What Is the Paper Chase?

The paper chase is a way to help bypass government purchased pre-packaged news, as well as the mainstream media's lack of substantive reporting.

The danger the lack of real information making its way to the people is apparent in the current state of affairs.

What the paper chase asks people to do is to simply: print, copy, and leave news wherever you go on a daily basis for two weeks.

We cannot simply reach the people on the Internet, because people generally go to the sites they like and the people we want to reach are largely unaware of our sites and may be disinterested. We have to show them that what they are missing is the truth.

This is an opportunity to make a difference and reach out to those beyond the Internet.

What news should I pick?

You should pick news on whatever issues you feel important. You should try to alternate between topics, however, because the goal is after all to inform the public. You should also avoid large, over the top stories. Remember, the people we are trying to reach do not know what the current state of affairs are. Our goal is to provide them with information they can digest, not to make a political statement. So do not pick stories about "left" vs. "right;" pick stories that are issue-based. Remember that your audience is not your echo chamber and choose accordingly.

How many copies should I make?

As many as you want and can afford. Do not go overboard as too much paper might miss the point.

Where should I leave the news?

It is important not to afix the news onto any public property or break the law in any way. Some suggestions are your doctor's office, gas station, grocery store, etc. The places you leave the news should be regular everyday places.

What type of paper should I use?

Please use recycled paper because, while we are trying to reach the people, we still want to be responsible to our environment.

Can I just hand out to people instead?

Not a good idea. Most people will simply walk away or the paper will be thrown away without reading. It has to be left in visible places, not afixed, simply placed in sight, so that people make an active choice to read it. Some small shop owners or even larger business may let you leave a few on their counter.

What news sources should I use?

Please do not use opinion pieces or anything that might be nothing more than propaganda. This is about getting the truth out to the masses, not coverting political point-of-view. The stories you choose may be the hot button issues for you, but at least select them from news sources you trust, not from opinion pieces or from talking points. You are not limited to the sponsors of the Paper Chase, so long as you respect copyright.

What about copyright?

The sponsors of the paper chase have no problem with copying and printing as their URL/Title/etc. will appear on the pages. Other news sources should be asked what their policy is on distribution and you should indicate what your intentions are. Feel free to link to this URL as an explanation.

What will this accomplish?

The hope is to open more minds to the facts that the media fails to report. Even if it it raises the awareness of a single person, it will be a success.

It will energize those involved and demonstrate the willingness of online media--and those who care about the news--to seek new readers and discussion outside of the Internet.

March 27 - April 9

http://rawstory.com/contact/paperchase.html