The Collegian

Issue date: 2/25/10 Section: News

Media Credit: William Clayton

Three weeks ago, senior Gregory Sparks began running a local taxi service, giving rides to students and townspeople all around Hillsdale for just $2 each.

He advertises through word of mouth, and also through a Facebook group of almost 100 members. In the group, he explains that he will drive patrons anywhere in Hillsdale, weekday or weekend for that flat rate. He also will make trips out of town or "most things except alcohol," such as McDonald's for an extra charge.

"Coming to you whenever you need a ride to or from [somewhere], whether it be a weekend or late in the day," the group's description reads. "I'm here to take you where you need to go."

Sparks said he got the idea while talking with his father about ways to earn extra money, and then he talked to the Hillsdale Police about starting the service. Sparks said the police had told him that others had tried it, but it hadn't worked out.

Sparks said he thinks it's working better for him because he knows so many Hillsdale students and residents, and also because of his availability, since his only classes are at 8 and 9 in the morning and does not go out partying in the evenings.

Senior Dave Jordan said he has used Sparks' service well after midnight.

"He has taken me to my place because I was out drinking and didn't [think] myself capable of safely piloting a vehicle home," Jordan said. "It's practical, and I don't have to worry about getting home safe."

The service isn't just for students, however. Local mechanic Adam Freeman took his first ride in Sparks's taxi to get drinks at the Hunt Club Friday and expressed his satisfaction with the service.

"It's really reasonable, and it's the only show in town," Freeman said. "It beats a DUI for sure."

Freeman liked the idea so much that he said he planned to "call Sparks for the next party" after finishing his drinks at the bar - and many times after that.

Sparks said helping people like Freeman is what his service is all about.

"It helps people who would be out walking around or driving after hours and not really in their right mind," Sparks said.

Sparks said he has had anywhere from 2-4 calls a night since starting the service, and hopes for it to grow. He said he even has a van at home that he will bring back to school if it becomes popular enough.

Students or townspeople wanting to take advantage of Sparks's service can call him at (517) 425-1302.

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