I am a solitary programmer at my current job and have been given the chance to hire a second programmer to assist me.

I want a second programmer, because I need an extra set of hands with the codebase and because it will significantly improve the work environment overall. Currently I have to wear all the hats (Development, QA, Operations) and have been edging closer to my burnout point. I believe a second coder will help relieve some of the pressure and also help re-engage me in the work at hand.

Now, to the dilemma. I have a friend that is being under utilized (working helpdesk, with a degree in CS) at his current job and wants to make the jump into programming. His skills are not as sharp as mine are, but he's a known quantity, I know that I'd enjoy working with him, and I believe he will have a strong drive to learn, given a chance. The other alternative is to do a job search or a recruiter and see what we get. Would you prefer someone that you know you will be able to work with, even if their skills are not as advanced? Or would you seek an applicant and hire solely on programming skills?

Thanks!