Revive citizens band car radio clubs

FROM the 1970s to the 1980s, those ubiquitous car radio clubs called “citizens band” were a conspicuous presence in Metro Manila. They were ably assisting authorities in traffic management on the ground, even reporting crime and accidents, and escorting victims to hospitals.

But from the 1990s up to now, those mobile groups are no longer visible in city streets. What happened? No one knows for sure.

But from what I gathered, there were critics of those volunteer groups. They cited braggadocio on the part of the members who made their presence felt even in unrelated events, trying to project higher prominence in some social gatherings.

Another complaint was that some members were said to overstep official police functions like going to media even if they were restricted for reasons of security and confidentiality.

Oh, well, but those are matters that could be corrected easily by any government agency that will now pursue the revival of citizens band car groups volunteers.

I was not a member in any of those clubs, but an advertising client of mine in 1988 – the late Pete Morales – was a pioneer in organizing citizens band volunteer groups.

From my observation during the three years that I was handling the advertising of his bed manufacturing business, then a leader in the industry, Pete was an enthusiastic organizer. The members were just as committed in doing a public service that was, in part, time-consuming.

That and other services deserved commendation from the government. These groups were volunteers. They shouldered their own gasoline expenses, even using their office facilities and some employees on loan to their group.

Incidentally, Pete was later elected governor of Rotary International District 378 (now 3780) in 1990.

In these present times, I believe many will agree with me that citizens band car radio clubs should be revived. The PNP will be the first to welcome these groups.

If police and law enforcement agencies are today calling for civilian cooperation in helping solve intricate crime and forensic cases, these volunteer clubs should be encouraged to reorganize.

JUMPSTART CAFE- RESTAURANT OPENS NOV. 22. The country’s hospitality and culinary business is now considered a vibrant vocation that it has been attracting people from an amalgam of professions. The latest investors formed the Jumpstart Café-Restaurant – at No. 7 Capitol Hills Drive, Old Balara, Quezon City –which is a venture of two lady dermatologists. It will formally open next Saturday, Nov. 22.

As its tradename implies, “Jumpstart” invites people “to start their busy days and satisfy their palate with delightful selections of all-day breakfast menu. Its best-sellers: Tugganisa, Dagupan bangus, and Angus tapa; the cakes Red Velvet, Bananalicious, Panna Cotta desserts, cupcakes, and house-blend Arabica coffee.

A short walking garden alley with native lamps overhead lead the guests to the main dining area that could accommodate 30-50 people. Special menu packages are also available for small groups like business fellowship, training, and religious prayer meetings.

The partners: Annabelle L. Pacia and Krissie G. Pacia.