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March 30, 2020
This morning, Governor Larry Hogan issued an official “Stay-at-Home-Order” that goes into effect at 8pm tonight. Restaurants are exempt from this order as long as you are doing takeout and/or delivery. Travel to and from exempted or essential businesses is allowed. This means if you live in Maryland, but work in a restaurant in DC or VA, you are allowed to go to work. Click here for the full order. The 26 previously signed Executive Orders also remain in effect.
A person who knowingly and willfully violates this Order is guilty of a misdemeanor and...
March 30, 2020
This afternoon, Governor Ralph Northam announced that Virginia issued an official “Stay-at-Home Order” that goes into effect immediately. Restaurants continue to be allowed to be open for take out and delivery as they are deemed essential. Virginia will continue to enforce the 10 or less rule, and those in violation could be subject to a class one misdemeanor. Non-essential retail may stay open as well, as long as businesses continue to observe social distancing.
Click here for the full Order.
March 30, 2020
Dear Operators,
As we start this new week, we know many of you are still navigating your temporary business models and continuing to seek guidance and support during these uncertain times. Many in our industry have proactively launched efforts to support their employees, but we understand it is difficult to decide what the right route for you may be. We wanted to share with you some forthcoming employee relief options.
First, know that RAMW is developing a model in partnership with our friends at Hook Hall Helps to modestly support our operators to position restaurants who...
March 30, 2020
City Suspends Enforcement of Residential Parking Zones, Weekend Meters, Inspection Stickers
To assist vehicle owners who are now working from home, caring for others, or trying to ensure the flow of goods and services, the City has suspended enforcement of the following parking restrictions until further notice:
Time restrictions for the general public in residential parking permit zones. (Signs in these zones include the language "residential permit exempt.")
Weekend time restrictions and meter fees on blocks with pay stations. (Time restrictions and meter fees on...
March 27, 2020
As we all head into the weekend we want to share important information with you about opportunities for relief on the local and national level.
National Relief
As you know, Congress passed the CARES Act and it was signed into law by the President today. The CARES Act offers support for employers and employees during this incredibly tumultuous time, and while there are still some unknowns regarding implementation, timing and overall access, we want to share what we do know as of today.
Our partners at the National Restaurant Association hosted a webinar today to...
March 27, 2020
With the closure of restaurant dining rooms, many Virginia restaurants have switched to takeout and delivery, allowing you to enjoy some of Virginia’s finest fare while also following Governor Northam’s mandates for the COVID-19 state of emergency.
If you are able to participate, you can support Virginia’s restaurants by ordering takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup from your favorite local dining establishments during Virginia is for Restaurant Lovers Takeout Week, happening March 30th-April 5th. Afterwards, share your takeout stories with us on social media with #...
March 27, 2020
NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION AND INDUSTRY ICON GUY FIERI LAUNCH RESTAURANT EMPLOYEE RELIEF FUND RAISING MILLIONS TO SEND CASH GRANTS TO RESTAURANT WORKERS FACING ECONOMIC HARDSHIP
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) announced today the creation of a Restaurant Employee Relief Fund(RERF) to support U.S. restaurant workers financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, and that industry icon Guy Fieri will lead a nationwide fundraising drive for the Fund via a Restaurant Relief America campaign. Fieri is the...
March 27, 2020
Dear RAMW Community, Sponsors, Partners, and Friends,
RAMW was scheduled to announce the 2020 RAMMY Award Finalists this Monday, March 30th to the industry, public, and media. Knowing that we would not be hosting an in-person event on Monday, we explored virtual announcement platforms for Monday to utilize for the announcement to maximize visibility for the finalists, sponsors, and industry. As all of you - operators and business community partners - are dealing with what is right in front of you, we have decided to reschedule the announcement of the finalists until Monday, May 4...
March 26, 2020
We shared a great deal of information earlier today, understanding there is a lot to digest. We are working with partners to get all relevant information to you in a digestible way through various platforms.
