Changes Update

The Enterprise® CarShare account was finally activated upon speaking with a service representative on the telephone. The associated “app” was installed on the iPhone XR. So, the next step will be a trial run of the service. Incidentally, the application and membership fees were waived as part of an on-line promotion. And, a $20 credit was also a part of the deal.

Nissan® Quest Minivan

The hard part, now, will be the divestiture of the minivan. The reasons for divestiture far outweigh any rationale for keeping it. However, there has been a tremendous amount of waffling. Lots of confusion ensued as a result. The worst part is that one month of the two-month “grace period” has already elapsed. Time is rapidly running out.

The decision to finally taper the intake of psyllium as a dietary supplement has been made. Any kind of dependency must be mummified, especially if the supply of the latter is extremely limited. In addition, the real prospect of motorhomelessness in the near future necessitates the reduction of cumbersome activities.

Addendum: The list of approved Web sites on the Net continues to whittle down. And, the availability of wireless hotspots has decreased the need for an expensive “smartphone” data plan. Unfortunately, a better option than the current $30 prepaid plan has not presented itself.

Saturnalia 2018

The Eve of Saturnalia proved uneventful as always. The gym closed early, which allowed for time to complete the dreaded laundry chores. There are still no coin-operated washers and dryers in the new building at the “old folks home” in Waikiki. Of course, there’s no way to enter the older building unless one of its tenants enter or exit.

The bus ride to and from Waikiki has become tedious. There is a dynamic strategy in play to use the routes with minimal passengers. Often, the strategy fails insofar as time constraints are concerned. However, extremely full buses must be avoided at all costs.

Ala Moana Center closed at 6pm. Therefore, dinner was procured at an exorbitant cost of $10 at the fast food joint on Ke’eaumoku Street. There were numerous homeless as well as the usual poorly behaved customers (read: “deplorables”). Dinner was substandard, but expectations were low to begin with.

International Market Place

The evening ended with the usual extended visit to the new International Market Place. The mall has essentially become a surrogate “living room.” The chairs on the second floor are comfortable. There’s no air conditioning, so the ambient temperature is tolerable. And, there’s free wireless Net access. Needless to say, most of the time there is spent viewing various RT streaming programs on the trusty iPhone XR. Incidentally, one advantage of being in Waikiki is that very few venues are closed during the holidays.

A circuitous bus ride was made to finally arrive at Kahala Mall on the morning of Saturnalia. Coffee time was courtesy the fast food joint in Kahala. The primary reason for the excursion to Kahala Mall was availability of restrooms. There were, by the way, myriad senior citizens (mostly “little old ladies”) riding the buses in town and at Kahala Mall.

Upon return to Waikiki at 2pm, a quick stop was made at the Enterprise® office at the Island Colony hotel. The membership in the CarShare program has been stalled because there is no way to log in with the current account information. The member card was obtained last week at the office in Kaka’ako. Attempts to use the on-line contact options has yielded no results.

The rest of the afternoon was a waste of time, including a useless excursion by bus to Ala Moana Center and returning to Waikiki to attend to personal chores. Then, another excursion was made to the fast food joint on Ke’eaumoku Street for dinner and back to Waikiki for an evening in the surrogate “living room” (i.e., International Market Place).

All of the aforementioned events spell out P-A-R-I-A-H ... a ridiculous waste of time in defiance of the status quo. There is no escape from the ramifications of the consumerist and “ownership” society. What is the difference between the listed itinerary and the typical itinerary of the homeless? Nothing!

Centenarian Overload

“Japan's centenarian population hit a record-high 69,785 as of September, with women accounting for 88.1 percent of the total, on the back of medical advances and greater health consciousness, the welfare ministry said Friday.” - from the article, “Centenarians in Japan hit record 69,785, nearly 90% of them women” in The Jakarta Post

Senior citizens over 65 years of age comprise 25% of the population in Japan. The number is increasing every year while the general population is declining. The centenarian trend is also increasing annually. Soon, the majority of the population will be “little old ladies.”

The quoted article is of interest because the same phenomenon has been observed in Hawai’i. Of particular interest is that moms fall into that category. Thus, the previously projected longevity estimate of 105 to 110 years of age for moms was realistic.

The issue is recurring because nearly all current decisions, from the possible divestiture of the minivan to continued residency, all hinge on moms. As it becomes much clearer that moms will continue on for at least 8 to 13 years, any kind of planning becomes difficult.

What is even worse is that another financial crash in empire is inevitable, but the ramifications will be global. The “Western” central banks will follow the same formulaic monetary policies (i.e., ZIRP and QE). However, the “recovery” time will be even longer, possibly approaching 20 years. There will be no choice but to embrace motorhomelessness when that time comes. Otherwise, money will deplete to nothing within a few short years.

Addendum: There are a barrage of articles concerning the booming senior citizen population in Japan, many of which chronicled the tragedy of old age, decrepitude, and death. The crux of the matter is that the issue isn’t limited to Japan. Nearly all “developed” nations will be experiencing the same in due time.

Homeless Memorial

There was some deliberation about attending the memorial service at the Atherton Chapel in Central Union Church this evening for 68 homeless people who passed on this year either on the streets or at homeless shelters. Sadly, attendance never came to fruition.

The homeless population continues to rise unabated, even though the last “point in time” count allegedly indicated otherwise. Actually, both the homeless and undocumented immigrant populations in Hawai’i are soaring while the “official” population is decreasing.

There’s been a lot more talk about funding more programs for the homeless, but talk is cheap. Years have gone by, but the proposed “safe zones” have never come about. There’s always talk about more homeless shelters and “affordable” housing. Again, talk is cheap.

The “safe zones” are the most cost effective program because homelessness has no solutions in “casino capitalism.” As long as economic inequality keeps growing, there will be more and more homeless. The “safe zone” has also been highly anticipated in order to “green light” the cargo van camper conversion plan. Only disappointment was the result. Just more lips flapping. Blah, blah, blah, blah ...

A Long Ridiculous Life

There’s really no need to elaborate on the ludicrous 63+ years that have passed. Much of that foolishness (since 1996) has been chronicled in the legacy journal and recent “blogs.” The senior citizen years are a time to reflect on the imbecility of the younger years. What else is there to do upon retirement?

One observation worth noting is that human stupidity repeats itself endlessly with each successive generation. Lessons are never learned. Instead, arrogance (coupled with opioids) have created an even greater mess. However, that is neither here or there.

The senior citizen years bring even more stupidity, often exacerbated by senility. Yet, there is always one fact that remains crystal clear - death is drawing closer and closer. The truth of a non-existent redemption becomes clear. Then, a severe existential crisis erupts. Who knew that the Great Prophet, Ernest Becker, had predicted the universal human malaise eons ago?

On a side note, the process to join the local Enterprise® CarShare program has been initiated. The plan, of course, is to divest the minivan. Notable is the difficulty in the deconstruction of life-style in the midst of aging. There is always great reluctance to such a drastic change.

Addendum: There have been some considerations about setting up a new on-line account similar to Twitter®, the idea being gearing it toward more photos taken in real life. Of course, taking photos has not been much of a priority. So, the project may be doomed from the start.

