Wildfires are spreading across California, Washington and Oregon at an astonishing rate, leaving thousands of scorched homes and businesses in their wake.

Flying embers from wildfires can ignite and destroy homes up to one mile away. If you are not under immediate threat from a wildfire, there are steps you can take to make your home more resistant to fires.

If you live within one of Californias Responsibility Areas, the state requires you to keep a defensible space around your property that is clear of brush or vegetation.

Having defensible space does make a big difference, said Brian Centoni, the public information officer for the Fire Department in Alameda County, where the S.C.U. Lightning Complex was 95 percent contained as of Thursday afternoon.

However, you must leave your home if authorities order you to evacuate. Mr. Centoni said that when evacuation orders for the S.C.U. Lightning Complex were issued in mid-August it meant to leave home as soon as possible in order to save lives.

Home hardening, a term used to describe the process of modifying a home to make it more fire-resistant, can help protect firefighters too. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends plugging a garden hose into a water line so fire departments can have access to it. You should identify and maintain water sources like hydrants, ponds and pools and make sure they are accessible. You can also ensure that your driveway is clear for emergency vehicles and make sure your address signs are clearly visible from the road.

California has some of the strictest building codes in the nation and new homes are required to be constructed with certain fire-resistant materials. Some have taken to building homes entirely out of flameproof materials.

FEMA recommends regularly clearing your roof and gutters of dry leaves and other debris. To prevent embers from flying in, enclose or box in eaves, soffits, decks and other openings in the homes structure; fine wire mesh can be used to cover vents, crawl spaces and the area underneath porches and decks. A defensible space around the perimeter of the house should be well-irrigated and free of brush, vegetation and other materials that could fuel a fire. Adding fuel breaks such as gravel walkways or driveways can also help.

[Sign up for California Today, our daily newsletter from the Golden State.]

If you are unable to make major changes to your house or landscaping, Carrie Bilbao, a spokeswoman for the National Interagency Fire Center, recommends conducting a quick assessment of your property and making small but critical changes such as removing flammable items couch cushions and brooms that are stored outside.

One thing that people do need to remember is that its not just an individual effort but a community effort, Ms. Bilbao said. You can do all you can for your own home but if your next-door neighbor doesnt, the potential for fire to come and impact you is greater.

See the original post:
How to Help Prepare Your Home Against the Threat of Wildfires - The New York Times

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center has topped out in theWorld Trade Center complex as steel assembly continues.The 138-foot-tall Financial District structure is designed by REXwith Davis Brody Bond Architects as the executive architect and developed by thePort Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Recent photos from Three World Trade Center and atop Greenwich Street reveal the scope of the performing arts centers frame. The V-shaped diagonal members and cubic outline is clearly visible.

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Progress on the main entrance is also moving along steadily. The grand staircase has not been fully assembled yet, but the steel members that support the bottom of the steps are partially in place. To the east is a sloped triangular surface topped with sheet metal, most likely awaiting the placement of steel and concrete. The final marble cladding will then be installed directly above, as well as on the rest of the buildings exterior walls.

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

An elevator hoist is beginning to climb up toward the parapet on the eastern side facing Greenwich Street.

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The platform atop the perimeter of thick diagonal trusses above the ground floor is being used as a staging area for arriving steel and equipment. This square surface will eventually make way for 99-, 250-, and 499-seat theaters, along with a rehearsal room that can be transformed into a fourth venue space.

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Upon closer inspection, multiple groups of construction crews can be seen performing welding work in makeshift boxes lined with black plastic sheets. They are focused around the steel belt that circles near the midpoint of the building.

Crews welding together the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Crews welding together the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Crews welding together the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Overall, the facility has a respectful and non-overbearing presence in terms of size, height, and scale. It rises nicely above the Swamp Oak trees of the 9/11 Memorial and two reflecting pools.

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center and the adjacent 9/11 Memorial. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Looking west on Fulton Street toward the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

Work is also proceeding simultaneously on the pedestrian plaza and entrance on the eastern elevation of One World Trade Center. It looks like a number of sunken garden beds are being created for trees that would line the walkways on this side of the 1,776-foot supertall.

The future eastern plaza between One World Trade Center and the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The future eastern plaza between One World Trade Center and the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Photo by Michael Young

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center. Rendering by REX Architecture and Davis Brody Bond Architects.

The Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center is anticipated to be completed in time for the 20th anniversary of 9/11.

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Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center Tops Out in the Financial District - New York YIMBY

As many greenhouse vegetable crops start to wind down, it is critical to conduct a thorough clean out between crops. Not only can this reduce carryover of arthropod pests and plant pathogens, it also improves the success of integrated pest management (IPM) programs in the next crop.

Here are three critical steps to a thorough cleaning:

1. Remove organic matter (OM): Why?Because OM protects pests and can neutralize/inactivate disinfectants.

2. Wash with detergent, rinse, dry: Why?Because washing/scrubbing with detergent first can eliminate more OM and begin to break down pathogens.

3. Disinfect, rinse, dry: Why?Because this final step can catch what was missed in steps 1 and 2.

Tips to keep in mind during clean out:

Keep this checklist handy to make sure youve covered all your clean out tasks.

Crop disposal

Treat crop before removal to kill active pests

Remove and properly dispose of:

Remove remaining plant residues; sweep and vacuum focusing on gaps in floor covering, walkways, corners, ledges, etc.

Remove drippers from media; keep lines slightly charged to maintain moisture

Disconnect pH and EC sensors

Remove filters

Flush lines:

Clean and disinfect:

Replace emitters and other parts when necessary

Apply disinfectant with a power washer or specialised equipment on low pressure. Image credit: OMAFRA

Be sure to remove remaining plant residues by sweeping or vacuuming, focusing on gaps in floor coverings, walkways, corners, ledges and other hard-to-reach areas. Image credit: OMAFRA

When washing and disinfecting different parts of the greenhouse, be sure to let soak (wet) for a minimum of 15 minutes up to 60 minutes. Though longer contact time is generally more effective, be mindful of corrosiveness of disinfectants. Rinse well with water and let dry completely between steps. Do not forget door handles, keyboards and other surfaces touched by employees.

Wash and disinfect structure

Wash and disinfect all horizontal surfaces, including:

Wash and disinfect all tools and equipment, including:

Wash and disinfect other common areas, including:

Gone through the checklist above? Now you are ready for planting!

Disclaimer: Always check federal, provincial and municipal regulations when choosing pesticides and disinfectants. It is critical to store, handle, apply and dispose in a proper manner to avoid or eliminate negative impacts on personal health and safety and the environment. Always check safety data sheets (SDS) recommendations before using any product. Check warning labels for required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Cara McCreary, MSc., is the greenhouse vegetable IPM specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. She can be reached at cara.mccreary@ontario.ca .

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Features Crop Protection Crop clean out: Tips and tricks - Greenhouse Canada

A government office has been fined for health and safety breaches after failing to take adequate steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

An inspection found the management at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) site in Leeds had not done enough to ensure workers could socially distance during the coronavirus pandemic.

Staff were seen congregating around desks talking in contravention of the two-metre guidance, including with a line manager present, while designated two-way routes were found to be too narrow and some communal areas had not been cordoned off.

It comes after Leeds was added to the government's watchlist after COVID-19 cases spiked.

The DWP has said it had taken "urgent action to rectify all issues identified" at the Quarry House office.

The Health and Safety Executive carried out the inspection on 25 August after concerns were raised "regarding poor social distancing practices" at the office.

The subsequent report stated: "You are failing to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of your employees at work because you have not implemented necessary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19."

An accompanying letter sent by the inspector said: "You will have to pay a fee because I have identified contraventions of health and safety law which are material breaches."

The report also said the DWP's risk assessed occupancy rate for the office of about 50% "may be ambitious and unrealistic", and highlighted the risk of congestion and difficulties of social distancing.

It said: "The main walkways around the building and floors which are occupied by DWP at QH have been designated two-way travel with highlighted crossing points.

"Many of these walkways are little more than 1m wide and pass very close to desks that are designated as usable.

"The pedestrian traffic was relatively frequent as staff moved around the building to get to work locations, tea points and toilets."

Stairs designated for two-way travel also "don't appear to be sufficiently wide enough to allow 2m distancing to be maintained, even at designated passing points".

The report added: "Staff were seen to be congregating around desks talking and not following social distancing, especially just prior to leaving, including a line manager giving instruction to a group of staff about the following day.

