Nine city of Chattanooga recreation centers will be outfitted with state-of-the-art computers, equipped with high-speed Internet access and software compatible with the Hamilton County’s Department of Education curriculum.

Mayor Ron Littlefield unveiled the expansion of Connecting the Dots with Technology. The initiative is a continuing partnership between the Education, Arts & Culture, Parks and Recreation, and Information Services Departments as well as several local and national computer/technology companies.

Mayor Littlefield said, “We are addressing the disparity created by the digital divide. These computers will provide a vital link ensuring everyone has access to expanding technology.”

Corporate support is provided by:

· City of Chattanooga – 50 state of the art computers for recreation centers;

· NetAlliant Technologies – Leading Edge Information Technology Expertise;

· WatchGuard – Firewall/Safety Support and WebBlocker Software – to ensure no objectionable material is received on the computers;

· NeoWare – 10 additional state of the art laptop computers;

· Citrix – Presentation Server Licenses;

· TVA – 40 Computers to outfit the city’s civic centers and library.

EAC Administrator Missy Crutchfield said, “I am thrilled about the expansion of this initiative as well as the ever increasing corporate partners and supporters such as NetAlliant Technologies, WatchGuard, Neoware, Citrix and TVA. I am proud of EAC’s continuing relationship with Parks and Recreation. The community as a whole will benefit from Connecting the Dots With Technology, which is part of Mayor Littlefield’s compassionate initiative.”

The nine recreation centers were chosen based upon the faculties’ ability to host computer labs.

These recreation centers are:

· South Chattanooga Recreation Center

· Brainerd Recreation Center

· Carver Recreation Center

· Washington Hills Recreation Center

· Glenwood Recreation Center

· East Chattanooga Recreation Center

· Avondale Recreation Center

· Shepherd Recreation Center

· Eastdale Recreation Center

Larry Zehnder, administrator of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department said, “Many of our centers have had individual personal computers, but over the last several years the units have become outdated and no longer serviceable. These new computers will serve not only the children of our neighborhoods but also provide a link to the internet for adults who might not otherwise have access. This effort is long overdue and will be a great addition to the resources available to our communities.”

NetAlliant CEO John Smith said, “NetAlliant Technologies believes this initiative will enhance our community and provide the opportunity to create a long lasting foundation for positive change. Serving the greater community will positively impact our lives and work. We, as a community, must focus on building self esteem by helping both our children and adults to learn and experience the benefits of technology. Connecting the Dots with Technology is a step toward creating a firm framework for empowering the community to be the best.”

The South Chattanooga Recreation Center has been equipped with the new computers and the remaining recreation centers will be outfitted within the next 60 days. The labs will be staffed with individuals who will be available for technical assistance.