CASE STUDY:Buying a bar [Archive] - Page 2 - Resource for Opening a Bar, Opening a Nightclub, Managing a Bar, Managing a Nightclub

allanjustallan

12-19-2007, 09:43 PM

Jeesh Oxrock, Thanks you make me feel my journey over the last 3.5 years has been worth documenting. If only I had thought to document my 4 years of otr driving a big truck, what a story that would have made.

Good Luck macaws49, I hope you visit this site from time to time. Believe it or not from an average of a fight or two a night we are really way way down.

Thanks for youir input Longshot1, smiles.

A group of paranormal investigators came into the bar this Saturday, they detected some interesting paranormal stuff, am not really into this myself but they got really excited while watching what turned up on my cameras.

They are prosecuting the guy who hit me at the base of my neck, I have to say he is a pro at his bad deeds, whenever its cold at night my neck hurts me to the point of waking me up with tears rolling down my cheeks. I am guessing this is going to be with me for the rest of my life, but at least have the satisfaction of knowing that Local police have assured me they will keep on his case cause he is a danger to our community.

Speaking of local police while these out of town deputies are not as close as my residents were they are still very nice to me and my customers, that makes my stress level a whole lot lower.

Looking forward to New Years, unfortunately bmi wants me to pay for any bands that I may want to use, and reading threads from this forum I have the feeling that its going to be better to simply not do bands from now on. I gave them my word that if I hired a band I would pay them, simply not sure that its going to be worth it for the additional stress that I get,

Allan.

walawdog

12-27-2007, 07:33 PM

I look forward to reading about your adventures in the bar business. Seeing how you haven't posted in a few days, I am hoping you are alright.

JP0724

01-02-2008, 01:31 AM

Wow I have spent a ton of time reading your journey and I can't say what a huge help it's been. I feel like I have learned so much. I am buying an established neighborhood bar, and all of this info is coming in really handy.

Thanks,
Johnny

allanjustallan

01-02-2008, 09:30 PM

TY Johnny, its been an incredible journey for me as well.

4 New Years eves without any major problems, who would have guessed.

Unlike many bar owners I prefer it when the police are nearby the bar, it keeps problem people away and makes my life that much easier.

Last night I had to deal with an 18 year old, He came in, my bartender told him to leave and so did I, Of course I got the f.u.c.k. you routine and you think you are tough speach, and call the police I dont care routine. Anyway he left when another customer who he is related to walked him out. By then my bartender had called 911, police arrived hour later just after he left from outside the bar. Police left and of course he came back into the bar half an hour later, shouting where is Allan. I went up to him, wrapped him and got him outside where other friends of his took him away. I hate to touch anyone, even the gentle touch I put on him but there was zero choice this time.

My issue is simple, People who are underage or 86ed for violence tend to try to enter the bar when I am not here at night, so they are forcing me to either be here every night or simply close. Am not sure what to do but will try being here every night and see if I am up to it. If not these very few people are going to force me to close some nights, another loss to this community that already has so few entertainment choices.

Its going to be another 4 months before we get resident deputies I just cant wait for the good old days when response time was under two minutes every day of the week.

I hope everyone has a Happy New year in 08, and are in a position to weather the comming slowdown in the economy, this is a perfect time to reduce debt and put money away, my opinion anyway,

Allan.

allanjustallan

01-03-2008, 02:28 AM

Damn, thats all I can say, building relationships with people hurts so much sometimes. Two really good Deputies, Men who I worked closely with and who helped me so much to make this community and my bar a much nicer place to be. They both shared certain traits that I can relate to, but being catholic and an ex altar boy I could never entertain ending it by my hand. We are here to endure in the hard times and enjoy the good times that happen with family and friends. Thats part of life.

I just feel so sad about this.

Deputy commits suicide
By GLENDA ANDERSON
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

A Mendocino County corrections deputy shot and killed himself Wednesday afternoon as three fellow officers entered his Ukiah apartment to check on his well being, authorities said.

Erik Gore shot himself as officers entered his apartment on Waugh Lane. It is the second suicide of a Mendocino County deputy in less than a year.

Officials became aware there was a problem when Gore failed to show up Wednesday for his early morning shift at the jail, Allman said.

Allman said he received a phone call at about 1 a.m.

Deputies went to Gore’s home and he told them he was not going to work, he said.

Later in the day, an off-duty officer tried unsuccessfully to get the man to answer his door.

Ukiah Police were called to the scene at about 1:15 p.m., said Ukiah Police Chief Chris Dewey.

Officers obtained a key and entered the apartment at about 1:25 p.m., he said.

Before they could check the entire apartment, they heard a shot, Dewey said.

They could not determine whether the shot was fired at them or someone else, so they left the apartment and called for assistance, he said.

Officers from multiple agencies surrounded the apartment building and evacuated nearby residents.

The Sonoma County bomb robot was sent in to search the apartment and determined there was no one in the apartment other than the deceased at about 3:45 p.m.

The dead man had, until early last year worked in Covelo with Deputy Brett White, who shot and killed himself at his Covelo home in February 2007.

White was not working and was in the process of being discharged from the force at that time.

Wednesday’s shooting victim had taken a voluntary agreed to work as a corrections deputy following disciplinary action linked to Covelo, Allman said.

He said there is no reason for him to believe the two suicides or the incidents in Covelo were related.

Wednesday’s victim had been an exemplary corrections deputy since taking the job in April, Allman said.

“It was an absolute surprise,” he said.

“Our prayers are with the family,” Allman said.

walawdog

01-03-2008, 03:00 PM

That's such a shame that anyone can get so sad or lonely that they would choose to end their own life. I am sorry to hear about this deputy. I am glad, however, to hear that you are doing well and that NYE went off OK. One question though, are your other employees not kicking the underaged kids out of the bar when you are not there? If not, why don't you fire them?

allanjustallan

01-03-2008, 10:13 PM

My underage problem is really very small, The word is out that we dont tolerate anyone under 21, some still try but they are swiftly kicked out.
Its just that they tend to try more often whenever they see my car is gone.

I let a bouncer go because he allowed a minor to walk in, but my bartender did in fact kick the minor out.

Minors getting into the bar is not a real issue anymore, the real problem when I am not here are the violent individuals that have already been 86ed and when they see my car is not outside in they come. Another issue is people sometimes hanging around nearby, many underage, waiting to vandalise someones car or hurt someone. Whenever I am here I make a point of walking outside often, whenever I see a known problamatic individual I usually call trible or the local deputies and give them a heads up. The third issue is that I prevent a fight or conflict at least once a shift on average, and when I am not here these conflicts tend to degenerate into something more serious which means more 911 calls.

I have a hard time relaxing at home when the bar is open at night, no down time for Allan makes me a tired boy sometimes.

I guess I am just a little frustrated that I cant reduce trouble to near zero. It seems there is always some teen growing older who wants to make a name of themselves at my and our community expense. Plus people released from prison who remember the buckhorn of the old days, a place to come and pick a fight with a built in audiance.

I guess I should really take the point of view that crime will always be with us, we simply have to do the best we can to minimize it by working closely with local police and getting to know who the known problematic people are.

My constant worry is that someday the local police will deem my efforts not worthy enough and close us down, which I know for a fact they could chose to do any time they want to. I had posted in the past that at a class ABC gives the lady giving the class made the comment that closing down ANY bar was like shooting fish in a barrel. No one is 100% perfect every day, they simply have to camp out at any bar and they will indeed find some violation in due time. Looking over bars that had been closed by ABC it was fairly clear that the majority of time a complaint by local police about the bar was the triggering event.

I just increased my bartenders pay to 10$ an hour. I was going to increase my charitable giving, but my bartenders are the ones who should be rewarded because they are the ones who provide the service that makes this bar a nice place to be. I have been able to do this despite not increasing my prices for almost 4 years, we really do give good value for a bar.

This pay increase along with tips means my bartenders are heads and shoulders above what any business in Covelo pays.

Allan.

walawdog

01-04-2008, 06:37 PM

Not knowing much about the reservation and the surrounding community, isn't there any way to have the tribe or family members crack down on these people? From your posts it seems that people like your bar and consider it a great asset to the community. Don't they realize that you may be forced to close due to their stupidity? Can the community not step up to police their own? If they don't, and you are forced to close (let's pray that doesn't happen) then I bet they will be the first to complain about it and wonder why nothing was done to prevent it. I don't remember if there are cameras and lights OUTSIDE of your bar?

allanjustallan

01-05-2008, 01:46 AM

Misbehavior is an equal opportunity situation walawdog.

80% of my customers are Native American, yet problems from Indians is less than 50%. I often have to rescue idiotic visitors from urban areas who have little common sense. Heck just recently I was accused by a white lady that I am biased against whites, lol. Jeesh cant hardly win can I. However I am in fact slightly biased in favour of my locals, and why not I have gotten to know and like them over the past 3 plus years and more than a few times they have saved my ass.

