Section A · Page 4
The University Daily Kansan
Monday, December 1, 1997
Geeks conquer computer bugs
By Kerri Shafer Special to the Kansan
At left, David Greenbaum, Lawrence resident, answers questions from Bob Blaufuss, Lawrence resident, at Hastings, 23rd and Iowa streets. Greenbaum answered questions and gave away free mouse pads during Geeks on Wheels' "Ask a Geek" day Saturday. Photo by Augustus Anthony Piazza/KANSAN
When David Greenbaum goes on a consultation, he takes a black case with him like a physician.
But instead of a stethoscope, a thermometer and tongue depressors, his case contains computer catalogs, cables and other computer-related items.
Greenbaum is the director for new ventures at Geeks On Wheels.
"When things go well, it's such a rewarding job." Greenbaum said.
The hub of Geeks On Wheels is an office at the "Lawrence Journal-World" building, 609 New Hampshire St.
When the company opened in May 1996, it was purely experimental. Dan Simons, director of new media enterprises for the World Co., created the business when he needed help with his own computer and wished he had a smart friend that could come and help him at home.
The company has grown significantly since May. The company took 60 to 70 calls per month last year. This year it has been receiving 170 to 200 calls a month.
Greenbaum was the company's first full-time employee.
"I was brought in to open up
additional markets, but I've quickly become the 'head geek," Greenbaum said.
Geeks On Wheels plans to expand into 20 markets in the next nine months, including each of the cities where Big 12 schools are located.
But students who use the service might find it expensive. Geeks charges $45 for the first hour and $22.50 for each additional half hour.
During consultations, Geeks' technicians help with upgrades, preventative maintenance and connections to the Internet. They also advise customers about buying new equipment.
Jonathan Harclerode, Emporia sophomore and one of Geeks' part-time employees, said he enjoyed helping people figure out computer problems.
"As long as I'm solving problems, I'll be happy," Harclerode said.
Temporary jobs open during break
By Carrie Patton
Special to the Kansan
With holiday expenses and spring tuition burdening their pocketbooks, many KU students are looking for ways to make a fast buck during the semester break.
Temporary employment provides a flexible, low-commitment way to earn money and stay busy while living at home during the holidays, said those in the business.
One option for students seeking jobs during break is to work for a former employer. Scott Grigsby, Shawnee senior, said
he planned to return to his summer job silk-screening T-shirts. He said he would work about 20 hours a week for a graphics company near his home.
Grigsby said his earnings would pay for holiday gift purchases on his credit cards.
Carol Rau, office service representative at Manpower Temporary Services, 211 E. Eighth St., said that temporary employment was a popular option for students between semesters.
"We see quite a lot of people who come in just to work over the break," she said. "A lot of times we have people who want
to work some extra hours when school is not in session."
Rau said Manpower placed students in positions ranging from office and clerical services to light industrial work.
She said temporary workers could be in high demand during the holidays because many employees go on vacation and leave companies short-handed.
"We'll place a temp in an office to cover the phones and do whatever is needed while the regular employee is out on vacation," she said.
Rau said that working as a temporary employee offered college students more flexibility than they would find in most permanent jobs.
"They only have to commit to the assignments that they want to do," she said. "This allows temporary employees to schedule work around family commitments."
Grigsby said money was not the only motivation for working during the break. He also wanted to preserve family harmony while living at home.
"I want to get out of the house because my parents will gripe if I just sit around for a month and don't work," he said.
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REGISTER TO WIN A TRIP TO THE SPRINT SHOOTOUT (INCLUDESTICKETS AND HOTEL)!!!
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