Phoenix, Arizona-August 31, 2006- As Wednesday's Arizona Midday show at Channel 12 (KPNX, NBC) came to a close, the phones started ringing at Golden West Publishers' offices. "I need to order that English/Spanish Homeowners book I just saw on TV!" Bobbi and Bruce Fischer struck a chord with other homeowners in the Phoenix Valley when they told Jineane Ford their story of frustration with a tile project gone awry, due to the inability to communicate with the contractor's non-English speaking employees. Result: Golden West Publishers' owners created Just Point and Communicate!™ a series of English/Spanish communication books for the construction industry, with a special edition just for homeowners.
The Fischers want to help others save the time, money, and frustration that they experienced. Just Point and Communicate! for Homeowners focuses on a dozen of the most common home maintenance, repair, remodeling, and housekeeping projects, in large, easy-to-read print, with numerous illustrations. The new concept in on-the-job translations does not require pronunciations, learning a new language, or even speaking. Simply locate the project-specific phrase that indicates a need or instruction, and point. The phrase appears in both English and Spanish and assists workers and homeowners on both sides of the language barrier. "We and the contractor lost thousands of dollars on our tile job that had to be redone because we could not make the workers understand what we wanted," said Bruce Fischer.
In creating the new series of English/Spanish books, the Fischers consulted with professionals in various construction trades to ensure the accuracy and need for specific job phrases, as well as the glossaries of materials and tools. The Spanish translations are in the most common dialect that the majority of Spanish-speaking employees, employers, and homeowners, will understand. The process took more than three years to bring to the public and can also be used as a learning tool. Helpful categories assist with hiring, giving instructions, and workplace safety.
Both the Homeowners ($19.95) and General Contractors ($24.95) editions are large, comprehensive reference books. The pocketsize books for the jobsite ($14.95 each) are currently available in eight construction trades, with more in development. Just Point and Communicate! is set to be available in major hardware and housewares stores this fall. The series can also be used as a customized corporate tool, for promotional purposes, or as a new-hire handbook.
Details and ordering information is available at justpointandcommunicate.com or call LinDee Rochelle, 623.581.3541. Phone or in-person interviews are available and a review copy will be sent upon request, in relation to a potential media assignment. Golden West Publishers has been known for cookbooks and Southwest adventure books for over 35 years and continues to grow with innovative and inspiring new titles. More information at goldenwestpublishers.com, or call 602.265.4392 (800.658.5830, nationwide).