I have grown to really appreciate and enjoy my Native American customers, they are a spirited boisterous and life loving group, and they are certainly not afraid to duke it out with anyone that challenges them in a negative manner. There is a closeness in this community thats unmatched in my opinion because so many people are family.

The downside to almost everyone here being family is that when family members do something they should not the ranks close as in any family.

This means while its really easy to find out who did what its not easy to find a whitness to testify. The police almost always find out who did the crime, then they wait patiently until a particular individual slips up and throw the book at them. I heard one of the locals that was implicated in the bar robbery was recently arrested, the rumour was she was arrested because of a bar robbery at the buckhorn.

Thats the other positive about this valley, there are few secrets here, people simply love to gossip, smiles.

I have installed outside lights and cameras, and in fact when the weather improves I am going to install another 8 cameras outside, yes this whole block is going to be on video.

I guess I should really be happy that serious crime is indeed way down, and not worry about the little things that always happen when one owns a bar,

Allan.

BARTENDER 54

01-07-2008, 12:11 AM

Alan,
Although I don't think I've taken the extensive time to read all of your perils, I have read quite a bunch. Being from the great state of Nebr., we have share of Native American Settlements (REZ's). And apparently a lot stricter Liquor Laws, each time law enforcement is called to your establishment it is listed as either a Combatant which is not a good thing for you and your license, too many of these, I've been told by different guys that its 3-6 times, and you need to find another line of work because your not in the bar business any more. When your license comes up for renewal you will be denied. Or a Non-Combatant which is a little more than "why did let them do that?" type of thing. But in your case, with all the crap that has taken place, I'm very surprised that your still in business let alone still alive. Even if the local law knows that your trying to clean it up, I would think that after almost 4 years that you should have a handle on it. You mentioned that you get the guys fresh out of incarceration, they do have communication with the outside, I'm sure they are aware that there is a "new sheriff in town" and not to mess with you.
Oh and in Nebr., any trouble on the Rez, has to be handled by the Tribal Police, a white cop can not arrest an Indian on the Rez.
They are cracking down on drinking on the Rez too, in one town the only Liquor store burned down and the Tribal Council would not allow it to be re-built. And if you want a good read Google Whiteclay, Ne., they have been battling the the problems there for a while. And this just the Indians coming across the line from So. Dakota, (they don't sell booze on that Rez either, see the correlation?) so much for putting the pinch on drunk drivers.
When you're the only dog in a town on the Rez, I guess you just have to take all the bad with all the $$good$$.
Anyway, best of luck to ya,
Rick

allanjustallan

01-07-2008, 03:14 AM

The bar is all this town has at night,

Its way better than its ever been, just the average of a conflict each shift that I work really has worn me down a bit, but no comparison with how it was when I first bought the bar,

Allan.

BARTENDER 54

01-07-2008, 10:31 AM

Alan,
OK, so what your are saying is that by you (this is gonna sound really bad but it is with the best of intentions) booze on the Rez, which COULD be pointless, and having a fight or conflict, as you put it, per shift. You MAKE IT SOUND like you're doing the community a service by being there. As I said previously, if you were here, you would have been shut down long ago. I've been here for over 11 yrs and I've had 3 little skirmishes that lasted about 30 seconds each, one was as stupid as who put the next quarters up for pool. Ya know, this is supposed to be a business where people want to go out and have a good time without having to worry about getting hit in the back of the head buy a beer mug or some reasonable facsimile. And maybe not hangout at a place that has more security features that Fort Knox.
Ya know if you are having problems with those that just get out of jail, are you calling the law when they come in or just trying to kick them out?? If you are not calling the law then do so, I believe Cal. has the same parole and probation laws as most other states. THEY CANNOT BE IN A BAR If you have problems with someone who will not leave, ask them nicely a couple of times to leave, if they don't advise them that they are on private property and they are not welcome and that you calling the law and they will be arrested for trespassing. As for your car getting dinged up, go and buy yourself a '58 Rambler, that way if if gets dinged who cares.
As for the problems when your not there, with unwanted guests, you may want to inform your door people and bartenders that is their job and if they want to keep their job they should learn how to use the phone. Oh and you may want to put a small no trespassing sign on the kick panel on the front of the bar, that way you have it posted.

Good luck Bud,
Rick

Not that it really matters, but you are white.... right?

walawdog

01-07-2008, 04:56 PM

Hey there. I understand what you are saying about having problems with more people than just the locals. I was under the impression, however, that the under age kids that were causing problems were locals.

Trance_matt074

01-09-2008, 04:03 AM

allanjustallan

01-10-2008, 07:20 PM

The problems I have these days is fairly small in comparison to what I had to deal with in the past. I think I was just a little overtired and comming down with the flu, always tends to make me see the glass as half empty rather than half full.

As a matter of fact I can go weeks without any problems, then there is a flurry. I should clarify that I consider any situation where my stomach knots up as a fight or conflict situation, but outright fights are now way down. Virtually none existent in the bar itself.

Three fights in 11 years BARTENDER 54, You are a better bar owner than me by a long shot, I think you may be right up there with the very best. If you would like to share your customer demographics and your customer policies then perhaps you could help other bar owners to achieve your near perfection. BTW the Buckhorn is not on the Rez,

Allan.

BARTENDER 54

01-10-2008, 08:11 PM

Alan,
I'm glad to hear things are going into shape for ya, I was really wondering how one could keep going under such chaos. The fact that I'm 6'7" and around 280# and that before I opened 90% of the people in town knew me helped a hell of a lot. It's sorta cute in a way, you'll hear someone start to get a little "cranky", ya look over in that direction and they quiet right down. There's a general knowledge that you don't raise hell in "my place" and that in its self "my place" is enough said. You are welcome any time as my guest but don't piss off the dog.
As far as me saying you were on the Rez, I thought somewhere through the archives I read that. If I misread or miss understood I'm sorry, or maybe I just assumed and you what that does to ya.

Best of luck,
Rick

walawdog

01-24-2008, 03:10 PM

I hope it's been quiet for you in the last 2 weeks at your bar. No new problems?

allanjustallan

01-25-2008, 01:41 AM

Its been fairly quiet walawdog.

A guy got axed while sleeping in his car nearby, as far as I can tell its not bar related as I did check my cameras to see if anyone met the description of the assailant, and the victim was not in the bar, simply sleeping outside the place where he worked.

A few other incidents as usual but really nothing to write about.

When something worth writing about happens, as I am sure it will I will post here.

I have been at the bar almost every single night now, it really has made a difference.

Allan.

walawdog

01-25-2008, 06:28 PM

I am glad to hear everything is OK. Post some pictures some time, that would be great.

So, some guy got axe murdered in his car while he slept? Wow, that is a rough town.

owneroper

01-26-2008, 04:25 AM

"axed" you mean really axed, hell I thought you meant axed from the bar, wow you hang with some tuff cookies

allanjustallan

01-27-2008, 07:43 PM

I think the guy will survive his unplanned and unwelcome wake up call with an axe.

Usually deputies new to this beat respect me at some level after a period of time because they find out just how challenging this beautiful valley can be at times owneroper. But please don't get the wrong impression from a very few malcontent individuals.

The police know who did it, now they have to prove it. The suspect is sitting in jail on a probation hold while they figure out how to move forward. I am 100% certain that neither person was in the bar that night.

I let a guy back in who had started a near riot shortly after I opened my bar, within 3 minutes he got into it with someone and I immediately kicked him out again. He came back the next day and got very belligerent with me. I suspect if I get popped again its going to be him.

Anyway the main lesson I keep relearning is keep violent people out and don't let them back in, period.

I just installed another 4 outside cameras with another four to go, they are clear even in the dark. Lorex system bought thru Costco for the savings.

Still having to deal with Minors. For example last night was a blowout night, really busy happy crowd, zero problems but just across the street were a few minors drinking. A deputy came into the bar with two empty bottles, he was upset thinking we had sold them, but we don't even carry that brand then he changed tack when confronted with this fact and said minors hanging around outside the bar was not okay. He is right its not okay but what can I do about it?

Back to working 12 to 15 hours a day, Don't become a bar owner if you don't enjoy a whole lot of work,

Allan.

Evil Dewars

02-06-2008, 02:25 AM

Allan, I just wanted to post and say that it has been very fun and informative to read this thread. We just started out on our own venture last May and there seem to be many similarities to yours... I came from a completely different background than the bar business, we are in a small town in a tourist (i.e. seasonal) area, we have a large Native American population in the area whom we have a great respect for, etc.

I do have quite a few friends in the business and I have been picking their brains for years, and I would recommend that anyone looking to get into this industry make a few friends that know what they are about... and ask for advice as often as possible.

Anyhow, I just wanted to say that your adventures in business were, have been, and continue to be, an inspiration to us. Thanks you for that and keep fighting the good fight.

