Coronavirus Stories: NorCal cities are sagging due to economic collapse

Published

5 years ago

June 2, 2020

Coronavirus Stories: NorCal cities are sagging due to economic collapse

In the old mining cities that helped the birth of this country, bonanza can be counted every summer in recent years – not in ore extraction, but in tourism, festivals, and destination weddings.

Now businesses hope only to survive in the summer, even when the corona virus itself has left the region unscathed.

Residents in many rocky northern states, from the coast of Del Norte to here in the foothills of the Sierra, have largely watched this pandemic spread from afar, as if it were another nightmare in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Some feel trapped in the blind spot of public debate, lost between the horrific reality of the worst scourge and the noisy extremists who call it a hoax.

Their remoteness has not made them avoid the collapse of the closing economy. And the rare case of COVID-19 in Nevada County only makes restrictive steps make their livelihood even more pathetic.

Nevada County has a total of 41 cases, and one death – but no new cases have been reported since April 28. In addition, there were only 12 cases on the west side of the county, which included Nevada City and Grass Valley. The remaining 29 are in the east, around Truckee, separated by 40 miles of wilderness.

But the people here are torn restaurant owners, camp owners, hotel managers, gym operators, tattoo artists and wedding photographers. They know that if California is open, a virus will come to their community. If not, financial collapse will occur.

“We generate 70% of our revenue in three months,” said Dan Thiem, who owns Inn Town Campground in Nevada City with his wife, Erin. “And we can’t do that now.”

Many of their campers come every year and rent their places for months to come.

The state gives no indication when businesses like them will be allowed to open. Nor does it have a county. The couple submitted a proposal to the health department to open responsibly but have not heard from.

“This is a major failure in leadership on all fronts,” Thiem said. “The plan to deal with coronavirus is very disjointed, it perpetuates it and makes it worse for everyone.”

He felt that until countries such as Modoc, Yuba and Sutter began defying state orders in the past few weeks, the country’s leaders ignored more rural areas where jobs could not simply be turned online.

“The request is different for different people,” Thiem said. “I feel policymakers are Bay Area-centric, where they say, ‘Just go to work from home.’ You know that most of our economy here cannot be done from home. So, ‘Go to work from home because you are safer’ is different from saying, ‘You need to shut down and bankrupt your business.’ “

He and his wife spent most of their days processing the cancellation even for months they were finally open.

“They are making other plans now for other parts of the country,” Erin Thiem said. “People need something to look forward to.”

Elizabeth Poston, owner of Living Outdoors Lancscapes, watering plants on Main St. in Grass Valley.

In a corner of the downtown store, Lior Rahmanian found it difficult to find an exit for One 11 Kitchen & Bar. Like many people, he was ready when the coronavirus struck, in debt from renovations.

He first rented the ground floor of the 150-year-old building in November 2018. The place was once a prison, and the stone walls were one and a half feet high. Three restaurants have been operating there for years, with a small kitchen that needs renovation.

When he moved, the floor was black with oil, with leaks and rot in the wood. There are 11 unresolved violations from the health department, he said.
The three-month renovation turned into a seven-month ordeal, and he finally opened last June, with deep debt.

“We started running. The first night we opened, I believe it was Art First Friday. We have a complete restaurant in 15 minutes after opening the door. “

But in September and October, strong winds pushed Pacific Gas & Electric to turn off electricity several times in the region. Rahmanian had to close for eight days, losing more than $ 2,000 a day, while more than $ 10,000 of food disappeared.

“Everything is fresh; we don’t have frozen food here, “he said.

Then coronavirus appeared. He has to close eating at home. He laid off 16 of his employees and remained open to do roadside takeouts from noon to 8 pm, mostly self-employed. He could barely pay his bills – $ 4,200 rent, his PG&E bill, repayment to employees, supplier invoices, installments on renovation loans.

Lior Rahmanian, Chef / Owner of One 11 Kitchen & Bar in Nevada City

Lior Rahmanian in his business which is still doing curbside pick up.

“One of my product companies, they froze my account because I couldn’t pay my bills. So I’ve paid them $ 100 here, $ 200 here, “he said.

On May 18, the county allowed restaurants to open, under pressure from a group of business owners. Rahmanian needed only a week to find four employees who were willing at the time the federal allowance paid them $ 600 per week above state unemployment.

“Most people in the restaurant industry make more money now sitting at home rather than working,” he said. “I can’t afford to pay employees $ 4,000 a month.”

A neighboring business owner puts the following difficulties with them: “The government buys our employees; now we need to buy it back. “

Rahmanian reopened for visitors May 24, asking customers to order at the counter and sit on the outside terrace. He can serve a maximum of about 20 people at a time, compared to nearly 80 before.

