As I read my email, the two "workers" excused themselves to go "examine the fire escape" out back. I would learn later that this was code for going out back to Smoke. (Note capital S.) I was left alone to fend for myself.

Yours truly at one of the two powerhouse computers. This is later in the life of the Binary Cafe, after hardware was upgraded to three computers, courtesy of a generous donation from an employee. Please ignore cheesy grin and instead make note of interesting art.

The hardware at the Binary Cafe consisted of two computers, both mishmash clones running windoze. Connectivity was provided gratis by the first (and, for a time, only) provider in Toronto. There were two phone lines, period. Usually only one PPP connection was going, but in a pinch the other (voice) line could be used, requiring normal phone use to be "routed" through the phone from the apartment next door (!).

Obviously, this was not a million dollar startup. But it was beyond cool. Within a few days, I had fulfilled the "three or more visits and you are an employee!" rule.

In no time I met the owner, Stephen, and his girlfriend, Anusia. They both spent time working shifts at the cafe. Stephen had a day job and Anusia was a student. The two other "employees" turned out to be Joe and Aaron.

Everyone was immensely cool and became wonderful friends.

Honestly, I don't think really anyone got paid (much) for working. Personally, I would just show up when there was a shift to fill. I would have probably been there anyway, probably helping customers or whatever. So what if I had to pour a cup of coffee for a high school age street kid, curious parent, or some other form of outcast.

A couple of the business cards. (Courtesy Steev Hise)