I also am dealing with this much money to get this place going:
$1,297.50 (3,828 GEL)in Social Security
$6000.00 in savings for set up costs. I do however got much of the items already but not the big stuff like refrigerators, stoves and furniture. These we will get used.
.
Maxx,
Fun news. However, it is time to actually start your business. Unless this is an elegant hobby, making money is the ultimate objective of any business activity. You can't do that unless your doors are open.
Good luck.
Maxx -- I wish you all the best and success in your venture /
Even more plaudits for (as Australians say) --having a go ! :clapping:
Good luck ! ;D
Damn I didn't realize that you were living on $1,297 a month SS. I'm really pleasantly surprised you are able to have a little extra after expenses. That really is a tight budget.
Fathertime!
Yet, I have to push forward. Why? Out of all of this I hope to find a good woman.
Out of all of this I hope to find a good woman.
Thanks Fathertime for being pleasantly surprised I can make it on $1297 a month. It is considered big money over here. I am the only guy I know who is paying lifetime spousal support out of his SS to his American ex-wife of 20 years. I should be getting about $600 more. And I'll will need to report my income to the IRS. And my bank account to the Department of Treasury if more than $10,000 runs through it. I was restricted to starting a business outside the US until I reached full retirement age (66). If I did my my SS would be cut off. Americans are the least free people in the world! When I step back and look at the big picture I am hesitant about getting involved with any of this. My government is my biggest enemy! Such stress thinking about all the ways that bad can happen to me! Maybe GQ is right? Yet, I have to push forward. Why? Out of all of this I hope to find a good woman.
.. Such stress thinking about all the ways that bad can happen to me! Maybe GQ is right?
Yet, I have to push forward. Why? Out of all of this I hope to find a good woman.
But whatever you do, I wish you the very best of all possibilities you embark upon.
Thanks!
Whether I succeed in this or fail in it, it is not the end of the world for me. Interestedly for me, is you are on the same side as Moby! :D Except an important difference... you wish me well... he doesn't.
Whether I succeed in this or fail in it, it is not the end of the world for me.
I couldn't believe that you are still paying to your ex wife spousal support, disgusting western states who consider men as slaves !
It's quite common to split pension rights in the West. Men can get out of that by paying a lump sum at the time of settlement, if the woman agrees. Factors which ameliorate the payment are the wife's pension income (if she had one, he would be entitled to a share of her pension), length of marriage, and whether or not the wife worked.
What if he made $200 in income per month, an exwife would be entitled to half of that? In my mind there should be a threshold that he doesn't have to go below.
I think Maxx is talking about having to pay his wife some of his Social Security income, not from any private pension plan.
Actually, former spouses can draw some Social Security income directly from SS based on marriage to a person without any directive from a divorce proceeding.
So I suspect his ex wife is getting that income.
However, in addition to that money which every former spouse can get directly from SS (there are some qualifications related to age, length of marriage, etc.) . . .
It seems that, in this case, Maxx's divorce settlement requires him to pay ex wife some additional money out of his own Social Security income.
Maxx can clarify.
- - - - - - -
Thanks!
Whether I succeed in this or fail in it, it is not the end of the world for me. Interestedly for me, is you are on the same side as Moby! :D Except an important difference... you wish me well... he doesn't.
My Social Security income should be
We don't have such a thing in France.
It's quite common to split pension rights in the West. Men can get out of that by paying a lump sum at the time of settlement, if the woman agrees. Factors which ameliorate the payment are the wife's pension income (if she had one, he would be entitled to a share of her pension), length of marriage, and whether or not the wife worked.
Good luck, Maxx. I assume you will need to purchase a lot more kitchen equipment. If you can restrict your lease to one year, do so. In your shoes, I'd probably try for a fast food type model, or a stand, rather than a sit down location.
This post was composed without the aid of google.
I think Maxx is talking about having to pay his wife some of his Social Security income, not from any private pension plan.
Actually, former spouses can draw some Social Security income directly from SS based on marriage to a person without any directive from a divorce proceeding.
So I suspect his ex wife is getting that income.
However, in addition to that money which every former spouse can get directly from SS (there are some qualifications related to age, length of marriage, etc.) . . .
It seems that, in this case, Maxx's divorce settlement requires him to pay ex wife some additional money out of his own Social Security income.
Maxx can clarify.
- - - - - - -
More on Social Security payments.
The SS plan is quite liberal as to who can get some payments and from what relationship.
For instance: (I will use wife getting from husband's account because that is the most common, but applies the other way around also.)
Wife and husband divorce. Wife remarries and at some point, starts drawing SS based on her second husband's SS record. Wife has never worked.
Second husband dies, wife still gets SS based on his record. However, she can switch and get SS from first husband if that amount would be greater. This can happen even if first husband has a second wife who is also getting SS based on his record.
Or wife can divorce second husband, and start drawing SS based on first husband's record.
Again, there are some requirements regarding age, length of marriages, etc.
And, the rules have been modified over the years, and will be modified again in the future.
Also, if wife has worked, she can draw from husband's account for a period of time, and then switch to drawing from her own account at some point. This is sometimes advantageous because one's own SS amount goes up significantly if they wait until full retirement age rather than start drawing at minimum age of 62.
Good luck, Maxx. I assume you will need to purchase a lot more kitchen equipment. If you can restrict your lease to one year, do so. In your shoes, I'd probably try for a fast food type model, or a stand, rather than a sit down location.
Maxx-
An aside: Just curiuos...You mentioned upthread you plan on serving some of Mejico's cervezas, I wonder how much is a liquor license in Georgia, if there's any? Here in LA, the cost of a liquor license cost as much as a single family home. That's largely why alcoholic beverages are very expensive in restaurants and bars.
We don't have such a thing in France.
We have the compensatory alimony, a capital that should be paid after the divorce.
The spousal support while waiting the divorce to been achieved.
The reversion pension WHEN YOU ARE DEAD, this is a fraction of the pension after you have left the workforce (55%) given to the ex spouse and shared bewteen the different ex spouses to make it simple.
Nowadays 93% of women have the benefit of reversion's pension.
Why not, but why men, dying 7 years before women enjoy almost 50% of time pension less than women, why their retirment time from the workforce don't happen 7 years before women ? An other inequality never discussed. And above all it is reproched to the men to earn more. Partially because they almost all perform outdoors job, the most dangerous. But finally women at the end are quite happy that they become dead meat as 93% of the time the get good money from the well hung dead in France.
So if I resume it would have been better for Max to divorce before she could claims any right on her SS pension. Better for him to divorce to protect himself rather than waiting her to divorce and screw up a man getting older and forcing him to emigrate in a low cost country.THAT's absolutely disgusting for me, I want to vomit, and all those "put the name you like" are proud of this system?
Is this the new feminism, a new world of a rearranging domination where the roles are simply reversed with the blessing of the law ? What a beautiful new world !
Maxx-
One night during the holiday period while having dinner with our folks, you came to mind. There had been this restaurant crazed in LA for a good while now. It even have a massive appeal to millennials as they represent a great deal of the eating patrons in these establishments (you have no idea who difficult it is to compete with smart phones for millennials approval much less attention these days). Wherever you go. which ever restaurant it is, these places are always packed.
I took the crew out to a Korean Barbeque (http://www.google.com/search?q=korean+barbeque&rlz=1C1GCEU_enUS876US876&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiJ-ryv2JfnAhWDMX0KHWlUAc0Q_AUoAnoECBIQBA&biw=1280&bih=578&dpr=1.5).
Now I relate this experience with you because a) Our crew consisted of wifey's sister (lives in Germany/Turkey) and BIL (married to sis, Turk, 1st time in LA), SIL from Canada, nephew, my brother and wife (Christian Lebanese)+ kid, my BFF and son - thus this isn't just an 'American' traditional influence; b) the seemingly 'easy' way to a successful restaurant biz...
