can have a chat by computer
Staff Writer
WALNUT CREEK - When Frank Orem came up
with the idea of POPnet, he thought the prime attraction of his local call-in
computer network would be its games. Instead, he's become the owner of
a social network for computer-owning teen-agers.
Home computer owners with a modem dial
in, give a password and gain access to games, electronic bulletin boards,
and most popularly, open channels. Up to 15 users can chat on the open
screen. Using nicknames or handles," subscribers in Concord, Walnut Creek,
and San Ramon may communicate with each other, or with those as far away
as Oregon, New York and Iowa.
POPNET SUBSCRIBERS from left, Chris Crook ("Dex"), Christine Zimmerman ("Tora"), Chris Weiss ("Dave") and Peter Orem ("Robb") laugh at an onscreen comment from another subscriber known as "Sorceress".
Seventy-five percent of Orem's 250 subscribers are under 18, Oren said. "They'd really rather just visit than play games. When they need an alternate to things to say, they play games. They chatter by the hour."
POPnet's mostly male, mostly teen-age audience can send messages to each other, type in song lyrics, offer an autobiography and even consult with an adult teacher, known as "Teacher T," on school nights.
Chris Crook, 18, of Walnut Creek has been a subscriber for a year. Using the handle of "Dex", he spend as much as seven hours a day chatting with people using names like Wonko the Sane, Crustaceo Mutoid, Dust Wizard and Copy Cat. If he gets tired of talking, he can join Fuzzball, Lamborghini, Maid Marion and Dr. Pinch in a game of poker. No cash is passed -- just an electronic tally of winnings. "I sit down
POPnetters type in their messages in a rapidfire shorthand. "BRB" means "Be right back." "IDK" is "I don't know." With eight open channels, experienced POPnetters may have several conversations going at once. "After about seven it's hard to keep track of what you're doing," Crook said.
According to co-owner Judy Orem, "It's a safe way of meeting people. You can get your say in without dealing with interactions you get face-to-face."
It's easier to hide behind your handle and say weird things," Crook said.
Christine Zimmerman, 16, Concord, has been a subscriber since July. Known as "Tora" online, she once asked a boy out on a date through POPnet. "I never would have done it in person."
Many members do meet face-to-face. This summer a group gathered each week at a Walnut Creek pizza restaurant. Chris met 19-year-old Chris Weiss of Walnut Creek on POPnet. The two have become good friends.