Delivering the news is changing in some parts of the Parksville Qualicum Beach area.
“It’s time to deliver in a more environmentally-friendly way,” said Teresa Bird, publisher of the PQB News. “I want to make sure our readers can keep enjoying the PQB News while keeping improving safety and conditions for our drivers and carriers.”
The first step has been to remove some newspaper boxes from the Nanoose area where delivery with the Nanaimo News Bulletin was adjacent. For Nanoose readers who still want their PQB News can pick one up in the box near Quality Foods, Nanoose PetroCan and Nanoose Chevron.
Out in the Whiskey Creek and Hilliers area, newspapers will no longer be delivered in plastic sleeves to individual properties.
Instead, newspaper boxes are being placed next to the community mailboxes, starting Oct. 5. Over the next few weeks and months, other rural areas will be reviewed and changes will happen in town as well.
“We are working to eliminate the use of plastic sleeves and, where possible, deliver door-to-door in urban areas,” said Bird. “To do that, we need more carriers. We are improving our carrier remuneration and making sure the routes are safe and manageable.”
To encourage more adult carriers to get involved, the PQB News has launched the PQB News Walking Club.
“Adults who aren’t looking for a job or a supplemental income, might not consider taking on a paper route,” said Bird.
“The walking club is an opportunity to keep your neighbours well informed and support a local cause all while getting some exercise.”
Adults who sign up for the walking club, have their earnings automatically donated to the Society of Organized Services (SOS). Or the club member can have their earnings deposited to their own account and donate the money to a charity of their choosing. Club members will also be eligible for swag and prizes.
“These neighbourhood heroes would be delivering a stronger community every week just by spending about an hour walking around their neighbourhood,” says Bird. “Sign up with a friend for two routes, to make it more fun and so one can deliver if the other is away.”
There are several door-to-door routes available in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area. Email circulation@pqbnews.com or call 250-905-0017.
— NEWS Staff