Waikiki Update - 2

The decision to move to the “old folks home” in Waikiki has now been conclusively established as a major failure. Waikiki has degenerated into an even more horrid form of grotesquerie than it was several years ago. Of course, there is no place on the entire island that has actually improved.

Mausoleum

The “old folks home” in Waikiki is ... well, an “old folks home.” It is a mausoleum containing people who are barely alive. The rented unit in the new tower is, as expected, new. The entire unit is fairly pristine but severely underutilized by the current tenant. None of the appliances are being used. The closet and cabinets are empty. All of the tenant’s belongings are on the floor next to the only closet. The air bed and dilapidated sheets are the same ones inherited from the Sand Island homeless shelter. The entire unit is kept meticulously clean.

There will be no attempt to add any “creature comforts” to the spartan mausoleum. Why bother? There really is no need to make the mausoleum more habitable. During the era of wage slavery and a brief indoctrination into the “ownership society,” an attempt was made to create a domicile, a self-contained mausoleum. In retrospect, the creation was, in effect, a prison cell. There is no reason to “stay at home.” Laying around, watching the tube, eating junk food, and consuming cheap booze is utter foolishness.

There was an attempt to placate the “soul,” as it were, utilizing the iPhone XR. A streaming music account was created and several music channels were added. Very boring. Mummified! The free streaming flicks site on the Net was sampled. Flicks were ancient. Very mundane. Mummified! So, RT News is now the sole source of streaming content. Sheesh!

Typical Waikiki Hotties

Of course, Waikiki is a place for young and affluent. Lots of young hotties are running amuck. An old codger with an atrophying Vienna Sausage has no interest in babes, young or old, and vice versa. Yet, the “old folks home” is a somewhat premature step in the current timeline toward death. Overpriced rental units are for the younger crowd. An old codger just needs a homeless motorhome, a cargo van camper conversion. Nothing more, nothing less.

Addendum: There has been no attempt at an evening excursion to Waikiki Beach. The weather and ambient temperature have not been agreeable as of late. No doubt, though, the beach has most likely degenerated into another horrid form of grotesquerie.

Update: Divestiture of useless junk continues unabated. The “stuff” pictured at the beginning of this Note will be minimized in anticipation of motorhomelessness.

Tales From The Crypt

An encounter with another resident in the “old folks home” in Waikiki on Monday during the dreaded laundry chores has, in effect, tainted the decision about continued residency there. The tenant, a 70+ year old “little old lady” was in the community room of the old tower, although she resides in the new tower. The resident provided a brief autobiography, most notably mentioning that she is a “cancer survivor.”

The resident moved from the old tower to the new tower about a week ago. So, she knows people to allow her access to the old building. The security fobs for both buildings are different. She said that she “downsized” before the move, jettisoning a lot of allegedly useless possessions. The impetus for “downsizing” was the result of the sad fate of another tenant. An elderly “little old lady” was apparently conspicuously absent from public view for a few days. Other residents noticed a pungent odor emanating from the mausoleum (i.e., apartment). Apparently, she had been deceased for several days. The deceased left the mausoleum full of “stuff” with no apparent heir(s) to the “estate.”

The resident also discussed a few religious topics, obviously being some kind of devout Judeo-Christian “believer.” She confidently mentioned that she knew exactly where she was going in the future, that is, “Heaven.” Obviously, death and its denial run deep at the “old folks home.”

Addendum: At this point in time, the decision to remain in the “old folks home” in Waikiki beyond the one-year lease term appears to be slanted toward termination. The cargo van camper conversion is becoming more attractive as an alternative by the day.

Home on Wheels

As mentioned in the previous Notes, a homeless motorhome was spotted while making the rounds during the usual Hawai’i Kai visit on Monday. The vehicle was spotted in the Hawai’i Kai Towne Center parking lot. Roof vents quickly raised suspicions about the beat-up Dodge® Sprinter cargo van (similar to the model below).

Dodge® Sprinter

Fortunately, before departure, the owner-occupant of the cargo van exited via the rear sliding door. From what could be ascertained, the interior sports a full camper conversion (possibly including a portable toilet). Nice, very nice.

Things Fall Apart 2018

The latest bad news is that the fast food joint in Ala Moana Center is closing on December 21st. After the move to the “old folks home” in Waikiki, that particular fast food joint location became essential for the morning coffee “fix.” Purchasing coffee at the lowest possible cost became imperative after the discovery that there were no accommodations for preparing instant coffee at the “old folks home.” An inquiry revealed that the cause of the closure is an exorbitant increase in rent.

Fast Food Joint in Ala Moana Center

The dreaded laundry chores were performed only because entry to the older tower of the “old folks home” was facilitated by sneaking in while the automatic door was open after a resident exited. There is no telling when the laundry appliances will be installed in the new tower of the “old folks home.”

A couple of “budget” automobile rental venues were discovered on-line. However, the latter venues appear to be questionable insofar as integrity is concerned. There is no sense in taking a risk with “fly by night” operations. Better to pay more than be scammed. The vehicle sharing option is yet to be investigated.

As the entire senior citizen situation approaches a collapse scenario, there is one contingency available. Yes, the cargo van camper conversion. A short wheelbase, high roof model is currently available for about $37,500 new. Incidentally, an older cargo van converted to a homeless motorhome was spotted in Hawai’i Kai on Monday.

Warm Milk

The move to Waikiki has, so far, been a regrettable experience, not that the “old folks home” in Makiki was so much better. The real problem is that the quality of life in the islands has “hit rock bottom.” Hawai’i is a “shithole,” plain and simple. People, locals and tourists alike, are shitheads. The whole place is essentially a big and shitty shopping mall. And, it just keeps getting more shitty by the day. Shit!

None of the homeless have been loitering in the Apple® Store as of one week ago. Even the infamous Reggie only made one appearance. Little wonder why. The store “security” guards have been blatantly eyeing any loiterers. The new Draconian policies are probably a backlash given the barrage of “bad press” that recently forced the stock price downward. Is it time to dump the iPhone XR?

Typical Waikiki Hotties

The only redeeming factor about Waikiki is the sheer number of gorgeous young hotties dressed in skimpy tight dresses on Friday night after 10pm. They are all going out to the night clubs, of course. Meanwhile, the senior citizens at the “old folks home” have already retired for the evening after consuming a mug of nice warm milk.

The new driver’s license arrived with the now defunct address of the “old folks home” in Makiki. That particular address had to be submitted because of the required documentation of proof of residency. By law, the new address of the “old folks home” in Waikiki must be submitted in writing within 30 days of activation. Fat chance! In any case, the new driver’s license overcomes the final obstacle to selling the minivan and seeking alternative forms of transportation for the usual Hawai’i Kia visits.

Denial & Other Tales

Brief conversations with Marshall at the gym are both enlightening and unnerving. On the topic of residing in the “old folks home, he said, “That’s like living in a hospital.” Well, more like an intensive care unit (ICU). Interest in working out regularly at the gym has waned for Marshall. He attributes the latter to old age. Fortunately, he has a spouse and two adult offspring. So, there is at least a good support network for him. Marshall may have already passed the stage of denial.

