Today's number: 67%

Percentage of Internet users who download music who say they don't care whether they're violating copyright laws, according to a new survey by the nonprofit Pew Internet and American Life Project, which estimated that 35 million American adults use file-sharing software.
-- The Associated Press

Today's career talk

Entrepreneur and music mogul Russell "Rush" Simmons, founder of Def Jam Records and known as the Godfather of Hip Hop, says in the September issue of Vibe that his new Rush Card, a prepaid debit card, will have a bootstrap appeal to 50 million Americans "who don't have a bank account," he says. "This card really gives them access." Companies can thrive from service: "The reason we got into this is because it was meant to be a social initiative."
--John Eckberg

TODAY'S COMPANY: MY GIRL FRIDAY INC.

HANDS ACROSS THE COUNTRY: Julie Hagenmaier launched her personal concierge business in November 1999, helping busy professionals with services such as grocery shopping, vet visits for pets and running errands. Now she heads a company that employs 20 people locally and provides helping hands in 57 U.S. markets. Her goal is to penetrate 100 markets by year-end. Growth was accomplished by hiring independent contractors in some locations and by joining with existing businesses in others.

TRAVELERS' AID: The company has just signed an agreement with online travel advisor TravelLady.com to provide a nationwide concierge service for travelers, either at home while they are away, or at their destination. It is in final negotiations with a major airline to offer similar services to its frequent flyers.

MAKING CONNECTIONS: My Girl Friday has entered a joint venture with the company Interactive Sites, creator of ViBE (Vendor Internet Booking Engine). When ViBE debuts on 10,000 hotel Web sites Oct. 6, travelers will use it to book all their destination-related necessities. My Girl Friday will supply the appropriate vendors at each location.

BY THE HOUR, BY THE YEAR: The Norwood-based company is introducing a yearly membership plan although customers can also choose to pay by the hour for its assistance
--Jenny Callison