Slainte, Keith

walawdog

02-07-2008, 01:22 PM

That sounds typical of a cop to immediately blame you for the problem. If the cop says minors outside your bar are a problem, then I think he and his pals need to take care of the problem, you have enough to worry about inside the bar....you have no liability or obligation to do their job.

allanjustallan

02-08-2008, 02:15 AM

Thanks Evil Dewars,

I can say for sure it has not been a boring endeavour I wish you the very best at this tough business.

I don't want to give the impression walawdog that I am blaming the cops.
He simply got frustrated, which I have also felt from time to time. Hes a really good deputy, calm, easy going and likable. Seeing what they have to put up with its not a job I would want.

I really don't even blame the minors either, there is simply nothing for them to do in this very rural community, but they place the only adult place to meet and mingle in public at risk. Its not a huge problem, its only a relatively few minors and usually after a while of unwelcome attention from the police they get the message and play elsewhere.

Now that my cameras cover the entire block many of the problem people have been smart enough to stay away. Just this morning at 4.30am two people broke into a car parked on my block, my cameras caught them in the act, got their get away car and in fact this being a small town we also have the names of the male and female suspects. I expect they are going to be getting a visit from the police very soon.

I got rid of my problematic light setup, kept the trusty mirror ball. The way to go is led lighting. This is what I installed.

http://www.djdepot.com/chauvet-elan-led-effect-light-p-1556.html
http://www.djdepot.com/chauvet-vue-iii-led-moonflower-effect-p-1446.html
http://www.djdepot.com/chauvet-vue-ii-led-lighting-effect-p-1447.html

Allan.

walawdog

02-08-2008, 12:52 PM

Sorry, sometimes the police bug the crap out of me with their attitudes towards anyone who isn't a cop. I am sure it's an insanely difficult job, but so is your job. Cops need to be more sympathetic sometimes. By the way, have you ever posted any photos of your place? I am sure that the entire community would be interesting in seeing pictures. I am sure every one of us who read this thread have a mental image of what your place looks like, but it would be nice to see the real thing.

theo

02-22-2008, 06:04 PM

Allan thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us.

I have been in the restaurant biz since I was 13. I have done every job from busboy to dish washer to server to manager. I have been bartending since my 21st birthday 12 years ago.

I am getting ready to take the plunge and start my own bar. I am in
Glendale (Los Angeles suburb) and plan on a neighbohood British pub.

I have investors lined up and now just want to learn as much as possible.

Alan you have no idea how helpful you posts have been. I really have enjoyed reading them all and feel that I know you. I plan to drive up and visit your bar this summer. Would love to pick your brain some.

Thanks and I look forward to more posts from you.

Theo

Trance_matt074

03-14-2008, 03:20 PM

walawdog

03-19-2008, 05:42 PM

I think many need to learn that lesson.

allanjustallan

04-03-2008, 03:47 AM

Its been really very quite this past month,

No serious problems.

My accountant now does all my paperwork, pays my taxes, goes online once a month to download my business info, writes checks for any taxes that I owe and does payroll all for 150 a month. If anyone wants contact details let me know he is good and reasonable.

TY Theo but I feel the lions share of thanks must go to all the people who have been so generous with their advice here and at my bar. The police have also been very helpful beyond belief.

walawdog I have been really lucky so far, I have generally had very good interactions with a large number of different deputies I could not imagine running this bar without their active help.

Bad news, I heard thru the grapevine that the two new resident deputies quit, I really hope its untrue cause its been a challenge knowing that help is an hour away.

There was an incident in Covelo few weeks ago, Once again Zero involvement with the Lucky Bucky.
http://www.willitsnews.com/ci_8704161

Easter stabbing in Covelo
By Linda Williams/TWN Staff Writer
Article Launched: 03/26/2008 10:46:34 AM PDT

A 46-year-old man was stabbed several times in the head, neck and leg Easter Sunday afternoon in Covelo. The stab wounds were not considered life-threatening.

The victim was initially aided by members of the Covelo Volunteer Fire Department then taken by ambulance to Frank R. Howard Memorial Hospital for treatment, according to Mendocino County sheriff's reports.

The wounded man told deputies Britton Leonard Azbill Jr., 26, of Covelo stabbed him. Deputies located Azbill in a Tabor Lane residence that night and arrested him. According to deputies, when arrested Azbill had a folding knife matching the description of the knife used in the assault.

Azbill was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon with bail set at $250,000.

I was told they were both hanging around the gas station drinking in public then got into a dispute. My point is that people who tend to get into fights have mostly migrated elsewhere, some to the gas station.

I was too sick to attend but heard that someone complained at the monthly Sheriffs meeting about minors getting access to alcohol. The bar was singled out. I heard that the Sheriff himself said I ran a tight ship, but they did send a deputy to relay the info. Its a joke this complaint, in my opinion, I mean I hardly do any offsale business till after 9pm, you should see how many people hang around the gas station. The police do a good job of running off minors who hang around on my block, the last few times deputies have come into the bar with bottles of booze that they had confiscated from minors we knew for a fact it did not come from here, brands we do not carry.

I am looking forward to talking to whoever made the complaint, and am very interested in knowing who it was, which I will find out shortly.

My suspicion is its related to my efforts to clean up this bar, certain people hate me to the extreme cause a number of their family members have ended up in jail or prison as a direct result of anti-social behavior that was caught by my cameras and/or the fact that I have a policy of telling the police whenever someone does something really bad on this block.

Tomorrow I get to install a one terabye harddrive, going to be a whole lot harder to point the finger unfairly when I have months and months of video.

To see pics simply search allanjustallan@yahoo.com on the myspace website.

Allan.

allanjustallan

04-10-2008, 03:49 AM

This is what my day was like last Friday, for those who are thinking about becomming a bar owner I have a feeling its more or less typical.

Got to bed 3am Friday, woke up midday, Showered made some fresh juice then out the door to the bar by 1pm. Helped the bartender clean and stock, interacted with a few customers then back home by 7.30 to relax, get a bite to eat and shower and change of clothes.

Back at the bar by 9pm and I could tell right away it was going to be very busy, lots of people this early is not usual for us. Worked solid for a few hours helping my bartender serve drinks, while also keeping an eye on the door as people came and went.

My bouncer did not show, being this busy ment my stress level was fairly high, multi-tasking helping the bartender serve while we both also watched the door.

An individual who I 86ed for violence peecked into the bar and motioned me outside. He thought it was unfair because he had never attacked or threatened me in the past. I managed to calm him down and pointed out that he could still purchase offsale, but not before he made what I took to be a threat against me, fortunately he left more or less happy that I had givin the respect he needed.

Had to run outside a few times when I saw people walking out with alcohol, then one guy walked out with a beer in his hand, right into the deputy outside. Deputy was cool, poured beer out and told him to get a ride home or he was going to jail. After about 15 minutes I offered to give him a ride, but he did not want to go, finally got him into the car when the deputy walked up to him and suggested he go home and come back next day.

Two female minors were hanging around outside the bar, and whenever they saw the deputies leave the area they would walk back across nearby the bar. I tried telling them to please leave or I would be forced to ask the deputies to move them on.

Finally had to flag down the deputies, they agreed to talk to the ladies but I guess they got another call cause off they went. Decided the person I had asked to watch the door for pay was not doing a good enough job, paid him for one hours work and took the door myself to prevent people walking outside with alcohol. At this point called police dispatch, explained my problem with the two minors and gave their names. About 10 minutes later someone known to them pulled up and within seconds the ladies were walking away for good. I am guessing someone heard the call on their scanner.

I felt good that no one got into trouble. Deputies arrived shortly thereafter and parked nearby. I always like it when they are around especially when we are really busy.

Got everyone out before 1.50am and got to bed by 3.30am.

Few points that stick in my mind, A detective with Sonoma county, friend of Steve who owns the tire shop across the street shook my hand and congratulated me, said his son who is 24 and forgot his I.D. had been denied service, he thought this was the right way to run a bar. I know his son is of age but this happened while I was at home. This guy spent the whole night here, and has been here before so I was pleased to get this compliment.

We also had one of our best nights ever, and this is still supposed to be our slow season. I know its connected to the reduction in violence. It made me feel really good when once again a few people shook my hand and said they now felt safe enough to enjoy the bar. Got the same message from Bill Baker, the fire Chief, he thanked me for my recent donation and said they were really happy with the lack of calls to the bar.

Almost every group was here that night and they all got along really well.

A black guy who knows I was born and raised in Africa also shook my hand, said I put a nice face on the bar and thanked me for running the bar the way I do.

One final thought, make sure you keep up with taxes when it comes to increased business, my tax guy said I underpaid by 14,600, and thats not counting this months sales tax or estimated tax, so have to come up with something in the order of 30,000 more or less by the 15th of this month, at least thats what I estimate its going to be.

Also spoke to two people who had bought to go alcohol for minors, told them they would be 86ed if they did it again, neither of the two comes into the bar very often. I will do everything in my power to try and stop underage drinking, the last thing I want is minors hanging around the bar looking to get alcohol, its one of the reasons I often ask police to please move them on.