The need to scrimp and save money at this point in time is the act of denial in action. Estimates indicate that there is enough money to draw about $25,000 per annum for 20 years until zero balance. Family antecedents indicate a life expectancy of only 15 years. A new policy is needed to countermand the current austerity measures.

There really is no place for senior citizens as the entire global life-style is aimed toward the younger generations. Senior citizens can only hobble around while waiting for death. For the more affluent senior citizens, the home (read: mausoleum) can provide all of the “creature comforts” within easy reach. The senior citizen life-style can then be isolated to the “recliner.” Unfortunately, such a life-style only contributes to a rapid decline into decrepitude. Recline and decline.

There are myriad gorgeous young hotties residing in Waikiki, a lot of whom were spotted in the area of the “old folks home.” The rent for apartments, most of them being dumps, is extremely high. Yet, the young hotties appear to have more than enough money to survive.

On a darker note, the fast food joint on Kuhio Ave has turned into a major dump since the last visit a couple of years ago during the one-month stay in Waikiki. Myriad teenaged delinquents, some possibly homeless, loiter there in the late evening. That particular location was also the scene of the fatal shooting of a local guy during an altercation with an agent of empire. Lots of muggings also occur in the immediate vicinity, again attributed to the aforementioned delinquents.

Addendum: Another encounter with an alumnus of the Sand Island homeless shelter occurred at Ala Moana Center this afternoon. She was one of the many people who were “shipped off to Barber’s Point.” Apparently, the transitional shelter there is not too bad aside from the distance to town. The converted military barracks are now self-contained apartments. Rent is fairly low and maximum residency is three years. Encounters with people from the Sand Island homeless shelter have been nice. When people have next to nothing, they become more human and humane.

Waikiki Update - 1

The mobile senior citizen mobile command center (read: Nissan® Quest minivan) has been stripped of its status, albeit prematurely. Everything, including the small safe, has been removed from the vehicle and placed in the studio mausoleum at the “old folks home” in Waikiki. The vehicle will remain parked at the Waikiki Banyan for six (out of seven) days per week.

Typical Mausoleum

The divestiture of the minivan has been stalled by the stupidity of the driver’s license renewal fiasco. Until the new license arrives, there is no way to utilize vehicle rental or sharing services. The temporary paper license will not suffice.

The experience in Waikiki becomes more surreal in old age. What was once exciting just a few years ago is now nauseatingly blasé. The “old folks home” in Waikiki is no different from the one in Makiki or anywhere else for that matter. There are myriad decrepit senior citizens residing there. Ambulances are frequently sighted outside the facility. It is the first stopover before death. For some, it’s the final stop. The homeless motorhome (read: cargo van camper conversion) is looking more attractive all the time.

The two medium-rise towers of the “old folks home” in Waikiki are surrounded by a hodgepodge of old walk-up apartments and older high-rise condominiums. At best, the area is similar to Makiki ... a ghetto.There is, of course, no escape from the waste disposal trucks. The OSHA beeping reverse alarms are heard echoing through the slum continuously from 6am daily.

The laundry rooms in the new tower of the “old folks home” have no washers or dryers. Occupancy commenced in August, but there are still no sign of the necessary appliances in December. The protocol now involves lugging dirty laundry to the old tower and requesting access from the resident manager.

A new gym bag was procured last night at Ross® in order to organize and store personal “junks.” Plastic bag storage is a “done deal.” No effort is being made to store anything in the closets or cabinets of the studio mausoleum. At this point in time, motorhomelessness is becoming a very viable option.

Dead End

The move to the “old folks home” in Waikiki was executed with no associated problems. The move could have been further expedited were it not for the “junks” stuffed in numerous plastic bags. Another gym bag would have been ideal. Some amount of time had to be expended to clean the studio apartment. The minivan was parked in its new home at the Waikiki Banyan.

The new routine calls for a commute to Ala Moana Center on the bus in the morning. Coffee will be procured at the fast food joint since there is no microwave oven in the community room at the “old folks home” to properly prepare instant coffee. The rest of the day’s itinerary will remain the same except that all commuting will be to and from Waikiki.

Waikiki

The evening itinerary will differ slightly. An extended amount of time can be spent at Ala Moana Center because there are buses running to Waikiki fairly late. The new Saturnalia hours are in effect, too. So, all of the stores and eateries are open until 10pm. That’s about the only advantage of Saturnalia.

Lots of paperwork was affixed to the door of the new studio mausoleum. The paperwork was completed and deposited in the requested location. The paperwork included the usual release for financial documentation. And, there was a specific document that had to be signed disclosing absolutely no ownership of a vehicle. Obviously, several steps must be taken to insure that finances and vehicle ownership are hidden.

The future one-year tenure at the “old folks home” in Waikiki is the “end of the line.” If the difficulties adjusting to the unsustainable life-style of empire continues, there will be no other option but procuring a homeless motorhome (read: cargo van camper conversion). In the meantime, many preparations will be made for the latter possibility including the divestiture of the minivan as soon as possible. Any surplus money will be saved for the drastic contingency.

Addendum: The evening itinerary that was tested during the one-month “vacation” in Waikiki, courtesy the former landlord in ‘Nalo, has been resurrected. The new International Marketplace is definitely the place to relax and enjoy free wireless Net access. Free flicks on the The Roku Channel on the Web appear to play flawlessly. A music “app” may be downloaded and used for more “free” fun in Waikiki,

Ol’ Lavahead Day 2018

Ol’ Lavahead Day, now celebrating 64 years of existence as a pariah. Actually, there was no celebration ... what, with one foot in the grave? Sheesh!

As prophesied many moons ago, life in the senior citizen years is going to be a living hell. The empire and its vassal states are doing everything to stoke a nuclear conflagration with the Russian Federation. The trade war with China promises to guarantee the same result. Global climate change will probably cause even greater damage, even though the latter was entirely preventable.

Human stupidity knows no bounds. And, ultimately, the collective stupidity has roots in the denial of death. The Great Prophet, Ernest Becker, had predicted as much many moons ago. The awareness of mortality spawns chronic psychopathology. All chimpo sapiens are clinically insane to varying degrees.

Personal introspection, albeit laborious, revealed that the denial and fear of death impacted all personal decisions. Previous Notes provides testimony to substantiate the latter statement. Once again, the Great Prophet proves to extremely prescient.

Update: There was a short internal debate about a minor Ol’ Lavahead Day celebration in the form of dinner procured from Lahaina Chicken Company. The idea was quickly mummified. What is there to celebrate?

Decisions

A monthly parking pass for the soon-to-be former senior citizen mobile command center (read: minivan) was purchased for a whopping $220 at the Waikiki Banyan. In the days of the detestable “condotel” unit, the same pass cost $100 for one month.

Waikiki Banyan Hotel

The conundrum, of course, is that the minivan will be parked for six days straight. It will only be driven one day per week for the usual Hawai’i Kai visit. The mileage will be about 15 round trip. Obviously, keeping and maintaining the minivan becomes a ludicrous proposition. In fact, the whole charade may have been staged to finally force a decision to sell the vehicle once and for all.

