WE MEET PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER JAMES MIRKES

(L to R) Scott, Jennifer P, Summer, Beth and James Mirkes

As we were getting ready to view AIDS homes, we spotted a young Caucasian approaching our van. He introduced himself as Jarrett "James" Mirkes, a Peace Corps volunteer in Maua.

We talked him into going with us on our tour of the area and we had a great chance to visit and learn about his program.

James is from Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and a graduate of Big Foot High School. His college degree is in computer technology and he worked for a large bank for four years after college before joining the Peace Corps.

He helps install and maintain computers in area schools as well as train students to use computers. The program is tied to an NGO -- Computers for Schools, Kenya.

He said the popular television programs around here are "The Bold and the Beautiful," "E.R.," W.W.W.(wrestling), the BBC, and Walker - Texas Ranger.