It's never too late to teach an old dog new tricks. Not that we're comparing Maxine Maddox to an old dog. On the contrary, she's a well-loved 80-year-old grandmother who has learned to use e-mail to stay in contact with family members and design and print greeting cards.

But Maddox is the first to admit she used to be afraid to even touch a computer. "I was afraid to turn them off," she says. "I was afraid I'd do something wrong and tear it up." Now, Maddox says her new computer skills have done much to improve her life.

"It's something for me to look forward to. That is exciting to me, learning to use a computer at my age."

Like it or not, computers are a big part of our everyday world. And, surprising as it may seem, there are still a number of people who've never surfed the Web, e-mailed friends and family or typed a letter on a computer. Finances seem to be a barrier to the computer world for many. However, thanks to a grant received by Campbellsville Housing and Redevelopment Authority, many Campbellsville residents who may not otherwise have such opportunities may now take classes in all things computer-related as well as use a number of computers at their leisure at the Authority's TECH Place. 

Perhaps the greatest proof that the grant-dependent program is worthwhile comes in the form of Maddox. There are also other locations in the community where residents have free access to computers, including the Taylor County Public Library and Campbellsville University. 

Whether we use computers for our job or to keep in touch with distant relatives, it's nice to know those who may not be able to afford such a valuable piece of equipment now have the technology and the know-how at their fingertips.