"Line managers are an important level of management in respect of health and safety policies and procedures and should be used to both lead by example and encourage compliance to social distancing rules via effective supervision."

The DWP was given a deadline of Tuesday 15 September to confirm action had been taken to resolve the issues highlighted in the report.

A DWP spokesperson said: "We take the health and safety of staff extremely seriously, and have implemented COVID-secure measures across our sites to ensure they comply with government guidelines.

"We have taken urgent action to rectify all issues identified by the HSE."

Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the PCS union, said: "The HSE report on the DWP Leeds Office shows that the government has failed staff and the wider community by not adhering to basic health and safety legislation.

"There is a very real danger of a second Covid spike and this incident makes a mockery of DWP's insistence that offices open until 8pm to the public when they can't even maintain social distancing.

"It is unlikely this is an isolated incident and Boris Johnson should re-think forcing thousands of civil servants back to the office when the rate of covid infection in the country is rising significantly."

View original post here:
Coronavirus: Government office fined after staff failed to follow social distancing rules - Sky News

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CIM Group announced today that it is preparing to open Fifth + Tillery, a newly constructed three-story, approximately 182,700-square-foot creative office building with outdoor walk-up access located at 618 Tillery Street in East Austin. Situated just off East 7th Street, a main thoroughfare, the property is within a short drive to both Austins Central Business District and South Congress submarkets and also has convenient access to mass transit and biking options.

Fifth + Tillery offers the features that appeal to a host of businesses such as technology, service providers, design firms, and others. Particularly given the new environment which is prompting a fresh look at office space usage, each of the buildings three large floors, ranging from approximately 50,000 to 65,000 square feet, provide for flexible configurations. All floors are accessible from outdoor walkways and staircases from the ground level parking, without having to traverse a central lobby or take an elevator. The floors are divisible into various office sizes.

Office suites are infused with natural light from the expansive windows and have outdoor balconies where employees and guests can enjoy the area views while conferring together in a large open space. Adding to the buildings outdoor features is a vast landscaped courtyard with ample areas for separated seating along with theater-style steps up to the building, providing another option for open air distanced gathering.

A steel frame, solar panel canopy spans from the roof across the front courtyard providing approximately 600 kw of energy for the building. This impressive solar component allows the building to be considered net neutral in electric utility usage, a significant feature for tenants mindful of their environmental footprint as well as potential cost-savings in terms of shared building costs. The functional canopy also provides a distinctive architectural element to this bright, modern building.

CIM Group acquired Fifth + Tillery, partially under construction, in October 2019 along with 507 Calles Street and a warehouse/office building located at 1300 E. 5th Street. Fifth + Tillery is anticipated to be complete in July.

For more than 10 years CIM has been an active owner, operator, and developer of over 2.2 million square feet of properties in Austin, bringing quality real estate uses to enhance the area as it does in other communities across North America. In addition to Fifth + Tillery, CIMs Austin office portfolio includes Penn Field, Hartland Plaza, Eastside Village, and Chase Tower, 507 Calles and 1300 E. 5th Street. CIM also owns and operates the District at SoCo apartments and was a co-developer of the Seaholm Power Plant mixed-use redevelopment as well as The Independent luxury condominium tower.

For leasing information regarding Fifth & Tillery please call (512) 814-3403 or visit https://5thandtillery.com/.

About CIM Group

CIM is a community-focused real estate and infrastructure owner, operator, lender and developer. Since 1994, CIM has sought to create value in projects and positively impact the lives of people in communities across the Americas by delivering more than $60 billion of essential real estate and infrastructure projects. CIMs diverse team of experts applies its broad knowledge and disciplined approach through hands-on management of real assets from due diligence to operations through disposition. CIM strives to make a meaningful difference in the world by executing key environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives and enhancing each community in which it invests. For more information, visit http://www.cimgroup.com

See original here:
CIM Group Unveils Fifth + Tillery in East Austin Creative Office Building Featuring Outdoor Walkways and Solar Power - Business Wire

AUGUSTA, Maine (WABI) - As Memorial Day weekend approaches, we're reminded that social gatherings are still limited to no more than 10 people.

The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development Wednesday, released the safety checklist for large social gatherings.

Gatherings of 50 people or less are allowed starting June 1st.