What we do know is this: The bill has a lot of relief that will benefit our industry, specifically to include the kind of independent operators in our unique market. We also know that what you care the most about are relief for your employees, relief measures for YOU, and resources that can best guide you through how to get the relief outlined in the...
March 26, 2020
On March 25, 2020, the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board adopted an emergency rulemaking that extends beer, wine, and spirits carry-out and delivery privileges to ABC-licensed hotels, multipurpose facilities, private clubs, and food retailers with commercial street footage at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. All alcohol sales must be accompanied by at least one (1) prepared food item.
Accordingly, licensees are required by law to register with the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA). Registration takes less than five (5) minutes to...
March 26, 2020
Original content c/o: National Restaurant Association
The goal is to help operators and their employees practice safe food handling and delivery during the coronavirus pandemic.
For 30 years, ServSafe has been at the forefront of preparing restaurant and foodservice employees to deliver safe dining experiences for their guests while also keeping themselves safe. This mission is as important as ever during the service disruptions caused by the coronavirus.
ServSafe is offering free resources to restaurateurs focusing on takeout and delivery during the coronavirus crisis. The goal is to...
March 26, 2020
Late last night, the Senate unanimously passed a $2 trillion Coronavirus rescue package. The legislation is meant to blunt the economic impact of the Coronavirus on the local and national economy. The House will likely vote Friday morning. The package includes :
$349 billion program for the SBA to offer unique loans to small businesses
Tax benefits in the form of net operating loss
Qualified Improvement Property
Creates a Paycheck Protection Program
Employee Retention Tax Credit
Community Development Block Grants
Delay of payment...
March 25, 2020
Original content c/o: National Restaurant Association
Gift-card sales are a much-needed revenue source during the pandemic disruption. Cards appeal to homebound customers and play a big part in community outreach efforts.
As coronavirus disrupts the US, restaurant owners and operators are looking for alternative ways to create much-needed revenue for their businesses.
One way is promoting the purchase of online and digital gift cards, especially with everyone social distancing.
Rocklands Farm Winery in Poolesville, MD, is using its gift card program to create an extra source of revenue...
March 25, 2020
Dear Operator,
We wanted to share some helpful end of day updates as well as resources and opportunities for education, support and relief. As you have any questions please email coronavirus@ramw.org and we will get back to you with a timely response.
Complimentary ServSafe Training
As the industry faces ongoing challenges with COVID-19, the National Restaurant Association remains dedicated to helping everyone stay safe. ServSafe has been at the forefront of preparing restaurant and foodservice workers to deliver safe dining experiences for their guests, while also...
March 25, 2020
Original content c/o: National Restaurant Association
Survey of more than 4,000 operators offers details on how outbreak is hurting sales, operations.
As the coronavirus epidemic rages on, 3% of restaurant operators have already permanently closed their restaurants, 44% have temporarily closed their restaurants, and 11% say they anticipate they will permanently close within the next 30 days, according to new research from the National Restaurant Association.
A new Association survey of 4,000 operators found that 44% have temporarily closed their restaurants, and 11% say they anticipate...
March 25, 2020
Dear DC Small Business Owner or Nonprofit Leader,
As you know, the Small Business Recovery Microgrant Program launched on March 24, however there were many issues with eligibility criteria, which we shared with DPMED directly. The application has been updated to capture estimated future earnings and calculate economic injury starting from March 11, the date Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a public health emergency, as opposed to aligning with the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster period beginning January 31.
The application portal has reopened, and we invite you or...
March 25, 2020
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) recently announced service changes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Effective as of, Wednesday, March 25, WMATA will be fully closing 17 stations and partially closing others to ensure adequate staffing, bringing the total to 19. All service changes made by WMATA are indefinite until otherwise announced. WMATA strongly encourages only essential travel on Metro. WMATA has waived all fares for bus travel and strongly encourages only those with essential travel to use the buses.
Station Closures:...
