Pittston Area
Junior, Golf
Hometown: Dupont
Age: 16
Family: Parents, Donna and Ted Matthews; Brother, Nick.
Accomplishment: Matthews is off to a red-hot start for the Patriots. He shot a two-under-par 69 to win his third straight Tryba Preseason Tournament and has been the Patriots top scorer in each match to help them start the season 3-0.

GETTING TO KNOW BRANDON MATTHEWS 
Favorite subject: History
Favorite TV show: ‘House’
Favorite food: Steak
Favorite junk food: Cookies and Donuts
Favorite sport: Baseball
Favorite team: Philadelphia Phillies
Favorite athlete: Tiger Woods
Brandon’s dream prom date: Megan Fox
Away from sports, Brandon enjoys . . . fishing and playing video games.
If Brandon could meet anyone in history, he’d most like to get to know . . . Art Wall Jr.
The one major championship Brandon would like to win is . . . U.S. Open.
One word Brandon would use to describe his game is . . . fearless.
Brandon’s favorite thing about golf is . . . the challenge of the game.
Brandon thinks the hardest thing about golf is . . . putting.
One thing Brandon can’t golf without is . . . his Emanon ball marker.
Brandon’s favorite local course is . . . Scranton Country Club.
Brandon’s biggest role model is . . . his father, Ted.
Up next . . . Brandon wants to play golf at Florida State.

By Jenna Wasakoski
Staff Writer
 

They have been around the U.S. since the 18th century. They are something everyone can identify with, and — unless you’re living in a country that stones you to death if you expose one of your ears — you own them. You wear them. Some of you probably pretty much live in them.
Denim is named after the French word for Genoa, Italy, “Gênes,” where jeans originated. Genovese sailors actually wore them in the 1500’s and we’re still wearing them now.
And for good reason.
Denim is very versatile. It is durable and, in most cases, it is comfortable. Some wouldn’t dare wear black and blue together, but if that blue happens to be denim, it is fair game.
You can dress them down or you can dress them up.  Dark rinse jeans and a fancy top will get you in the door at most clubs with dress codes, ladies.  Basically, if you keep them neat and free of holes and avoid light washes, you can get away with wearing jeans almost anywhere.
A lot of workplaces are also becoming more accepting of jeans. Many are cut like dress pants these days, making them totally appropriate for the office with the proper accoutrements, e.g. a dress shirt and a pair of dressier shoes.
But before you think they are the safest bet in your closet, remember, certain jeans also tell  tales of horror — mom jeans, stonewash, bibs on 40-year-olds, ultra-low-rise with 80 percent of your gotchies sticking out — just to name a few.
Be very careful. 
Just because they are universal, doesn’t mean you can’t screw them up. Look how often people screw up the universal language of love.
I couldn’t possibly touch on them all, but the following are some examples of denim looks that dreams and nightmares are made of.
Here’s my take:

Skinny jeans
(for the ladies)

When I was a kid, I hated broccoli. I literally dressed it with my tears because I hated it so much. Now, I eat broccoli all the time. The fear is over.
That is basically the same story of me and  skinny jeans.
I think they are alright despite being originally terrified of them.
Just wear with caution. Balance them out and treat them almost like a pair of leggings.
Longer tops often work but be very aware of your size when wearing them. They can go very wrong. This is not a cut appropriate for every body type.

Skinny jeans
(for the fellas)

Without sounding too crude, I’m going to come right out and say that I’m not a fan of skinny jeans on a man. I truly feel that there is not enough room in there for a man’s things. You know, like his keys, his wallet and whatever else necessitates room in his pockets due to the fact that he can’t carry a purse. (What did you think I was talking about?)
Anyway, to each his own and I do like guys in bands, who tend to wear skinny jeans, but in general, I just think guys need more room.
These are hard to pull off. Figuratively and literally.

Boyfriend jeans
(for the ladies)

This is generally a new style. I can’t say I’m following the trend, but I can see why others would. Boyfriend jeans are cut, well, like your boyfriend’s jeans.
They are cozy and comfy and can work with a number of different looks.
They are usually worn rolled up in a non-chalant manner and they definitely win in the comfort department.
Be wary though. Boyfriend jeans are on the sloppier side of cuts, so don’t pair them with an oversized, sloppy top.
Outfits, like life, are really about balance.

Boyfriend jeans
(for the ladies)

This is generally a new style. I can’t say I’m following the trend, but I can see why others would. Boyfriend jeans are cut, well, like your boyfriend’s jeans.
They are cozy and comfy and can work with a number of different looks.
They are usually worn rolled up in a non-chalant manner and they definitely win in the comfort department.
Be wary though. Boyfriend jeans are on the sloppier side of cuts, so don’t pair them with an oversized, sloppy top.
Outfits, like life, are really about balance.

Standard jeans
(for the fellas)

You can never go wrong here. These are just regular, straight leg to slightly  boot cut jeans for men. They are a comfortable cut, either fit like a pair of good dress pants or a little on the looser side.
They will always work. Girls will think you look very handsome in these jeans.
They are very flattering and I would say every guy I know owns a pair of them or more.
You can wear them with your band t-shirts, your flannels, your dress shirts, your hunting vest and more.
Wear these, please.

The jean skirt
(for the ladies, obviously)

All hail the jean skirt. Anyone who knows me, knows that I abuse this look beyond belief.
As a fan of wearing skirts and dresses, as well as a fan of jeans, this hybrid, in my opinion, is the ultimate piece of clothing.
Keep the light washes for summertime and use the dark washes all year round.
You can dress this up with tights and boots in the winter and look pretty chic.
Just be careful of your hemline. You know inside better than anyone when you look in the mirror what looks good. Don’t ignore it.

