfulness. If you know what your loved one believes in, it would be a great idea to gift a ring with a stone.

Another advantage of gemstone rings is that they are very easy to maintain. All one needs to do is wipe the jewelry with a soft cloth or cotton pad that has been dipped in diluted dishwashing liquid at regular intervals. However, you must keep all your stones in separate bags or the velvet lined cases because stones may get scratched if they are kept together.

If you are looking for a really good place to buy these rings, all you have to do is go to WorldJewels.com. An amazing range of rings can be ordered through the website. Apart from rings, various other ornaments are also available at discounted rates.

Women’s diamond bands are easily available. However, there are certain basic facts that you need to know while shopping for them. The following are some such factors that will help you to get the best bargain while purchasing women’s diamond band.

The color of the diamond:

The color of the stone is one of the price and quality determining factors. Thereby, it calls for more attention. A stone which is totally transparent and has no hue is believed to be the perfect one. If color is found in these stones, it may increase or decrease its value. A while one with some yellow color is always cheaper than the one that has intense pink or blue color. Apart from white, pink, blue and yellow these stones are usually available in vibrant colors such as green, red, black, steel gray, purple, orange and brown.

The style of the bands:

The style of the women’s band also varies. They are antique, traditional or hand-woven. These days, you can also get personalized bands. The antique items are immensely popular these days. Those who are lucky enough can get such beauties as a family heirloom; whereas others can even purchase them from jewelry shops. The traditional ones come with simple designs and include only one diamond. Some of them have classic claw-like prong other may come with single-band bezel setting so as to hold the stone.

You can have such hand-woven jewelries with single stones or with more depending on your preference and budget. The personalized bands are often engraved with the names or initials of your beloved. In addition, you can engrave an exclusive statement for your sweetheart. Other options include engraving your wedding or engagement’s date.

These items are also available in white gold, yellow gold and platinum. You can even get various shapes of stones for your ring. These include emerald, marquise, baguette, trillion, pear, heart, princess and oval.

Tips to choose the best suitable women’s diamond bands:

In order to pick the best suitable ring for your lady you will need to study her taste of accessories minutely. The first thing you need to decide whether or not she prefers gold over silver. Also study her preference for design. In case, she is fond of simple designs you can get her a single stoned band. On the other hand, go for those which have more than one stones or multiple bands if she prefers complex designed jewelries.

Since these women’s diamond bands are expensive, WorldJewels.com has come with as easy and simple solution for your convenience. Initially you will have to pay 20% of the total amount and the company will allow you to pay the remaining amount within three months.

The three stone engagement rings represents the past, present and future. They are simply perfect for your sweetheart. The diamonds actually commemorate your eternal love. Apart from the engagement purpose, these rings are also used popularly as anniversary gifts. They are very graceful and inspiring and you can easily get them in different shaped diamonds. However, the round shaped diamonds are the most popular one. Other cuts like princess, oval and emerald are also becoming fashionable these days. In fact, in a three stone setting oval and emerald shapes look really gorgeous. Usually the middle diamond is larger than the other two, which are similar in size.

These engagement rings are also cheaper than the solitaire one as the later contains larger stones and are rare. Though these three stone setting jewelries may have similar carat weight, they are less expensive as smaller diamonds are easily available. However, there are some other factors that determine the price of these jewelries. These include the color, clarity and cut of the diamonds.

In you are planning to get this type of jewelry item for your beloved, it is better to go for one that comes with less ornate bands. This will actually focus on the triple diamonds. You can also get those with princess cut diamonds as they too are popular among the women these days. They display the maximum sparkle and brilliance of the diamonds. And the best part of these triple stone princess-cut rings, especially for the would-be-groom, is that they are less expensive than the diamond shapes available.

Apart from diamonds, you can also get such rings with several other gemstones. The cubic zirconia is one of the best alternatives. Such gems look very much like a real diamond but do not leave a hole in your pocket, unlike the former. These jewelries are available in various metals such as silver, yellow gold and white gold or platinum.

No matter what size or style you opt for, this triple beauty can say more of your personality. Due to their popularity, these rings are available in almost all the jewelry shops. You can even buy them online. There are many such stores that offer a great collection. However, make sure that you are purchasing the jewelry from an authentic and reputed online store. It is also advisable to browse through various sites and go for the one that offers the best available deal. Also so check that the diamonds are certified. ElegantJewelry.com not only has a wide variety of such ornaments, the company also offers lower prices.

Solitaire rings are probably the best option available while shopping for your engagement ring. They are the ultimate in diamond items and are the perfect choice for women woman who wants nothing nut the best for her wedding. Moreover, its timelessness signifies eternal love. They have just a single stone mounted to them and are more popular than the others available in the market. So if your sweetheart prefers simplicity and elegance, this ring is the best solution.

Diamond is considered the best stone available for engagement and wedding purposes. Such ornaments have a long tradition. It is also believed that the arrows of cupid, which imbued the couple with love, were also tipped with diamonds. Thereby, diamond solitaire rings symbolizes that magic of love.