1. The menu isn't compose of tens of varieties of cooked/prepared entrees..Korean Barbeque restaurants is an 'all-you-can-eat' deal consisting of roughly 3-6 different combinations. Dessert, the drinks..
2. The staple is very easy and is readily available anywhere in the world - meat. 'Combinations have 5-6 different kinds and your set. As long as it can be sliced then frozen - you're set as you can serve them 'frozen'. Some do marinate the meat, but that can be an option for you. You'll compliment this with Korean sauces (mustard/ponzu/sweet soy sauce) and varying types of Kim Chi. fresh vegies, seaweed, salt/pepper, maybe miso or some easy to make soup. The only thing you'll need to remember is never mix serve anything 'Chinese' to a Korean/Japanese dinner serving.
These restaurants in LA right now is literally 'fail safe'. VERY cheap to start and people will not only love the food, they'll embrace the ambiance and setup.
(Mind you, just throwing out an idea out there for you, ok?)
...AND there is no sales tax. No property tax. GQ, could you tell us how high California's sales, income and property taxes are?
But, there is an import tax of 18% on products exceeding 300 GEL ($100). Zero % if under that amount. To avoid paying the import tax people get multiple accounts to have their import products shipped to or use their friends' accounts. Everyone knows this. Tax avoidance is a part of life here.
My estimate of monthly taxes I will pay on this business is about $150.
"Shemomedjamo" means “I accidentally ate the whole thing."
Looks like a cozy place. Not a lot of room on the sidewalk for outdoor tables though. Now you need a sign or someone to draw up the restaurant name in fancy lettering on the window "Maxx's Wet and Wild in Your Face Tex Mex Food and Marriage Agency". Not everybody walking down the sidewalk is looking for food. Some look for marriage.
Great choice, Maxx.
Now come the fixtures.
We are figuring the furniture. Chairs will be our biggest expense. The tables can be custom made from the unstained wooden table tops sold at Georgeia "Home Depot" type of store here. I am thinking a redwood stain to match the brick wall.
I do not but I know I can't change it. For me it is like the serenity prayer:
God, grant me the Serenity
To accept the things I cannot change...
Courage to change the things I can,
And Wisdom to know the difference.
There are somethings I try not to think about. But have to, to keep bad things from happening to me.
You are a wise man Maxx,I wish you the best for this new project.you have a lot of courage.
Udachi.
To give a Chipotle experience.
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49459044688_9a52d6f72c_z.jpg)
The price differential should make this a no brainer. $4000 is outrageous....$172 is a steal!
Fathertime!
New, $4,000 Used, $172.42
Fired Ilona today.
Any further details?
Fired Ilona today.
Maxx, My compliments for attempting this. The food industry is not easy and while some make a living, the majority fail. The success stories are a few and far between. That noted it seems like you might have a successful formula.
For myself I look forward to reading of your further exploits and reports. I should note I usually just lurk on RWD.
I agree.
I cannot say I blame you.
Yet, I have to push forward. Why? Out of all of this I hope to find a good woman.[/font]
I think it's a great idea what you have planned here Maxx. I would say though that consider being adaptable, if the restaurant model doesn't work well then maybe consider changing to fast food version or adapting to some other business, a night time bar or whatever.
I think what you are doing is the right approach to find a woman out there. They will notice a foreign guy who is running a business and will think he is wealthy and doing well for himself. They will see that there is a business there and not just another foreign guy/retiree.
In fairness a woman out there would probably think that if she gets with a foreign guy who is drawing a pension if it were to happen that the guy later passes on sooner than hoped then the lady could be left high and dry since she I assume would unlikely be able to claim the pension. However if there is a business there that she could gain then that could be more reassuring to her.
Hope it all works for you :)
Thanks Trenchcoat. You have some good points.
Snagging a woman is not the reason for me to do this. I am mainly doing this as something interesting to do. Something fun to do. I am also thinking the activity will be good for my health. I lean strongly towards being sedentary.
That's ok Maxx. It's great you are doing this new venture of yours for enjoyment, I think that is a positive in its favour of succeeding. You have shown that you have been committed to making some great salsa sauce, if so stuff like that could be a real draw for such a business. I would build on that if I were you, look to make other aspects of your Mexican restaurant to be great also, but don't let it drag your timescale to open back too much.
There is foot of snow outside and I am not sure the roads are drivable. I doubt sub-tropical Batumi has snow plows. I'd like to get my medical check today. And I have no running water because the pipes are frozen. The water pipes run along the outside of the wall by the kitchen. -3 C. Seems like a lot of bad omens.
Guess you could always melt some snow into water if you get desperate.
Weekends are the worst times to launch a thread. I'll be interested what Monday (USA time) will bring.
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49564228862_908d079832_b.jpg)
View out my Tbilisi train window on the way back to Batumi
.
Sitting to my right on this trip back was Israeli man named Asoff. He told me he was part of Israeli airline El-Al security. There are two stations in Georgia, Tbilisi and Batumi. We got into a conversation about the restaurant business I am working on. I learned a bit about Jewish Kosher dietary rules. Meat cannot be mixed with dairy products. So beef or chicken cannot be mixed with cheese or sour cream. The tortillas should be made with olive oil instead of butter if a Jew wanted meat on them. The vegetarian meat soy that I plan on getting from the vegetarian cafe (connected with the owner on this) is anything goes. Egg can be mixed with dairy as in breakfast burritos. And he told me Jews prefer getting their meat outside of Israel from Muslim butchers as their dietary rules, "Halum" are similar to Kosher.
A recent friend I made is a Turkish man named Mehmed. Yesterday I had lunch with him at 'The Sultan Cafe'. Mehmed is a refugee from the Erdogan regime as is the restaurant owner. This restaurant has its own butcher. Mehmed is going to arrange with the owner to be my supplier of chicken and beef. There is cut of beef used to make 'barbacoa' called skirt meat. It is just behind the front legs of the steer/cow. I am going to get some and start working on the recipe for this.
Asof told me that starting this summer there will be 18 flights a week coming from Israel. The Muslim and Jewish business is not something I want to miss.
Forget all that shat. If you're going to to be a Mexican restaurant stick with the Mexican menu and ingredients. Personally I do not know many Jews or Muslims from Mexico, do you? If they question the kosher or halal they're probably not your customers
A geopolitical lesson for Mr Mistake is in order
Batumi is 20 minutes from the border with ... Turkey
Where does the VAST amount of fresh fruit, veg and meat products come from in Ajaria ?... :popcorn:
Where do most day-tripper / coach-trips come from ..?
'Thank you' ..
A halal Mexican restaurant has about as much a chance of success as ice water in hell. but given your business acumen I'm sure you had no idea.
You're welcome, moron
I suspect most Jews who will visit Georgia don't keep kosher, or at least, not strictly. In your shoes, I'd probably not tout a kosher kitchen,
I'll let Asoff guide me in this.
I suspect most Jews who will visit Georgia don't keep kosher, or at least, not strictly. In your shoes, I'd probably not tout a kosher kitchen,
state our vegetarian meat comes from the Vegetarian Cafe would be enough.
If you do advertise vegetarian meals, make sure the vegetarian meats do not share the same knife, pan, and plates with real meat. Do you know how to slit the throat of a cucumber so it'll qualify as Kosher and Halal?
Ilona was vegan however she would taste the meat for taste and she would eat fish. What I am saying is not everyone is a purist when it comes to eating. I am getting the impression it is that way for most.
Forget all that shat. If you're going to to be a Mexican restaurant stick with the Mexican menu and ingredients. Personally I do not know many Jews or Muslims from Mexico, do you? If they question the kosher or halal they're probably not your customersAbsolutely agree with this. You are not gonna be able to please everyone. You will make it extremely hard on yourself trying...