The DECD recommends folks wear face coverings where social distancing is not possible.

The checklist says signage can help people at an event follow one-way traffic patterns to avoid crowded paths or walkways.

Indoor gatherings must adhere to square footage guidelines put out for retail businesses.

As you make plans with family for this weekend, the head of the Maine CDC says it's important to help your kids adhere to guidelines as well.

Doctor Nirav Shah says, "The same steps that we've recommended for adults would equally apply if not more so with children. Hand hygiene, covering their cough, if children aren't feeling well trying to make sure that they aren't exposing others."

Checklists can be found on the Maine DECD website maine.gov/decd.

See more here:
Maine CDC speaks on social gatherings ahead of Memorial Day weekend - WABI

The Greenport Village Board has agreed to do a trial run of a proposal to temporarily eliminate some parking on Front and Main streets in order to increase the size of the sidewalks and possibly have food, beverages and retail available on those sidewalks.

The increased sidewalk size will also make it easier for pedestrians to comply with spacing restrictions imposed by the state as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The sidewalk proposal is a recommendation of the Greenport Business Improvement District, whose president made a presentation at the village boards work session Thursday night.

The impact of COVID-19 on our business community and the livelihoods of our residents and community as a whole has been devastating, BID president Rich Vandenburgh said at the work session, which was held at the Third Street Firehouse.

The meeting was closed to the public, but was shown live on the village website and the public was allowed to send in questions. Trustee Julia Robins participated by phone while the other four board members were present but spaced six feet apart.

Greenport Village is a highly sought after destination location and typically enjoys large crowds of visitors, tourists, and patrons who enjoy all that our village has to offer, Mr. Vandenburgh said.

But he added that the health impacts of COVID-19 have also been significant and will remain for the foreseeable future.

The BID put together an advisory panel of property owners and residents to get opinions and ideas on how to respond to the new normal, he said.The advisory panel, called BIDAP, is now preparing for the increase of visitors to the village as Memorial Day approaches, he said.

The simple fact is that we have a spatial issue in the immediate downtown village, Mr. Vandenburgh said. In other words, there is not enough space to fully accommodate a perfect return to business life as was enjoyed last year and last season.

Moreover, time is running short to prepare as the phases of un-pausing occur The key to creating an improved spatial environment will be to rapidly execute steps within the Village Administrations control.

Mr. Vandenburgh said the mayors ability to exercise executive order powers under the state of emergency can expedite the success of any plan or preparation as outlined in state law, by not having to comply with requirements for public hearings.

A prolonged process of public hearings, comment periods and inaction only delay the ability to implement a plan for success that respects the economic security of its business community as well as the health and safety of those visitors who arrive in our village, Mr. Vandenburgh said. So timing is precious in this situation.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Friday expressed optimism toward Long Island soon beginning Phase 1 of the reopening, which would include some curbside retail. Restaurants, which can currently offer takeout and delivery, would fall under Phase 3.

The BIDAP is suggesting that the village suspend on-street parking through Oct. 15 for several areas along Front and Main streets other than handicapped parking spots and curbside pickup locations.

The areas suggested for removal of parking spaces are as follows:

The east side of Third Street from the ferry to Front Street

Front Street all the way to Main Street

The west side of Main Street, from Claudios to Front Street

Both sides of Main Street from Front Street to Park Street

The plan also calls for closing First Street south of Front Street an area known as Texaco Alley to both vehicular traffic and parking.

See the Greenport Parklet Study:

A total of 57 parking spaces on Front and Main streets would be temporarily eliminated under the proposal.

The closed parking spots would then be improved as pedestrian walkways and would provide additional limited areas for outdoor retail spaces, according to the plan.

Bill and Corey Sharples of SHoP Architects who were involved in the design of Mitchell Park have agreed to design the proposed area at no charge, Mr. Vandenburgh said.

They have submitted a plan for Greenport Parklets in some of the areas where the parking would be removed.

The parklets would involve putting tables and chairs in spaces where parking was removed, and barriers to separate the areas from cars. The BID also is recommending reducing the speed limit in these areas to 15 mph. The sidewalk in some areas would be increased from 12 feet to almost 20 feet, Mr. Vandenburgh said.