Mom jeans
(for no one)

Listen, pears are delicious, but you never should aspire to be shaped like one.
The high-waisted, tapered ankle of the mom jean does nothing for any figure. Nothing.
In no case will these look flattering on you. Unless you are trying to draw attention to your hips, thighs and belly, avoid this cut in every case at every age with no exceptions.
Honestly, they did an SNL skit about them. That is how universally bad they are.
Please, go to your closet and throw them out immediately.

Carpenter jeans
(for the fellas)

I love the original Beverly Hills 90210 series. With that said, you would think that I would be a fan of the carpenter jeans look.
What worked on Brandon, Dylan and David (not Steve) did not withstand the test of time. This look screams ‘90s.
They usually come in a boring wash and they have huge unneccesary pockets which do nothing for your behind.
Unless you are toting a hammer and measuring tape, leave these bad boys to the real carpenters of the world.

Beyond belief baggy jeans
(for the fellas)

I am fascinated by these. You know the kind. The rise hits right at the middle of your thigh, the crotch falls right under your knee. The boxers, which are exposed a good 95 percent, hold on for dear life.
I have no idea how guys walk in these. I have no idea how they don’t fall down. Seriously. What keeps them up? Are they using wardrobe tape like girls do with fancy dresses when they want them to stay in place? Doubt it.
I can say no more than I am utterly fascinated by this look. Mind boggling.

Distressed jeans
(for both)

In the ‘80s, it was cool to have all kinds of rips and tears in your jeans. It carried over to the ‘90s and it still holds on today.
The difference is, now they do it for you. In the 80’s you either wore them out on your own or went at them with a pair of scissors or a razor blade.
I can see why the older generation doesn’t comprehend this concept. Why pay close to $100 for a pair of jeans with a bunch of holes in them?
I don’t know. I have a pair or two. I don’t know why and I didn’t pay much for them. Do as you will, but don’t wear these to work.

Low-rise 
boot-cut jeans
(for the ladies)

Boot-cut is always a win, but low-rise can be a very scary thing.
Depending on your body type, some can get away with a very low rise. Trouble is, not a lot of people dress for their body type.
The result? The dreaded muffin top.
All your extra junk hangs over the waistline of your jeans and, no, it is not delicious looking. That is not why they call it a muffin top. It is essentially awful.
Women tend to gain weight in this area, and that is just the way it is, so avoid these if that happens to be the case with you.

Mid-rise 
boot-cut jeans
(for both)

If you know nothing of denim cuts, washes, rises and falls, here are your safety pants.
A mid-rise boot cut jean is universally flattering. Add a dark rinse and it is pretty much the bee’s knees.
This is the look that works on everyone.
For the ladies, the boot cut balances out our hips. It keeps everything in proportion. The waist sits high enough that you’re not overexposing.
For the guys, it just looks right. Just like the standard cut, you can do no wrong with these.
Buy a pair or twelve.

Pre-exposed thong jeans
(for the ladies)

When this article goes to the internet, this photo won’t accompany it. So, what we see is, a pair of jeans cut out to look like your g-string underwear are sticking out.
This will never work on anyone ever. It is, by far, the dumbest pants idea ever.
I don’t care if you are built like a supermodel, this look will make you look like an idiot.
No one will ever take you serious in a pair of jeans like this, but really, if you’re wearing these, you aren’t looking to qualify for the Mensa club.
 

Phil and Olga Eckman of Colonial Heights, Va., celebrated their 50th anniversary. They were married on August 13, 1960, in Detroit, Mich. They are the parents of Mark Eckman, Joanna Eckman Nee and Peter Eckman and the grandparents of Jessica Eckman, Joshua Eckman, Michaela Nee, Mitchell Nee and Brenden Nee.

They celebrated at Maymont Park Garden Hall on August 21, 2010.

More often than not when I am discussing internet marketing with small business owners I hear them say they know they are missing out on marketing opportunities online because they don’t have a social media marketing strategy… but they just
don’t have time.

With 500 million Facebook users and Twitter reaching 20 billion tweets, my one piece of advice is: You’d better start somewhere.

Depending upon your business, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Fastpitch Networking
and Merchant Circle are necessary and required for any serious business
owner wanting to market their services.

The cost on the front end may be higher than you want to pay: hours of
your time or hundreds of dollars and up for a social media specialist to set your
company up on the right social media sites and train you or your staff on the
nuances of each platform.

Social media marketing is a marathon, not a sprint; just like when you purchased
your first website — things won’t happen overnight.

However, it is such a powerful marketing tool, especially for small business,
that it cannot be ignored.

Social media marketing is based on the theory of inbound marketing, which is
another column in itself but contends that instead of only using the shotgun
approach of outbound marketing — buying as many print/radio/TV ads as your
marketing budget will allow and hoping that your prospects see it and seek you
out, you add the rifle approach of a much more targeted campaign that will pull
prospects to your website.

Again, having a website that will convert said prospect is another column
as well, but if your website is designed properly and you pull prospects to it,
they should convert into customers.

Perhaps not the first time, but the beauty of Social Media done properly is that your
contact won’t be fleeting or one time only. Instead, it’s conversation that continues,
and continues to pull prospects to your site where eventually they will buy.

