NetZero Adds GeoCities Founder to Board

NetZero Inc. an advertising-driven free Internet access provider, said that GeoCities founder and chairman David Bohnett will take a seat on its board of directors.

Using a model similar to network television and radio, NetZero offers subscribers free Internet access and email, underwritten by on-screen advertising.

Since its launch in mid-October, more than 400,000 users have signed on to the service. NetZero said it is currently delivering more than 528 million page views per month.

“In adding David to our management team, we’re benefiting from the counsel of one of the Internet’s most astute entrepreneurs, a true visionary,” said Ronald T. Burr, CEO of NetZero. “In a practical sense, David will help us build on our model of free access, as we offer creative new ways to add value to our subscriber’s Internet experience.”

Bohnett launched GeoCities in 1994, creating online communities based on themes and enabling individuals–termed “Homesteaders”–to set up their own free personal Web pages and interact with others in areas of similar interest.