Actress’ Drive Brings In Gifts for Computer Lab

Because of donations from fans of a science-fiction television show, students at Penny Lane New Directions School now have a computer lab to call their own.

More than $28,000 in money, software programs and computers was donated by fans of actress Pat Tallman, who plays Lyta Alexander on the TV series “Babylon 5.” In her newsletter and on her Web site, Tallman solicited funds for Penny Lane, a nonprofit group that helps abused and emotionally disturbed teens.

This is the school’s first computer lab. A grand opening celebration will be held at 11 a.m. today to thank Tallman for her help.

“It really has been a godsend,” said Julia Robinson Shimizu, spokeswoman for Penny Lane. “Pat has been there every step of the way in this project and the kids are enthralled with the computer room.”

Checks ranging from $5 to $2,000 from fans around the world poured into the school, Shimizu said.

One of Tallman’s fans came from Germany to install a three-dimensional animation program in the school’s computers and showed the students how to use it.

“I love the computers because they expand your mind and they help me with my homework,” said Cherie, 16. “The more you learn on a computer, the more you’re able to do.”

When officials at the 19-year-old school first opened the computer lab, students were damaging the equipment by etching their names into the screens and unplugging the system, Shimizu said.

To deter the vandalism, the school’s staff implemented some safety measures. The computers are now encased in tables, but students can peer down at their monitors through a scratch-resistant glass plate. The cords run under the counter in a secured case so they can’t be tampered with.

“The kids know this is a tool they need to learn how to use so they can get ahead,” said Francisco Roman, the school’s computer instructor.

For some students, the computers mean a chance for a brighter future.

“Good jobs are demanding more computer skills from people,” said Josh, 15. “We need tomorrow’s equipment and technology to do tomorrow’s jobs.”