You are not gonna be able to please everyone.
We have seen 2 Russian cars in 4 days.
I have been living in Georgia since November 2015. I've experienced 5 off seasons and 4 tourist seasons. Whether something DEAD now doesn't mean it will stay that way.
My current plan is find a cook who will do mostly food preparation. I would like her to come in a 6 AM and work till 10 PM. This would be good for her as she would have time for another job.
Wow, a 16 hour a day job !!
But yes, there would still be time from 10 PM to 6 AM next morning for another job.
Sleep would be optional.
Just joking Max; I knew you meant 10 AM.
One guy lived in Georgia for 5 years. The other guy seen 2 Russian cars in 4 days. Who to trust?
I absolutely agree. My plan is offer food that the less dietary strict will accept. No pork in the restaurant. Vegetarian meat option. Vegetarian (soy) sour creme. Vegetarian cheese. And make the tortillas with olive oil.
LMAO! The antithesis of anything that is Mexican food. This is starting to remind me of my wife's impression of what 'authentic Mexican food' is that she had in St Petersburg.
Here, I was going to say best you serve menudo (pancita). Nothing more 'Mexican' than that.
Anyway, have fun with the process and good luck, maxx!
I REALLY do wish Maxx the best of luck and will be DELIGHTED ( for him) when he is successful ..
Maxx, if you do want to offer other types of foods for those who have dietary restrictions, at least offer authentic Mexican food for the majority of your customers who'd want it.
You and Moby have wished me not well. You've taken your stand. I will post my my profits.. or not... at the end of tourist season,
??? Now would *I* not want to see you succeed? But suit yourself man...
As was pointed out to me by Ilona, Georgians don't know or value "authentic Mexican food." Close enough will work just fine.
You and Moby have wished me not well. You've taken your stand. I will post my my profits.. or not... at the end of tourist season,
Maxx, rent is cheap and you'll be living upstairs above the restaurant. You'll be fine even during slow periods.
I'll open as in get my business license when I see enough tourists on the streets.
Maxx, this virus thing isn't going to end in a few months. It will probably last years like SARS and MERS before we get full control over it. You need to make a decision to quit buying restaurant equipment and pause the business or open soon knowing tourists may not be showing up in large numbers anytime soon. Also consider the government may close your business temporarily and occasionally to keep people from gathering.
Maxx, I would definitely negotiate a reduction in the rent. Trade is expected to be slow to non existent and many other restaurants might go out of business along with other businesses. So big supply of premises before too long but little demand. Those locals without the sort of financial backing you have got won't want to risk it. Handled right though you could end up well placed when the eventual revival comes along.
My landlord, a Georgian man, is with his Georgian wife in Montreal Canada. They have agreed to cut my business rent to $300 a month (from $500) for the months of April and May. They cut it to zero if I didn't live there. But I will live there. So it is what I now pay to my other landlord. I'll be leaving his place at the end of this month. He is not happy about that. EVERYONE here needs money!
Last night my custom made restaurant equipment came. I got a few other things they are going to build to get everything looking perfect. Small low cost stuff. I will take some photos of what I got so far and post it here. The plumber and electrician should be at my place in a few hours.
My future employee Khatuna is in self quarantine for 2 weeks. Hopefully after that we can start cooking and develop our recipes with photos et cetera for the menu. So we are living in interesting times!
Maxx, NO-ONE could have predicted this 's*itstorm' and I am truly sorry that your venture has encountered a unique set of circumstances .
I think your former 'to be' landlord will come around, in time ..
A lot of people are just waking up to what this means
Dear Maxx,
What a dilemma...
Your 'old' landlord has accessto many foodie delights..)
I do not see Georgians beening so bad..
I would rather have left my car left unlocked there than in the west.
I note the govt. declared a state of emergency, yesterday... I have a GE sim in my phone and get frequent messages.
Keep us updated.
Yes, that is a good time [to call]. I’ll be at work... they have been sending us home because our parts we need come from Ohio and for some reason they haven’t been delivering them and when they do they only last one day and then we are out for two-three days. If i’m driving all the way to work tomorrow for them ask me to leave... i will say no (i have the right to do that but if there is no work it’s really awful to sit there with nothing to do for 8hrs especially on 3rd shift because you have to fight not to fall asleep) but i need the money so i’ll be there no matter what... so the call will help.
Up to 47 cases here in the Republic of Georgia
http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20064/Number-of-Coronavirus-Cases-Rises-to-47 (http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20064/Number-of-Coronavirus-Cases-Rises-to-47)
Her name is Khatuna. She is 43 years old. She likes me! Very good looking! Never married and no children. Lives with her father, mother and sister. Unfortunately she is in self quarantine, as I am also.
54 as of today
http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20090/Coronavirus-Cases-Increase-to-54-in-Georgia (http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20090/Coronavirus-Cases-Increase-to-54-in-Georgia)
How did you both meet if you're both in self quarantine? Tell her your restaurant serves virus free meals and invite her over on a date.
Maxx
I'm sure Alex can help
The total number of persons infected with coronavirus has increased to 66 in Georgia. The information has been posted on the special website created by the government, stopcov.ge.
3320 people are in quarantine and 235 are undergoing inpatient care.
9 out of 66 people have recovered from COVID-19.
she fears people will take all the money out of the banks.
Don't give her any money, if she asks.
Stay healthy!
Don't give her any money, if she asks.
Stay healthy!
This post was composed without the aid of google.
I fortunately stocked up on nutritional supplies. The two best things to take for this virus is vitamin C and Zinc. Please lay your hands on these two important products! Best natural form of vitamin C comes from sauerkraut. A cup of cabbage 30 milligrams of vitamin C. A cup of sauerkraut, 700 milligrams of vitamin C and it is excellent for the gut health. Vitamin C the synthetic kind is made from sulfuric acid and corn starch. It does not absorb well and taking too much as in mega-dosing can actually cause a vitamin C diffiency (sp)
I fear people will take all the money out of Maxx. In times of crisis, people will get desperate and exploit others. You're a nice guy Maxx. Keep your distance from people you know you can't trust.
literally, the most virus contaminated thing you can touch right now is currency....
if you have to touch currency, wear gloves deposit it in a plastic bag
http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20167/Coronavirus-Cases-Rise-to-70-in-Georgia (http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20167/Coronavirus-Cases-Rise-to-70-in-Georgia)
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases has reached 70 in Georgia. Of these patients, 9 have already recovered. At the time of writing, there are 4055 people in quarantine while 252 patients are stationary, under medical supervision.The coronavirus cases trebled today. Due to the fear of the spread of the COVID-19, Georgia has declared a state of emergency. Because of the domestic transmission of the illness, quarantine has been declared in the municipalities of Marneuli and Bolnisi.By Nini Dakhundaridze
Moby knows about my not-so-nice laptop. Anyway I gave it to her [Ilona].
Good morning, Maxx !
The EU Ambassador is self-isolating ...
YOU are still having guests, be it workers or otherwise ... I'm not sure you've got the concept of 'staying at home saving lives' ..
That doesn't mean YOU stay at home and everyone comes to you ;)
I know it could be a play for sympathy but Ilona told me her husband took her kids away and took her cell phone. He wants her back.
From the people I've come in contact with everyone here is especially kind to one another. I think everyone knows it is time put down differences and realize what is important and what is not.
That happens at the beginning of a crisis. It's important for everybody, good or bad, to align themselves with somebody good. Surround yourself only with people that will NEVER do you wrong. When a crisis gets real bad, you will see true colors and you won't like what you see.
Hmm, right now, Maxx should be isolating ..not 'surrounding' himself, surely ! ?...
Isolate yes, but he still needs good people in his life to support him should he get ill and can't go out and get his own food or watch his assets should he have to sit in a hospital for a month.