As stated in a previous Note, a two-month “grace period” will be initiated once the minivan is parked at the Waikiki Banyan at considerable cost. All other alternatives will be vigorously pursued. On a a solution is found, the minivan will be divested.

Addendum: The representative at the Waikiki Banyan was extremely cordial and helpful, a significant improvement over the person who was in that position in the detestable “condotel” days.

iPhone XR Revisited

So far, the iPhone XR has been a commendable device and certainly an improvement over the iPhone 7 in every way. Coming from the Android® platform, of course, made the “Home” button seem archaic. Oddly, the latest news revealed that the new X-series trio are all selling less than favorably.

iPhone XR

As of today, the trade-in allowance for the iPhone 7 is up $50 to $250 in total. That’s actually a pretty good incentive. The X-series is definitely way overpriced, though. However, there is also another possible reason for the slow sales: people just love the “Home” button!

Changes

The last few days at the “old folks home” in Makiki are bringing radical changes in itinerary and the beloved “routine.” Today will be the last day of parking the senior citizen mobile command center (read: minivan) at Koko Marina after the usual Hawai’i Kai visit. Also, this was the last commute to the gym in town and back on the Route 1L and Route 80 Express buses, respectively.

Waikiki

Already mentioned in the last Note is the countdown of the final days of using Kahala Mall as a staging area for daily senior citizen operations. Visits to Kahala Mall will now be limited to the day of the usual Hawai’i Kai visit (typically Monday). Riding the Route 1 and 1L buses to town and back will no longer occur.

The entire itinerary and “routine” will change once the move to the Waikiki “old folks home” is complete. At this time, there is no tentative itinerary planned. Ala Moana Center will most likely become the new staging area. However, the senior citizen mobile command center will remain parked in whatever parking venue is found for it. The bus will become the primary mode of transportation.

Addendum: This will also be the last week of riding the Route 5 or 6 bus in the evening to Ala Moana Center and the Route 17 or 18 bus to return to Makiki. Although, accommodations may be made to patronize the fast food joint on Ke’eaumoku Street.

Senior Citizen Overload

There’s exactly one week left before the move to the “old folks home” in Waikiki. There have been numerous episodes of “second thoughts,” but the latter is moot. All arrangements have been completed, so there’s no turning back.

Using Kahala Mall as the staging area for the senior citizen mobile command center (read: minivan) is also rapidly drawing to a close. No more wasting petrol to drive the minivan to Kahala every morning just to enjoy some semblance of solitude for coffee time. The minivan also had its own “reserved” spot in the shaded parking area.

Kahala Mall

Kahala Mall, as mentioned previously, is very “senior friendly.” During the tenure there, however, the number of senior citizens walking the perimeter of the mall for exercise has increased dramatically. The number of exercise classes has also increased. Frankly, the sheer number of senior citizens of varying stages of decrepitude on parade in the mall is both staggering and unnerving. In the morning, Kahala Mall is essentially a senior citizen recreation center. In fact, any denial of mortality is impossible under those circumstances.

Add in the residency at the “old folks home” in Makiki and a totally depressing situation results. Last night during the brief stopover before departing for dinner, an ambulance arrived to take one of the residents to the hospital. There’s always some kind of reminder about the proximity of death.

The constant barrage of decrepit senior citizens is beginning to take a major toll on the psyche. If the move to the Waikiki “old folks home” proves to be similarly demoralizing, there will be no other option but to revert to motorhomelessness with a cargo van camper conversion.

No-Holiday Holiday 2018

The dreadful No-Holiday season has arrived and, for pariahs, that’s the commencement of stupidity and major inconvenience. The community room at the “old folks home” in Makiki was locked, which preempted instant coffee preparation. The drive to Kahala Mall was nice because traffic was light. Upon arrival, the fast food joint was discovered to be closed. So, coffee has to be procured for a whopping $3.50 at Starbucks®. The mall was populated with myriad senior citizens as usual.

The ride to town on the bus was marred by myriad Chinese senior citizens, none of whom speak English. The gym closed at 2pm, so the usual workout had to be accomplished at a less-than-leisurely pace. The ride back to Kahala Mall on the bus was better. However, there were at least six homeless people commuting to who-knows-where. A few minutes was spent “hanging out” and using the free wireless access.

Returning to the “old folks home” at 4pm was no cause for celebration. The community room was still locked, so the resident senior citizens had nowhere to loiter. None of them were sighted anyway before departure to the fast food joint on Ke’eaumoku Street.

At the fast food joint, a large salad was ordered only to be disappointed by its unavailability. Apparently, the nationwide e. coli scare had prompted a recall of all mixed lettuce products. The lettuce in the “value menu” chicken sandwich was oddly exempted.

Later, an attempt was made to procure dinner at L&L Hawai’ian Barbeque inside the Walmart® store on Ke’eaumoku Street. Of course, the “Black Friday” bullshit was in “full swing” by then. The waiting line exceeded comprehension.

So, a short walk to Ala Moana Center ensued. There were mobs of people everywhere. Surprisingly, the Makai Mall food court was open. Only a handful of vendors, including Panda Express®, were open. Lines were long. Guess where dinner was procured? Afterward, time was spent loitering at the Starbucks® adjacent to The Lanai food court. Free Net access was exploited. And, so forth. Loitering and more loitering.

The “Black Friday” bullshit signifies the official commencement of the Saturnalia shopping madness. A pariah has no connection to that level of stupidity. Saturnalia is just another Pavlovian event to bring the masses into servitude to their Masters. That, of course, is the final annual culmination of wage and debt slavery.

Slavery

A couple of weeks ago, an encounter with Ann at Longs® in Hawai’i Kai, where she is employed, revealed that she had quit her second (part-time) wage slave job at Petco® in Koko Marina Center. Ann is now working a full-time position as an evening caregiver for an elderly client. Ann is still employed at Longs during the day. “I only get three hours of sleep for five days of the week,” she said.

On Monday, another encounter with Ann at Longs® during the usual Hawai’i Kai visit yielded the observation that Ann seemed a bit tense. She launched on a tirade about senior citizens even though she, herself, is 62 years old. In her defense, Longs® is pretty much a senior citizen recreation center. Anyway, sleep deprivation appears to be “wielding its ugly head.”

Ann had foresaken early retirement in favor of continued wage slavery in order to insure a higher monthly Social Security disbursement. Yet, her existence continues to be day-to-day or paycheck-to-paycheck. One or two wage slave jobs ... not enough to survive in Hawai’i.

Attempting to maintain even a modest “standard of living” is a “fool’s errand.” Wage slavery and debt slavery are the only avenues open for the rank-and-file peons of empire. What can be said of one’s enslaved life in perpetuity? There’s life, and then there’s death. That’s it.

The move to the Waikiki “old folks home” is no real solution. There’s always the chance that some kind of event will invoke eviction. There’s no stability without Big Money. Any “old folks” home” is a dismal place. For the most part, the “old folks home” is transitional housing before entering an assisted care facility. For some, though, it is the “end of the road.”

