L. ice cream seller adapts to life in the world of COVID-19

Published

4 years ago

July 2, 2020

L. ice cream seller adapts to life in the world of COVID-19

For the past 16 years, Mauro Rios Parra has driven his bicycle to a warehouse on Washington Boulevard to start his day as paletero. And every day for 16 years, he filled the same stroller with more than 300 ice cream and fruit bars, or paletas: coconut, tamarindo, pineapple, hibiscus, coffee, lemon, sapote mamey, nance and personal favorites, vanilla and strawberry.

Then there are ice cream cups and sandwiches, Choco Tacos, Tweedy and Spider-Man, and the Ninja Turtle bar with stupid eyes.

Under the recent cloudy morning sky, Rios, 63, holds the door of Barahona Ice Cream in Pico-Union wide open. Into the warehouse workers moved a giant blue chest filled with dry ice and dozens of frozen boxed foods.

Pico-Union is his home and region. Located a few miles west of downtown, this is one of the poorest and most populous neighborhoods in Los Angeles, with around 45,000 people squeezed into 1.67 square miles.

Considering physical distance is one of the best protections against the corona virus, it is also one of the hardest hit by a highly contagious disease.

Rios set up his ice cream cart at Barahona Ice Cream in Pico Union.

LA. is a city of street vendors. Hot dogs wrapped in meat, mulitas, freshly sliced fruit, raspado and boiled corn are just a few of the delicious delicacies they sell. But valuable and ubiquitous, street vendors like Rios are also one of the most vulnerable populations in the food community. They are being abused, and many live in the country illegally. COVID-19 has added other stressors to their livelihoods.

“Thank you, please help, “Manager Norma Barahona pushed the people who pushed the ice box into a simple, musty warehouse. “Please, wear your mask.” Framed photos of La Virgen de Guadalupe hung on the wall. Likewise, reminders of diseases lurk all about. “Keep your distance,” said one sign in English and Spanish.

Rios unpacked the milk crates filled with ice cream that bears his name. He reached deep into his cart and folded each sweet paleta and cold dessert in the appropriate place.

“Señor, por qué esta tan callado? Tiene miedo o qué? “Oscar Samano, a colleague paletero, asked Rios, who was focused. “Sir, why are you so quiet? Are you afraid or not?” He quipped. “How much do they pay you to keep your mouth shut?”

Oscar Samano, right, hugged Rios inside Barahona Ice Cream.

Rios is silent.

On ordinary days, he would quip back to Samano, a tall, well-built man who proudly called himself “the soul of this place” and cheerfully dubbed Rios in other parts.

“I don’t want to hear you call me ‘my love,’ later,” Samano warned Rios, who responded “mi cielo, “my heaven. They laughed.

At 11:40 a.m., Rios is ready. Wearing a black mask covering his mustache made of salt and pepper, he closed the lid of the wagon, held the handlebars firmly and pushed him down the aisle and out of the warehouse, which stood between the church and the locksmith.

Rios rang the bells of his ice cream cart during his trip to Pico Union.

West Washington Boulevard begins to wake up. A few steps down, people carry shopping bags from La Campanita Meat Market.

For the next seven hours, Rios will walk more than seven miles uphill, crossing the streets and passing empty schools satisfying the sweating teeth of the mass of L.A. The jingling of the bell marked the path.

He likes to make people smile, he said.

At present, this is a far more difficult task.

Rios came to the U.S. in 2002. He had worked at a brewery in Oaxaca, Mexico, pocketing a little money. He struggled to support his wife and three children.

Then he made a difficult decision.

Rios crossed the road at the end of his day.

“I will leave so you can have a better life,” Rios told his children before heading north to find work that would pay more. “Learn as much as possible. Forward in life. ”

He did not want them to suffer the extreme poverty he and his family had experienced in his hometown San José Chiltepec. At the age of 13 his father died, and Rios quit school to work. Every day, from sunrise to sunset, he grows chili, corn, beans, rice, and more.

“My life is nothing but a work since then,” he said in Spanish.

His mind changed, he sold his house in Oaxaca to pay for smugglers and walked across the desert with about 70 others. His family moved with relatives.

Rios rested in the shade during his route.

Three people died of dehydration along the way. More than a week later, Rios arrived in Phoenix, went to Tampa, Florida, and found benches to build work on. He shares a small house with 12 other immigrants. But one night the police stormed into their home while everyone slept.

He was locked up in a detention center for a month before being deported. Two years later, he walked across the border again and arrived in Los Angeles.

“I took the risk a second time out of necessity,” Rios said. Despite working seven days a week in Mexico, there is never enough money. “I am back [to the U.S.] for my children. “At least three times a day, he talks to his grown children and Reyna Regina Martinez Hernandez,” his love for 35 years. ”

He hasn’t seen his family in 16 years.