Its all but certain that New York State is going to diminish the interior occupancy of businesses, when the lockdown ends, Mr. Vandenburgh said. People are not going to want to be inside. They are going to want to be outside whenever possible, so we need a plan to create greater outdoor space.

Mr. Vandenburgh said if they have support from the village and the state Department of Transportation to move forward they can complete the project is about four weeks.

Mayor George Hubbard Jr. asked if the BID has cost estimates for the proposal. Mr. Vandenburgh said the BID hopes to have that by Thursday, May 29.

I like this better that the other proposals Ive heard, Mr. Hubbard said, referring to a petition calling for eliminating cars from Front and Main streets.

We dont want a Maritime Festival every weekend, he said.

With Thursdays meeting approaching four hours, Trustee Peter Clarke pressed the rest of the board to discuss the proposal and decide if they want the BID to continue to examine the idea. He said the state probably wont allow restaurants to reopen for indoor dining for four to six weeks, so there is time.

To do nothing would be a mistake, he said. Time is of the essence.

Trustee Mary Bess Phillips asked why the tables arent closer to the stores and further from traffic. Ms. Clarke, a former BID president, said the concern is to have the customers close to the stores.Trustee Julia Robins said she feels the BID should have an alternate plan as well.

Village attorney Joe Prokop said the village could either by an executive order of the mayor or a zoning change allow businesses to have outdoor seating.

Is everyone in favor of doing away with some of the parking on Front and Main street? Mr. Hubbard asked. Thats the first step. Everyone responded yes.

Weve got to decide something if were going ahead with this, he said.

He said he didnt want to have a whole discussion and then learn that board members opposed eliminating parking.He said he will work with village administrator Paul Pallas to set up a trial run to close the roads to traffic on an upcoming weekend, from Friday to Sunday.

The public would be notified in advance that the trial was being done, he said. The village would use orange barrels to close off the parking spaces.

Lets just see what it looks like, and if it helps anybody, he said. We need to know if its going to work before we talk about them building something and making it permanent.

Read the original here:
Greenport will do a trial run eliminating some parking on Front and Main - Suffolk Times

Today I am identifying houses of worship churches, synagogue, and mosques as essential places that provide essential services, Mr. Trump said at a hastily scheduled briefing at the White House on Friday according to the New York Times. , . Some governors have deemed liquor stores and abortion clinics as essential but have left out churches and other houses of worship. Its not right.Trump went further, threatening to override the governors if they did not follow his order. I call upon governors to allow our churches and places of worship to open right now, he said. If theres any question, theyre going to have to call me, but theyre not going to be successful in that call.However, it was timed just so because the CDC issued a number of long-delayed guidelines with suggestions for steps that houses of worship can take to curb the spread of the virus.Religious institutions should provide soap and hand sanitizer, encourage the use of cloth masks and clean their facilities daily if they want to open while coronavirus is still spreading, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in newly released guidance Friday.

US President Donald Trump, flanked by Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar (R), US Vice President Mike Pence (L) and CDC Principal Deputy Director Anne Schuchat, holds a news conference on the COVID-19 outbreak

Andrew CABALLERO-REYNOLDS, AFP

Dr. Robert Redfield speaks on the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2020.

The White House

A health worker wearing protective gear sits on an ambulance next to the body of a COVID-19 victim before burial at a graveyard in New Delhi

SAJJAD HUSSAIN, AFP

This opinion article was written by an independent writer. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily intended to reflect those of DigitalJournal.com

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article image Op-Ed: CDC bows to Trump and issues watered-down guidance on reopening - Digital Journal

The South Fork beaches will be open this summer, butyou may need a Hamptons address to visit them. The Hampton Jitney will run, but initially only for essential travel. And the star-studded East Hampton Artists & Writers Charity Softball Game is still on the calendar, but may be played without spectators for the first time in its 72-year history.

The COVID-19 pandemic cant stop summer from coming to the Hamptons, but it might put a stop to jam-packed restaurants and bars, Main Streets crowded with boutique shoppersand elegant soirees.

City dwellers havefilled up rental and second homes since the lockdown began in March, irritating locals who suddenly found bare grocery store shelves and feared theirhealth system could become overwhelmed.

