Surf the Web, drink coffee

Believe it or not, there are lots of folks that don't get to surf the web as much as they'd like to and I even hear that other folks never surf it at all. Sure. Anyway, lots of folks have Internet access at work but don't have the time to explore it properly because they don't have a computer at home.

But those folks don't need to feel left out, because there a number of places they can go to get their web fix. Print this story out for them and get them surfing.

Obviously, the best places to get Internet access are the ones that are free! One great place offering free web access is Blue Dawg Bagel Co., 1441 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 278-3880.

Comfortable surroundings and pleasant staffs make this a great place to chill. But, they serve coffee and food and if you're surfing, you ought to be eating and/drinking. Terminals are limited but you can usually find an open one, unless it's really busy (like, say, lunch time), in which case you may have to wait a little while.

Tosa folks can visit Jitterzz Coffee House, 7600 W. State St., (414) 774-5952. Surfing is $5 and the coffee is grand. Jitterz is open every day from 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

A good place for free surfing is any branch of the Milwaukee Public Library. The only problem here is that terminals are limited and demand is high. Call your local branch and ask about availability, sign-up requirements, etc. Internet access is becoming a regular fixture at most public libraries, so even if you live outside the city, your local library likely still offers some sort of access.

One hundred percent less free are places that are often more convenient (you get what you pay for, eh?).

Most Kinko's locations have a bank of computers for rent and they are usually loaded with fonts and software. Scanners and other peripherals are also available. Best of all, they're open 24 hours a day.

Prices vary according to location, so consult your local phone book for locations and call before heading out. The costs can add up and Kinko's may be a better option for doing computer work or color printing, etc. than for surfing the web.

Sears has launched its own Internet web lounge called Screenz@Sears and the Southridge location has one of only three in the country (the others are in Indianapolis and Cincinnati). The service is currently being test marketed and is expected to roll out nation-wide within the next year.

A T-1 line guarantees speedy Internet surfing (more than 50 times faster than that 56K modem at home!). Like Kinko's you can scan, print, fax and take care of other computer-related tasks.

Fees are 13¢ per minute or $7.80 per hour, but time is sold only in $1 increments. Value plans are available, such as buy $25 of access and get $5 free, lowering the hourly rate to $6.50.

Screenz is open Mon,-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Call (414) 423-4760 for more information or stop in at 5200 S. 76th St., in Greenfield.