BY PAM LOBLEY

NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM

NOW THAT'S FUNNY

Google is offering free WiFi in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City, near its own headquarters on Eighth Avenue.

Thank God! Finally, people can use their smartphones while they walk around the city!

It’s nice and all, and a good business move by Google.  It brings to mind the crack dealer that gives the first few hits away for free.  After that, you’re hooked.

Although, let’s face it, we’re already hooked on Google.  I’m writing this column with its help right now!  Both Mayor Bloomberg and Senator Chuck Schumer have acknowledged the crucial need for broadband and the internet in citizens’ lives, and they are thrilled to have Google make such an investment in New York City.

It’s good for Google, too.  It is only costing them $115,000 to install and $45,000 a year to maintain.  They don’t even have to cover the full costs.  Chelsea Improvement Company, a nonprofit, will pick up one-third of that.  The more people use the internet, and execute Google searches, the more money the company makes.

Google already offers free WiFi in Mountain View, California, and recently began establishing the same in Kansas City, which you can read about here.

So now, people can just sit on a park bench to troll Facebook or check email.  What on earth is Starbucks going to do?

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Pam Lobley writes the “Now That’s Funny” column.  Check out her blog:  Better Living Through Chaos! Follow her on twitter @plobley.