As Memorial Day approaches, it remains to be seen how the populations shopping, dining and entertaining habits will be affected by the social distancing guidelines, face mask requirements and other measures meant to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Business owners who rely on the season between MemorialDay and Labor Day to carry them through the rest of the year are adjusting offering more takeout instead of sit-down service, canceling major fundraisers, closing spas and poolsto offer the high-society social experience of a summer out east.

You are not going to see formal events where you will have the long, beautiful Hamptons farm tables with the twinkling lights. Thats not happening, said event planner Victoria Dubin, who typically plans six to eight summer Hamptons parties ayear. But there are a lot of creative concepts. We are exploring all options to entertain people safely.

For Dubins clients, that could mean smaller parties with fewer guests and serving meals in branded boxes when restrictions ease.

From restaurants to charities to party planners, businesses and organizations on the South Fork will have to adapt to make it through the season.

Heres a look at the start to summer 2020.

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BEACHES

Many of the South Forks beaches will be open this year, butwont welcome the masses.

Southampton Town plans to staff just three of its beaches initially Long Beach in Sag Harbor, Sagg Main in Bridgehampton and Ponquogue in Hampton Bays. Day passes for nonresidentswill not be sold, at least not initially.

Beachgoers will be required to wear a face mask while on pavilions or walkways, but not if they are sun bathing and can maintain a 6-foot distance from others, said Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman. Bathrooms will be sanitized every two hours and picnic tables will be removed from public areas.

Its a major asset to the South Fork, its something we live for, Schneidermansaid of the beaches. To not allow that when it certainly can be enjoyed safely, I think the public would be very upset.

Southampton Village, which operates perennially top-rated Coopers Beach, will also initially only open its beaches to residents.

Mayor Jesse Warren said the bathrooms at Coopers will be cleaned every 30 to 60 minutes, the village is pricing out touchless sinks and showers, and outdoor seating has been removed.

Warren noted daily and out-of-town season beach passes bring in about $1 million in annual revenue, which the village will lose this season.

East Hampton Town is also not selling passes to nonresidents, and plans to initially staff lifeguards atIndian Wells and Atlantic Avenue in Amagansett, and South Edison and Ditch Plains in Montauk on weekends.

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said the popular Cupsogue Beach in West Hampton Dunes will be open only to Suffolk residents.

RESTAURANTS

LosingMemorial Day weekend diners will sting for restaurants in the Hamptons, where dining out can be as much about being seen as the locally sourced fresh dishes.

On-premise restaurant dining is included in Phase 3 of New Yorks reopening plan. The state hasnt offered a concrete timeline for when that will be, but restaurateurs are planning for an early July restart.

Babettes in East Hampton, known for its colorfully plated health-conscious food, snug seating inside and the occasional celebrity sighting, has offered takeout only for the first time in its 25-year history. To-go sales helpbutaren't enough, said owner Barbara Layton. The restaurant has taken to GoFundMe to ask for help meeting its operating expenses.

Is it [takeout] a sustainable model right now? Absolutely not, Layton said. Not for me. Not for anyone.

Still, restaurant owners expect it to remain a large part of their business this summer after dining-in resumes as people feel comfortable dining out. Adaptation will be key, Layton said, as business owners try to preserve the South Fork experience.

I dont think [The] 1770 House is the first place you think of for takeout food so weve adapted our menu for it, said Carol Covell, general manager of the East Hampton restaurant.

Restaurant owners said businesses will have to look to increase outdoor seating this summer if the state mandates reduced restaurant capacity.Those who already have ample space for al fresco dining will be at an advantage this summer.

We are definitely where people go for the experience, but were really, really lucky we have outdoor space, Covell said.

CHARITY GALAS

Summer cocktail fundraisers on lush lawns have long been a big source of revenue for East End charities. Without them this summer, nonprofits are leaning toward direct fundraising and virtual fundraisers to meetoperating expenses.

The Childrens Museum of the East End in Bridgehampton has already canceled its family night carnival, which draws about 700 people and is the museums largest annual fundraiser, said presidentSteve Long. The organization has instead relied on its network to fundraise directly.

The pandemic could alter how money is raised out east.

Everybody knows event-based fundraising is the most inefficient way to raise support for nonprofit organizations, but its the way fundraising has always been done [out east], Long said.

