Colin Powell Takes Charge of His Facebook Fan Page

By Paul Bedard, Washington Whispers

America's soldier, Colin Powell, has found a new place to push his inspirational message and keep in touch with all those he's interacted with during his years in the Army and public service: Facebook.

On Sunday Powell announced his arrival as he assumed control of a 16,800-member fan page operated on his behalf. His status update read: "Hi Folks, Thanks for joining my Facebook page. I recently had this page switched over to me, so it is now my official fan page and under my control. I enjoy reading your notes and comments-Colin Powell."

Since his status update, dozens of fans have welcomed his official entry in the Facebook world, where members talk about everything from what they are doing to bigger policy issues.

Associates say that he was initially curious about the fan page done in his name and thought that if there was so much interest, that he should take control himself. Among the additions he has made is a slick new profile picture showing him in a suit standing next to his Corvette. And his biographical box takes care of the basics: "Gen. Colin L. Powell, a 35-year veteran of the U.S. Army, is the former secretary of state and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is also the founder of America's Promise Alliance for kids."

"Someone had taken out a Facebook page using General Powell's name and photo. The general decided it was best to put it directly in his name and under his control," said Peggy Cifrino, Powell's principal assistant and spokesperson. "He appreciates the impact and usefulness of social sites such as this. He is quite an Internet guru and has been for years."

So far, we hear, the popular statesman who endorsed Barack Obama for president hasn't also set up his own personal Facebook page. But anybody can "become a fan" of his fan Facebook page.

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