My POINT ( that you seem too dense to grasp ) is meeting them now is more likely to make him ill ... Do you not understand the concept of isolation ?
Says the guy who travels telling passport control agents their masks are useless while he's standing face to face with them when a virus is running loose . People can still talk to each other at a distance or on the phone. Maxx doesn't need to search for new friends. He already has some and he needs to reinforce those friendship and get rid of the questionable people in his life. The questionable people are the type that will take Maxx's car and clean out his restaurant while he's in critical condition in the hospital.
Maxx has a network of people he can call on,
http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20196/Number-of-Coronavirus-Cases-Increases-to-75- (http://georgiatoday.ge/news/20196/Number-of-Coronavirus-Cases-Increases-to-75-)
Number of Coronavirus Cases Increases to 75
(http://georgiatoday.ge/thumb.php?w=300&h=300&render=resize&img=news%2F2020%2F03%2F25%2F31d6a45fc3338f8759cf618546a870de.jpg) (http://georgiatoday.ge/uploads/news/2020/03/25/31d6a45fc3338f8759cf618546a870de.jpg)
The total number of persons infected with coronavirus has increased to 75 in Georgia. The information has been posted on the special website created by the government, stopcov.ge.
4055 people are in quarantine and 255 are under examination in hospitals.
10 out of 75 people have recovered from COVID-19.
Having more unusual dreams during lockdown? You may not be aloneBy Press Association 2020
Life in lockdown could be causing people to have longer, more memorable and more intense or emotional dreams, an expert has said.
Increased financial pressures, cabin fever, and a lack of stimulation caused by staying at home for days on end could all result in significant changes to the dreams people are having, said Professor Mark Blagrove, a leading expert in sleep and dreaming at Swansea University’s department of psychology.
Professor Blagrove told the PA news agency: “Many people will have experienced a change in their circumstances recently, and any type of stress may be dreamt about.
“Some people will be having a life that is more boring than previously.
There’s going to be a lot of people having quite emotional dreams
Professor Mark Blagrove
“But there will be a lot of people who have more stress, possibly because they are with people who they wouldn’t spend so long with as a proportion of the day.
“It may be discomforting, it may be extremely stressful and dangerous for people in domestic violence situations.
“You then have the extra things like financial worries, employment worries, worries about your children.”
Prof Blagrove said there was a metaphorical “replication of life in dreams” which focuses on the “more emotional side”.
He said: “For a lot of people, they won’t dream about their working life because, generally, it’s not that interesting.
“But if the current situation gives people more interesting things happening, it may happen that people are dreaming more.”
. Nobody I know knows of anyone with coovid19
Yet.... I was the same until yesterday.
Georgia has been wise and locked down, swiftly.
Those who actually self isolate will stand a better chance of avoiding the first wave.
Maxx, I admire your positivity, but if McD's are open couldn't you be serving take aways?!))
Your attitude has become v.formal soviet )
I am drinking a bottle of Saperavi red wine and eating some caviar. In an hour and 20 minutes the nationwide curfew begins. From 9 PM to 6 AM if you are caught on the street you face a 3000 (almost $1000) GEL fine.
I seen Ilona today and took her to Carrefour to stock up on some food. Her Belarusian ex-husband took her children away a few days ago. She wants to see me tomorrow and hang out and watch movies together. We both need the company. We've finally figured out our relationship. I haven't seen my two daughters and granddaughter in 3 1/2 years. So that is what ii become, a father or grandfather to her. I need someone to look after and she does the same for me.
Is that what you're looking for?
Maxx,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020_coronavirus_pandemic_in_Sweden#Statistics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020_coronavirus_pandemic_in_Sweden#Statistics)
The article was written a few days ago when their death rate averaged around 15 per day. Yesterday it almost tripled to 42.
Stay home, stay safe.
Max,
I suspect take out might be part of your biz plans, so maybe a good time to work on that aspect.
Plan for two months which thus far has been the experience of most places when it comes to getting ahead of this virus.
I got a call just now from my personal residence landlord's daughter. She told me that at 9 PM tonight there is a curfew. I told her I knew this from a English language website called Georgiatoday.ge
Maxx, people our age should be in bed by 9 PM anyway.
The 79 yr old woman died .. ((
Georgia's govt has taken early action ..
Hi Maxx,
Stay safe
Oh not this SHYTE, again... what 'rattled your cage', so ?
Cluebat: S did not know about M and my test ... Blaming all and sundry won't alter SHE had already decided not to pursue the 'relationship'... She took your money and didn't want you ... *I* told you not to send it ...
My wishes as to your health were sincere ..
As a part of the State of Emergency, it will be completely forbidden to drive a car in the country from 12:00 PM of April 17 to 21 April.
Advisor to the Prime Minister Irakli Chikovani made the corresponding statement at a briefing held at the governmental administration this evening.
The restriction will enter into force tomorrow, from 12:00 PM, meaning that citizens throughout the country will be banned from driving cars during the mentioned period.
Pretty extreme measures taken considering Georgia reports a few hundred infected and only 3 people dead. Sounds like they're underreporting. How full are the hospitals in Georgia right now?
It was explained to me that the government did this because it was the Easter weekend and they wanted to discourage people from visiting their families and going to church. Makes sense.
It was explained to me that the government did this because it was the Easter weekend and they wanted to discourage people from visiting their families and going to church. Makes sense.
People here can still walk to the stores and most do not have or use cars.
Traffic Completely Banned from 17 to 21 April
(http://georgiatoday.ge/thumb.php?w=300&h=300&render=resize&img=news%2F2020%2F04%2F16%2Fff4da76922dc6433e4c3f81eb1aed6ec.jpg) (http://georgiatoday.ge/uploads/news/2020/04/16/ff4da76922dc6433e4c3f81eb1aed6ec.jpg)
As a part of the State of Emergency, it will be completely forbidden to drive a car in the country from 12:00 PM of April 17 to 21 April.
Advisor to the Prime Minister Irakli Chikovani made the corresponding statement at a briefing held at the governmental administration this evening.
The restriction will enter into force tomorrow, from 12:00 PM, meaning that citizens throughout the country will be banned from driving cars during the mentioned period.
Restrictions do not apply to the transportation of cargo and distribution vehicles. Shops, pharmacies, food delivery services, and all other permitted facilities will continue to operate as usual.
In addition, starting April 17, visiting cemeteries is also prohibited throughout the country.
Chikovani added that starting tomorrow, wearing medical face masks in closed public spaces will become mandatory.
The PM's spokesperson once again urged the population to adhere to imposed restrictions and stay at home for their own safety.
By Ana Dumbadze
There is a depression all over the land not much from the virus but from not being able to earn an income. I see no effort, except my own, in getting ready for a life after this passes, if it passes.
Maxx, small nations like Georgia does not have the means and money to fight an epidemic. If they don't prevent exponential growth of infections, deaths and lose control of the virus, more suffering may happen if the economy and government collapses. Is the government making the best decision for the nation? Who knows? But they get to make decisions and you're going to have to endure the loss of freedoms for as long as the virus is running loose. My guess is Georgia is going to be strict and ease restrictions after they observe how a large nation successfully limits the virus's spread with minimum damage to the economy and medical community. It's going to be a balancing act from here on out until a vaccine if found.
The scheduled time to allow driving again is this Wednesday 2 days from now. The lifting of the 9 PM to 6 AM curfew and other restrictions on non essential business is supposed to be May 10th. But I doubt that. They and everyone else will find case after case of coronavirus stretching off into infinity.
Are fire suppression systems required there? Range hood fires are not unusual in commercial kitchens. You should definitely consider buying a couple of dry chemical fire extinguishers.
Best wishes, lots of luck, and stay well.
Misha didn't put a hole in the sink for the faucet so we had to rig up a plastic one.