Rios pushed his cart to South Berendo Street which tended to residential areas, greeting those he met. “Buenas“He said cheerfully to a man passing by. Friendliness and communication are key in this field of work. If you want to sell paletas, you have to do it while smiling. Respect and time are also important.

Rios rested for a moment to drink Powerade.

His first stop was a construction site at Loyola High School on Venice Boulevard. Rios curled his stroller over the green fence, where a large machine dug the ground from the ground. He rang the bell obediently, but the sound of a hammer drowned his jingle. A few minutes later, four workers with hard hats and safety vests made their first purchase of the day.

Rios then rolled his cart half a mile to the Normandie Recreation Center. A young couple sipping coffee at the picnic table. People play basketball on the field. One man does push-ups nearby while another kicks the ball on the fence. The children chase each other in the newly opened playground. Two old ladies standing guard.

Column One

A showcase for interesting storytelling
from the Los Angeles Times.

He rang the bell. Nothing is approaching.

Becomes paletero quite difficult in normal time. But during the pandemic, with parks and schools closed and people afraid of leaving their homes, many of its customers have disappeared. “Sales have plummeted,” he said.

His income, which is usually $ 180 to $ 250, drops to $ 120 or less. But Rios is not afraid of viruses.

“Only God knows what he is doing with us and what will and will not happen to us,” he said. “All we can do is look after and protect ourselves.”

Wherever Rios went, he saw how the city had changed since the pandemic began.

Rios sells paletas to children in apartment complexes.

Bars along Pico Boulevard are equipped with plywood. The restaurant only emphasizes delivery and takeout. Church closed. The bakery and salon warn customers: “No masks, no services.” But Rios knows where to look for customers: the bustling Pico-Union apartment complex.

On Pico Boulevard and Normandie Avenue, a man ran across the street to approach Rios. “Do you have paletas de tamarindo? “He asked. Only a few days before, he felt sick, and Rios asked how he was doing. Rios reaches into the wagon and gives him paleta, free. This is an act of kindness that is often done by a man without money.

Outside a block of ordinary houses far away, Rios rang the bell and waited. Shut up

Elizabeth Sanchez, left, 5, and Mia Estrada, 6, eat ice cream in their apartment complex.

“I’m leaving! I’m leaving!” Rios warned a few minutes later. Still there are no sales. A woman riding a bicycle passed by and shouted in Spanish: “How much paletas?“He didn’t stop.

When Rios walked to the parking lot of another apartment complex, the bell immediately attracted customers. The man ordered coconuts, madam and tamarindo paletas“And one of them,” he said, pointing to a crazy drumstick. “Thank you very much“Rios jingled again.

A woman with a red apron and flip-flops walked out of her apartment and ordered a stupid Powerpuff Girl ice cream. He picked it up and shouted in Spanish to a little girl hiding behind a closed door: “See, this?”

Rios sells paletas in an apartment complex on South Normandie Avenue.

Eulalia Vargas doesn’t know what her granddaughter Mia Estrada wants, 6 years old. He ordered three sticks to be safe. A few minutes later, Vargas reappeared with Mia in hand. “He doesn’t like all this!” he tells Rios, his eyes crinkly in amusement. Ice cream sandwich is what he wanted all this time.

“Sin esto no se vende“He said, pointing to the bell. “Es muy importante.“” Without this, you do not sell. They are very important. “The bells of the two bells fell some time ago, but Rios replaced them with a pair of small keys and metal keys.

Throughout the day, young and old people chase bells. He walked for miles every day, often in the hot sun. But he loves his job. “It’s very fun and disturbing … and I’m happy to do what I do,” he said.

Mauro Rios Parra moves his cart near the construction site where workers sometimes buy paletas.

Foreigners and customers still treat them well. But it is dangerous work, he said. Twice he was robbed, and he fended off three other attempts. He learned to hide his income in various places.

And he adopted this philosophy: “Befriend such people so that they are not your enemies.”

At 3 pm, Rios had made 26 sales, most of his apartment visit. But he has more space. He checked his watch. Within 30 minutes, construction site workers will end their shift. He leads their way.

Four hours later, Rios returned to the warehouse. He emptied his stroller from desserts he didn’t sell.

He put $ 80 in his pocket, said goodbye to his colleagues, and pedaled his street bike to the road. The sky is Orange Creamsicle.

The sacrifice is beneficial. His children are learning as much as possible. One of them is a doctor; both are lawyers. In two years, Rios plans to return to Oaxaca. This time, he hopes to stay. He wants to have a garden and a chicken coop. He wants to open his own business, selling roast pork, Cuban style.

He will not be paletero again. But he will be with his family.

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.