I still think this bar is held to a different higher standard than any other business in this town that sells offsale alcohol, after all most of our business in onsale, all of their business is offsale. When ABC tried to get local business here to sell to a minor we all passed without a problem, it was when the minor tried to buy alcohol in broad daylight that he had zero problems filling up police cars with adults obliging the unknown minor from out of town, I really dont think it took more than an hour before the police were out of room and had to stop their test,

Allan.

walawdog

04-14-2008, 12:33 PM

It seems you are wearing too many hats....how long can you keep it up?

allanjustallan

04-19-2008, 04:20 PM

My poor car got kicked again, big guy wanted me to sell off sale 3 minutes after 2am, threw a fit now my passenger window only opens halfway, guess its better the car got it than me.

walawdog you have a point, but I really don't know any small business owner that does not wear many hats and they all seem to work 60 plus hours a week.

Potential bar owners should know what they are getting into before they take the plunge, the benefits are many but the costs are really very high. Personal relationships are really hard to maintain and I don't know any healthy bar owners.

Take yesterday for example, got to the bar at 11am more or less, reviewed security cams with deputy on assault that took place after the bar was closed, identified the two assailants, burnt to dvd so the legal system can take its course. Worked for hours trying to fix my internal computer based security system, finally succeeded. Had to help my bartender cause she was simply swamped. Fixed a leak in the sink and got my brother to repair the hot water heater that went down.

Went home to take fresh shower and change of clothes around about 9.30pm then straight back to work. I am really sick with the flu, can hardly breath right now so took a double shot of peppermint schnapps which helped. Had a big happy crowd of people so thought no harm, mistake cause then I had a few more doubles, little while later this is what happened.

Checked my outside security system, saw one of the guys who was involved in the day before s violence, he was getting into it with the owner of the pickup truck parked in the alleyway next to the bar. They had put the tailgate down and were sitting on it. One person in the group was sitting in the owners truck, talking on the phone and refused to get out.

The person involved in the previous nights violence confronted me, and because I have seen it so many hundreds of times in the past 3.5 years I recognized the fighting stance as he came closer so that he could attack me. I think I can kick this guys ass but it did not come to that, his friend who I later found out was the second guy involved in previous nights assault stopped him. I went back into the bar, checked the outside cams and decided it did not look good.

I thought the police were not in town last night, then decided to call them anyway, dialed the number on my Qberry was just about to push call button when the friend approached me, asked me to please not call the cops.

For me it was a simple situation, the last thing I want is to have people hauled off to jail, its a last resort when everything else fails besides my assumption was the police were at least one hour away. I told him k, but he had to get rid of his friend right away. Minute later they were gone along with a number of other people.

Next problem was the owner of the truck, still irate and somewhat belligerent, you know I understood his point, but being from out of town he had little idea just how out of control the situation could and would get if he did not stop mouthing off in a loud and offensive manner. I stopped about three people inside the bar from attacking him, got him outside with his friend to make sure no one attacked him while he was leaving. That darn mouth of his, a crowd started to gather and it was all I could do to calm people down, fortunately a guy helped me to keep people calm. Just then the police arrived, they had been in town after all.

The peace maker was almost arrested, I told the deputies he was helping me to calm the situation, that worked in his favor, I told the deputies what had happened, they asked me why I did not call, when I told them it was close to closing and I thought they were not in town I was not believed, JEESH.

This is kinda gross but true, My high blood pressure kicked in, started bleeding from a hemorrhoid which I got from 4 years of otr driving. There I was, talking to the deputies feeling the blood running down my legs while trying to communicate exactly why I did what I had done to resolve conflict, Surreal is what I was thinking, something out of the twilight zone.

Got everyone out before 2am.

I thought it was a good evening for the most part, no one got hurt, no one went to jail.

I sometimes think it would be better for me to sell this bar, buy Boomers in Laytonville which is for sale right now. After what I have had to deal with here I believe there is no bar in America that I could not handle.

Am posting pics and video to myspace just search allanjustallan@yahoo.com to find me,

Allan.

walawdog

04-21-2008, 01:49 PM

Well, considering how you've increased the profits at your current bar, I would hope that you could find an interested buyer. By the way, I tried to look you up on Myspace and couldn't find you. What's your screen name there?

rootsreality

04-21-2008, 02:43 PM

I opened my bar a couple of months ago. It was an established location in a small farming community but it had been closed down for a couple of years. Before it was closed, the place had deteriorated to a little hell hole with a reputation as a "tweakers bar". I knew I needed to change that.

I revamped the interior replacing everything except the bar top and the dice cups. It now has a sophisticated yet comfortable feel.

Before we opened I started frequenting other bars in the area. I talked to the owners and heard some of their 'war stories'. I would watch the characters and try to assess the good guys from the bad. I also spread the word that my place would be opening soon and tried to build some anticipation.

When we first reopened all the local druggies reappeared. I had to be tough and let them know that my place was not going to be there hang out. I kept a close eye on things and was on site from opening until close every day for the first month. The fact that I wasn't bartending at all helped a lot. My primary role was to ensure that the customers were there for the right reasons and that they were properly attended to.

At first the local police were a big problem. They assumed that the place was the old bar reincarnated. They would circle the block like vultures and follow my customers without cause. I tried to talk to the officers and get them to walk through just to see the changes I had made but they refused to get out of their patrol vehicles.

It got to where the more desirable customers expressed fear of coming to my place because of the police. They thought the cops would target them for DUI. Something had to change quick.

I wrote a letter to the chief of police telling them of the changes I was hoping to make in the place and asking for their support. The assistant chief called me and suggested a face-to-face meeting. He wanted me to come to their station. I insisted that the meeting take place at the bar. That was one of the best decisions I have made in getting the place opened. The assistant chief was impressed with the place and the crime prevention measures I had taken. He communicated this to his officers.

Now we have a good repoire. I have only had two incidents needing their assistance in 3 months and they were very cooperative in both instances. you really need them on your side. Cultivate a relationship with the local authorities!

allanjustallan

04-21-2008, 04:11 PM

Here is myspace http://www.myspace.com/allanjustallan or while logged into myspace do an email search allanjustallan@yahoo.com

I spoke with Sergeant Shannon Barney next day, told him how well everything was going generally and some points where everyone involved in reducing violence at or near the bar could improve. He agreed with some of the points I made and gave me some valid constructive criticism regarding what I could do better, which I accepted, heck we can always improve how well we do our job.

You know Shannon really loves this valley and in my opinion is a major Law enforcement asset. He is the very epitome of community policing and knows who all the players are in this small community. He is also someone that I really like and respect.

That very night Sergent Davis made a point of coming into the bar and talking to me, he mentioned a conversation with Shannon and said to call him if there were any law enforcement issues at night, and gave me the names of two other people for any issues that may occur during daylight. It was a very very positive development, because night is when I have my major problems and here was the night supervisor reaching out to me.

Communication with mid level law enforcement has been problematic ever since our resident deputies left, I feel my communication with deputies is fairly good, my relationship with Sheriff Tom Allman and Lieutenant Ron Welsh is solid.

You can see why I was so happy to see Sergent Davis reach out to me in a positive manner, the mid level supervisors are the people who implement policy, giving deputies direction I really need them on my side if my vision for the Buckhorn is to become reality.

Talking about relationships, my locals come to my defense at the slightest hint of threat to me, I have been gratified to see some of the most potentially dangerous individuals spring into action on my behalf, and one look or word from these individuals quickly changes the minds of potential aggressors.

The feedback about posting videos on the web has met with a negative response from my customers, its a small town they don't want the chance that anything they do here could be construed in a negative manner.

Someone from the public School approached me regarding a donation, the money would go towards rewarding students who did well at school. Only gave 500 but it all helps and goes towards something I really believe in, namely Education,

Allan.

walawdog

04-21-2008, 04:46 PM

Thanks Allan for posting the link to your myspace page. I checked out the photos and the setting for where you live is fantastic. Also, it was nice to finally see some pictures of the bar. Strangely enough, the front half of your bar is almost exactly as I pictured it in my mind. Whatever you decide to do, I wish you luck.

allanjustallan

04-29-2008, 02:17 AM

You are very welcome walawdog, as a matter of fact my pics really don't do justice to the beauty of this place. I am going to post more really soon.

Past Thursday was something else once again, guy who I 86ed and who promised to behave because it was his birthday and he wanted to spend time with family and friends, did not work out that way at all. He attacked a group of 4 guys, which I and a very capable Tribal deputy helped to stop. Tribal guy drove him home, he then got his wife to drive him back, and attacked an innocent guy who just happened to stop at that moment across the street from the bar. Combat Carl took the first hit with the baseball bat, then retaliated with his own nun chucks which he was fortunate to have carried in his own defense. I helped stop that situation as well, but felt naked with two guys both armed with deadly weapons while all I had was my moral authority.