Some years back a friend contracted to have a new house built.
As final stage, landscapers came to put in yard, etc.
Only then was it discovered there were no water faucets provided on the outside of the house.
More recently, I was just walking through a house nearing completion as an electrician had invited me in.
He pointed out how refrigerator door would only open about a third of the way before it hit a counter top.
Some years back, I was in a new house where stairway to second floor would only accommodate a person with a height of about 5 foot 8 inches.
Another time I was told about a very expensive house whose entire two story structure (only framed up at the time) leaned somewhat during a strong wind. It was never corrected, so some interior walls are noticeably off plumb by up to 2 inches.
And yet in another instance, plumbers told me of case where inexperienced guy thought the purple cleaner used on PVC drainage pipe was actually the glue, so he only used it and never told anyone until after concrete was poured for basement floor (pipe was under such basement).
Announcement today. 3000 lari fine ($1000) for driving your car on the street. Second offense 6 years in prison. From it looks like the driving ban which is supposed to be lifted Tuesday might go on for a while. The Georgian government sure is good at one thing, strangling the economy.
Billy, you know the building here. Everything is concrete and cinder blocks with steel roofs and bank vault doors. No much to burn.
Sorry Maxx but what good is a business if your not around to run it or most of the customers get sick and die? People are more important than money....
At last common sense has come to Georgia. Too bad if it hasn't come to your part of the world, yet.
The plastic faucet is a temporary measure until we get a hole that needs a special tool to cut into the sink.
Hole saw is what you need. Or you can take a drill bit and drill small holes to form the size circle you need.
http://www.amazon.com/Drillpro-Hole-Drill-Stainless-Metal/dp/B06XPHQWC9?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_3 (http://www.amazon.com/Drillpro-Hole-Drill-Stainless-Metal/dp/B06XPHQWC9?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_3)
"Wearing Face Masks, Social Distancing Become Part of Our Lives"
Damn it! You want tourism to return to Georgia? And get people working and PAYING TAXES again yet you do this to restaurant owners? Do you realize how impractical this is? Who is going to come to Georgia if they can't go to restaurants because they all went out of business due to social distancing rules?
"The Gastronomy Association of Georgia has published a list of requirements for owners of food facilities for work during the COVID-19 period, developed by the National Labor Inspectorate, the National Tourism Administration and the Georgian National Food Agency.
What is required from owner[/size]s and employees of institutions:[/color]
[/size]- provide advance booking of seats (tables); (Okay, standing practice of reserving tables)[/color]
[/size]- conduct daily thermoscreening (temperature measurement) of visitors and employees of the institution; (Okay, check temperatures even though those with coviid might not show a high temperature) [/color]
[/size]- the distance between the tables in the room should be at least two meters; (Looks like I can only have one table in my restaurant instead of 5) [/color]
[/size]- the distance between visitors should be at least a meter; (That is why my sole table will have to be up against the far wall and will only seat 4 because if it was longer We'd get within 100 centimeters of visitors.) [/color]
[/size]- no more than six persons are allowed to sit at one table. The exception is members of the same family and adolescents under 12 years of age; (Yet up to ten people can be together according to the new ruling? Should we check IDs to make sure they are in the same family? Should our customers bring their birth certificates with them? )[/color]
[/size]- in order to avoid direct contact of visitors with the bar, it is necessary to provide individual customer service with drinks; (What does this mean?)[/color]
[/size]- if it is not possible to provide a distance between the tables of at least 2 meters, then it is necessary to establish temporary protective barriers; (Somebody is going to make a lot of money selling plywood and other barriers to keep people in cubes. Looks like outside seating is now illegal even with a government permit. Should we or could we put up barriers on the sidewalk for outside seating? Will we need permits for the city for these barriers? How tall are these barriers supposed to be?)[/color]
[/size]- it is necessary to use an individual reception (farewell) of visitors; (What does that entail?)[/color]
[/size]- use printed disposable menus. In the event that an electronic menu is available, then disinfectants should be nearby; (We have a bottle of disinfected on every table. I'll have it put next to the salt and pepper shaker)[/color]
[/size]- Information on measures necessary to prevent COVID-19 should be established in a conspicuous place." (Okay and I'll tell them masks cannot and do not filter out viruses and prolonged use can be harmful to respiratory health. Have you noticed how many people wear their masks below their noses? Are you going fine and put out of business restaurant owners because their cooks stop wearing masks that restrict their breathing? )[/color]
- if it is not possible to provide a distance between the tables of at least 2 meters, then it is necessary to establish temporary protective barriers;
I decided I am going to take my time in opening my restaurant.
I thought Georgia made that decision for you but if you want all the credit for making that decision, alrighty then!
What I meant by that Bill was that even if I could open, and I am supposed to be able June 8th, I am not going to. I think it is quite possible that the Georgia government might impose a lot of rules in regards to social distancing. They have already mentioned using "barriers" if the tables are closer than 2 meters.
people will be more likely to eat at your place than the other guy who cuts corners and pays the local officials to look the other way.
Since many people here like to give business advice and I listen, should the paper come out from the front as shown? Or out the back?
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49991082592_9f18340dbd_b.jpg)
I think practically it's easier to take off the back . . .
Totally wrong. Often hard to find the beginning edge if it is in the back.
Front hanging is the only way to go.
Hmm,
Are you NOW claiming Georgia is corrupt ?
That's a new opinion.
Unless you are a restauranteur and want to limit the amount of TP used by your customers. But since I want to serve unlimited amounts of Coca Cola (free refills), Mexican rice and beans (inexpensive food items) having generous amount of TP on hand rather fits doesn't?
Get your head examined. I never said Georgia was corrupt. You and other average people may walk by a building and not understand but when I looked at the photos Maxx provided that shows wiring on buildings that aren't up to code, I know the inspectors can be paid off to look the other way.
Maxx, I trained in hospitality, tourism and hotel management
Offering free refills, in poorer nations, could mean you'll have seats occupied all day and a full restaurant unable to accommodate more paying clients ..
Maxx, I trained in hospitality, tourism and hotel management
Offering free refills, in poorer nations, could mean you'll have seats occupied all day and a full restaurant unable to accommodate more paying clients ..
1/ You have never BEEN to the Rep of Georgia and haven't dealt with forming biz, getting married, taxation..
2/ Don't confuse it with Ukraine or Russia ... corruption was largely exterminated ..
3/ Officials are more about encouraging biz and not too much about enforcing standards
The only permits needed is to hook to the gas line and paint the outside of the building in the cultural heritage areas. Certain color paints et cetera. It seems anyone is allowed to do electrical or plumbing.
Zero corruption that I see or have been told about.
Then those inspectors need to do their jobs and require corrections on bad work instead of looking the other way.
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49914666778_0d2b75b533_b.jpg)
Sidewalk seating is allowed but we will have to put up "temporary barriers" to force passerbys to keep far enough away. I'll make them out of the cheapest looking material I can find. Like cardboard boxes bums sleep in.
Today my business neighbor had a guy mixing some red and white paint. I told her she needed a special permit from the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and the approved shade of paint. We went together to the place to get the permit. Our current understanding it is going to cost 500 GEL (about $160) to get the permit to paint the outside pillars of her (purple awning) place and my place (black awning). We are checking to see if we can get a price reduction seeing how little of a project it is.
I can see getting a permit to paint the whole building but $160 to paint a couple of pillars for an awning? Why would painting a couple of pillars be something that has to be reported? They get to control what color everything gets painted? It seems inspecting paint is more important than inspecting electrical wiring.
There is something called "guerrilla filmmaking". That is to quick film something on a city street without a getting a city permit. Post lookouts and shoot and scoot.
They occasionally do similar in the US. Since no building official works
on the weekend they start the job at 3pm on a Friday and they are
cleaned up and cleared out by Sunday. You can also carry rusted out
water pipe plumbing in your pickup. Look inspector there was a leak
and we had fix it. Nobody is required to get a permit to stop a leak.
