NYPA Announces Computers For Two Queens Schools

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Luis Rodriguez
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February 10, 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WHITE PLAINS—The New York Power Authority (NYPA) announced today it will provide surplus computer equipment to two schools in Queens as part of its program to make refurbished computers available to schools statewide.

“The New York Power Authority is pleased to play a role, under Governor Pataki’s leadership, in strengthening public education for New York’s children,” said Louis P. Ciminelli, chairman, New York Power Authority.  “This Power Authority computer donation program helps build on that strength by expanding access to high tech resources so vital to learning in the 21st Century.”

The Power Authority is ready to deliver 10 computers to Public School 84 in Community School District 30 in Long Island City and 10 computers to Our World Neighborhood Charter School located in Astoria.  The Power Authority utilizes about 1,700 computers in its normal operation and replaces about 400 to 500 computers each year.

The surplus equipment is thoroughly cleaned and provided with a minimum of 64 megabytes of memory.  The computers have been tested with a new installation of the operating system, and any missing or broken parts have been replaced.

“There is always a need for more computers in our schools and so with help from Governor Pataki and the New York Power Authority’s computer donation program we are able to enhance our students’ learning experiences to the fullest,” said Senator George Onorato.

“On behalf of the students who will benefit from this donation of computer equipment, I want to thank the New York Power Authority,” said Helen Marshall, Queens Borough President.  “During this difficult budget season our students need all the help that they can get to bring their classrooms into the 21st Century.”

“NYPA’s recent donation of late model computers for Queens classrooms at P.S. 84 along with their past activities of installing high efficiency lighting or replacing polluting coal furnaces with clean natural gas systems are examples of their commitment to the community,” said Dr. Angelo Gimondo, superintendent, Community School District 30 in Queens.  “We commend Governor Pataki and the Power Authority for their continuing support.”

“By having greater access to computers, our students will have more opportunities to learn the skills needed to succeed and we are grateful to Governor Pataki and the New York Power Authority for these opportunities.” said James Sarconi, principal, Public School 84.

“Governor Pataki championed the law creating charter schools in New York, and we are grateful that he continues to support the initiative through the donation of these computers to Our World Neighborhood Charter School," said James D. Merriman, executive director, Charter Schools Institute, State University of New York.

“Our World Neighborhood Charter School is committed to preparing our students for bright futures, which means they must have computer skills,” said Michael Buonasora, chairman, Board of Trustees, Our World Neighborhood Charter School.  “We want to thank Governor Pataki and the New York Power Authority for including us in this very worthwhile program and we will put these computers to very good use."