Muzzle

Muzzled!

On Friday, about 100 people descended on the State Capital to protest the “lockdown” that was extended to the end of the month. Several people were arrested.

The governor has indicated that the transition to the “new normal” will be very gradual. Face masks and “social distancing” will continue indefinitely, he stated, or until a vaccine for “super-duper corona” is available. The placebo vaccine, you think?

The first phase of the transition, commencing on Friday, allows automobile dealerships, mobile businesses, one-on-one businesses, automated carwashes, florists, and golf courses to reopen. Only a few people are likely to benefit.

At the “old folks home” in Waikiki, “emergency” Fascist policies have been invoked. The community room has been closed, and face masks are required in the entire complex. Of course, “social distancing” is a must. The community rooms were also sealed off. Out of courtesy to the senior citizens, the rules are being followed. Most of them are “scared shitless” anyway.

Over 500 inmates at the local prison were released because of “super-duper corona,” even though there were no infections at the facility. The public was told that these were “minimum risk” prisoners, but one was arrested again for involvement in an armed carjacking. The mass inmate release was probably another Fascist hidden agenda that required an excuse to implement.

Notes on “New Economy”: The Fascists constantly refer to the “new normal,” but what about the “new economy”? In previous Notes, there were prognostications about “social distancing” and the protective gear that would be required for society and commerce to function.

Unfortunately, given those restrictions, there cannot be a return pre-“super-duper corona” days. Deflation will not occur because central bank policies are most likely causing an upward inflationary trend. Thus, fixed costs (i.e., rent, utilities, etc.) of businesses will be rising.

The imposition of “social distancing” protocols will decrease capacity (usually seating) and volume by at least 50% and 70% respectively. Staffing would be reduced accordingly, which would marginally reduce wage and health insurance expenses. Additional costs would now include protective gear for employees. Prices for products and services would nonetheless have to rise in order to retain profit margins. The order of magnitude for price increases upwards 50% at minimum with 200% in some cases not unrealistic.

Safety First!

The extremely long “lockdown” duration has also increased the fear and apprehension of the masses. So, a significant time lag will occur before customers or clients return. Worst of all, the decor and ambience of all business establishments will be marred by “social distancing” requirements and by the protective gear worn by the employees. Customers owns clients will also be donning protective gear, which further diminishes the enjoyment of the experience. High prices in a ubiquitous hospital-like setting is a death knell. Expect customers and clients to turn exclusively to on-line transactions and services. Products, including food, will most to the delivery model. The “lockdown” has already conditioned the masses to “stay at home,” and that’s what they will do.

Then, there is the issue of whether the “new normal” and “new economy” measures will fly (no pun intended) with tourists? Believing that visitors would flock to Hawai’i and enjoy being greeted everywhere by people who look like hospital ER staff strains credulity. Then, having to wear face masks all the time when they are here ... is that the promise of “paradise”?