Guy got three or four punches from each of the 4 guys, plus 5 stitches from the nun chucks, I really think he got lucky as a matter of fact, those 4 guys once they got attacked were intent to hurt him, plus being nun chucked could have been really deadly. Also my cameras showed he was the aggressor, If the innocent guy who he attacked with a baseball bat had not known how to defend himself he would be sitting in jail right now facing felony charges. As a matter of fact if anyone had been badly hurt or chosen to press charges he would be in real trouble.

Am going to save this incident and try to load it to myspace or youtube, will let you know once I get it right.

On a positive note, Sergeant Davis gave me his cell, also thanked me for keeping him in the loop. I take a whole lot of chances trying to keep people safe here, its good to know that Mendo Pd is interested in helping me keep this bar safe and interested in my safety.

Not boring, thats a fact,

Allan.

walawdog

04-29-2008, 11:26 AM

Allan, it seems to me that you need to get some pepper spray and maybe a stun gun, or perhaps one of those beanbag guns. It's only too bad that guy you are talking about isn't going to jail for a long time. Perhaps while he was in there, he could reflect upon his decision to attack 4 guys at once. What an idiot....and what about the moron who decided to drive him back to your bar. It seems you have a lot of possible Darwin award winners living in your community.

allanjustallan

04-30-2008, 01:25 AM

I mentioned pepper spray to a couple of deputies, I have to say I really felt vulnerable with the guy and his baseball bat walawdog.

They did not seem very enthused about the idea, I was hurt as a matter of fact, got a few punches not really aimed at me, but being in the middle thats how it works.

Check out utube for first installment, more to come.

http://www.youtube.com/user/allanjustallan

BTW this guy is really a good guy, just should not drink in public period, and while I own this bar he is not ever, ever going to be allowed back here.

Allan.

allanjustallan

04-30-2008, 03:20 AM

Ten minutes later,

http://www.youtube.com/profile_videos?user=allanjustallan

Allan.

walawdog

04-30-2008, 02:20 PM

Well, I am not sure I would care if the deputy was thrilled about my idea to get at least some pepper spray. It seems they are never around when you actually need them. Your own protection is more important.

allanjustallan

04-30-2008, 11:07 PM

I have excellent relations with the deputies, walawdog, Right now everything is going really well with my locals, the local police and indeed everyone else.

As I have said before I get negative whenever I am really sick or tired, now with the power of the video everyone can see just how challenging this job can be from time to time. I intend to post some really interesting videos in the future, keep tuned.

Economics 101, if someone is making a decent profit then there is a good reason why, in my case its certainly not the cost to get into business, its the real risk to personal safety that keeps locals from engaging in this business. I said this a long time ago, this business was for sale almost six months and every local said no way you are crazy to buy it. The local casino has wisely decided not to offer alcohol, as a matter of fact I kinda wish they would, it would take a whole lot of pressure off me.

They also said, You are going to get hurt, well they were right about that, you are not going to make any money, well they were wrong about that, the police will close you down because the locals don't know how to behave, well so far they are also wrong about that as well.

My locals for the most part have responded positively to my realistic standards of conduct.

If you cant get along with your local customer base, your local police and various other assorted regulatory bodies then this is the wrong business to be in, believe me, its a real real challenge to make everyone somewhat happy.

Of course I believe in this simple fact, if you are making everyone happy then you are being s.c.r.e.w.ed, smiles. Simple fact, in my opinion, if you can keep 60% or more happy with you then you are doing a good job, after all, humans are a cantankerous bunch,

Allan.

allanjustallan

04-30-2008, 11:29 PM

Forgot to mention,

Probation department called me, said the guy who broke into the bar was going to get 5 years and 8 months. I also found out the guy who got axed while sleeping is also going to pay, you know people who think our local police are out of the loop should think twice.

Allan.

rootsreality

04-30-2008, 11:55 PM

Hey Allen

I can still see snow from down here in the valley. Is the back road to you (162) open yet? I am starting to feel the need for a long drive. I might head up that way soon.

psychomagnit

05-10-2008, 06:20 AM

Thanks for the wonderful Buckhorn Diary. It has taken me the better part of a week to read it all, yes all.

You have repeatedly stated that others here provide more useful info than you do...don't sell yourself short. Your thread provides so much useful info on the day to day challenges and rewards a bar owner faces. This is a real service.

In the coming months I will be opening a bar in Central Florida. Thankfully, I will not see near the action you do! But I have learned valuable leasons on how to deal with them when they do arise. You have also taught the value of building a relationship with law enforcement. And thanks to you, video camera manufacturers will be getting my money (I'm certain they appreciate this). :-)

In short, please continue to keep up the posts. I find myself needing to read the latest installment of "As The Buckhorn Turns." lol

Les

allanjustallan

05-14-2008, 09:38 PM

I hear 162 is open, but not yet safe for two wheel drive cars rootsreality, its got to be one of the most beautiful drives anywhere in this world, and I should know .

I estimate the snow will melt in the next few weeks, perfect.

TY psychomagnit, I really hope your hard work will result in your personal success.

About two weeks ago I hear thru my trusty grapevine that someone pulled a gun on someone else, threatened to kill him. My new female bouncer asked me what were we going to do if the guy who pulled the gun came into the bar, I said nothing, its our well known policy that if it happens outside the bar or off this block then its not our business. You know that sounds kinda cold, but I cant cure the world, simple truth, my hands are full keeping my small space safe.

Less than ten minutes later gun guy comes into the bar, asks for off sale and then out the door he goes. Could you imagine what might have happened if someone on my staff or myself had gratuitously confronted him while his adrenaline was high.

I am telling you, every single one of my employees are good, really good. I am happy to say that I am once again in the position to raise their pay, to 12$ an hour, this along with their tips means that these mostly single hard working mothers are now enjoying a decent standard of living. They are making double even triple what most business are paying here, as a result they are fiercely loyal to me, don't even try to bad mouth me to them, they will cut you off short, smiles.

You should see how worried they were when I was really sick recently, really very sweet and touching.

This past weekend was the anniversary of the stabbing at the rodeo grounds, Sargent Davis and deputy's Demarco and Tobin were on duty. Instead of having the dance at the Rodeo grounds they had them at the North Fort, a wise choice. My locals, as they came into the bar asked me if everything was good, I said yes the county let me have three bouncers tonight to ensure no trouble, lol.

These deputies are really good, make people feel relaxed and rapidly chased away underage individuals. The down side to last years violence is that my gross was way down, most of the rodeo crowd did their thing then left town.

I have a feeling that the Deputies were really happy with that night, I know for a fact that everyone that attended the dance had a happy violence free evening,

Allan.

allanjustallan

05-22-2008, 11:45 PM

I wish everyone a really good Memorial day weekend,

Last Friday was something else, 4 potential fights, one guy wanted to kill another guy so bad but I was there to stand in his way, he told me later that if it was anyone other than me he would have taken them out.

Well I got the bruises to prove it, and he was not even trying to hurt me. Saturday was a joy, Sunday a female accused another female of trying to hit on her man, in my own words the other female said what that xxxxx guy you got to be kidding me, fight was on, the whole bar helped to stop it, but not before I was knocked around a few times, heck both of those females are really strong, no kidding.

Right now my neck hurts, both arms, both legs and one foot, laughs, heck its just one of the prices I pay to run this place, smiles.

Am close to getting a video posted about this wonderful bar, its the way this bar is 99.9 percent of the time, Cheers bar is not even close thats how cool this place is most of the time,

Covelo is a wonderful place to live, no doubt about it,

Allan.

rootsreality

05-25-2008, 04:40 PM

Allen

The $12 per hour you are paying sounds really good. Do you have any openings?

From what I have seen most places pay minimum wage and let the tips speak for how well the employee is doing. I tell my bartenders that how much they make is totally within their control. The more they smile and conversere with customers the better their tips will be. The good service brings in repeat business as well as new customers. They also need to cross sell and upsell to grow the gross sales and therefore improve their tips. I don't plan on raising their hourly pay.

That being said, I recently let one grouchy bartender go and brought in a new very personable gal. Besides being cute, she is great on upsell techniques. My sales on her nights have gone up 75% over the previous staffer and the number of drinks served has also improved. I should have dumped the other bartender a lot sooner!

Do your bartenders get the normal 15% or 20% in tips? That could theoretically double their pay.

allanjustallan

06-25-2008, 04:59 AM

Right now my house is under threat of being burnt by wildfire, last night I rounded up about 15 customers from the bar and we spent most of the night cutting brush and trees around my house to make a firebreak.

Shannon came around about 30 minutes after we arrived, said we had to leave, I foolishly asked him if he was going to arrest me due to the mandatory evacuation order, he simply smiled at me, I told him I had tons of people helping me try to save my house, and gave my word I would indeed leave soon.

You know its one of the reasons I really like this guy, he is flexible, a good character trait in a county deputy. We did the job that had to be done if there was any hope of saving my house if the fire did indeed reach me, then left around about 6am. He knows I always try to keep my word, and I was very grateful that he gave me the leeway. Anyway the very capable fire guys are determined to make a stand on the ridge above my house, so I can only hope that they are successful.