Once you find the right combination of platforms and develop a comprehensive social media marketing strategy, you will begin to understand that social media is primarily about relationship building with your clients and prospects.

The old saying that “people buy from people they know” has never been truer than it is today. We are sick of being spammed and sold to, and we just want to be able to learn, decide, and purchase in a medium that makes us comfortable. Social media gives you the opportunity to have a conversation with your customers on a level that
was impossible before.

Additionally, just because you’re not on social media doesn’t mean your company
is not being talked about, so you need to be there to keep your finger on the pulse of what is being said about you and your company.

Yes, it may seem like a colossal task, but you’ve got to start somewhere. Whether it’s by taking classes or learning on your own through the countless books and websites available (www.Mashablecom, www.Inbound Marketing.com etc.), you’re not getting
anywhere just thinking about it. If time is that precious, bring in a consultant who can develop a strategy with you and implement it.

Understanding social media marketing and then developing and implementing a strategy is a lengthy process, but it’s inevitable that you get involved unless you want to ignore this powerful tool and be ignored by millions of internet users.

So make a choice and start somewhere. Start targeting and building relationships with your customers in a way that is impossible with traditional marketing methods and you’ll ask yourself, again and again, why you didn’t start sooner.

Amy M. Tobin is a principal at Ariel Marketing Group LLC, Lake Ariel and specializes in Web development and Internet marketing. Visit the website at www.arielmarketinggroup.
com or e-mail her at amy@arielmarketinggroup.com. The ideas and opinions expressed are the author's and not necessarily those of the Business journal.

Telework seminar
RICHMOND — RideFinders, a division of GRTC Transit System, in partnership with the Department of Rail and Public Transportation is hosting Telework Richmond Event, a free half-day seminar to learn about the benefits of starting or expanding a telework program and receiving grant funds to accomplish this. The event will be at  Hilton Garden Inn, 501 E. Broad Street, Richmond, on Sept. 22 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Register at www.teleworkva.org.

Health reform speaker
RICHMOND — Neil Trautwein, vice president, Employee Benefits Policy Counsel, National Retail Federation, will speak at a business forum on how to navigate the new health reform law in the short and long term. The forum will be held Sept. 10 from 7:45 to 9:15 a.m. at the Westin Richmond 804-282-844, 6631 W. Broad St. Richmond. The cost for Retail Merchants members is $25, $30 for nonmembers. Register online at www.retailmerchants.com or call (804) 662-5500.

Nonprofit consultants
HOPEWELL — Connect Southside will host an event featuring panel of nonprofit consultants will discuss ways to assess your organization’s needs to determine if professional consulting services are right for you. The event is sept. 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Hopewell Library, 209 E Cawson St Hopewell. Register at http://www.connectsouthside.org/default.aspx?tabid=716&id=119

DINWIDDIE — A new conference center recently opened in Dinwiddie.

The Dinwiddie Institute Retreat and Conference Center located at 18626 Lundys Road is a full-service retreat center less than five miles from the I-85 Dinwiddie exit.
The facility boasts a large dining area, several meeting rooms, a laundry facility and over 100 acres of outdoor space.

“Our design makes it a well suited facility for small and medium-sized meetings and functions and an excellent facility for team building and group bonding retreats,” said the Rev. Medis Cheek, general manager. The facility sleeps 62 in private and semi-private sleeping facilities with shared amenities. Outdoor camping retreats for scout troops and other groups are envisioned as well as expanded meeting capabilities and recreational facilities to be developed on the grounds.

The facility is owned and operated by the Mid-Atlantic II Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Zion Church.

The new building, originally built as an assisted living facility was recast as a retreat center over the last 18 months. Future plans include renovation of the older Dinwiddie Institute building on the property that when completed will provide additional meeting rooms and function areas.

For further information and booking arrangements call 804 425-7402.
 

Goodman & Company manager recognized
CHESTER — Richard M. Jacobs, CPA, MBA and senior manager in the Chester office of Goodman & Company, LLP, was recently recognized by the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors for his service on the Citizens Budget Advisory Committee. The resolution took place at the Board’s meeting on July 28.

Jacobs is one of seven county residents who were chosen to serve on the committee. The committee was charged with reviewing financial policies and budget process.
Jacobs has more than 32 years of accounting experience, including 25 years as a Controller and Chief Financial Officer. He specializes in individual and small business tax planning, mergers and acquisitions, human resource management and design and implementation of computerized information systems.

A music milestone
COLONIAL HEIGHTS — Musician’s Dream, a retailer of musical instruments, lessons and repairs in Colonial Heights, recently commemorated 50 years in music by store manager Robert “Danny” Crowder.

Crowder, a native of Colonial Heights and graduate of Matoaca High School, has been playing guitar since the age of 10. Danny has been the store manager of Musician’s Dream since its opening in September 2006. Crowder has played with many bands and artists in Virginia. He has taught scores of guitarists and has worked in the area’s music shops since he was 14.

Musician’s Dream is a family-owned retailer located at 2219 Boulevard in Colonial Heights. For more information, call 804-526-3815 or go to musiciansdream.com.

Petersburg native hired
PETERSBURG — Petersburg native Bruce H. S. Anderson, a civil engineer and attorney with more than 35 years of experience working with government agencies, has joined Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon Inc., as vice president and federal program director.

CHARLOTTESVILLE — A Petersburg company is one of five Virginia businesses that has won the Tayloe Murphy Resilience Awards, which spotlights businesses located in the state’s most economically challenged communities.