In this particular case, the “old folks home” is just an excuse to preempt real homelessness, specifically motorhomelessness. A pariah cannot survive in an institutionalized mausoleum-like environment because the latter is akin to incarceration. Freedom is all that matters. Freedom without Big Money is impossible in the skewed “ownership society.” Incarceration is as good as being dead.

Paperwork & Shit

An early morning encounter with the resident manager at the “old folks home” in Makiki resulted in the finalization of the lease termination. The paperwork for vacating the unit was completed even though the actual moving date is December 1st at the earliest.

In the brief three-week period before the electric service was terminated, over $18 was accrued. For what? The cost for electric service in the islands is outrageous and will worsen. The Korean neighbors recently mentioned that using the air conditioner during the recent two- or three-day heatwave produced a whopping $157 electric bill for the month. Upon perusing the itemized statement, the discovery was made that Hawai’ian Electric Company always charges a minimum amount (approximately $20 before credits) even if barely any or no electricity is consumed. What kind of shit is that?

The driver’s license renewal process was cumbersome. First, the only available appointment was scheduled for today at 2:45pm in Kane’ohe. Second, the paperwork and resulting “paper trail” are intrusive and burdensome. Fortunately, the ancient Territory of Hawai’i birth certificate was accepted. The renewal fee was $40 plus a small penalty for using using a credit card. If the driver’s license is sent to the new residence address (i.e., “old folks home” in Makiki), it will not be forwarded to A new address (which will occur in a week or so). No documentation for the new address in Waikiki is currently available, which is the cause of the confusion. The whole sickening process will then have to repeated.

Addendum: A battery-operated air pump was purchased for $11 at Target® to rapidly deflate and inflate the airbed provided by the Sand Island homeless shelter. The airbed will continue to be the sole piece of furniture while tenured in conventional housing.

Preparations & Projections

An early morning chat with the resident manager in the community room at the “old folks” home in Makiki confirmed the arrangements established on Saturday. Move-in at the “old folks home” in Waikiki is likely to be the first few days of December. So, that’s that.

There’s a lot to do in the interim. Utilities have already been scheduled for termination. Packing “stuff” will obviously be minimal. Parking for the minivan will have to figured out immediately. Most likely, the Waikiki Banyan option will be taken.

At this point in time, a two-month “grace period” will be invoked to determine whether to sell the minivan or not. The most prudent choice would be divestiture. There is absolutely no reason, aside from the Monday visits to Hawai’i Kai, to continue ownership of the vehicle. Thus, the automobile rental alternatives will be vigorously investigated during the “grace period.”

As for moms, there is no question that longevity will prevail. Age degeneration is occurring at an extremely slow pace. At this time, moms can be expected to be fully ambulatory with minor decrease in vision at age 100 years. Only at age 105 years will there be significant physical impairments that will require assisted care. Moms is turning 97 years of age next February. Weekly visits with moms will continue, although long-term automobile rental fees will far exceed the amount generated upon selling the minivan now. However, keeping and maintaining the minivan eight more years would be foolish.

Of course, the cargo van camper conversion idea still remains a viable alternative. Residing in any “old folks home” is akin to incarceration. Without an exorbitant amount of wealth, there can be no other path to freedom. A return to wage slavery in order to buy “freedom” is possible, but the contradictions are painfully obvious.

Options Revisited

A couple of weeks ago, a flyer appeared on the bulletin board at the “old folks home.” There was an offer for two months of “free” rent at the “old folks home” in Waikiki. The resident manager at the “old folks home” in Makiki was queried. Upon verification of the validity of the offer, interest was expressed in pursuing the latter.

Long story short, the resident manager was able to tentatively secure a studio apartment. There were several setbacks with the certification process, but the resident manager was able to “smooth things over.” There was also reluctance to move there because of no available parking stalls for the senior citizen mobile command center (read: minivan).

There whole process was rushed nonetheless, with a mandatory signing of the lease yesterday. The e-mail notification wasn’t read until late last night, but the resident manager was able to make arrangements for an appointment this morning.

An excursion was made by bus to Waikiki with “second thoughts” about the move. The studio is in the new building. It is styled in the same penitentiary design as the “old folks home” in Makiki. All occupants in the building will be the first generation, by the way. The rent is $876 per month with electricity included. The signing of the lease required a security deposit of the same amount. The lease at the “old folks home” was nullified. However, the security deposit (fronted by the Sand Island homeless shelter) and prorated November rent will be reimbursed. Rent for “old folks home” in Waikiki is not due until February. Move-in will be later this month.

At this point in time, the minivan will end up being parked at the Waikiki Banyan for a whopping $220 per month. Hopefully, that will be incentive to finally divest the vehicle. Rental agencies and the new Drive Hui option are to be seriously considered.

More Musings 2018

“You’ve got maybe eight years,” Marshall said. He’s 73 years old now. In the last year, he’s noticed a significant decline in both interest and ability with regard to his workouts. So, the eight remaining years that he alluded to would be “good years.” The conversation transpired in the locker room at the gym the other day. Observing Marshall during his workout revealed an alarmingly relaxed form. He also looked very tired.

Most old codgers don’t live beyond 80 years, so Marshall is probably correct. He has been working out consistently for several decades, so his prognostication is coincident with anyone with a similar regimen. No doubt, Marshall is now truly cognizant of what little time he has remaining.

The application process for the “old folks home” in Waikiki laid bare just how intrusive the certification process is for eligibility. Fortunately, the housing specialist at the Sand Island homeless shelter has completed the process without client involvement for the “old folks home” in Makiki. The intrusion of privacy, at least concerning financial matters, has necessitated the acquisition of a small safe $23 at Target®) in order to hide assets, something that the formerly-homeless buddy was quite adamant about. How do the other senior citizens put up with that shit?

Addendum: The small safe has been securely placed in the senior citizen mobile command center (read: minivan).

Musings 2018

The fast food joint on Ke’eaumoku Street has become the evening stopover (after the daily Ala Moana Center outing) before returning to the “old folks home.” The evening crowd can best be described as “colorful.” Unfortunately, the even the cheapest food items are adding up. A dollar here, a dollar there. Soon, we’re talking Big Money. Yet, what other alternatives are there?

Time spent at the fast food joint is just an extension of usual Apple Store visit ... wasting time on the Net. Distractions are crucial to maintain the “vital lie.” And, in the fascist “ownership society,” there’s little left for the rank-and-file proms except a “virtual” reality.

Musings have increasingly become a pastime, but the focus has been mainly on mortality issues. There have also been thoughts dedicated to familial issues, mostly involving moms. The situation has not improved with the bro. Of course, there is no resolution. Unfortunately, the whole scenario must play out until the end. In the meantime, the fast food joint on Ke’eaumoku will suffice.

Projections

The acquisition of the new iPhone XR was somewhat impulsive. The expenditure was not necessary and only added to the current financial burden. Consider that vehicle registration increased by approximately $60 for the next fiscal year. Petrol is inching toward $4 per gallon. Renewal of the driver's license next month will be $40 for an eight-year term. Automobile insurance will cost $144 for six months. Was a new "smartphone" really necessary?

