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AOSIS - New cyber cafe rocks ASU students
Tempe houses numerous coffee-junkie retreats, such as
Starbucks, Coffee Plantation, Jitters, Higher Ground, Einstein's
and Dunkin's Donuts to name just a few. It seems as if one of the
last things we need is a new place to relax, talk with friends, study,
and/or pump enough caffeine into our bodies to be able to make it through
the day. Nevertheless, what if you could do all
of this and, at the same time, feel comfort in the fact that computer
and Internet access is right by your side?
official grand opening of the store is planned in April, when expansion of their service is complete, but they have been open to the general public for several weeks. Gina Diaz, Directing of Marketing at AOSIS.com, describes AOSIS as a way for Tempe to play technology catch-up and finally begin "moving with the times." Being the first coffee bar of its kind in the area and planting its company roots in Silicon Valley, there is no doubt that AOSIS offers a step forward and beyond the run-of-the-Mill Ave. stomping grounds. |
The
Grind
The AOSIS f ormula operates something like this: Along with your order of an adrenaline shot ($1.35 for a double Espresso), access to the Internet is obtained with the purchase of a specialized card for $3.95 per hour. Once you situate yourself at one of their eight Apac, IBM-compatible computers, simply insert your card into the designated slot, and you will be off and running on the information superhighway. Each computer features high-speed T-1 Line Access and 64 megabytes of memory. Put in basic terms for the computer illiterate: you will not just be running, you will be sprinting. Along with everyday surfing capabilities, multi-user gaming is also available, with installation of additional games planned for the near future. If you happen to take a liking to the computer itself, simply wander next door and buy it. Not only does AOSIS take pride in a self-described "21st Century" cyber caf˙, but also boasts a computer store of the same description. And, yes, there are always knowledgeable employees on hand to answer your bewildered questions and prevent you from violently shaking the monitor in frustration. |
Of course, AOSIS is well aware that Arizona State University students have access to various computer sites on campus and all for free, a well-known weakness of tuition-paying empty wallets. But, they are also confident in the power of ambience. With a well-designed setting and comfortable atmosphere, complete with staple coffee shop couches, stylish chairs, and continuous music, AOSIS is a far cry from the monotony of the Computer Commons. During daytime hours, the cafe provides a peaceful environment with low music and natural lighting in order to facilitate studies. At
night, however, they plan to turn up the music and create
a more alternative vibe, thereby encouraging social gathering. The cafe
is open Sunday through Thursday until 11pm and until 1am on Friday and
Saturday, flexible to school schedules and thus providing an excellent
escape from campus. Related Story - Coffee House Reviews from State Press magazine |
