At locations like Cafe Paulo, those with a laptop and the necessary wireless software can hook up invisibly and for free at any time.  Cafe Paulo at West Fifth and Ivy streets was Schatz's first activation in Chico and it wasn't a hard sell, Schatz recalls.  "Customers were asking me for it. They came in with their laptops and were looking to hook on somewhere," said Paul Lacitinola, who's owned the business for 14 years.  While he already had an Internet-dedicated computer at the cafe, he also had to worry about dealing with the equipment.  He agreed to Schatz's arrangement, and being the first got some free services.  "People come in and check their e-mail. They'll spend 15 or 20 minutes on their laptops, and yes, they're staying longer," said Lacitinola, who doesn't charge for Internet time.

                                                                                                  
Now, Schatz has 50 locations — or hot spots — in Chico and Paradise where Internet surfers can catch the radio waves.  A sign in some of the windows identifies the Community Wi-Fi hot spots and there's a list on the Web site: www.ComNetWiFi.com.  Schatz installs the necessary equipment, including a transmitter that delivers the signal for customers. Schatz maintains the equipment, leaving the business proprietor without the responsibility.  Businesses benefit because customers may seek them out specifically for free Internet, or because customers may linger longer over another cup of java.

                                                                                                                 
Of those who seek hot spots, Schatz says the common thread is the Internet itself.  "They range in age, background, what they're using the Internet for."  Schatz said he's still expanding the network, looking for active places with plenty of people.  "I'm seeking places where people like to go."

While communities and metros around the country are trying to provide wireless as a blanket service, many, such as Sacramento and San Francisco, are having difficulty in arranging financing or in the equipment's capabilities.  In Chico, interim City Manager Dave Burkland said locally based Digital Path and the city were unable to reach an agreement about the service Digital Path had proposed for the city.  Clearwire also provides wireless Internet service in Chico on a subscription basis.

Among the more unusual spots for Community Wi-Fi service are the Chico Transit Center on West Second Street, and the Department of Motor Vehicles in Paradise. Coverage of both of those public sites emanates from transmitters placed near, but not actually inside those facilities, Schatz said.

As far as paying for the service, businesses pay for advertising that comes up as the person uses the Internet. There can be a charge for Internet access, too.

Schatz has been in the Chico and Paradise area for about five years, working for a copier company before going into partnership with Community Network Wi-Fi.

Business Editor Laura Urseny can be reached at 896-7756 or lurseny@chicoer.com.