March 25, 2020
ALEXANDRIA - Governor's Order Now in Effect
Governor Northam's executive order to promote social distancing took effect at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24. The order bans all gatherings of more than 10 people, closes non-essential recreation and entertainment businesses; permits food service establishments and farmers' markets to remain open only for takeout and delivery; permits essential retail businesses to remain open only with social distancing and enhanced sanitizing practices; limits non-essential retail businesses to no more than 10 patrons per...
March 25, 2020
DC-Area Restaurants & Bars Temporarily Suspending Business Operations Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Anchovy Social
All Souls
Amuse (Hotel Le Meridien Arlington)
Anafre
A Rake’s Progress
Bad Saint
Bar Deco
Barley Mac
Belga Cafe
Ben’s Chili Bowl (Rosslyn | H Street | Nats Stadium | FedEx Field | Ben’s Next Door | Ben’s Upstairs)
The Betsy
Beuchert’s Saloon (takeout/delivery TBD)
Bindaas (Cleveland Park & Foggy Bottom)
The Bistro
The Bombay Club
Boqueria (Penn Quarter & Dupont)
BOURBON STEAK
Brasserie Beck
Brew’d
The Brixton...
March 25, 2020
We have a lot to share so please read this email in its entirety.
Thank you for being patient as we guide you through this most difficult and unexpected journey. We are all learning as we go each day and our commitment is to get you through this period with resourceful information. Here are updates for your Wednesday as well as resources you can use for your employees as needed.
Congressional Federal Relief Legislation, Phase 3
A bipartisan agreement was reached late last night on a recovery bill, with votes expected in the Senate (...
March 25, 2020
ServSafe is offering their Food Handler course online for free for the next 30 days begining Wednesday, March 25. Additionally, they are offering new COVID-19 Take Out & Delivery courses at no cost.
For 30 years, ServSafe has been at the forefront of preparing restaurant and foodservice workers to deliver safe dining experiences for their guests, while also keeping themselves safe. Every day, we train the restaurant and food service industry on topics like cooking temperatures, safe storage, and cross contamination, as well as hygiene, sanitation, and other risk mitigation...
March 24, 2020
Restaurant workers are considered essential employees that can be asked to come to work even when there are federal, state, or local, shelter-in-place Orders. Still, more and more states and localities are restraining travel, particularly during certain hours of the day, while restaurant workers need to arrive earlier than the time restrictions to make bread, brew coffee, etc., and stay past curfew to clean, disinfect, and close the premises. Meanwhile, some restaurant workers are running into issues with law enforcement restricting workers movement to and from work.
The...
March 24, 2020
Effective 10:00pm Wednesday, March 25, 2020
On Tuesday, March 24, 2020, Mayor Bowser announced as part of the District's effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 that she will issue a Mayor’s order based on the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), mandating the closure of nonessential businesses such as salons, barbershops, tattoo parlors, retail clothing stores and "services not devoted to assisting essential business operations" similar to orders issued Monday in neighboring Maryland and Virginia. A copy of the Mayor’s Order is included below....
March 24, 2020
DC Operators,
The process to apply for DC Small Business Microgrants went live at 2pm today.
Many of you, we understand, are trying to apply today and have questions or are experiencing glitches and need clarification. We are aware and hearing from hundreds of you. There are glitches any time a new program is launched and we are here with you to get answers and clarity.
To streamline this effort and to best help all of you, we are gathering all concerns, questions, and glitches in one place and will send all of your concerns and issues to the Deputy Mayor's Office (DMPED) this...
March 24, 2020
Dear Operators,
We hope you are all staying strong. Here are updates for Tuesday, March 24, 2020.
Restaurant Rescue Campaign
First, as we aim to tell your story and show the impact of COVID-19 on the food service industry, we will join a social media campaign tomorrow called #RESTAURANTRESCUEPLAN.
We will document on social media the number of employees who work at restaurants, bars and clubs in the region that have been laid off or furloughed to powerfully present to our government leaders and the public the devastation COVID-19 has had on our industry and why we need a #...