The childrens museum has remained closed during the coronavirus outbreak, as museums are in Phase 4 of New Yorks reopening plan. It hasbecome a food pantry serving about 100 families dealing with food insecurity amid the pandemic.

We discovered there was incredible unemployment, there was tremendous food insecurity and we decided we needed to do something about that, Long said.

The Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center in East Quogue is still hoping it can hold its Get Wild event in August, often attended by celebritiessuch as Beth Stern and Nicky Hilton. The event brings in about one-third of its annual budget, said office manager Amanda Daley.

East End Hospice has canceled its summer fundraising events, including its June gala at a private estate in Quogue. The party brought in about $500,000 last year and the organization relies on philanthropy to raise about 20% of its $9 million annual budget, said CEO Mary Crosby.

Instead the organization will provide virtual content thanking its donors and mail its annual event journal.

Everybody loves a good party, but many donors give to us because they believe in our work, and I dont think that will change this year, Crosby said.

GETTING THERE

The Hampton Jitney is running on a limited schedule for essential travel only, for the time being.

This is expected to change as NYC and Long Islands pause status changes, a company spokeswoman said in an email.

The Jitney is still accepting reservations online and does not ask passengers to specify their reason for travel. Buses will be cleaned and disinfected between trips, and the company is offering free travel to hospital workers.

Blade, which offers pay-by-the-seat helicopter flights between Manhattan and the Hamptons, will offer weekly delivery service for those staying out east to transport critical items and other goods.

While we are prioritizing medications and other health-related items, you may request other deliveries for your extended stay, such as clothing, electronics, food for specialized diets, school materials, etc., the company stateson its website.

Pilots and passengers will undergo touchless temperature checks and will be required to wear masks.The interior of the aircrafts will be electrostatically decontaminated.

Seaplane passengers will each have their own window seat, according to Blades website.

The Long Island Rail Road is still running on a reduced schedule and is not encouraging tourism travel.LIRR president Phillip Eng at a news conference Thursday reiterated that trains are for essential travel,not vacationers.

STAYING ...

Hotels and motels are considered essential businessesand plan to open, but with some modifications.

The Montauk Beach House hoteldelayed its opening from May 1 until Memorial Day weekend and is instituting increased cleaningprotocols, said CEO Larry Siedlick.

Hand sanitizer will be available in every room and in common areas, the housekeeping staff has been retrained in enhanced cleaning protocols and will wear personal protective equipment, and all frequently touched surfaces will be sanitized multiple times per day, according to the hotels website.

While the Montauk Beach House is typically about 50%to 75% booked for the season by Memorial Day, the number now stands at about 20% to 30%, Siedlick said, adding that he and his peers are optimistic people will come as state restrictions ease.

Bookings usually start to pick up after January 15. Thats been virtually nonexistent until recently, Siedlick said. You can see when the weather is good people are going to come.

Among the steps being taken by nearby Gurneys are complimentary masks and sanitizing wipesprovided in guest rooms, in-room activities forchildren and sanitizing stations throughout the property, according to its website.

The spa, pools and fitness center are also closed.

... AND PLAYING

Cuomo has said no attractive nuisances will be allowed when the state begins reopening, which is unfortunate news for those looking to enjoy Hamptons landmarks and marquee events.

The long-awaited reopening of the Sag Harbor Cinema, heavily damaged in a December 2016 fire, was expected for Easter weekend but has since been delayed. And the Montauk Lighthouse is closed until further notice, although droves of people have been descending on its grounds for months.

The Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, former home of abstract artist Jackson Pollock and his wife, Lee Krasner, is offering free virtual tours of the property by appointment online. If and when in-person tours do resume, they will likely be limited to six people at a time, said Pollock-Krasner House director Helen Harrison.

Organizers of the Hampton Classic Horse Show held every year in late August said they are proceeding as planned for now.

Naturally, we are closely monitoring the situation, said event spokesman Marty Bauman. Should a decision be made to cancel the event, we will announce it with a press release and on social media.

In Riverhead, the gateway to the North and South forks, the popular Riverhead Aquarium will be closed, said Bryan Deluca, the aquariums executive director.

Aquariumofficials are still awaiting word from Suffolk County officials on when they can reopen, Deluca said. Delucanoted that the nearby Treasure Cove Resort Marina on East Main Street will be open, and the aquariums outdoor bar and grill remains open for takeout orders.

