Though Dairy Queen
is known for their cold treats, they’ve become a hot spot
in Owenton.
As of Sept. 14, the restaurant provides a wireless Internet
connection for not only the business but members of the community
to use as well. Dairy Queen becomes the second location in Owenton
to acquire a wireless connection. The Owen County Public Library
offers the same services, only their service requires a password.
Dairy Queen owner Doug Lubbe has wanted a wireless connection
for a while, not only for the business aspect but for personal
use as well.
“It was just a matter of having someone to put it in,”
Lubbe said.
He said he believes offering the service gives people a place
to go, whether for business or socially, and have a quick connection
to the Internet. There hasn’t been any advertisement about
the availability of the wireless connection there; Lubbe said
many are finding out by word-of-mouth.
“If we see someone come through the drive-thru with a
Blackberry, we can let them know,” Lubbe said.
It also provides an atmosphere for families, not just business.
A password is not required for access, and Lubbe encourages
users to order food while they are working.
“Kids can get a milk shake while you get e-mail,”
Lubbe said. “It doesn’t get easier than that.”
The connection was set up by David Barker, a student at Northern
Kentucky University who has helped Lubbe with computer issues
before. When Lubbe and his wife were looking to buy a new computer,
Barker encouraged them to get a laptop because of its mobility
and ease to use with a wireless connection.
Barker is a Computer Information Technology major and when he
is not busy with school, he helps out with computer problems
around town. He owns a laptop and has a wireless connection
and said he will probably use it around town when he is home.
The library — the only other Wi-Fi hot spot in town —
has seen a substantial increase in wireless Internet users since
they were first connected in January 2005. Library Director
Cathy Matthews said the number increases month to month with
usually three to six people coming in per day to use the Internet.
In August 2005, there were seven Wi-Fi users utilizing the library
for their wireless needs. In August 2006, that number had grown
considerably — to 112.
While Dairy Queen has later hours, the connection at the library
can be used nearby after hours, provided you have the password.
“We are so happy to offer it,” Matthews said.