BandyWorks of Petersburg won the award, announced Sept. 1 at the University of Virginia, along with four other companies. Joint Logistics Managers Inc., of Prince George County was among the finalists. Winners receive full scholarship funding to send one member of their firm to a top-ranked Executive Education program at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business.

BandyWorks, which specializes in Internet-based software applications for a wide range of public and private organizations, was founded by in 2005 by Tom and Holly Bandy. The company has a total of 30 employees with about 11 based in Petersburg.

Tom Bandy was thrilled and humbled with his firm winning the award. “We’re pleased Petersburg is getting noticed for a turnaround that is well under way,” he said. “It’s a great place to do business.”

Bandy said he realized that many other firms and organizations have come before his company in helping in the revitalization of the city and he wanted to share the credit with others. “There are so many people working so hard in Petersburg,” he said.

“Our hope is that these awards help underscore that there are innovative firms across the Commonwealth that create great products and services, jobs and wealth in their communities,” said Executive Director of the Tayloe Murphy Center Gregory B. Fairchild, who is an associate professor of business administration at Darden.

The Tayloe Murphy Resilience Awards competition, sponsored by Darden’s Tayloe Murphy Center, spotlights successful businesses that are beating the odds in Virginia – businesses located in economically challenged communities but which can demonstrate economic growth, job creation and community leadership over the past five years. Remarkably, from 2005 through 2008, winners demonstrated an average annual profit growth rate of 122 percent, compared to the state average of just 22 percent, and average annual employment growth rates of 114 percent, compared to Virginia’s 1.6 percent.

Over 100 businesses from 45 counties applied for this year’s award.
Winners also earned high marks for solidly supporting their communities. For example, Petersburg-based BandyWorks was cited for its work in strengthening its hometown by co-sponsoring wine festivals and charity golf events as well as working directly with local officials to promote economic development and revitalization initiatives.

“These firms are evidence that even in areas characterized as the Commonwealth’s most challenging, there are entrepreneurial firms that add uncommon value,” Fairchild noted.

For Bandy, who grew up in the Tri-Cities and returned to start a business, the award appeared to deepen his appreciation of his city. “Whatever small contribution we make is fulfilling. It’s a feeling of home.”

• Brian J. Couturier may be reached at 722-5109 or bcouturier@progress-index.com.

The Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association (MAEA) will offer its Supervisory Certificate series this fall. The series is meant for employees who have recently been promoted to a supervisory position, who intends to be promoted to a supervisory position, or who have been in a supervisory position for many years but lacks formal leadership training. There is often little to no preparation for this type of transition, which results in ineffective supervisory habits. In this fun, fast-paced, and highly interactive series of courses, participants learn the tools they need to be great supervisors.

The series includes four two-day courses:

Supervisory Development I, Sept. 17 and 23.
During this workshop, participants will discuss the foundational aspects of being a good supervisor.

Supervisory Development II, Oct. 8 and 15.
This training will provide participants with not only interpersonal skills, but how to effectively manager other individuals.

Psychology in the Workplace, Nov. 12 and 19.
This training provides supervisors with an overview of many of the basic theories related to employee attitude and motivation in the workplace.

Effective Communications and Interpersonal Relations, Dec. 3 and 10.
Participants in this highly interactive training will learn how to greatly improve their communication skills.

All sessions are held at the Top of the 80’s, Hazleton, from 9 a.m to 4 p.m. Cost is $290 per person for members, $580 per person for non-members. Register for all four courses and receive a discount of $250 per person for members.

For more information or to register,  call Chris Robbins at (570) 622-0992 or e-mail crobbins@maea.biz. For a complete list of MAEA’s programs, services, and upcoming events, visit www.maea.biz.

New electrical service business
A new electrical service has opened in Colonial Heights for residential customers.
Pin Oak Electrical Service is family owned and operated and offers a discount for seniors. For more information, call Joseph Price at 804-894-3907.

Food Lion
unveils 21 new or
remodeled stores
Food Lion recently unveiled 21 new or newly remodeled stores in the Richmond area. The new stores have been under construction since earlier this year and will offer customers a new store with expanded product selections.

The new stores are located at 9035 West Broad St., 6425 Iron Bridge Place, 3089 Mechanicville Turnpike, 2949 Williamsburg Road, 6009 Nine Mile Road, 5620 Hull St., 3081 Lauderdale Drive, 5702 Jefferson Davis Highway, 1100 Courthouse Road and  5300 Chamberlayne Road.

In addition, Food Lion remodeled stores at 20821 Woodpecker Road, Ettrick, 13100 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, 13961 Hull St., Midlothian, 9541 Kings Charter Drive, Ashland, 13145 Rivers Bend Blvd., Chester, 9801 Chester Road, Chester, 30 Broad St., Manakin Sabot, 11371 Nuckols Road, Glen Allen, 8319 Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville, 7032 Commons Plaza Drive, Chesterfield, and 6201 Belmont Road, Chesterfield.
The Food Lion family, based in Salisbury, N.C., operates more than 1,300 supermarkets, either directly or through affiliated entities, under the names of Food Lion, Bloom, Harveys or Reid’s. For more information, visit www.foodlion.com.

Truck stop honored
Davis Travel Center in Stoney Creek was recently named by USA Today as one of  “10 Great Places To Motor Into A Truckstop.” Davis Travel Center is located at 13306 Saint Johns Church Road, Stony Creek. 434 246-2881. www.dtc33.com.