Georgia in on a white list of nations considered safe by the EU.
Sadly, even if US passport holders can prove they have been there for months...They cannot travel.
There is a US sailing couple stuck in the UK.
They cannot get to use their Schengen Visa and cannot sell there US registered yacht as only a non EU or non EU citizen can sail off in the yacht...
http://www.youtu.be/53YW9rIxXZU (http://www.youtu.be/53YW9rIxXZU)
Georgia in on a white list of nations considered safe by the EU.
Sadly, even if US passport holders can prove they have been there for months...They cannot travel.
There is a US sailing couple stuck in the UK.
They cannot get to use their Schengen Visa and cannot sell there US registered yacht as only a non EU or non EU citizen can sail off in the yacht...
http://www.youtu.be/53YW9rIxXZU (http://www.youtu.be/53YW9rIxXZU)
In her words, most of the cases detected during the last 2 weeks have been imported
Mr Mistake,
Maxx is discussing Georgia.. He is not the only member on here who comes and goes there..I need to go there... and his biz will be relying on tourists ( particularly from RU and TR )
Georgia is opening up to TO tourists and Georgians can now travel to many EU destinations..
*I'm* pointing out that Maxx ( as an American) - who's in a 'safe' nation.. cannot travel to most countries and included an example of US coule in the same 'boat' ( pun intended) .. the unfairness ... but I expect you've missed that.
If you feel my post required moderator intervention there is a 'report moderator' function.
I am quite happy for a new thread to be made ... :popcorn:
lots of silly words..
Oh please please please quit slamming your fist in my faceYou've offered dick. Just another attempt of your's to rub Maxx's nose in something. Leave him alone
I offered a solution
You've offered dick. Just another attempt of your's to rub Maxx's nose in something. Leave him alone
Good luck for you with your Tinder prospects.
Everyday I get asked when will I open.
Your customers are hungry! You might do good if you open now, especially if you're opening up before your competition.
Good luck for you with your Tinder prospects.
What are your chances in getting a visa or permanent residency with the pandemic going on?
People LOVE to take selfies with my hats.
I found out why this about the 360 day rule ending. It was a letter from the South African ambassador advising its citizens to get prepared for a change in the 360 day rule.
Also Armenia next door has way lower requirements in investment thresholds than Georgia.
Georgia v Armenia ..
No contest ..
One is trying to look to the west, t'other is still VERY reliant on mother Russia for physical protection and much more corrupt
Trench proves, once again, that he has never been to this region...especially. in respect to GE.....
The Rodina sided with separatists and has handed out passports to what GE regards as occupied parts of its territory...
My chef knows how to push and get things done. Today she got really nice chairs chairs for 38.33 GEL ($12.44) a chair.
I need a business visa and she needs a worker's visa otherwise we might have to refugee to Armenia. A place she's been to and doesn't want to go again.
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50247717523_12e897f34e_b.jpg)
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50248370306_c46928dec6_k.jpg)
.
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50248372256_d5494883a4_k.jpg)
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50248373861_34f84a7c39_k.jpg)
(http://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50247724828_1069ea1d23_k.jpg)
I got a feeling my photos are too big for the page. Can they be corrected?
The photos are awesome and the food looks delicious. Thx for sharing and good luck.
Maxx what are you charging for those meals in American dollars?
The prices for most dishes is in the range of 3 to 7 dollars. We calculated the food costs and it is low. The tortilla for example is about 20 cents if made from the more expensive masa corn flour. Wheat flour less than 5 cents. Meat is the biggest expense. Guacamole is something we decided to pass on. The source of good avocados is very limited and is seasonal to just several months. And the cost is very high. Usually about $1.50 to $2 a avocado. And the avocados are quite small. Too bad as I like guacamole as does most everyone else.
Curious as to your marketing approach Maxx, printed leaflets, local newspapers, website?
Find a source for freeze-dried avocado slices. Easy to store, light to ship, reconstitute as needed without waste and spoilage.
http://guacamolepowder.com/index.html (http://guacamolepowder.com/index.html)
For me personally, it's hard to imagine Mexican food without guacamole
Your food looks nice. I would checkin for sure weekly in Batumi given the pricing and the pictures posted.
I'm hearing you. I love the stuff!
Georgia v Armenia ..
No contest ..
One is trying to look to the west, t'other is still VERY reliant on mother Russia for physical protection and much more corrupt
Y
Georgia 100k US$ real estate investment or 50k Lari yearly biz income to employ one foreigner is very steep given the sandwich position it is in. Last year they increased the requirements and I ended up missing the deadline for the much lower limits.
I still hope Georgia lowers again the requirements or some back and forth from Armenia will be possible in the post-apocalyptic future.
I don't really like those punchcards like 'buy 10 get one free' stuff, but a coupon with a freebie next visit when folks pay their bill is a nice gesture.
For me personally, it's hard to imagine Mexican food without guacamole
Although I really like guacamole it's not a dealbreaker.
Locally I often get a burrito at Burrito Amigos without guac but with sour cream.
When in California I like restaurants like this which has some great photos, consistent high ratings and still reasonable prices.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g33045-d8484672-Reviews-East_Beach_Tacos-Santa_Barbara_California.html (http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g33045-d8484672-Reviews-East_Beach_Tacos-Santa_Barbara_California.html)
Ireland is well known for it's links to Mexico .... ;)
Good to see friendly cooperation between biz'
50K in Lari as about 16K in USD. Here in Georgia they count gross revenue to be taxed. As an official "individual entrepreneur" I will pay 1% tax on every Lari that get runs through my little machine. It has been suggested to me to run my own money through this machine, accept the 1% tax and get the benefit. My employee Larissa is aware of the minimum income requirement and is motivated to get me qualified to have her get a work visa. I have my retirement income that might get me into the ballpark. What galls me is raising an income requirement when the government has devastate the economy with its restrictions. They need every tax revenue they can get!
I don't know about Maxx, but making a GE firm is a doddle and residency, thereafter
I wonder if you have checked the benefits of GE being close to the EU given tariff rates ( if at all ) One can import from China at zero tariffs on many goods
It's an excellent halfway house and more professional than AM
You'll defo need to speak RU in AM, more sub 40's folk speak EN in GE
I don't remember, Is Larissa Georgian? If not, you need twice this amount. But anyhow best thing is to look with a good lawyer who knows these things and how difficulties can be dealt with.
Yes, it used to be until mid 2019 but not any more. I also heard they got stricter with the banks.
The manager of The Cork, Zahara from the UAE wants us to serve our dishes as well.
She is South African. Last November she was doing a visa run through Sarpi on the Georgian and Turkish border 15 miles south of here. The Georgian side stopped her and did a taped recording that next time she would not be let back in unless she could show proof of trying to get residency or some sort of legalization. Then a few weeks ago her South African ambassador posted on the SA Facebook page for SAs living in Georgia that they better get their residency situation straightened out and not wait until the last minute. The Georgia government due to the lockdown of the borders has given expats with expired visas until December 31st before they need to leave the country. Did they think what is going to happen with thousands of expats needing to leave on January 1st?? Fortunately for me I did my border run March 23rd the day before they shut the border. So I've got 360 days from then or March 18th 2021 to get my house or rather business in order. That is 7 months from now. I heard business visas are judged on 6 months performance. I am cutting it close.
BTW Goldstone, welcome to the forum.
I helped two Russians open bank account with the Bank of Georgia in late 2019, without issue...
IF you are indulging in commerce and dealing with govt, English is increasingly prevalent.. Russian is the preserve of those schooled in Former Soviet times
How's that going to work Maxx? He'll put your dishes on his menu, you cook it and run it over to his restaurant? That wouldn't look good in front of the diners. The other option is to teach his cooks out to make your dishes. You're in the business of making money. Don't make more competition for yourself. Don't give away your trade secrets no matter how nice they are to you.