Dental work is slated for the beginning of the 2019 year. As the latter is a total "out-of-pocket" expenditure, the projected cost for routine cleaning, examination, and subsequent abstraction(s) will be at least $500 or more. A possible cavity will increase the outlay by $100 or more.

New eyeglasses are desperately needed. However, that expenditure will be postponed until the middle of the 2019 year when an eye examination is slated. Cost for eyeglasses are totally "out-of-pocket" again.

Addendum: A case for the new all-glass iPhone XR was desperately required. A flexible clear case was specified. Only $40+ third-party cases were available, until the search descended upon Walmart®. The appropriate case was procured for $5 and some change.

iPhone XR

The Apple® Store in Kahala Mall was open at 8am this morning for the iPhone XR debut. Sadly, there were few people there. No waiting lines even at 10am when the mall officially opens. What about the pre-order pickup? Did anyone actually pre-order the device? Doesn’t seem likely. The “bad press” about the “budget” iPhone is probably to blame.

iPhone XR

After playing with a display model, an inquiry was made about the availability of the various models. Most seemed to be in stock. A confirmation about the $200 iPhone 7 trade-in allowance was also made. Then, an iPhone XR in the (PRODUCT)RED color was purchased.

The Apple® associate is a nice guy, but he really wasn’t that knowledgeable about the device. Most of his presentation was hype. The “Genius” who was supposed to set up the new device and deactivate the old iPhone was more concerned about assisting other customers. Fortunately, any “tech savvy” fool could complete the process with no assistance.

The iPhone XR is actually a really nice device. The “bezel” isn’t that thick. The LCD display is more than adequate. It is a big “smartphone,” however. And, the weight is a bit cumbersome. Nonetheless, the time to take advantage of the decent trade-in value for iPhones with the “Home” button is right now. Waiting until next year will probably see such devices drop in value to the equivalent of a cheap doorstop.

Addendum: At the Apple® Store in Ala Moana Center this evening, absolutely no one was at the iPhone XR display table. And, there were no lines for in-store pick-up either.

Options - Fail!

After some confusion, the application for the Waikiki “old folks home” was finally processed. An appointment was subsequently made for an interview twelve days from today. So, there may be some hope to flee from the Lower Maliki ghetto.

Old Folks Home in Waikiki

At this point in time, there is absolutely no parking stalls available at the “old folks home” in Waikiki. Thus, is accepted, the move to the facility will require renting an expensive parking stall, most likely at the Waikiki Banyan Hotel.

One of the main objectives for the move to Waikiki is the final divestiture of the Nissan® Quest minivan. Turns out that divestiture is not often easy. However, the incentive (i.e., paying for a parking stall) is there. So, the only obstacle is the foolish spell of the “ownership society.” Renting an automobile for the weekly visit to Hawai’i Kai may be costly, but that makes more sense than keeping the minivan.

Moving to the “old folks home” in Waikiki will also require yet another change in itinerary and daily routine. The key to success will be a gradual transition over a period of two or three months. Then, back to the same ol’ shit.

Addendum: The application for the "old folks home" in Waikiki has been rejected because of the minimum income stipulation. However, recertification for the “old folks home" in Makiki has been completed. Same property management firm. Essentially the same rent. WTF?

Update: The resident manager at the “old folks home” in Lower Makiki has intervened to countermand the previous stupidity. The application for the Waikiki “old folks home” is now moving forward with a tentative approval. A viewing is being arranged to confirm whether the new accommodations will be feasible or not.

Game Over! Apparently no parking stalls are available at the “old folks home” in Waikiki. So, the application process has been mummified. Monthly public parking is available at the Waikiki Banyan, but $220 is “over the top.” During the time of ownership of the detestable “condotel,” the monthly parking fee was only $100 or so.

Game Over!

The time has come, at one month short of 64 years of age, to officially declare, “Game over!” There’s no need to mince words on the matter. Actually, the declaration could have been made over a decade ago. The criteria?

• No family or offspring
• No friends or social network
• No wage slave job
• No money
• No hobbies or interests

That’s essentially the definition of a pariah, an outcast, an outsider. Frankly, though, the aforementioned criteria are distractions or “immortality projects” pertaining to the “vital lie.” Pushing aside all aspects of the “vital lie” leaves nothing of the material world, only stark consciousness and the organism itself. Reality is stripped of superficialities. All that’s left is life and death.

In view of “Game Over,” there will be a policy change for acquisitions of useless (or useful) possessions. The procurement process must now review whether the acquisition(s) can remain in service until end of life much like the standard old codger’s windbreaker jacket.

The observation stage of the senior citizen life-style is drawing to a close. At this point in time, there is much concern about the viability of living beyond 70 years of age. Significant degradation in the so-called “quality of life” is of primary concern. From all indications, there are no happy “Golden Years” senior citizens except in the imaginary AARP world.

Praise Molech! - 2

Sporadic news and commentary of no interest to anyone ... Praise Molech! The same ol’ shit is the primary focus of this edition. Praise Molech!

The heatwave has continued unabated. Another record was set on Friday night with temperatures in the “old folks home” exceeding 100^o in the hallway and disgusting cell. Heat flashes were experienced which impeded any attempt at sleep. Praise Molech!

Lower Makiki is now home to myriad feral chickens and roosters, most likely imported by the new homeless “camping” adjacent to the State Juvenile Detention Center. The roosters are crowing loudly at the “crack of dawn” daily. Praise Molech!

The recertification process at the “old folks home” is a repeat of what occurred during initial placement from the Sand Island homeless shelter. Financial documents are constantly being requested over and over again. The motivations of the property management firm are suspect. More scrutiny, bordering on harassment, is probably the modus operandi for anyone stigmatized by homelessness. Fuck it! ... errr, Praise Molech!

A former colleague at the Diploma Mill has revealed that the entire downtown “campus” is relocating to Waterfront Plaza (aka Restaurant Row) this coming Summer. Two medium-rise buildings along Fort Street Mall and one building at the Executive Center will be vacated. Many of the small eateries along Fort Street will go out of business. The area is likely to become a haven for myriad homeless and halfway house derelicts. Praise Molech!

The “ownership society” and consumerism has increased the levels of boredom, depression, and nihilism amongst the rank-and-file peons. Even a pariah can be affected (read: infected). Thus, the old iPhone 7 may be replaced with the new iPhone XS or XR model at a significant cost (and loss). The damned “notch” is horrific, though. Fuck it! Senior citizens will be robbed of all their money long before death anyway. Praise Molech!

Afterword

The temptation to deviate from the Notes express mandate has been quantifiable. However, the need to do so was tempered by the absence of an audience. Thus, the failure of the “civilization” paradigm, the collapse of the “West” (including empire), and the possible upcoming “hot war” with both Russia and China are topics that can be explored on the Net via qualified resources (i.e., RT, Sputnik News, PressTV, Paul Craig Roberts, Michael Hudson). Notes will retain its mundane content.