Gown shop honored
Sestra Bridal & Evening Wear in Chester recently received an Elite Retailer of the Year award from Jim’s Formal Wear. Jim’s is the largest tuxedo formalwear distribution network in the U.S. with over 5,000 independent retailers. Sestra Bridal & Evening Wear is located at 12345 Bermuda Crossroads Lane in Chester.

Charitable gifts were bestowed upon three organizations  totaling $34,000 from Sunbury
Generation LP on Sept. 3.

In a brief ceremony at the Monroe Township Park, Sunbury Generation representatives presented the proceeds from the company-sponsored charity golf invitational plus a corporate contribution from the independent electricity generator to Monroe Township
Recreation, Shamokin Dam Borough Parks and the Susquehanna River Trail Association.

The two government entities received $13,600 each and the river recreation association received $6,800.

“During these hard economic times we realize that our community parks and recreation have felt a tightening of the belt in charitable contributions and Sunbury Generation wanted to continue to show their support and be a good neighbor,” noted Ed Griegel, vice president of operations of Sunbury Generation. “Each of these recipients offers a program that benefits the community, including our customers, our employees and our suppliers. We are proud to help them to continue their good work.”

The Susquehanna River Trail Association promotes environmentally responsible recreation on the Susquehanna River and its islands. The association encourages resource awareness, stewardship and conservation. Originally spearheaded by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, the Susquehanna River Trail is the first modern water trail in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and one of a growing number of water trail projects in North America. The 51-mile trail extends from Sunbury to Harrisburg, incorporating 25 access sites and 20 islands designated for day use and primitive camping. Canoeing and kayaking are promoted as great ways to experience this
unique wilderness. Volunteer individuals or groups can adopt islands to serve as stewards for maintenance, monitoring resource impacts, and tracking public use.

“Sunbury Generation has given donations to these organizations in the past and continue to support them because we are fortunate to be blessed with the recreational activities they provide to our community,” explained Dave Meehan, president of Sunbury Generation. “For example, the Susquehanna River Trail Association provides a passionate advocacy for the river in maintaining not only its beauty but access to the river for all to enjoy.”

“For a community of approximately 1,765 people, Shamokin Dam Borough Parks offers
an impressive variety of recreational opportunities,” noted Ed Griegel. “We’re proud that
our support in the past has helped provide the resources for the borough to make needed enhancements to its parks and recreational assets.”

The Monroe Township Recreation staff operates a community park and ball field with
scoreboard, restrooms, picnic tables and a picnic pavilion. The township is participating in a regional effort to increase and improve outdoor recreation – especially riverfront activities – in Eastern Snyder County.

“Many of our employees live, work and play in the community,” Jeffrey Specht, chief financial officer, added. “We’re pleased that in the past four years that Sunbury Generation has given approximately $135,000 to different organizations thanks to the support from our employees, vendors, people in the community and the company.”

Meehan stressed that the success of the golf tournament was due to their loyal and supportive vendors and the community and thanked them for their support.

A special thank you went to Danita Griegel who has been the chair of the golf tournament for the past three years and to the local and state officials who attended the event.

Rep. Russ Fairchild who is retiring this year also spoke and thanked Sunbury Generation for not only its contribution to these charities but to the community in supplying good-paying jobs and for their support of the community.

The unemployment rate for the construction industry edged down to 17 percent in August compared to 17.3 percent one month earlier, according to Sept. 3 employment report by the Department of Labor. In contrast, the nonresidential building construction sector lost 200 jobs last month and has lost 31,900 jobs, or 7.4 percent, over the past year. Nonresidential building construction employment now stands at 682,400 jobs.

While nonresidential building construction employment was down in August, two other nonresidential-related construction sectors posted increases for the month. Heavy and civil engineering construction gained 10,600 jobs in August, the largest increase since March 2007. Still, over the past 12 months, the sector has lost 10,000 jobs or 1.2 percent of employment. Nonresidential specialty trade contractors gained 18,200 jobs in August, the largest monthly increase since October 2007. However, employment in that sector is still down 123,700 jobs, or 5.8 percent, since August 2009.

The residential building construction sector lost 2,600 jobs for the month and has lost 45,700, or 7.4 percent of available employment over the past twelve months. The overall construction industry gained 19,000 jobs in August following three consecutive months of job declines. Year-over-year, the construction industry has lost 274,000 jobs or 4.7 percent of total employment.

Total employment across all industries shrank by 54,000 jobs, the third straight monthly decline. Over that three month period, 283,000 jobs have been lost nationwide. Over the past twelve months, employment is up by 229,000 jobs or 0.2 percent. The national unemployment rate now stands at 9.6 percent with 14.9 million people out of work.

Analysis

“The nation lost 54,000 jobs and this was viewed as good news – a reflection of the power of lowered expectations,” said Associated Builders and Contractors Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “Many economists had predicted that the nation would shed more than 100,000 jobs in August.

“Financial markets began rebounding immediately upon the release of today’s data. In addition, the nation's construction sector added jobs, with the most significant growth recorded among nonresidential specialty trade contractors. For two key segments, monthly job performance has not been this good since 2007,” said Basu.

“Viewed in its entirety, today's employment figures represent the notion that the anticipated slowing in U.S. economic activity will be gradual. Unlike the aftermath of the financial collapse of September 2008, business owners and managers should anticipate steady and moderate deterioration in economic conditions going forward as opposed to a sharp decline in activity. Whether or not the economy will fall into recession next year remains far from clear, but the probability that further slowing will occur remains high,” Basu said.