The bank thing is only this year being made more difficult maybe because GE agreed to joins crs in 2023.
We see no evidence of same .. ( ( pre covid ) While I was helping my Russians, we saw folks from BY and RU opening bank accounts
How's that going to work Maxx? He'll put your dishes on his menu, you cook it and run it over to his restaurant? That wouldn't look good in front of the diners. The other option is to teach his cooks out to make your dishes. You're in the business of making money. Don't make more competition for yourself. Don't give away your trade secrets no matter how nice they are to you.
Thanks :) :clapping: It is a nice forum so far without much hassle. I found it when I was searching for Batumi the other day.
SA is a tough nut as it falls into the African category which gets the strict treatment.
The bank thing is only this year being made more difficult maybe because GE agreed to joins crs in 2023.
She tried to apply for refugee status but she needed a specific case or something specific that happened to her in order to get it. The Georgian government does not want to offend the SA government. There are a lot of White SAs living here. I've have entertained and dined a number of them.
The banks are getting more strict. A few years ago, 2017 I got a Bank of Georgia bank account. Easy no problem. July 3rd this year I wanted to transfer money in USD to my landlord at his bank TBC. I was told I had to register to do so. It took 3 hours of computer checking. My passport shown of course. The final bit of scary was made to sign a U.S.A. IRS W9 form that was to be sent to the US government. I said at the point I didn't want to register. I was told it was too late as I was already entered into their system. Everything is getting more and more restrictive. I sometime wonder if the politicians will completely strangle the economy with new requirements. Covid19 really gave them an excuse to do what ever they want.
maybe GE gov is ballsdeep into pleasing about anyone and their dog or they got a lot of imf bailout money and now can do the economy what they want?
I mentioned this at an expats' diner and it really got a response. We worry the Georgian government is too eager to please the EU. On the Georgian website GeorgiaToday.ge they talk about all the IMF, World Bank et cetera money they are getting to ride out the China virus covid19 crisis. Strings attached of course. As Bible says, "The debtor is the lender's slave."
I mentioned this at an expats' diner and it really got a response. We worry the Georgian government is too eager to please the EU. On the Georgian website GeorgiaToday.ge they talk about all the IMF, World Bank et cetera money they are getting to ride out the China virus covid19 crisis. Strings attached of course. As Bible says, "The debtor is the lender's slave."
Good points.
any news on the restaurant front?
Foreigners Seeking to Work from Georgia Must Earn at Least $ 2,000 Per Month
(http://georgiatoday.ge/thumb.php?w=300&h=300&render=resize&img=news%2F2020%2F08%2F26%2F4d2014c0b88fbd6d3888147fdf8d3ed8.jpg) (http://georgiatoday.ge/uploads/news/2020/08/26/4d2014c0b88fbd6d3888147fdf8d3ed8.jpg)
After the Georgian government’s authorization, foreigners aspiring to work from Georgia will be officially qualified to fill out an electronic form.
The mandate was signed by the Economy Minister Natia Turnava and Foreign Minister Davit Zalkaliani, giving foreigners an opportunity to work distantly from Georgia. Permission will be granted to foreign citizens from the Ministries of Economy and Foreign Affairs.
While filling out the forms, the foreigner should upload the following documents in English:[/list]The application is to be reviewed within 10 working days.
- A copy of passport;Personal information (name, surname, personal number, address);Contact details of the foreign employer;Information about the job position and income that should be at least $2,000 per month;Consent to enter mandatory 12-day quarantine as well as consent to undergo PCR testing at their own expense;Mandatory health insurance, valid for at least six months.
http://georgiatoday.ge/news/22189/Foreigners-Seeking-to-Work-from-Georgia-must-be-Waged-at-Least-%24-2%2C000-Per-Month
The monthly gross income of Georgia is $403. An expat or a prospective expat wanting to work in Georgia... and pay taxes must earn 5 times as much.
Saw your comment, in the journal, Maxx
Added sometime along the lines of, " Are you [ govt. proposal ] mad ?" ;)
http://georgiatoday.ge/news/22189/Foreigners-Seeking-to-Work-from-Georgia-must-be-Waged-at-Least-%24-2%2C000-Per-Month
The monthly gross income of Georgia is $403. An expat or a prospective expat wanting to work in Georgia... and pay taxes must earn 5 times as much.
That's the thing about living in foreign countries. Rules can change often and life gets more difficult. I like the stability of the USA. Maxx, as long as you pay taxes on $2000 a month, they really don't care if you're making $2000 a month.
I got a new business partner, Larissa.
At this exact moment I am getting the rental agreement printed with the revision of adding her name on it.
What is the contingency plan if somebody wants to quit the business? Get something in writing so that your partner can't dissolve the business when quitting. She or you shouldn't be able to demand your share of the assets and must allow the other partner to pay off the partner who wants to leave over a few years for their share. Also, you supplied the money and Larissa supplies labor and connections so you will need to define what her value is to the business. If you both can't agree what is fair, somebody is going to be disgruntled.
This Wednesday Larissa, her friend Coree and I are going to Tbilisi by train 2nd class. Round trip for three people about $50. We are going to check out the competition. No Mexican restaurants in Batumi, but a few in Tbilisi. Before then we are going to check in with the Department of Revenue. Try to get a tax ID number. It is required by Glovo delivery "service".
Larissa is frankly anti-American and despises me. She said to me "You are a typical American." It was not meant as a compliment. Friday, it is likely, I will give her final pay and ask her to turn in her key. "A house divided cannot stand."
Do I want to legally bind myself to a woman that makes me wonder every morning what kind of mood will she be in? I know it is not wise to post here details about that. Today is her day off. I am relieved.
Or is it some informal type of agreement to work together and see how the project goes?
Think things through and get legal advice when in doubt. Such can get messy very quickly.
I would simply ask about her moods, let her know it affects you and the business negatively and if there is anything you can do to help.
She said she wanted security in case something happened to me.
I agree 4-square with what billyb has said here. You can use help, but not a partner.
Maxx, I wouldn't make anybody a business partner unless they bring a lot of money into my business or I've known them for many years to the point they have proven themselves to be trustworthy, hard working, and mentally stable.
Maxx . . . stick with just paying employees.
You've now had two women you deemed unstable involved in your business. Find another partner, one you can trust if you are ill, or away, or whatever. If Larissa assumed she is going to be a partner, you are going to have to get rid of her.+1 Yeah...You don't just 'fire' a partner--It is more like going through a messy divorce and the business would suffer.
I agree 4-square with what billyb has said here. You can use help, but not a partner.
Fathertime!
Maxx, Maxx, Maxx..
You are getting lots of advice, but what scares me is did you sign a rental agreement with L's name on it?.....
Did you sign anything else, together?
The quote in bold, NO.
I seen my lawyer Khatuna today. The one Larissa pissed off. She read the rental agreement and laughed. Not only was it poorly translated by Google translate but in the rush it had three different start dates, March 5, August 15 and September 3rd. This document could not be introduced into court.
About the Larissa situation.
I got her to drop all intentions of being my business partner. And I got her to drop all unpleasantness. The past two days have been quite civil. She understands we got to make this business work for both of us.
she looked for another job. A nanny for a three year old Georgian boy.
She can brag to the boy she almost made it big in the restaurant industry but chose to raise him instead.
Maxx,
1/ that you found L on TINDER is a bit of a giveaway, surely?
Can a copy of the key to your restaurant be made? You may want to consider changing the locks.