He did not blame the government for maintaining distance or closure. He understands health emergencies and notes that the Nevada Territory has a large population of elderly people. He understands that people are afraid.

But he has to close and file for bankruptcy without any help, whether it is the owner who cuts the rent or the government offers help that is not just loans that he has to dig up later.

“Half the rent is the most I can pay until everything returns to normal,” he said. “And normal doesn’t mean the state or the governor or county tells me that I can open full power; that means when guests feel safe enough to fill this restaurant. Many people a year from now will still stay away from the big crowd and the restaurant is full.”

Joy Porter, a commercial photographer and chairman of the local chamber of commerce, helped organize the business to lobby the area to be open.

“I get a lot of calls from people who want to know why we don’t follow Sutter and Yuba districts,” Porter said.

Neighboring countries in the west – far more conservative and agricultural than Nevada County – announced that they are opening businesses, including restaurants, before the state gives them the go-ahead. They have the same number of cumulative COVID-19 cases as Nevada County but do not taper to zero.

Porter is still struggling to push the county further open, against another wave of people screaming to stay as tightly closed as possible.

Pamela Magill, 55, experienced a problem when she posted on Facebook that people who don’t feel symptoms should not go to the new coronavirus testing center.

“If we get 10 cases, they will kill us again,” he said.

His efforts, the Gold Country Gymnastics in Grass Valley, have been closed since March, but he let the children in the team train there in small groups.

“The old man said,” Thank you for doing this. Our children drive us crazy. They need to exercise, ” he said.

He said the most he had at one time was 15 young gymnasts, and keeping the six foot distance was easy at a 15,000 square foot facility, where he paid $ 10,000 a month.

Pamela Magill, owner of Gold Country Gymnastics in Nevada City

But another contingent of parents was worried and told the health department that Magill had broken the rules.

The police came two days after the 9 May Facebook post. “Basically, the police officer said, ‘Can you stay under the radar?'” He said.

He did not want to do that. He said parents and children who felt they could exercise safely in the gym were entitled.

“Everyone knows it’s not a hoax. It’s definitely a real virus. There’s no doubt that it’s scary and dangerous and people are dying of it,” he said. But with no new cases in Nevada County since April, “there is absolutely no reason for our district to be locked. “

Wedding photographer Andrew Mishler and his wife Melanie, at their home in Penn Valley

Farther down the hill in Penn Valley, Melanie and Andrew Mishler, who run a wedding photography business, initially disagreed about viruses.

“I think that’s a bull —; he’s not,” said Melanie, 44.

Her husband, 45, thought the closure should have been more drastic in the beginning.

“If everyone in the United States and other parts of the world would take this seriously in the first two or three weeks and limit movement, wearing masks, doing what professionals, scientists and doctors said, it wouldn’t be like that. Catastrophic, “Said Andrew.

Now this is a “big disaster,” he agrees with Melanie that they must learn to survive with the virus. And to survive economically.

Nevada County is a destination wedding location for people from all states and countries.

“We call it the new Napa,” Melanie said. “Everything, from warehouse weddings to vineyards to lakes – all kinds of places here.”

A decade ago, ordinary people brought their vendors from outside the region. “It’s still bumpy,” he said. “Now we have a group of very strict vendors that are truly leading. What’s the standard? ”

It all seemed to unravel before their eyes. They have lost more than $ 100,000 from rescheduling the pair for next year. They are afraid that this year will be lost.

“How do you hold a wedding with 150 people and social distance?” Melanie asked.

They are pinned through sadness, anxiety, anger, regret.

“One day I was angry at people for not maintaining social distance,” Andrew said. “The next day, that was the governor; the next day, this was China, because I heard they knew about it two months before. Then I was angry at ourselves.”

At their camp in Nevada City, the Thiems paced under ponderosa pine trees and incense, where 70 of their sites were empty.

Normally, Dan said, “it’s full every weekend from Remembrance Day to Labor Day.”

They crossed the fence and marked an old cemetery for Chinese workers who helped the city flourish. The camp is located on a vein called Mohawk, where hundreds of tons of gold ore were extracted during the 1800s. The boom period ends with the mine closed and the shop closed.

By 1920, the population was less than half in 1880.

The couple worried that the latest era of prosperity will end too.

“What will happen on the other side of this?” Dan asked. “If half of the city center does not survive, what kind of community will we have?”

Goodwin Townsend

General internet buff. Hardcore music maven. Typical foodaholic. Friendly student.

All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

Published

2 months ago

October 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.

Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

Published

3 months ago

September 26, 2024

Herb Adkins

When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

3 months ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.