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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Tuesday, August 10, 2004

One chapter closes; another one opens

By Burt Lum
Special to The Advertiser

Six years ago The Advertiser asked me to create a column about the Internet.

At that time, the Internet was a buzz, and a whole new section of the paper was to be devoted to digital technologies.

In 1998, Bytemarks helped usher in Click!, introducing readers to Internet trends and interesting Web sites.

The last six years have been an amazing ride through both joyous and tumultuous times, from the tech industry's era of exuberance to the sadness of Sept. 11, 2001.

I've been extremely fortunate and honored to share that experience with you.

But as all rides must, this one will end in The Advertiser with this final column.

During the last six years, I've learned a lot. I've tried through this column to share my experiences and to help personify cyberspace. The Internet can be viewed as a cold, detached place. Some critics claim these characteristics create an environment of social isolation and deviant behavior.

I suppose we humans, given any new tool, will find ways to use it that run the entire spectrum of possibilities.

I've taken the view that the Internet is an instrument to broaden one's horizon. It's an opportunity to build connections unlimited by geographic boundaries.

It nudges us to get out into the world to explore.

The Internet has made it possible for individuals like you and me to create a voice, in turn creating interaction and community.

Over the past six years, I have shared my experience of the Internet with you. I want to take this opportunity to send out a big mahalo to all of you who have read my column and have sent me e-mails.

The connection we made means everything to me. And although this ride will end in The Advertiser, we can still maintain a connection as I continue my path through life and the Internet.

Reach me at burt@brouhaha.net and check out my Web site, www.brouhaha.net.

You can find me blogging at bytemarks.blogspot.com, moblogging at bytemarks.buzznet.com and on the radio at www.roughtake.com.

You also can join the Bytemarks community at groups.yahoo.com/group/Bytemarks.

So stay tuned and keep in touch as another Bytemarks chapter opens.