In a breakup she tried to squeeze another 20 Lari out of you and erase the chalk board. If you want to see how ugly people can get, break up with them. At least she didn't go and tear the restaurant up. I think she knew you had a romantic interest in her because she told you that you deserve to die alone. She's probably hoping you go and chase her and beg her to be by your side. When it comes to business, prevent the little head from making any decisions.
Can a copy of the key to your restaurant be made? You may want to consider changing the locks.
I think she had breast implants as they didn't have any sag. She made it very, very clear she had no interest in me. And I knew a relationship with her would be a pure nightmare.
She then went to the door and turned and said, "You are a capricious person and cruel!"
I said,
I'll bet any ladies reading this are laughing their heads off...
Three pieces of advice
1. When dealing with a break up in either business or romance is
to not respond to an obvious verbal attack, just walk them to the
door and close it behind them.
2. Don't mix romance and business
3. To only take on partners when you really need them.
If she has no romantic interest in you, how did you see her breasts? Did you have a "friends with benefits" arraignment?
Flights to Georgia are on hold until May 22nd. At least half the businesses on my block are closed down. Everyone is hanging on by their fingernails.
A 6 month hold on flights??? Is the government helping businesses and people who are out of a job?
Flights to Georgia are on hold until May 22nd. At least half the businesses on my block are closed down. Everyone is hanging on by their fingernails.
http://www.georgianjournal.ge/business/36504-air-traffic-to-be-halted-until-may-22-gcaa-says.html (http://www.georgianjournal.ge/business/36504-air-traffic-to-be-halted-until-may-22-gcaa-says.html)
I am still in the set-up mode. Doing my covid-19 self distancing stickers, photographing the menu items and waiting for sane times to return.
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Saturday the big parliamentary elections were held. The predominate party, "The Georgia Dream" held their power with 48% of the vote. Their main challenger the United Nationalists and the party of Saakachvili in exile in Ukraine got 27%. People are screaming voter fraud. Most of the expats here were for the United Nationalists. ALL Americans to the man and woman are pulling for Trump. Even most other expats of various nationalities and Georgians and the Turks are pulling for Trump. I had a woman from the UAE tell me for the first time her family in various parts of the Middle East are safe. They are all pulling for a Trump win.
Got a new worker. At last a good worker who shows up on time. Teaching her to make tomato puree. The stuff in the can is actually less expensive but is has a funky chemical taste of preservatives.
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10 kilos of tomatoes @ $9.25. Should cook down to 5 kilos of puree.
So are you actually open for business yet, or??
Great photos.
Flights to Georgia are on hold until May 22nd. At least half the businesses on my block are closed down. Everyone is hanging on by their fingernails.
http://www.georgianjournal.ge/business/36504-air-traffic-to-be-halted-until-may-22-gcaa-says.html (http://www.georgianjournal.ge/business/36504-air-traffic-to-be-halted-until-may-22-gcaa-says.html)
So I am perfecting this place. I've found out that Georgian men love to take selfies with hats and replica guns. So I got some of those on order from Amazon and Ebay.
Great idea to give your place some character and provide customers with memories. Hopefully customs doesn't confiscate your replicas.
The world as lost its mind I am afraid.
..and what would you suggest ? Have you attended an A&E dept ( ER ) room, recently ?
MANY nations are beyond coping and if you are 60+ you are not a priority .. I don't think you want Georgia to be in that state.
It's the less crapier option, until vaccine rollouts
Why not start a competitor to the big three Restaurant delivery services ?
I have docs as friends. There is none of this actually happening.
Great idea to give your place some character and provide customers with memories. Hopefully customs doesn't confiscate your replicas.
Those are good looking replicas. Got a way to mount them on the wall so they aren't easily stolen?
A while ago I did a check of the 2019 annual deaths here in Georgia. It was 46,659 of a population of 3.7 million people. In trying to use these numbers to put the reaction to covid into perspective it is quite easy to look callous and cruel.
I don't think a lot of governments are honest with the numbers. Reporting bad numbers is political suicide so why do it.
Maxx
Last week hospitals in Tbilisi were at full stretch and folks on trolleys or waiting in Ambulances for houre to be seen .
THAT is why what you deem 'unfair' is happening.
The govt is trying to stop COVID-19 rendering the health service unable to cope..
Just had Georgian for the first time this weekend at Skalka in Seattle. Maybe BillyB knows it?
Went to Georgian restaurant in Odesa years ago.
Biggest rip off ever in terms of high price, small amount of food, and not good tasting.
Maxx,
Since you're starting out, keep the menu simple. Just a few items, and do them well! (Just my 2 cents)
-hbomb
Looks good Maxx!
Good luck with the opening!
Mexican pizza
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I like the idea of your restaurant having a picture menu of all the dishes with hot women smiling behind them.
Looks great . If it wprks you can open a branch in my area, somehow Mexican food has not made it yet to the South Netherlands.
"Face masks to fight CV19 don’t work.
Maxx,
Food looks great! Wish you luck opening during Covid.
Since you're starting out, keep the menu simple. Just a few items, and do them well! (Just my 2 cents)
-hbomb
We are shooting for opening next week.
Dave-
FWIW. in the lower corner of your menu, where it said 'TEX MEX', then a small caption below reads 'Authentic Mexican Food'... Georgians likely wouldn't know it, much less make a big deal of it. BUT it's an *oxymoron*.
It can't be authentic if it's partly Texas-influenced. You know what I mean, bruh? That would be akin to a Haitian travelling in Europe and telling everyone he's African-American and no one doubts him. Especially Italians. They believe everything they're told.
Since your menu is heavy on 'beef', best just calling the establishment simply, TEX MEX. That's according to Twisted Taco.
Maxx, I say hats off to you, both for your fortitude and perseverance.
Monday is also Memorial Day Maxx. A good day for Ol' Glory
Looking good Maxx.
Is the dark haired girl in the background the Indian student?
Good luck, hope all goes well.
That is Payal. She is an Indian medical student. A sweet, sweet girl. Her father is a medical doctor and she is following in the family tradition. In two years she will be practicing medicine in India.
Good luck on your first day of business and Happy Birthday Maxx!!!!
You are a decent and honest man Max.If I go to Batumi, which could perfectly happen in the future, I will let you know to invite you to some restaurant.
Hope the best for your future.
Maxx-
Going forward, I hope you will always have better days ahead.
See, even our government have a tough time trying to figure out the right way to do things.
Max, only people who would do nothing can have regret. You had the courage to try. Thumbs up. You are courageous.
I hope the same for you.
The good thing about what I did was I got meet a lot of interesting people. All my friends are people I met because of the business. I will set it up as a hobby and invite people over. Maybe a turkey dinner with all the fixings now and then?
Some of the expats are dying to eat Western food.
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A turkey I cooked.
A few years before I met you GQ I had gotten divorced from my American wife. Since I was a Jehovah's Witness (now no more) going into the FSU to look for a wife was a bad, bad idea. I lacked sophistication when it comes to women. The same could be said at starting a business at age 68 in a foreign country.
I have had few phone calls with BC. A nice, nice guy! He said I shouldn't beat myself up too much. He said a lot of restaurants at these covid times have gone out of business. I have heard the restaurants in California have been decimated. Not making an excuses but these are extraordinary times to be in business.
I was one of the ones (or should have been) who advised against this way back when.
I take no pleasure in being right.
Hope the best for your future.
I did for sure advise that those Americans who think they can go retire to some other country will be seriously in trouble with respect to health care . . . at some future point with 100% certainty.
All such will HAVE to return to USA permanently at some point.
And if they have not enrolled in a Supplemental Health care plan (in addition to Medicare) and a Supplemental prescription when first eligible . . . their premiums for such will be increased by 1% for every month they delay enrolling.
All of this gets quite expensive for those who like the idea of getting (or trying to get) pussy that can't be obtained in USA.
The US owes me monies for my SS and Medicare and you bet I'm taking advantage of that, too!!"