How does L. restaurant serve brunch with coronavirus rules

Published

5 years ago

June 9, 2020

How does L. restaurant serve brunch with coronavirus rules

The “landing zone” might sound more like home at an Air Force base, but at the Faith & Flower restaurant in downtown L.A., there are now 17 of them.

On Saturday morning, about 90 minutes before the restaurant planned to reopen the door for the first time since closing in mid-March, the owner Stephane Bombet and his staff were busy setting up a special zone by adding an additional table for each table of two people. and placed an ornamental wagon next to each of the larger outlets.

After weeks of trying to find ways to maintain physical distance and minimize interaction between staff and customers in the post-coronavirus-shutdown world, Bombet created what he called the landing zone. Depending on your table, the landing zone is an additional table placed at the end of your seating area or a detachable carriage, where the server drops your table, drinks, food and check settings. You are instructed to pick up items after the server exits and carefully set your own table and pour water. When you want something cleaned, you put it back in the landing zone for removal.

“This will be difficult,” Bombet said. “You are not allowed to present goods on the table and point the cursor to the customer. The landing zone is our idea to make it safer and easier. “

In the morning, Conor Susi walked through the dining room and dropped a folded piece of paper on each table. Inside is information about the landing zone, how to use it and other safety precautions including requests to order your drinks, food, and dessert all at the start of a meal.

General Manager Anthony Dougherty checks the reservation system, which shows a total of 35 closures for brunch; usually a 7,000 square foot restaurant will have 320 closures. Instead of the half-empty dining room, Bombet chose to keep the layout of most tables intact but only sat half the tables at once, both inside and on the terrace, to maintain social distance.

“We have been working six hours a day for the past week training the team,” Bombet said from behind a black mask. He downloaded 12-page protocol Los Angeles Department of Public Health to reopen and have restructured almost every aspect of his New American restaurant that was driven by a small plate.

Seating capacity is 60% and maintaining a social distance of six feet is a total lie.

Stephane Bombet, owner of Faith & Flower restaurant

If Bombet places six feet between each seat, he calculates that he can only use 60 (38%) of 164 available seats. That also means only three at the bar, which usually sits 17.

“This system is not intended to make money,” he said. “Our break-even is $ 10,000. Today, all day long, we might make $ 5,000. “

Dinner guests are placed at Faith & Flower in downtown Los Angeles.

Bombet pays more than $ 30,000 a month to rent, plus more than $ 200,000 in salary. He hopes the federal Paycheck Protection Program, which was introduced in April to help small businesses struggling during coronavirus mandated deaths, will help offset some of its greater costs and allow it to at least break even.

About 45 minutes before the service, chef Michael Hung walked around the kitchen wearing a P95 mask and goggles, spraying the surface with a cleaner. Red dots are stuck on the floor to show the cooks their station parameters.

Behind Hung, chef Ricardo Acevedo used an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of other employees and recorded it on a piece of paper. Hung walked into the dining room and sprayed all the door handles.

“I usually sleep now,” he said. Then he began to cut the disposable paper menu for service.

In preparation for reopening, Hung reduced the menu to 36 dishes per third and lean production to accommodate fewer people in the kitchen. He removes all raw bars and tartare dishes and discards microgreens and flower decorations. With only one dishwasher, Hung adjusts the recipe so that more items can be cooked in one pan or pan.

Chef Michael Hung discusses the menu with the staff at Faith & Flower.

“I am excited to reopen the dining room but at the same time, I am also worried about protecting my health because I have diabetes, and also protecting the health of my staff,” Hung said. “We can play with the food we want the next two to three weeks, but we have to make sure we are here in two or three weeks.”

Twenty-seven minutes before service, Bombet called the front of the house staff to the bar area for a pre-shift meeting.

A long table in the center of the room, where groups of customers who used to stand shoulder to shoulder drinking milk for $ 16, was full of copies of the health department’s protocols and some face shields. Every employee, all wearing a mask, grabbed a pamphlet.

“You will see a lot of changes, so I don’t want you to be quick,” Bombet told the small group in front of him. Aside from the manager and supervisor, he only had one busser, one runner, and two people who worked at the bar. “We have to learn a lot of things. We will do it right and take our time. “

“Each station has hand sanitizers, paper towels and gloves,” Hung said. “You have to change gloves between every table you serve, wash your hands and clean. We run a timer so that every hour we stop, clean, wash our hands, then change gloves. “

Bombet estimates that he spent an additional $ 10,000 on cleaning and personal protective equipment such as gloves, face shields and masks, to reopen the dining room.

When the meeting is over, each employee takes a face shield.

At 10:29 a.m., the first table arrived. It was a group of four friends including Vartan Abgaryan, chef at Yours Truly in Venice. Abgaryan, whose restaurant dining room remains closed, said he entered because he was curious about how Bombet operated.

About 10 minutes later, the second guest arrived. The constant dripping from guests continued until a dozen people were in the dining room, placed on four tables.

“I’m very happy to be back,” said Virginia Elwood-Akers, 81, who ate alone at one of the booths near the window. After reading the landing zone instructions on his desk, he put a piece of paper in his wallet. “I took it to show people so they wouldn’t be afraid to go out and eat,” he said.

Alejandra Lizarzaburu, 26, Stephanie Krakower, 24, and Dianna Barba, 27, had dinner at Faith & Flower.

One table ended, co-workers Alejandra Lizarzaburu, 26, Stephanie Krakower, 24, and Dianna Barba, 27, sat down for lunch. They raised cocktails to toast until the end of the week.

Krakower said he liked the idea of a landing zone and the appearance of bar carts, with shiny black surfaces and elegant gold decoration.

“It’s cool and creative that this restaurant has found a way to do it in a place that is still funny and fits the atmosphere,” he said.

During the day, a husband and wife without a reservation approach the door and ask for a table. Because the health department protocol recommends ordering for visitors in advance, Bombet applies a special reservation model using OpenTable. When the walk-in arrives, he explains the situation and tells them that they can use the application to make reservations on the spot if there is one available. Some shook their heads and went to look for lunch elsewhere.

“It’s very difficult to say no to customers, but by reopening, we are committed to doing it this way,” said Bombet. “How often do you say no to customers who come to your restaurant? And the restaurant is empty? “

At 12:22 p.m., the reservation called to say they were worried they would be trapped in a protest in the city center and no longer come.

A sign that restaurants only order at Faith & Flower in Downtown Los Angeles.

Customers are required to enter credit card information when they make a reservation, but Bombet says he will not charge anyone who does not show up or cancel.

“There are already so many layers of heavy rules,” he said. “If they are cold last minute, we won’t burden them.”

Shortly after, another couple without a reservation arrived. Bombet shows them how to use OpenTable to order a table that just opened, then seat them for brunch. He can order two more reservations on the spot and a few more to fill online before the end of the service.

After a total of 58 closures, the skeleton staff closed at 2:30 pm. to clean, clean and try new normal again for dinner at 5 pm.

“How long will this last?” Bombet said. “I hope for a month or two. We will only open and hope for the best.”

Goodwin Townsend

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

All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

Published

5 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

5 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

6 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.