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April 1, 2020
Original content c/o: National Restaurant Association
If you need to close down operations until the coronavirus runs its course, do it safely so you’re ready to open for business when that happy day arrives.
As of April 1, some 270 million people — three fourths of the entire U.S. population — are living their lives under some form of COVID-19 stay-at-home order. That means, among other things, that dining in restaurants has been put on hold.
With millions of people living under some kind of COVID-19 stay-at-home order now, many restaurants are facing the...
March 31, 2020
Dear Operator,
As we close out another busy day, we want to address some questions we have received from all of you and share helpful new guidance on the Federal relief front.
Applying for loans through SBA
We have received NEW GUIDANCE today from the Small Business Administration that you ARE able to apply for both a PPP loan and an EIDL, however they cannot be used for the same purpose. For example, you cannot use an EIDL loan to cover payroll during the same time period your PPP loan covers payroll. The different loan applications should identify...
March 31, 2020
Original content c/o: Streetsense
Both independent restaurants and large corporate chains are facing their own unique challenges in order to emerge from COVID-19 in a strong position. A lot of that depends upon the owners’ future access to capital, as well as the flexibility of their vendors, landlords, and equipment leasing firms. At this point, with so much out of our control, here are a few points that we do have the ability to control:
Access to Capital – Create a Plan on How You Will Come Back Financially
How much capital will you need, and where will it come from? Think...
March 31, 2020
Yesterday was a day of announcements, and while in practice it doesn’t actually change much from the previous guidance, it can be a lot to wrap your head around. As always we want to make sure we are providing you with new and helpful information to assist in your business operations, but also to outline opportunities for relief and how to navigate federal support.
Essential Letters for Restaurant Workers
As a reminder, across the region restaurants offering takeout and delivery are deemed essential as they act as important sources of food. Click here for letters you can share...
March 31, 2020
Original content c/o: National Restaurant Association
Starting Thursday, April 2, restaurant employees can apply to receive a check for $500 from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Restaurant Employee Relief Fund.
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation has launched the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund to support U.S. restaurant employees financially impacted by the coronavirus crisis.
Beginning April 2, restaurant employees can apply online to receive a one-time, $500 check to use toward bills, including housing, transportation,...
March 30, 2020
Dear Operator,
As you likely know already, there were several announcements made today by leaders within the region. The impact to restaurant operations is very minimal, but we want to help clarify and give you tools to support your operations and employees.
We also want to address real-time questions that we are hearing from you, Operators, region-wide.
Real-Time Questions From the Day:
Hiring Employees Back - Earlier today we sent an email about a mechanism for operators to receive some funding via the RAMW Worker Relief Fund to be able to hire back...
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
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
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
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 #...