Following a preliminary decision last week by the U.S. Department of Commerce suggesting that it would not investigate currency manipulation by China, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) called on the Commerce Department to reconsider and to protect American manufacturing from China’s unfair trade practices.

“Given the importance of this issue to businesses in Pennsylvania and across the country, I strongly urge you to revisit this issue prior to issuing the final decision in November,” wrote Casey. “At this time of economic uncertainty, we need to utilize every tool at our disposal to protect American businesses and promote job creation. It is clear that there is a widespread negative impact on our domestic industries as a result of Chinese policies. An investigation will surely find that China’s currency manipulation has negatively impacted American manufacturing.”

In the preliminary announcement this week, the Commerce Department ruled in a case brought by aluminum manufacturers and workers that China improperly subsidies factories and that duties should be imposed to offset those subsidies. However, the Commerce Department avoided an investigation of China’s currency manipulation that gives Chinese exports an unfair advantage.

Casey is a supporter of bipartisan legislation that would vigorously address currency misalignments that unfairly and negatively impact U.S. trade. If passed, the legislation would provide less flexibility to the Treasury Department when it comes to citing countries for currency manipulation. It would also impose stiff new penalties on designated countries, including tariffs on the countries’ exports and a ban on any companies from those countries receiving U.S. government contracts.

Last month, Sen. Casey joined a bipartisan group of senators in sending a letter to President Obama calling for stronger action on behalf of U.S. businesses and workers competing against unfair trade practices conducted abroad, particularly the manipulation of currency by the Chinese government to unfairly boost exports.

Earlier this year, Sen. Casey spearheaded a bipartisan letter to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner calling on him to list China as a currency manipulator.

Former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair’s new memoir “A Journey,” is an odyssey into moral and political corruption.

The book unwittingly justifies a totalitarian mentality and explains why most of our democracies today are, in reality, thinly disguised totalitarian regimes.

Blair writes: “Politicians are obliged from time to time to conceal the full truth, to bend it and even distort it” in order to force their agenda on the people. Blair also talks of Al-Qaeda and Saddam Hussein as sharing “a common set of attitudes: indifference to human life ... the justification of mass killing.”

Nowhere in his book does he express any regret for his own policies that sanctioned and advanced the use of contraceptives and the practices of abortion and euthanasia, i.e “indifference to human life ... the justification of mass killing.”

Proud of his achievements in the advancement of homosexuality,he also looks upon the illicit affairs of politicians — not with any moral disdain but with a “fairly worldly eye.”

Tony Blair is not alone. His book makes it clear that his kind is the norm in governments throughout the “free” world.

A sad state of affairs.

— Walter Clarkson loves in St. Thomas.

As we come closer to another election year, are you are ready?

Have you done your research on the election? Do you know candidates and their platforms? Do you know the polling place where you will vote?  Will you be voting by machine or paper ballot?

Every two years, in September and November, the Virgin Islands hold political elections.  The September Primary is an opportunity for Democrats, Republicans and ICM register party voters to express their choice of candidates. Traditionally, the primary can be characterized as the political expression of the Democratic Party, but there will also be a number of party offices for all three parties on the ballots.

I’d like to note that I do not agree with taxpayers footing the bill for the primary because the parties can hold their own elections — but that is another letter.

There seems to be a push for paper ballots in both districts.  I have no problem with the voting machine or with paper ballots, although there is less of a danger of over-voting when using machines. Over-voting, more a concern in the General Election, occurs when voters, not reading carefully, cause sections of the paper ballot to be spoiled. Other voters check their party symbol and continue on to vote for candidates outside their party and in some cases take their total responses over the maximum allowable number for that section.

I encourage voters to research how to cast their vote, whether machine or paper ballot, and if they have any questions to call the Elections office at 774-3107 or 773-1021.

I love political pedagogy and cannot emphasize enough the importance of each citizen’s vote.

Casting your vote should be a well-informed decision: Know all the candidates and their platforms. Know your polling place and learn whether you will be using paper or machine.

A well-informed voter is less likely to give in to political pressure. The right to vote is a privilege and a responsiblility.

— Lawrence Boschulte is a member of the St. Thomas-St. John District Board of Elections.

What we need is a leader

Someone to believe in if ever given a choice

Be that divine voice speaking for the people

That shining beacon—just in case the lights go out

We are just sheep gone wild

See the weariness and the restlessness in our eyes

Stuck on panic we react off of fear

There is no hope inside

Where is the shepherd

We need guidance so much farther

We slip from milk and honey filled valleys with green pastures parched

No connectivity

Spiritually intertwined

I am you

We is the answer

How was the question

Confusion is now the lesson

But the blind can’t lead themselves

So braille we must feel for change

Therefore within ourselves is the only way we will gain

Life is said to be a blessing

Pain can only be an illusion

Poverty a mirage

Let’s break through the window pane

Make a mental liberation

There is gold on the other side of those darkened lenses

Washed from the sea of truth

We are in need of a cleansing divine

Destined but gone astray

Can’t recall a thing but pain

It stained the brain

The purity is tainted and the little love that’s left is worth saving

Because all that I’m stating is

We need a leader

Someone to believe in if ever given a choice

That divine voice speaking for the people

Being a shining beacon after the lights go out

— By St. Thomas native Jelani Lisimba Pickering

Kai Richardson

Kai Richardson, a 2010 graduate of the Charlotte Amalie High School, has earned the distinction of being one of two students who has ever earned a 5 — highest possible score — on the Advanced Placement U.S. History exam at CAHS.