Right now I am staying at the bar, and can only hope that my house will survive the 90 plus fires that are currently active in our county.

I 86ed 8 people in the immediate week since I last posted, along with another four people in the next week, that seemed to work because problems at the bar have been minimal since then. One customer I was really reluctant to 86, he is a hard working nice guy who is very generous, he spends about 8000 dollars a year, but changed his driving habits, he used to be dropped off by family, then when he was ready to leave I called and they would pick him up. His habits changed few months ago, he started to drive himself to the bar, and after convincing him to let me get others to drive him home three times I got the picture that he no longer was a passenger, and would get himself and me and perhaps some innocent person in trouble due to dui and accident in a huge amount of trouble.

Anyway I think it was the right thing to do.

rootsreality I have no openings. My bartenders are really happy with the pay I give, and I really appreciate the wonderful job they do for this bar.

I was really sick few months ago, thought I was going to die as a matter of fact, went up to my apple orchard and had time to think, decided that money was no longer my major motivating factor. My accountant told me that my profit margin has been compromised, but don't really care, I feel really good about the fact that I am able to provide a few people a decent standard of living.

I have been telling my locals that the game of scare the tourist has got to stop, to their credit not a single tourist has been hurt, but this is not funny to me at all. Tourists are for the most part wonderful guests, they leave a lot of money and then go home. Talking about tourists, the last time this county had a gas price spike, back in 79 I believe tourism dried up, I have a feeling that we may be headed for a similar situation, this county really depends on tourist dollars and many business failed in that time period.

Allan.

allanjustallan

07-04-2008, 01:51 AM

http://www.youtube.com/user/allanjustallan

Due to this incident I have been forced to hire a full time bouncer, a big guy who is not scared of anyone. Its going to cost me an additional 20,000 plus. This added expense along with the huge increase in pay for my bartenders has really put a dent in my profits.

You know I have played by the book, these people are 86ed, have restraining orders against them from me, yet still appear to attack people with impunity at my bar. 4 attacks in nine months, from the same people. I sometimes wonder why I am so honest with my taxes, JEESH, where is my protection from Mendocino County? I always thought if someone violated a restraining order that meant automatic jail, appears not cause I have these guys on video and no arrests so far. I do however have faith that as in the past they will have to answer to their crimes.

Not that I am complaining about the fine job Mendocino deputies have and continue to do for me, its simply that due to a shortage of police officers and budget constraints they are only here on average 2 times a week. Help is one hour away and by that time the malcontents are long gone. I am going to have to meet with the Deputy DA for this area, and try to make him understand just how important it is that violent individuals are prosecuted to the full extent of the law when they attack people in public.

I have not raised prices in the past 4 years, yet my cost of alcohol has increased by about 25 percent. This has forced me to raise prices by 25 cents a drink. My prices are still very modest by most bars standards, but the 25 cents only pays for the full time bouncer, not the increase in inflation.

My profits for the first 4 months of the year have been zero, am hoping that as in past years my business picks up during harvest season. Fortunately am not losing money just yet.

Allan.

allanjustallan

07-07-2008, 02:22 PM

My profits took a huge hit due to the unexpected tax bill in April, so its not as bad as I first thought. Was still a shock to realize that I worked hard for zero profit during that time frame.

My full time bouncer is really working out, business continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace and violence continues on its downtrend.

Did not lose my house to fire for which I am really grateful to those firefighting guys, they did a really magnificent job stopping the flames before they reached anyones house in my area,

Allan.

allanjustallan

07-11-2008, 02:58 AM

Got burglarized, same people who have been assaulting me and my customers.

I think this whole thing is coming to a head, I really tried to reason with these people, its not acceptable to assault people, especially in a public place. They just don't get it or just don't care. I really wonder what happened to the 3 strikes and you are done law. So very many people have been victims of this very small group of family members.

The police submit their case, I really think its up to the D.A. to take this seriously, I have spoken to the deputies, its not on them at all, they know exactly what the deal is, its the criminal justice system letting them down.

They thought this female had informed on them, about the break in, incorrectly, they beat her to the point that she woke up at home with blood coming out of her mouth, and cut her neck with a knife. She is lucky to be alive, but does not believe in talking to law enforcement.

Got them on camera exchanging my quarters at the bank, I have a feeling that finally something is going to be done about this, at least I really hope so.

Shannon has assured me that they will do something about this group.

I asked him how long this has been going on, he said at least 16 years, JEESH. They really HATE me, but I am simply a small business owner trying to keep customers safe while running a legitimate business, I think its only a matter of time before they try to hurt me again.

The movie guys showed their movie shot in Covelo tonight, it was a huge hit, a ton of people all having a great time and we did good business in what is our slow time.

Still hanging is there,

Allan.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=allanjustallan&search_type=

Michael Black

07-11-2008, 04:21 AM

Geez, my hats off to you for putting up with everything here and then some. You deserve a greater reward for your efforts. I'm sure your next bar on the beach will be far easier and profitable:)

allanjustallan

07-16-2008, 11:48 PM

TY Michael,

Place on the beach sounds nice. Believe it or not I still think this is a very special place to live, minus a very few malcontents. I heard they are talking about burning me out and shooting me, thats so ridiculous. The amount of heat that would generate would surely get them all put in prison for the rest of their lives.

The total cost of the burglary was about 2000, so my giving to the community is done for the rest of the year. I try to give about 5000 each year, have given about 3000 this year and the burglary took care of the rest. There is a real cost to crime and due to the extra cost of a full time bouncer when the police are not around I may not be able to give anything next year.

Had to say no to an appeal for funds from a coach for the kids in high school, plus funds to help adult athletics here in the valley, but for me its funds in funds out, was really hard however cause I would have said yes in a second before the burglary.

Keiths the local foodstore got hit few nights before I did, different group, they got caught. Its the customers who pay when costs go up for small business owners.

In addition I will probably have to raises prices again next year, there is a price to pay that we all share when criminal elements in our society are allowed to have free reign.

Allan.

Havensloft

07-23-2008, 04:59 AM

Keep us posted OK?

allanjustallan

07-26-2008, 01:36 AM

TY Havensloft.

Thursday two weeks ago was something else, also something interesting. Three people ran into the bar for safety, after getting into it with others across the street. After a while and with reinforcements the others came into the bar and attacked them. It was a female thing, got some great video but foolishly promised not to post it.

Fortunately it did not turn worse than it could have. Had to 86 6 people, its been quite since then.

I did something really risky however, one female who the crowd wanted really bad walked out of the bar, around the corner, with the crowd baying for her blood I ran after her and somehow managed to get her back into the bar without any further injury. Very tricky, 12 to 15 really angry females, fortunately they did not turn their anger on me.

Tribal police arrived first, kept things cool till mendocino deputies and california highway patrol could arrive. You know I think Covelos tribal police do a really great job, anyway they have always been there for me.

I closed on the request of the tribal deputies, I always try to follow logic and it was logical to me to honor their request. As usual paid a high price, business was slow for the next ten days as word spread in this small community. The irony was it had nothing to do with the bar at all.

Few of the people who had been dogging the bar and our community have now been taken care of by the very capable mendocino deputies, so its finally thankfully started to be quite again.

You know its taken me 4 years but I have finally figured out that this job is really very challenging, probably the reason why no one locally wanted to buy it when it was for sale,

Allan.

allanjustallan

07-28-2008, 02:11 AM

As usual,

When I am feeling most negative things turn around. This past Friday and Saturday were great, very busy and Zero problems.

My vision for this bar has remained constant, good people from different backgrounds having a great time, I got that well needed boost this past weekend, makes me feel all the risks and hundreds of confrontations changing the way people behave is worth it.

I really still have a lot of faith in the basic nature of people, raise the bar on acceptable behavior and most people will rise to that level.

Allan.

allanjustallan

08-28-2008, 01:16 AM

Its been fairly quite at the bar this past month, no real problems.

Couple of minors with fake ids, why anyone would sell or make fake ids for minors is beyond me, its so risky, just like selling or providing alcohol to minors, it makes one very responsible.

These guys seemed to take a very active interest in me, one guy was hiding with his shirt over his head, the other one took off his shirt the second he saw me from across the road. http://www.youtube.com/user/allanjustallan

Took another plunge in the real estate market, picked up two houses on a double city lot, offered at 335 they accepted 150. I have a feeling the drop in prices is going to cause a whole lot of pain, I just hope is does not cause a drop off in business.

Allan.

allanjustallan

09-22-2008, 03:26 AM

Still so very mellow here,

Waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Only small drama was this situation. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRHCMV-kemo

I stopped it within few seconds. Sore loser at pool.

Looking forward to Halloween, going to have two parties, fri and Saturday.

This has become a huge event here, hope it goes well well for the 4th time in a row,

Allan.

ne9balldan

10-15-2008, 10:48 AM

allenjustallen

I've read all your postings. You are amazing. We are buying a bar in W. Springfield, Ma. and your stuff has been very helpful.Please keep posting, because I learn something every time I read.

