FACEBOOK

         As of June 2nd the Presidents Council approved a proposal for Facebook on campus.  After the "Facebook Forum" last semester the SRC has been working closely with Brother Miyasaki in expressing students concerns and opinions about Facebook and hoping to agree on a proposal that would comply with the high standards we hold as students at BYU-I and at the same time offer us the opportunity to take advantage of the technologies that help us communicate in the world in which we live. 

         Brother Miyasaki felt that Elder Ballard's talk at graduation gave us more insight into this issue and explained the power in the wise usage of the internet. Elder Ballard said, "I am sure you all realize how torn our world is today between good and evil.... And today that war continues here on earth. The battle for the souls of men and women is intensifying. It is raging in the media and especially on the Internet where the adversary is using every tactic to tempt and weaken Heavenly Father's children and lead them down roads that end in heartache and unmet potential." 

         Elder Ballard explained that if we use the internet wisely it will work to our benefit and to the benefit of all. He mentioned numerous ways in which we can be missionaries and share the gospel by being examples to those that we come into contact with through the internet whether it be blogs, podcasts, or Facebook. We can use the internet wisely to help others understand more fully the truths of the gospel. As we do so we must each be wise and remember who we are and what we stand for. We all realize how great the influence of a good example can be, as we are on the internet we must act as we do in life, that is, as disciples of Christ. Elder Ballard concluded by saying "I hope you are as excited as I am for the many opportunities that lie before you. You can make a difference in the world, and as you leverage new communication technologies, you will be better equipped to have a lasting influence in the lives of others and in correcting any misunderstandings about the Church they might have."

         As we complete the guidelines in the new proposal, Facebook will be here on campus once again. The proposal will allow access to Facebook from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. and in the future will be segregated to allow campus residents access. We our grateful for the concerns that have been given and will continue to accept any ideas or concerns you may have.