Public access Wi-Fi hot spots have become a key communications alternative in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Charley, with the local franchisee of Panera Bread Co. reporting a 50% increase in traffic for the free Wi-Fi service it offers in 34 outlets in the state.

A spokesman said he believes that roughly 70% of the Wi-Fi users at Panera Bread outlets in Florida are using the free Internet connections to do business.
"We have people holding business meetings in our stores." Full Story...