Operations

Operating a restaurant involves a lot of moving parts – most controlled by you, but many controlled by laws, regulations, licenses and permits. Alcoholic beverages, food safety, labor practices and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (the healthcare mandate) are significant – and then there is everything else.

Get to know the regulatory agencies that govern such things as sidewalk cafes, signage, noise, fire safety and more. And, get to know about the efforts being made by RAMW on your behalf to improve the regulatory environment.

Coordinated Message & Mobilization

April 2, 2020

Today we need your input as we continue our local and national advocacy efforts for relief for our industry. We know the relief outlined in the CARES Act does not go far enough to support restaurants, and that implementation is flawed when applied to our unique industry. It is important to note that while drafting Phase III (CARES Act), Congress always knew there would be a Phase IV of relief, so some relief measures and issues were punted to Phase IV. They also neglected to consider how long a business may be disrupted to reflect timelines and look backs that are relevant as it aims to...

Regional Updates 4/1

April 1, 2020

As we come to the end of the day, we want to share updates from around the region in the form of relief and clarity. But first, we want to acknowledge that we are fully aware that there are some serious flaws in the relief programs outlined by the CARES Act. We are working daily with state partners around the country and our national partners to collect those concerns and create a coordinated ask as we go into phase IV of relief. Our intention is to ensure issues are addressed, corrected and reflected as this package is being refined. In the meantime, we want to offer guidance based on...

ServSafe Offers Free Courses & Videos On Safe Practices for Takeout & Delivery

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...

Restaurant Employee Relief Fund Growing, Application Process Starts April 2

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, utilities, childcare...

SBA, EIDL and CARES Act Clarifications

March 31, 2020

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.

Restaurant Gift Cards Present Opportunity to Help Sales

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...

Tools For You: Essential Worker Letter, Relief Checklist & More

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 with your...

City of Alexandria Parking + US Chamber Small Business Information COVID-19 Update

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 blocks with pay...

Operator & Employee Relief

March 30, 2020

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.

National Relief

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 discuss the CARES Act. If you...