Overall, though, the aforementioned topics are merely the symptoms, not the actual causes, of the general malaise and nihilism that result from the fear and denial of death. Only the Great Prophet, Ernest Becker, has offered the most plausible and comprehensive explanation of the fatalistic “human condition.” Becker could offer no real solutions as there are none. Humans are destined for self-destruction no matter what because there is no way to eradicate individual and collective consciousness. Only the “vital lie” provides temporary relief, that is, as long as the latter is firmly entrenched in conviction and belief (often called “faith”).

Becker also focused on the human need to create a superficial separation from animals. In fact, that separation is the basis of the failed “civilization” paradigm. Physical animal characteristics must be covered up. Animal acts (e.g., reproduction) must be sanitized and cloaked with ridiculous nomenclature. Animal biology must also be sanitized and masked by idiotic rituals. Animal behavior must be suppressed or repressed by all means necessary, even by force. As the “civilization” paradigm fails, the “inner animal” breaks free. And, “all hell breaks loose.”

Finally, Becker notes that all humans suffer from psychopathology, the only individual difference being the degree of its manifestation. In other words, the fear or denial of death can never be cured. It is the root of human psychopathology and it can only get worse, not better, over time. When an entire society or species is collectively involved in futile “immortality projects,” the outcome can only be self-destructive.

Praise Molech! - 1

“Fuck It Friday!” is being replaced by the new generic aggregator, “Praise Molech!” The focus of this edition is the same ol’ shit. Praise Molech!

The current heatwave has now surpassed one week with the worst day in terms of heat and humidity being Tuesday. Sleep deprivation, because of the heat and noise from garbage truck service at 3:30am daily, is taking its toll. Running only the fan in the air conditioner (as well as the prized 4-inch fan) in the cell of the “old folks home” has caused a $6 increase in electricity usage last month during the previous heatwave. Praise Molech!

There has been absolutely no word concerning the rental application submitted to the management of the “old folks home” in Waikiki. And, the last available unit in the “rustic” Waikiki condominium has been sold. Any hope for a move to Waikiki has been dashed. Remaining in the “old folks home” in Lower Makiki is becoming a less attractive option as opposed to a modified cargo van. Praise Molech!

Although dental work is critically needed (see previous Note), the latter has been postponed until adequate funds can be accrued. There are too many costly outlays currently scheduled. At this time, two tooth extractions are highly probable. Praise Molech!

Driver’s license renewal is mandatory by the end of November. However, new documentation rules implemented by the empire’s Department of Homeland Security has caused increased paperwork review at the local level. Waiting times have exceeded several hours. A new appointment system was established, but it is a poor fix. Only two appointment slots were available when queried, and both were located at the Kane’ohe Satellite City Hall. No other appointment slots at any location are available until time indefinite. Praise Molech!

Waiting lines have been fairly long all week at every Apple® Store, obviously because of the heavy demand for the new iPhone XS series. People are overjoyed at the prospect of spending $1,000+ on a damned “smartphone.” And, rest assured, none of the fools will be using the Screen Time setting to limit usage of the device. Praise Molech!

There has been no more sightings of the young homeless hottie since she was last seen walking along King Street directly across from the “old folks home.” Lots of new homeless spotted everywhere, though. On-going sweeps continue in various high-density homeless areas including two parks and the Elm Street perimeter of the State Juvenile Detention Center. Not to worry, the homeless return to the same spots within a day or two. Praise Molech!

There appears to be little interest in Notes, so more energy will be devoted to the Molech-themed Twitter® feed. Perhaps Notes may become fully centered on Molech in the near future. Baha! Ha! Ha! Haaa! Praise Molech!

Excerpt — Freedom

Julian Assange

Excerpts from the last public interview with Julian Assange were featured on RT:

This generation being born now… is the last free generation. You are born and either immediately or within say a year you are known globally. Your identity in one form or another –coming as a result of your idiotic parents plastering your name and photos all over Facebook or as a result of insurance applications or passport applications– is known to all major world powers. 

A small child now in some sense has to negotiate its relationship with all the major world powers… It puts us in a very different position. Very few technically capable people are able to live apart, to choose to live apart, to choose to go their own way,” he added. “It smells a bit like totalitarianism – in some way.

The article titled, "Generation being born now is the last to be free – Assange in last interview before blackout."

Fuck It Friday - 12

Fuck It Friday (FIF)! Sporadic news and commentary of no interest to anyone ... FIF! The iPhone is the primary focus of this edition. Yes, this is Fuck It Friday!

iPhone XS

The new iPhone XS arrived at the Apple® Stores. As expected, mobs of people rushed to retrieve pre-ordered devices to wait in the queue. People apparently have lot of dinero to waste. Fuck it!

The iPhone 7 was updated with iOS 12 on Monday. No difference in speed or performance was detected. Well, at least the battery is still registering with 100% "health." Fuck it!

Has anyone even set up the new Screen Time settings? Not likely. In any case, who would spend $1,000+ on a "smartphone" and intentionally limit its usage? No one. Yeah, fuck it!

The annual intrusive inspection of the cell at the "old folks home" was performed this morning. That's the final step before a new lease is created. Of course, the financial certification is still "up in the air." In the meantime, an application for a cell at the "old folks home" in Waikiki was submitted with the assistance of the resident manager. Is that a better option? Who knows? The certification process may cause disqualification anyway. Fuck it!

Options Revisited

The recertification process at the "old folks home" commenced with the submission of an eligibility questionnaire along with personal financial documents. The process supposedly may take up to 90 days to complete. An inspection of the cell is next with the signing of the new lease, if approved, being the final step.

“Rustic” Condominium in Waikiki

Obviously, there is not much time remaining to pursue other options. Thus, a frenzied attempt to investigate the options previously listed in Notes has commenced concurrently. Contact was established with the new real estate agent to possibly initiate a bid for the sole leasehold unit available at the "rustic" condominium in Waikiki. Also, pricing data is being accumulated for different makes of cargo vans with high roofs and longer wheelbase.

The family drama has abated coincident with moms' decision to accept medical treatment for the one good eye that is now failing. Thus, there has been a release of burden for the time being. In addition, moms has tentatively decided to assign Durable Power-of-Attorney (DPOA) to the sister-in-law (as well as access to moms’ financial accounts). As long as moms is comfortable with the decision, there are no objections. Given the aforementioned information, there is now a lot more freedom of choice in personal matters.

Update. The only available leasehold unit at the "rustic" condominium in Waikiki is in escrow. A new option to be investigated is the possible relocation to one of the “old folks home” in Waikiki.

Tropical Storm Olivia

Hurricane Olivia is, at this time, downgraded to a tropical storm. It is on a direct trajectory with the entire Hawai'ian Island chain.

Lessons were apparently not learned from the recent Hurricane Lane episode with occurrences of moderate amounts of hoarding and stupidity. Heavy rainfall is expected with some gusty winds on O'ahu by Wednesday. Ho-hum.

Addendum. As expected, Tropical Storm Olivia “fizzled out” before passing O’ahu.

Fuck It Friday - 11

Fuck It Friday (FIF)! Sporadic news and commentary of no interest to anyone ... FIF! The “old folks home” is the primary focus of this edition. Yes, this is Fuck It Friday!

The annual recertification process for eligibility to remain a rental slave in the “old folks home” has commenced. The most important aspect is the required financial documents to verify the minimum income stipulation. Disqualification and eviction are highly probable. Fuck it!