Dan

allanjustallan

10-19-2008, 06:54 PM

TY Dan,

This site is really something else, so many knowledgeable people who give us their valuable time to help us.

Its been fairly quite so not much to talk about. I still need to put together something about policies and procedures that I can give to new bartenders.

Hmmmm, since I hiked pay bartender turnover has gone way down, but now they are tending to work less hours. Cant say I don't understand they work to live not live to work. The upside to this is that I can have more bartenders working less shifts, this enables me to have a greater pool of workers to cover whenever a bartender cant work.

This real estate depression has indeed affected my business, as I suspected it would, but with harvest coming in I am finally getting an end of year surge.

You know looking at my numbers I think I work nine months out of the year paying taxes, suppliers, employees etc. In my opinion ones business should gross at least 250 to 300,000 to make it financially worthwhile.

Couple more videos http://www.youtube.com/user/allanjustallan

Allan

allanjustallan

11-04-2008, 11:47 PM

Halloween was a great success, and although we did a third less business Saturday is was worth having two Halloween parties.

I am starting to think that paying 40% over minimum wage may not have been a good idea. Caught bartenders on camera serving themselves and also walking out the door with my alcohol, JEESH, cant hardly win, my intention was to make working here so appealing that I could count on total commitment and honesty, guess not.

I am probably one of the most optimistic people around, but starting about two years ago I turned cautious.

I watched incredulously as people bought tiny houses for over 200,000, houses that five years before sold for 40 to 60,000. With peak oil having arrived, combined with the ongoing drop in real estate prices one does not have to a genius to figure out that a whole lot more pain is going to have to be endured before this whole mess works itself out. The investment banks sold trillions of toxic mortgage paper to the rest of the word, hampering their ability to keep their own economies going. My guess is 50/50 worldwide depression if the valiant efforts by the fed fail, 100% that we are now in a really nasty recession.

Am battening down the hatches and intend to weather this financial storm, hope everyone else is doing the same. The upside to this financial turbulence of course is that many competitors are going to be weeded out, creating opportunity to expand market share,

Allan.

RandyC

11-12-2008, 01:12 AM

I'm looking at buying a bar and was wondering if anyone out there can tell me approximately what they're percent of overall gross sales of the following average:

Cost of Labor %

Cost of Liquor %

Cost of Beer %

Cost of Other Drink Essentials %

Cost of Overhead %

Cost of Advertising %

And whatever else you think may be important. Thanks!

allanjustallan

11-14-2008, 01:56 AM

I feel so foolish,

Paying way above minimum wage turned out to be a mistake, have reduced wages to 10$ an hour.

For anyone that reads this I strongly suggest getting a monthly p/l statement, if I had done that it would have shown major issues way back in January. Am probably due for an IRS audit cause the numbers are way off due to theft.

My gross sales are way down, yet my costs for goods for sale are way up. Took me a minute to see the discrepancy. 150,000 goods for sale v 240,000 in sales thru September means huge giveaways, takeaways of my alcohol and outright theft of moneys received. I don't even want to say what my net profit is year to date its so embarrassing.

Spending an hour each day reviewing the camera is money in the bank as far as I am concerned, it catches theft even faster than the p/l statement.

Another hard lesson learned, wish I had caught it sooner,

Allan.

Havensloft

11-14-2008, 10:42 AM

I don't have cameras in place yet due to the fact tht I bought a system online and it cost me $450, it is usless and now I can't return it as that is their policy. We are a small bar and just coming around to our first month. We didn't make enough to cover all the bills yet. so the cameras will have to wait. I work behind the bar or sit near the cash register so I can see what is going on. Sometimes the bartenders are not charging enough for the drinks. I am going to go buy some posi pours to stop the overpouring. They use the wrong glasses and charge the same for a regular drink as a tall drink! I am going crazy telling them each time what they need to do and how to price drinks. They practically give away my top shelf! I am glad to hear that your haloween party went well. I have a thread as well with my saga from looking to purchasing a bar. Good luck.

allanjustallan

11-17-2008, 04:00 AM

Cameras are a must, Havensloft.

Go to Costco and get a system, between 1000 and 1200 dollars. I have three different camera systems and don't know how I could have run this bar without them. As a matter of fact I am interested in getting more, something with higher definition.

He said she said goes away when the camera shows exactly what happened, in this day and age there is really no real excuse for not being able to document exactly what went down.

Just tonight had to kick out two 300 plus pound guys, scaring away my customers. One of them said he would not kick my ass cause of the cameras.

Also heard of a violent attack against a guy around the corner from the bar not even one hour ago, not bar related but still the guy was attacked for no reason. Did not report it cause although I found out the name of the attacker the guy did not want to press charges.

These random unprovoked attacks are really hurting my business. Of course I intend to tell the deputies about it, they always gets these violent guys sooner or later, usually sooner.

A young guy broke my window outside the bar for no reason, he got caught and arrested.

http://www.youtube.com/user/allanjustallan

The driver of one of my hard alcohol distributors said he is down 200 cases a week, plus three bars on his run have closed down. Have been reading your blog here and wish you the very best,

Allan.

walawdog

11-18-2008, 06:28 PM

Looks like you had a good crowd on the video. Plus the decorations looked good.....great job.

rootsreality

11-18-2008, 09:10 PM

Allan

$10 per hour is still an above average wage for California bartenders. Why not minimum wage of $8 and let them rely on tips? Oh yeah, they will offer "free" drinks in exchange for a big tip. I guess we can't win!

Did you get rid of the ones that were serving themselves and stocking their home bar on you?? How many out of work bartenders do you have up on that mountain top??

I check our liquor usage against sales every month as part of our inventory process. It has helped me to identify an overpouring issue a couple of months back. I wish I could go through the inventory/usage reporting more often but everything here is manual and it is too time consuming. At least I have a benchmark to measure against and target margins too.

Thanks
Barbara

scott1988

11-18-2008, 10:23 PM

Havensloft

11-19-2008, 09:09 AM

Allan,
I'll sell my house and come move to your bar for $12 an hour. Even $10 an hour. And...I'll be trustworthy and honest. Shoot, that kind of money is good even for your neck of the woods. I can't imagine that they can't pull in $150 + in a long shift. With the hourly wage and tips, they should be able to bring in $60,000 to $75,000 per year. Not bad for working 40 - 50 hours a week and nights I might add.

Haven,
Why haven't you used your cameras yet? Is there something wrong with them? If you're watching your employees charging the wrong prices for drinks and overpouring with your own eyes, a camera won't change that. Posi pours are a nice idea but, they'll find a way around them as well. Start looking for the pourers to be broken off inside the bottle. Plus, they can "double tip" the bottle if they want. If they're going to overpour while you're watching, posi pours won't stop them. A good firin' will though.

Man Allan, you put up with a lot of sh*t. Sheeshz.

Scott, the cameras I bought are useless. I bought them online and they sent motherboards to be installed into a computer hard drive and I don't know if that will work after all is said and done. I understand about the bartenders still overpouring with posi pours but perhaps it will let them learn to eyeball what a shot is. I watch and then when no one is listening I tell them what they need to do, charge, or whatever it is that I see is wrong.

allanjustallan

11-29-2008, 08:37 AM

TY walawdog,

My bartenders love to decorate, I let them and everyone enjoys the results.

My customers are really so very nice 99% of the time, sometimes I forget just how bad it was for the first two years changing peoples behavior and getting rid of those that could not change.

Barbara, you are so very right, it was a MAJOR mistake to overpay, another lesson and a very costly one. Costly because I really trusted every single one of my bartenders and failed to check on them as I had in the previous three years owning this bar. 150,000 for cost of goods should have translated to +- 450,000 in sales, not the 240,000 I recorded, thats a MASSIVE loss dollar wise and percentage wise.

Fortunately, over this past month I am once again recording a profit, and am keeping a much closer eye on my bartenders. You know working for nothing for nine months is a real downer, just goes to show that some people have no conscience no matter how much you over pay them, lesson learn t but it still bugs me month later.

I am fairly sure it was not just the one bartender, but am now ready to fire the next person I catch on camera, being soft hearted is a sure recipe for failure, unfortunately I tend to be soft hearted.

scott1988, my bartenders only average 4 six hour shifts per week, they absolutely don't want to work more than that, and tips in this community are way below average. Thats just the way it is. About half or more of the people who come to the bar don't tip at all.

The latest situation is that certain few people, who are upset that their close family members were put in jail or prison as a direct result of my cameras are now trying to use the Sheriffs meetings to attempt to close the bar. They allege that many minors are getting people to buy alcohol for them after the other stores close. A volunteer firefighter, a family member, even alleged that she saw a 13 year old exiting the bar, and knew she had got drunk in the bar, until I confronted her with her boss, Chief Bill Baker next to me, when I informed her that I had reviewed the videos and invited her to come to the bar to review them herself she admitted that she was mistaken. Jeesh, the 13 year old did cross the street from the alleyway next to the bar, a FULL ten minutes before she arrived on the scene and only two minutes after she departed deputies arrested the minor for drunk in public underage drinking.

