Internet to rural areas

Economic blows that have hit several northcentral Pennsylvania communities have prompted a state agency to inject some technology education into the region.

"Financial stability through technology" is the theme of Project BOUNCE, short for Broadband Outreach Using the Net for Community Education.

It calls for using the Internet for marketing, reducing travel expenses and improving business operations, according to spokesman Scott Garrigan.

"The Internet can greatly improve the quality of life in rural communities," Garrigan said.

Community leaders and educators from Cameron and Potter counties attended a recent informational meeting on Project BOUNCE in Smethport.

"Broadband" is a generic term that describes fast Internet and other communication service through fiber optic cable lines or through the telephonebased DSL service. It is used to transmit data, voice and video over long distances.

For additional information, visit the website acape.org or call (610) 264-9472.