The East Hampton Artists &Writers Charity Softball Game, whose participants have included actor and Long Island native Alec Baldwin and former President Bill Clinton, is also still on the schedule, althoughspectators may notbe allowed.

We dont know if we will have fans, said event president Benito Vila. Usually people are shoulder to shoulder. We are awaiting to hear from the village on what their guidelines will be.

With Jean-Paul Salamanca

Vera Chinese joined Newsday in 2017 and covers the towns of Southampton, East Hampton and Shelter Island. A Long Island native, she has reported on East End issues for 10 years.

Read more:
Coronavirus interrupts summer-as-usual in the Hamptons - Newsday

PUBS could start to reopen as soon as July - but with boozing only in beer gardens and pints brought by table service.

Ministers are in talks with pub bosses to work out how they can get our locals back in business.

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The key is finding ways to allow drinkers to socially distance from each other and staff.

July 4 has been mooted as a possible start date.

Pubs with outside spaces are set to open first provided they can offer table service. Contactless payment is thought to be a must and some may use new apps to order and pay.

It is easier to space drinkers out in a beer garden and scientists say the virus spreads less outside, compared to within enclosed spaces.

That means it will be a while before small, cosy pubs re-open their doors to customers.

But big pubs where there is enough room inside to keep people apart could be next to get the nod again with table service to avoid a build-up at bars.

Perspex screens, like those seen in supermarkets, could be used to shield diners from other tables and walkways.

Eventually, when ordering at a bar is allowed perhaps in the autumn screens might also be put up on the counters.

Environment Secretary George Eustice told the Commons: "We are already working with the hospitality and pub sector to identify what social distancing measures they might be able to put in place.

As the Prime Minister has outlined, we intend that the hospitality sector, including pubs, would be able to tentatively start gradually opening, hopefully during July subject to the epidemiology supporting such a move.

He was referring to phase three of the lockdown easing plan, which includes pubs. The talks come as welcome news for lockdown Brits keen to catch up with friends and family over a pint away from home.

Mr Eustice added: "Of course we also recognise that until things return to something closer to normal and they can open normally, hopefully later this summer, then it will not give them all of the trade they previously had."

There were fears that pubs might not reopen until Christmas because of the difficulties with social distancing.

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Pub bosses on Monday called for the two-metre (6ft) rule to be halved.They said most pubs are too small for it to be imposed.

In some cases it would allow so few customers it might not be economical to open.

Simon Emeny, the chief executive of brewer Fullers, said the World Health Organisation advises one metre (3.2ft) which would allow four times as many customers. He said: I think its really important that rules are relaxed by the time pubs reopen.

Jonathan Neame, chief executive of Shepherd Neame, said it would be profoundly challenging to keep people two metres apart and that could force most pubs to stay shut.

The British Beer and Pub Associations chief executive Emma McClarkin warned that a long-term shutdown would have a devastating impact on an industry already in decline.But she said: Re-opening in July will be great for those pubs who can meet the social-distancing measures required by then.

We stand ready to work with the Government to help pubs re-open in a safe and financially viable way as soon as possible.

Actioning advice from the WHO for example to use one metre for social distancing from July would enable many more pubs to viably re-open and serve their communities again.

Brewers and pubs have already had to dispose of the equivalent of 70million pints of beer that had gone stale.

Opening pub gardens gives them some hope and would allow the two-metre rule to stay for now.

Another option is limiting pub-goers to a set number of drinks. This would help to stagger visitors and stop pubs getting jammed making it easier to apply social distancing.The idea was suggested by an expert who is part of a team advising the Government on lockdown.Eyal Winter, an economist at Lancaster University, said beer could be rationed to two or three pints per customer.That method is likely to be preferred to giving drinkers a set amount of time, say an hour or two. There are fears a time limit could encourage binge boozing.Pub bosses reckon both suggestions would be hard to enforce.

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In mid-May Boris Johnsonlaid out the "first careful steps" of easing the coronavirus lockdown as part of a three-phase plan to get back to normal life.

In an address to the nation he revealeda detailed roadmapof how to get Britain back on its feet, but still keep thedeadly virus under control.

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Pubs could open from July but with boozing only allowed in beer gardens and pints brought by table service - The Sun