A score of 5 distinguishes him as being extremely well qualified and entitles him to receive college credits or advanced placement in his course of study.

Richardson is currently a freshman at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City.

The other student is Jonté Samuel who is currently a freshman at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass.

Marc Thomas

U.S. Army National Guard Pfc. Marc Thomas has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, Thomas studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.
Thomas, the son of Rosemund Thomas of St. Thomas, graduated in 2008 from the Day Adult Education Centre.

Michele Moses

U.S. Air Force Airman Michele A. Moses graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

Moses completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.She also earned four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

She is the daughter of Christine Thomas and Iva Moses of St. John.

Moses is a 2007 graduate of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School.

Adrianne Council

U.S. Army National Guard Pfc. Adrianne Council has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, Council studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.
She is the daughter of Joyce Thomas of St. Croix, and Charles Council Jr. of Stantonsburg, N.C.

Council is a 2006 graduate of St. Croix Educational Complex.

Karim Baksh

U.S. Army National Guard Pvt. Karim Baksh has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga.

During the nine weeks of training, Baksh received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, core values and traditions.  Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman.

Baksh is a 2005 graduate of Charlotte Amalie High School.

William Richardson

U.S. Air Force Airman William M. Richardson graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

Richardson completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He also earned four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of William and Velma Richardson of St. Thomas.

Scott Ledee

Coast Guard Ensign Scott Gregory John Ledee, earned a bachelor’s degree in Operations Research and Computer Analysis on May 19, 2010, from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

Ledee, a graduate of the All Saints School Class of 2003, graduated from basic training in May 2004 from Cape May, New Jersey. He then reported to Coast Guard Cutter PAMLICO (WLIC-80) in New Orleans in June 2004 and then attended New Mexico Military Institute from 2005-2006.

Ledee is stationed on the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Decisive based in Pascagoula, Miss. He is the son of Gregory and Evelyn Ledee; brother of Jordan, Dillen and Connor Ledee; and grandson of Joseph and Emelda Ledee, and Cyril and Anna Querrard.

Both Lt. Alvin Dalmida and CWO Flavel Blyden were instrumental in getting Ledee from being enlisted to a cadet in the U.S. Coast Guard Academy through their outreach program to Virgin Islanders.

Mickey Poleon

U.S. Army National Guard Pvt. Mickey S. Poleon has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, Poleon studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

Poleon is the son of Cynthia Poleon of St. Croix.

TORTOLA — A few years down the road when someone looks at the listing of British Virgin Islands Softball Association champions over the years, there will be important information missing on how the East Invaders beat the defending champion Hurricanes — by sweeping them in five games, including two Game 3 victories.

The East Invaders finally collected their first title in the Raymon  “Jackson” Smith Memorial League, following a 6-5 triumph over the Hurricanes on Friday with two runs in the bottom of the seventh after trailing 5-4. The series’ scoreline shows the East Invaders besting the Hurricanes, 5-3, in Game 1; 7-3 in Game 2; 9-4 in Game 3, in which a protest was launched; and 5-3 in game four, before Friday’s 6-5 victory after trailing 2-1 in the top of the third when the game was replayed from the point of the protest.

The East Invaders’ ace pitcher Allen “Woodrow” Smith, who won his third title, said it’s a good feeling that has been a long time coming.

Smith said that as a contender against Neville “Sheep” Smith, “I have been placed in the second spot for a very long time and I think its time I claimed my position.”

Allen Smith won two titles with the Pirates in tandem with Neville Smith in 2000 and 2002.

“I have it now and I’m not letting it go. This championship is special to me because everyone was saying I could not win it without Sheep, so I had to show them different.”

Sheep, in the twilight of his career which spans over 30 years, had never been swept in a championship series before, although he had been dishing them out. Allen Smith said he was not concentrating on the sweep nor thought it was even possible.

“After the first two games, I saw a bit of hope so I said ‘let’s go for it,’ ” Smith said.

Smith sees the East Invaders — a team of young players — as the team to beat. He said most of the teams are going down and youth is definitely the future.

“Those guys can see. They’re hitting the ball and they’re not afraid. If you’re not going young, you can forget it,” he pointed out. “I’m even trying to get from between them and concentrating on coaching, though I’ll be pitching for a few more years. That’s why I brought in Nicos (Penn), who won the deciding game to replacing me. That’s the way to go.”

Mega Mix reverse sweeps East with 120-83 blowout

The curtains came down on the 2010 BVI Basketball Federation Wilbert “Shabunda” Fahie Digicel League late Saturday night at the Multipurpose Sports Complex when Mega Mix completed a reverse sweep of the 3-time defending champions East with a convincing 120-83 triumph.

Ironically, four key Mega Mix players helped the East to the 3-peat victory last year before bolting to reform the team. The East, though, were plagued by numerous turnovers, out-muscled on the boards and burned at the 3-point line.

The East enjoyed its only lead of the game with a 25-24 edge at the end of the first quarter.

“This championship is really special because it is our first home grown championship — a Cane Garden Bay-based team — and we have been trying for a very long time,” noted Mega Mix’s coach Verne “Bego” Turnbull, who won his fourth straight Senior Division title after leading the East to a 3-peat in 2009. He has bagged six championships overall, including titles with Bay Youth and Onyx.

“We went away, rebuilt and came back and won this championship —something we always wanted to do for the Bay.”

Championship MVP Kelvin Samuel paced Mega Mix with 46 points and pulled down 19 boards. Halstead “J.R.” Chiverton followed with 34 points, while William Leonard contributed another 17 to the tally. David “Bolo” Lettsome led East scores with 29 points.