Eviction could be a blessing in disguise. The “old folks home” has grown wearisome. One of the elevators is now out of service every week. Ditto for one of the washing machines. Repairs take forever, too. Fuck it!

The community room of the “old folks home” is dominated and controlled by a small group of “little old ladies.” One of those “little old ladies” also controls the programming on the small wall-mounted LCD tube. Of the small number of resident old codgers, only one or two of them make any kind of appearance in the community room. Little wonder why. Fuck it!

Median price for houses on O’ahu is over $810,000 now. That’s for a rundown 3-bedroom tract home, usually with an architecturally unmatched addition to add floor space. The severe housing bubble translates into guaranteed rent increases. Another reason to get out of the “old folks home.” Fuck it!

The only option left is motorhomelessness. Currently, the option to purchase a custom-made cargo van with camper conversion and have it shipped from the mainland empire has been mummified. Better to just purchase the cargo van here and make the necessary, albeit minimal, modifications through local vendors. Fuck it!

Homeless Hall of Fame

There’s no time like the present to honor a few of the quintessential homeless guys that have graced Honolulu for eons. Unlike some of the other derelict homeless, the Hall of Fame inductees are truly in survival mode.

Reggie at Apple® Store Ala Moana Center

The infamous Reggie has been homeless for as long as can be remembered. Reggie has come a long way from being a street punk to a more reputable guy. He is even on good terms with the despicable Ala Moana Center “security” guards, the ones dressed like State Troopers.

The former mainland empire homeless guy can be seen stationed at his usual spot every morning at the fast food joint on Nimitz Highway. Later, he always makes his way to town. He’s one of myriad homeless who sleep in the shadows of the Sand Island industrial area.

In a one-man rant at the fast food joint, the infamous quote, “You got a home ... Go home!” was coined by the homeless guy who was chased off by a property owner when he was attempting to sleep. He is pictured at the fast food joint in town engaging in a one-man rant about illegal immigrants coming to the islands.

Honorable Mention. The young homeless hottie was spotted walking along King Street across from the "old folks home," easily recognizable with her green gym bag and skimpy outfits.

Young Homeless Hottie

Her tenacity in surviving and looking hot will soon bring about Hall of fame status.

Bad News - Update

Moms was referred to a questionable eye “specialist” and a treatment plan was recommended to allegedly delay blindness. At the last minute, moms canceled the appointment. The treatment, apparently not guaranteed to be successful, is costly and most likely not covered by medical insurance.

From what can be ascertained, the bro overreacted adversely upon learning that moms refused further treatment. In a rash decision, he decided that moms would be evicted (from the home that was gifted to him by moms) when blindness finally occurs. Sadly, moms should be able to make independent health decisions without any coercion.

There are other familial issues at play, which are directly and indirectly involved. However, those particular issues are beyond the scope of Notes. Discussion of family topics has been mummified as stated previously in Notes unless the latter is deemed important.

The tragic turn of events provoked a severe, albeit temporary, intolerance for stupidity-at-large. No details are necessary. Eventually, “cool heads” prevailed. Moms’ blindness will not happen overnight. Loss of vision will be gradual, which could take up to several years. In the meantime, there are options that can be exercised:

• First, moms could submit applications to select “old folks homes” and be put on the active waiting lists. Upon acceptance, moms could move into the facility at her convenience. Some of the “old folks homes” have a permanent case worker who serves the residents. Moms could then initiate the transition to an assisted care facility when necessary.
• Second, moms could move into the existing “old folks home” cell by being added to the current lease. This provision could also be invoked upon sudden eviction by the bro. Once, moms is settled, the lease would be modified again to only include moms. Other parties would return to motorhomelessness.

In the meantime, though, moms can monitor any increase in vision impairment. A projected time span can then be extrapolated. Moms can subsequently decide when to pursue the first option. The transition would be smooth. No drama. No stupidity.

Lessons from Hurricane Lane

The main lesson to be learned from the Hurricane Lane debacle is that crisis and survival are just another shopping event. Crazed shoppers were ramming their carts kamikaze-style into everyone and everything in a frenzied rush of hoarding much like what transpires annually on “Black Friday.” The only difference is that the carts were filled with junk food, bottled water, and various sundries to protect so-called “property.” Survival is now merely the ability to grab “stuff” off the shelf as quick as possible.

With emergency measures in effect, everything was shut down. Parks were closed. Bus service was terminated. Shopping and dining venues were closed. The only option was to remain sequestered in the ol’ mausoleum (read: “home”) with the tube, “smartphone,” and the hoarded junk food. Really, that’s the extent of the “ownership society.” The commons no longer exists. Outside of the mausoleum, the threat of trespassing charges always looms.

Community Room

Likewise, being forced to spend several hours in the community room at the “old folks home” is akin to the proverbial Chinese water torture. The same “little old ladies” are there daily, always stationed across the small wall-mounted LCD tube. Basic cable tube access is provided, so the “little old ladies” have quite a few channels to choose from. There’s always food at their tables, most of which was procured at Zippys across the street. Sadly, life at the “old folks home” can be summarized as a kind of hospice.

Hurricane Lane should have invoked serious introspection about the sad existence that the rank-and-file peons must endure. Human life has been reduced to shopping and consumption. Nothing more, nothing less. In the grand scheme, it’s more like a huge “old folks home.”

Fuck It Friday - Hurricane Edition

Fuck It Friday (FIF)! Sporadic news and commentary of no interest to anyone ... FIF! Hurricane Lane is the primary focus of this edition. Yes, this is Fuck It Friday!

Waikiki

Strong winds continued until midnight, then settled into usual trade wind patterns with very little precipitation. About three hours were spent in the community room at the “old folks home” in the early evening after a circuitous return trip through downtown from Ala Moana Center. Fuck it!

Coffee and what could be described as breakfast was prepared and consumed in the community room at the “old folks home” this morning. A useless drive to Kahala Mall revealed that the entire complex was locked up. Fortunately, the fast food joint was open. So, a continuation of coffee time ensued. The free Net wireless access was also exploited. Lots of Asian tourists were there, no doubt foolish enough to believe that all shopping venues would be open. Obsessive consumerism knows no bounds. Fuck it!

Very little will be accomplished for the rest of the day. There’s no place to loiter. No bus service. Dinner will be procured at the fast food joint on Ke’eamoku Street. Or, one of the two non-perishable microwaveable dinners will be prepared at the “old folks home.” Hot water from the laundry room at the “old folks home” will be used for bathing since the gym is closed. The recently purchased plastic trash bin will be used to transport the hot water to the cell. Fuck it!

What is everyone else doing? No doubt, sitting in front of the tube or playing with the “smartphone,” all the while stuffing themselves with all the junk food that was hoarded during the hurricane threat. Fuck it!

Hurricane Lane continues to weaken and slow down. No telling when it will pass O’ahu. The various local news sources are continuing to exploit the event to keep unwitting fools locked in and subject to advertising bombardment. There may be some rain and strong winds, but that’s it. No further updates in Notes is required. Fuck it!