Statewide Publishing to help create jobs for returning vets

The Local Book (telephone book) of Moses Lake has joined a coalition of independent Yellow Pages publishers across the United States to create a first of its kind “jobs program” designed to extend much needed economic relief to American veterans returning home from military duty.

The initiative, entitled “American Hometown Heroes,” was launched November 8, 2011 and will provide professional marketing advice and consultation to any returning veteran who would like to start a new business – all at no charge to them! This program includes a comprehensive no-cost advertising program in both the print and online Yellow Pages for an entire year. The Local Book will provide the complimentary service in the Moses Lake market.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate among military veterans is nearly double the national average, as many return home to find the current state of the economy offering limited job support and business opportunities. These statistics are expected to get worse as many of the troops are expected to return home over the next few months and years.

“Every year, thousands of American men and women put their lives on the line so we may enjoy the freedoms and democracy that make our country so great,” said Philip Johnson, president of The Local Book. “This program is one way we can give back – by helping them start a small business in their own hometowns. Small businesses are the largest job creators in America, and the Yellow Pages are the best way for a small business to get started.”

According to a survey conducted by Burke, a leading independent marketing research firm, in the last year alone 84% of people across the U.S. used either print or online Yellow Pages, rating it as the most trusted and accurate source they choose. Added Philip Johnson, “It is important to note that no trees are cut down to make paper for today’s yellow or white page directories. One hundred percent of the paper is derived from a combination of recycled post-consumer waste and fiber derived from sawmill waste.”

Celebrities mobilized to spread the word of “American Hometown Heroes” include Bo Derek, John Corbett, Ann- Margret and Dyan Cannon.

To date, independent Yellow Pages publishers in 49 states and over 40,000 communities have joined this effort to help the military. Anyone desiring further information and a list of participating publishers across the U.S., is asked to log on to the website: http://www.AmericanHometownHeroes.com.