These types of jewelry items are available in various sizes and shapes. These include round, rectangular and square shapes. You can also purchase the diamond separately and get it set on the band. In fact, it is the best option for those who has a very demanding girlfriend. Moreover, this will ensure that diamond you are purchasing is a good quality one as you can even get it tested for a certified lab.

As buying such jewelry items is an expensive affair, it is always advisable to ask for your sweetheart’s preferences. Even if you want to surprise her, make sure you are aware of her likings. The best way to do this is ask her casually or talk to her family or best friends for suggestions. Jot down the perfect size, shape and cut and start looking around. Though there are local jewelry stores selling such items, the Internet is the place for searching classical engagement rings.

Always try to find out the best one that your money can buy. Another crucial factor that you must consider is the size of the stone. Most of the women prefer smaller stones, though there are some who like larger diamonds. The same theory applies for the color of the diamond. These jewelries are available in almost any color. However, the most common are while, blue and pink. You can also get one with orange, red, yellow, or purple color. The metal of the rings is also important. These items come in silver, yellow and while gold and platinum. Thereby, find out your sweetheart’s preference for metal. You will also need to check the reflections of this jewelry. In fact, this factor often increases the value of a solitaire ring.

An easy and simple way to buy these expensive solitaire rings is through ElegantJewelry.com, which offers the lay-away program for your convenience. After giving an initial payment of 20% of the total cost, the company allows you to pay the rest within 3 months.

Captured by time, I’m trying to move
But my limbs don’t react. I’ve lost control
I’m so frail but I’m reaching the door
And I lean against, but it’s closed

The fire will burn, no matter what I’m trying to do
And it seems that the flames are laughing
Figures all around, they’re reaching for me
The play with me, a bloody game

And I’m tired now, I don’t care anymore
‘Cos there is nothing I can do, nothing I could ever do
And my chains won’t fall

My legs are burning and still there’s no way out
No chance to escape
A last unbearable pain
And for a second I heard a voice

But I don’t care anymore, I care for nothing anymore
I am insensitive now
My chains won’t fall

I’ll always be locked in this iron cage, where no key exist
I feel that something cuts my veins but they’re dried up
I’ve lost all my sanity, I’m paralysed
But I don’t care anymore, I care for nothing anymore
My chains won’t fall

Born to extinguish light from eyes, despoiler of human life
Force of destruction fury and fear, oceans of bloodletting and death draw near
Bred only to fight and to kill, my axes swinging arcs of death
Unholy bloodshed and chaos, your lungs choke and fill with your last dying breath
Rabid aggressor, frenzy of violence
Exuding evil and deadly malice
Skulls hanging from chains, crowns of slaughtered kings
Cries of headless victims, haunt my every dream
Born to extinguish light from eyes
I am the despoiler… of human life
Die, die, die, my blade deep in your chest.

So, I’m taking a class this semester called “Christian Ethics.”  Part of our class participation comes from our posting on an online forum…gotta love putting your thoughts out there for everyone to see.  After a recent assigned reading, I headed over to share my thoughts (since everyone in the class was so eager to read them).  The topic was “liberation theology.”  It’s one of those topics that I get the concept of…and, I kind-of know how I feel…but, I still need to feel it out.  Well, I was crunched for time when I went to post.  So, I just started typing out some of my thoughts concerning the reading.  Yeah…that’s not always a good thing.  Instead of talking about my feelings concerning liberation theology and the opinions of the writers, I started talking about being liberated…yeah.

When you boil it down, liberation is all about freeing people–from chains, from laws, etcetera.  But, contemporarily speaking…people need to be liberated from ideas…from their sins!  Liberation theology is applicable to any people group, to any individual!  It’s easy to look around the world and say, “Yeah, sure, it’s a free world.”  But, few people are truly free.  We are all victim to something in our life…we all want to break free from one idea or one sin that just keeps holding us back.  And, most of the time, we’re the ones keeping ourselves chained to that idea or that sin.  I know it’s true for me.  There are some issues that I just can’t shake…even though I know they hold me back.

I wonder how it must feel to find yourself in chains one day, and then completely free the next.  How light must your legs and arms feel!  A burden lifted from your body, from your heart.  Able to be your own person without any hinderance…

Looking to be liberated…Emmie

Taken from the Monument to Lord Nelson.  Located Exchange Flags, Liverpool.

A topic debated for decades now. Personally, I’d give the edge to Pearl Jam. They just keep producing albums and never seem to sell out. Nirvana, on the other hand, is overrated. Granted they pretty much helped kick open the doors publicly to grunge, their music isn’t as good as PJ’s. The overall consensus leans towards Nirvana however. I guess another poll for another time would be “Would Nirvana be considered the Top Grunge Band if Kurt Cobain Never blew his brains out??????”   Think about it. Anyways, it would have been nice to see a dangerous performance lastnight at the American Music Awards, but I was let down again of yet another year of lackluster hip-hop lip sync acts. I’m wearing my worn down flannel shirt right now…peace out….