Claudville Computer Center gets funding for second year
The Claudville Computer Center has received funding for another year, according to director Roger Hayden, who was instrumental in establishing the center.
The center opened during the first quarter of 2009 and has operated at 80% capacity, "an outstanding achievement," Hayden said.
The Telecommunications Development Foundation (TDF), which provided the initial funding, was impressed with the community's record and hard work, Hayden said.
The TDF has committed to funding the center until mid-August 2011, a year longer than the original commitment to August 2010, Hayden said.
The TDF is a privately funded foundation which operates with no state, federal or local tax money and is "dedicated to helping communities expand technology through education," Hayden said.
Hayden said Janie Lankford has resigned as computer center coordinator. "She has been an asset to promote the lab and teach computer science," he said. "Between the banking job and her home-based business she expects to find the time to help out the lab."
Brook Montgomery has been hired as the new computer center coordinator. She is well-versed in computer science, web design and other Microsoft programs as well as the use of the Internet, Hayden said. She is now setting up classes in basic computer skills as well as Microsoft programs and individual assistance, and may be contacted at 692-2385 or 692-5537 for information or to sign up for a class.
The current hours are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Morning hours will probably be added back soon, Hayden said.
The Claudville Computer Center is hosted by the Red Bank Ruritan Club in Claudville and is located in the Red Bank Ruritan Building. Claudville recently became the first location in the world to test new wireless white space technology to deliver high-speed Internet.
"Again I thank the Red Bank Ruritan Club and the many people that helped in this endeavor," Hayden said. "It took a village to accomplish this, and you know who you are. You have my sincere thanks for your time, donations and encouragement in this worthy project."