Da Boyz top Redder Than Red for Intermediate crown

Da Boyz won their first Intermediate Division crown with an 82-76 victory over Redder Than Red. Deron Smith narrowly missed a double-double with 21 points and 9 rebounds. He also dished out six assists. Nichols Charles chipped in another 17 points. Reynaldo Smith was Redder Than Red’s leading scorer with 20 points. Sean Woods added a 19 points 10 rebounds double double to the tally.

OECS/BVI Half Marathon winner could collect $1,500

The BVI will host the 2010 OECS/NEMWILL/BVI Half Marathon on Nov. 20 on Tortola, and the winner could walk away with up to $1,500. The overall winner will bag $1000 and could collect an additional $500 for breaking the course record of 1 hour and 15 minutes established last year by Trinidad and Tobago’s Curtis Cox. 

The women’s winner will also collect $1,000 and prizes will also be offered for other men’s and women’s positions.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines —who will be represented by 10-time champion Pamenos Ballentine and Lisa Daniel — were the first to confirm their participation. St. Lucia’s Zepherinus Joseph has won the last four OECS Half Marathon titles.

Ceres Juices 10K Series race Saturday in Carrot Bay

The third race of the Ceres Juices 10K Series — a lead-up to the Nov. 20 OECS/NEMWIL/BVI Half Marathon — is scheduled for 6:30 a.m. on Carrot Bay on Saturday. Registration will begin at 6 a.m.  The race will commence at the Carrot Bay Festival Grounds and head over to Smugglers Cove via Apple Bay and Long Bay before returning to Carrot Bay.

— Dean Greenaway is a Daily News correspondent based on Tortola.

ISTANBUL - Before it can win a world championship, the United States needed to start looking like a world champion.

Kevin Durant, Chauncey Billups and the rest of the Americans finally had that appearance Monday, powering into the quarterfinals with a 121-66 victory over Angola.

"Obviously we want to stay humble, but at the same time we have to know that we can do it," forward Kevin Love said. "We know regardless of what people are saying, that we still are the favorites and we should play and really act like it, too."

They did, opening the knockout round with a quick knockout.

With Billups scoring 16 of his 19 points and Durant all of his 17 in the first half, the Americans saved their most impressive performance in Istanbul for the elimination stage, overwhelming the Angolans from the start after a couple of lackluster

performances to close the group stage.

"We don't want to be a team that's going to turn it on and off," Durant said. "I think of course we're playing with a little more sense of urgency when you know if you lose, you go home. Guys came out and responded from those last two games."

The U.S. forced turnovers that led to easy baskets in transition, and when forced into the halfcourt, shot 18 of 38 from 3-point range, one off the team record for 3s in a world championship game.

"Our guys were sharp," U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski said.

Eric Gordon and Rudy Gay also scored 17 for the Americans, who will face Russia on Thursday night. Gordon was 5 of 6 behind the arc.

Joaquim Gomes, who played at Valparaiso, scored 21 for Angola, which finished fourth in Group A. The Angolans advanced on a tiebreaker by virtue of their overtime victory over Germany, but had lost by 50 to Serbia, and 21 apiece to Argentina and Australia.

They were no match for the Americans, who had won the teams' four meetings in the Olympics, starting with a 116-48 romp in the Dream Team's debut in Barcelona in 1992, straight through to a 97-76 victory in Beijing two years ago.

This quickly became one of those no-contests.

"We can do a little bit better, but we tried our best," Angola coach Luis Magalhaes said.

The Americans lacked some focus against Iran and Tunisia in their last two games, knowing victory was certain and not wanting to embarrass opponents or get any of their own players hurt.

But they expected to be sharper after a couple of days of practice, knowing they would press, substitute frequently, and raise their overall level of play with the games finally becoming important.

"This is what we all sacrificed our summers for," Billups said of trying to win the Americans' first world title since 1994. "Right now we're on the right path."

The U.S. won the opening tip for the first time in Istanbul and scored the first five points. Billups and Durant nailed consecutive 3-pointers to cap a 10-0 spurt and make it 22-7, and the Americans led 33-13 after one.

Billups is playing out of his normal NBA position as a shooting guard, and he made only 4 of 19 3-point attempts in preliminary play. Krzyzewski was asked last week if he would consider a lineup change, and he said he would look at it.

The lineup stayed the same, but Billups looked much different.

The lead ballooned to 29 late in the second quarter. Durant shot 7 of 10 in the half and Billups was 4 of 6, all from behind the arc, and Durant's 3-pointer with 7 seconds left sent the Americans to the half with a 65-33 advantage.

Derrick Rose made two straight 3-pointers and Billups added another to start the U.S. scoring in the third quarter, and the lead grew to 37 late in the period. The Americans were 6 of 9 behind the arc in the period, which ended with them leading 91-56.

The Americans finished with 30 assists on their 41 field goals and committed just five turnovers.

"That's what we strive for, that's what we're here for, is to try to win," Gordon said, "and as long as we keep on using our talent and being unselfish, we should be able to win."

Felizardo Ambrosio finished with 12 points and Roberto Fortes 11 for Angola, which played without leading scorer Olimpio Cipriano because of a leg injury.

"It was a different challenge tonight," U.S. assistant Nate McMillan said. "Their key guy didn't play tonight, so that took one of their options away, but it was about us. I thought we established ourselves early defensively as far as we wanted to play."