It’s 2:13 a.m. and my mind kicks in thinking about the word space. It’s a new day and I haven’t written anything about Our Cyberplace, Our Petaluma or Our Web of Life, yet. My space for blogging is empty; what will my readers think? (There were over 1,600 visitors to this blog, yesterday.) Oh, oh! I’m in trouble with one one viewer who commented, “I thought you were going to write less. You’re addicted. I think you are going to have to go to the Argus-Courier Bloggers Anonymous (ACBA).” As I have admitted earlier, I am a blogging addict; but, it’s my space, isn’t it?

These thoughts raise some interesting questions? What kind of spaces are there? Let’s see – how about – his space, her space, our space , inner space, outer space, or even Cyberspace. (The title of my original blog initiated in 2003.) Where is my trusty dictionary? What is the official definition of space? What’s this? There are over a dozen different references, ranging from “an area set apart” to “a region beyond the Earth’s atmosphere.” That’s too many for me to handle at this hour of the morning. I’m becoming spaced out. Where’s Bill Soberanes when I need him?

As you know, yesterday – June 2 – friends, reporters, columnists, and bloggers for the Argus-Courier gathered in the “back room” of Volpi’s to remember Bill Soberanes. Over the years, this room was the space where the Petaluma Press Club would gather from time to time to mingle after work. It was so crowded, yesterday, that it was difficult to find space to chat. There’s that word, again; it won’t go away.

With my apologies to readers who thought that this blogger would go away quietly and “get a life;” he will – eventually – I think. For now, however, he is very concerned whether or not our Cyberspace will still be available when he returns. Actually, it’s Our Cyberspace and it is important that we keep it open, neutral, and available for all who wish to travel along this unique Information Highway and have access to its features without a lot of interference or roadblocks.

OK, I got that thought out of my system. Maybe I can go back to bed and get some Zzzzzzz. I really don’t have to post this message, do I?

PopUp! Same day – hours later. Yes! I do need to post it. If I don’t, Bill Soberanes will never forgive me. Remember, he didn’t miss a deadline in 49 years as a columnist and peopleologist. Although you’re gone, Bill; you are unforgettable! Nobody will be able to take your place and fill our space as you did.-30-