I got my start in journalism and publishing as a paper boy (though I was a girl).

One shouldn't waste energy arguing w/ market forces, etc., but every now and then I have a small lament for the lost paper boys.

I know what you mean Toots. As a sister, I used to help my brother fold the Pasadena Star News, an afternoon paper, and help him load them in his bicycle basket. He would ride off to make the deliveries.His pay was a percent of the collections he made every month. Any deadbeats, and there always were had to suffer the wrath of our mother. A real family business. I think I was in the sixth grade and Steven was maybe about ten years old. Can you imagine this today?

PS I am not an editor or writer so forgive all mistakes in written word above post. "Used" seems wrong and lack of ,,,,,s. The year of this anectode 1955.Your Dad has lots of paperboy memories too. Love, MOM

I too was a paperboy in the year1957. I delivered the ORLANDO MORNING SENTINEL on Sunday mornings. I remember the headline one Sunday... Sputnik Launched -- Buddy Holly Dies. The collection of subscibers was the worst part. My worst patron owned the Cadillac dealership. He insisted I go downtown to collect the subsciption. Your Grandad said," you delivered to the home, you collect from the home. Your Grandmother would never buy a Cadillac after that. DAD

Thanks for sharing the memories. They're great stories.

The job of paperboy is a memorable one!