I’m sure everybody has heard of the “sexual revolution”. Well, let me coin a new phrase (among other terms), “the Text-ual Revolution”.

Everywhere you go nowadays, it’s difficult NOT to see anyone texting. With the introduction of GSM phones in the Philippines, texting has grown from messages being sent from on businessman to another, in to everyone and their mother.

SMS (short message service) was initally desinged as an aid to voice mail. Today, text messaging is a form of “cheap” mobile communication. Inexpensive, because cellular service providers have allowed “Pre-paid” accounts avail of unlimited text messaging. Sure, there is a fee (under P500), usually for 2 to 3 months service, but this is still far below regular airtime rates. Filipinos, being communications crazy (tele-babad), took very quickly to this form of wireless chatting.

Even with the airwaves and message centers clogging with crude jokes and unimportant imformation, the demand for this service is still on the rise. Cell phone sales are off the charts. Kiosks in malls are bombarded by battalions of “wanna-be texters”. Seemingly out of reach (cost wise) to some lower income customers, haven’t really discouraged them from shelling out P6K to P7K.

Just the other night, 2 waiters in a coffee shop I frequent, asked if they could buy my old cell phones. “My goodness.” I thought. “Who doesn’t want to be part of this craze?”

And a craze, it is. It’s not that we all need to keep so connected all the time, or need to share our thoughts (however shallow) with all our acquantances. I think we just like toys and, we love to play.

That’s my excuse, anyway. What’s yours? -P-

What Are We in Power For? by: President Dennis Valdes

What are we in Power For?

Good morning! I'm still in shock over the excellent response we had to our Cigar Night 2 last Thursday at Churchill's. Sixteen people showed up, including potential members J.P. Reyes and Rico Tan. Both are now all set to be inducted this Friday.

After the meeting this morning, Membership Development Director Jun Ymson will be conducting another New Member Orientation. We hope that we will be able to get 5 or 6 new members inducted this Friday.

The BOD met for the first time last Friday at my office. Our key topic of conversation was the Induction. This year's ceremonies will truly be unique. My wife, Tessa (who would kill me if I referred to her as Ann Tessa!), together with Class Service B Director Eugene Go, have planned a Hawaii 5-0 event that everyone in the district is already talking about.

The location choice of Kids @ Work was truly inspired - thanks to PP Arsenic Laurel. A couple of tips:
1. The BOD encourages all members to bring their children, ages 3-10, to the Induction. This will make the event more family-oriented, an atmosphere we want to foster in our club.
2. We want this Induction to be informal rather than formal, so if you are comfortable in shorts, please feel free to wear them.
3. At the Kids' Jungle Gym area, which we are using as the stage and for the main ceremonies, only socks are allowed, so please take care and choose the ones without holes!

This morning, I'd like to welcome Rtn. Doodz Policarpio from the RC of Makati Amorsolo. Doodz will be talking about Membership Development, a topic he expounded on so eloquently at the recently held "Millennium Membership Development Seminar." I hope he inspires you all to invite someone to join RCMA and get another Star on your nametag.

Enjoy your breakfast! -P-