All I can say is, Once again my videos saved me and PLEASE don't blame me for what my cameras capture. Cameras simply record, I don't judge I simply hand over the video on request of the police and let them decide. Now up to 14 cameras and looking to add more.

As far as alcohol getting to minors, We only sell 2400 cases offsale each year,and the majority of these cases go for after party's for adults, after the bar closes. The other two stores sell about 42,000 cases of Budweiser products each year. Besides, the deputies have done a really good job of making minors feel unwelcome, and after a few unpleasant contacts with deputies they usually decide not to hang around anymore.

Three times in 4 years deputies have come into the bar with alcohol they confiscated from minors hanging on the block, and every time it was products we do not sell. The reason is simple, everyone knows our prices are way high for offsale late at night, so everyone, including minors stock up during the day at the other two retailers. How I can be held responsible for the very few cases that indeed do get into the hands of minors from family or friends is beyond me, but have now started a no offsale list of people known to buy for minors. If we see you buying alcohol or get a complaint about you buying alcohol for minors or the police inform us someone needs to get on the no offsale list you get on the list, no offsale for you.

Have been keeping a log of minors since the last meeting, its really astonishing how few minors now hang around the bar, and they don't hang for very long.

This bar is now so very far from what it was when I first bought it and I am really PROUD of that fact, my faith in my locals has been validated,

Allan.

Newbei

11-30-2008, 04:36 PM

Can several of you tell me what the normal COGS is for your bars?

What is the norm? Less than 10% is food in this case. Pretty equal split between liqour and beer.

Looking at a bar that it is over 60% (COGS). Might be a case where the inmates are running the assylm? Not sure how this sort of business can make it when COGS are this high! Consistently over 50% and at times higher than 70%!

Any recommendations on what this type of bar might be worth would help also. I value all your knowledge and hope you are so kind to help me out with this.

Newbei

11-30-2008, 11:04 PM

Allan,

You mentioned earlier in a post that or your COGS of $150,000 should have equated into $450,000 in Gross Sales. Is that the norm?

I know of a bar that the COGS is between 50-65%. Sounds like someone is skimming money.

Might be an opportunity to buy this bar at a reduced price if the books are showing such a huge loss.

Thanks

allanjustallan

12-01-2008, 09:47 PM

My general rule of thumb is if it costs a dollar at wholesale then I sell it for 2.5 to 3 on sale.

However the higher the cost of the alcohol the lower the profit margin, its the reason I don't encourage up selling, I prefer to keep my prices very reasonable with a decent profit margin and have people coming in more regularly, than have people buy really expensive drinks with a much lower profit margin depleting their fun money.

Of course my ciggs and food are also very low profit margins, food deliberately so in order to entice people to eat. As a matter of fact after I last posted I realized that 150,000 equating to 450,000 in sales was way off. If I only sold on sale then that would be about right, but I sell kegs plus off sale alcohol, food and ciggs and the profit margin on all of that is quite low, less than 20% markup on average and its a significant percentage of my total sales.

I should never post when I am sick or tired, smiles, tends to make me negative. However, my monthly p/l statement, which I am now getting each month did show a SIGNIFICANT problem, fortunately I finally caught it when I demanded a MONTHLY p/l statement from my accountant. I cant stress how important getting this info monthly is, its vital, period. I actually showed these numbers to the remaining bartenders, told them their job was on the line if the numbers did not improve, they have significantly improved.

Newbei sounds like someone is scamming that bar,

Allan.

owneroper

12-01-2008, 11:38 PM

that number is way too high in my opinion. do a worst case possible and do the math, 24 bottles in a case mutiplied by the lowest price it is sold for as well as liquor using the lowest price it's sold for. This will give you an idea of the minimum the bar should have taken in. I think your right the inmates are running the show.

allanjustallan

12-02-2008, 12:27 AM

Unfortunately,

My number thru September was 62.5 cogs, Shame on me for not catching it sooner and shame on the bartenders who I was paying 12 dollars an hour who I trusted so much.

Hope someone learns the lessons without paying the price,

Smiles,

Allan.

Newbei

12-05-2008, 12:31 AM

Can all you experienced bar owners give me an idea of what a bar normally sells for?

Looking at a bar that does approximately $500,000 gross per year. Is there a formula that most use as a guideline? I know every situation would be different, but looking for some sort of guideline that most use to determine worth of a bar business.

Any guideance is appreciated!

allanjustallan

12-07-2008, 05:24 PM

Its astonishing how fast my business has turned around.

Problems have been at an all time low, income has increased significantly this past month while expenses have dropped just as significantly.

June Carters daughter come into the bar last night, along with some very prominent members of this community, a birthday group.

The highs and lows of this business are something else, never boring thats a fact,

Allan.

allanjustallan

12-12-2008, 05:53 AM

This young man attacked me with another family member, now in prison. reference attack on me utube video. I had hoped that he would change his ways and take a positive path after I put a restraining order on him.

Pedestrian injured in high speed chase
Ukiah Daily Journal Staff
Updated: 12/10/2008 12:07:06 AM PST

The Daily Journal

An 18-year-old Covelo man in a stolen pickup allegedly reached speeds of more than 100 miles an hour before he hit a pedestrian and crashed the pickup near Cloverdale at 4:44 p.m. Saturday.

Roland Osmon, 80, of Cloverdale, was struck by the out-of-control vehicle when he walked north along a section of McCray Road south of Old Redwood Highway, a California Highway Patrol report stated.

David Leroy Frease was driving south on Highway 101 near Burke Hill when he passed a California Highway Patrol Officer. According to the report, the CHP was already looking for a driving-under-the-influence vehicle matching Frease's description when he passed the officer.

The officer reported to CHP's Ukiah office that he was not able to pull over the vehicle, which had drifted to the road's dirt shoulder, left the roadway, then swerved back to the southbound lane.

Frease reportedly drove the 2003 Chevrolet pickup at speeds of 100 miles per hour. His high-speed run from the CHP continued as he used the right shoulder of Highway 101 to pass two vehicles at 80 miles per hour near the Mendocino County and Sonoma County line.

In an unpaved center divider Frease turned around the vehicle several times before changing directions as he then went north on Highway 101 to the Highway 128 exit, the report stated.

According to the report, Frease then made his way east on North Cloverdale Boulevard, which then turns into McCray Road. On this portion of road, Frease was allegedly driving at speeds of about 70 to 80 miles per hour.

An officer from Cloverdale Police Department used a police car to block the road. With the road blocked by Cloverdale Police, Frease accelerated and steered around the parked car.

It was then that Frease clipped 80-year-old Osmon and continued driving, according to the CHP. Frease would then crash and was arrested at that time.

The Chevy pickup became airborne from a dirt embankment and rolled onto its top colliding with a hillside, the CHP stated.

After his arrest, Frease was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital and then booked into jail.

According to the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office booking log for Sunday, Frease was booked into jail by the California Highway Patrol on suspicion of evading a peace officer with injury, driving under the influence, hit and run with death or injury, assault with a firearm, taking a vehicle without permission and being unlawful to drive.

Osmon sustained "moderate" injuries, the CHP stated.

BarManMike

12-16-2008, 03:17 PM

Let me just start by thanking you, Alan, for the “Buckhorn Journal” you’ve posted here. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I’ve even suggested to friends that they drop by to read it.

Compared to where I live, your town seems like a third world country! Many props to you for keeping your head, and finding peaceful solutions to your problems!

I wanted to offer you a different way to view “up-selling”, and ask for your feedback. As a bartender, I often wondered why bars and restaurants pushed up-selling since their profit margin is much higher on “well” or “house” spirits. I designed a spreadsheet (attached) that finally made me realize the reason: the “net revenue” off of most top shelf liquor is higher – thus putting more money in your pocket. I’m not sure however, if your community would be willing to shell out the extra dough.

I look forward to your future journal entries. I want more than anything to one day open my own neighborhood-style tavern, and your stories are very beneficial to me. I wish you continued success (and diminishing negatives) in the months and years to come!

allanjustallan

12-22-2008, 02:51 AM

TY Mike,

Please don't get a slanted view of this wonderful community due to the fact that many of my postings relate to dealing with a small minority of malcontents who believe its their right to commit crimes against other people just because they get the opportunity.

I post more about problems that I have had to overcome because I tend to learn more from adversity. These past four days have been very stressful, first electric went out for day and a half, during which time lost our water due to a deep freeze. Had to close the bar for a day, plus dealing with pipes and a well that repeatedly gave problems, still as of today dealing with broken pipes.

First night electric went out was kinda special, guy came in with a guitar and many people sang along. We used candles for illumination.

I see the point for up selling in a major market, but in a very small rural market I believe that would be a mistake. For example domestic beer at my bar costs 2.75. One could spend less than 15 dollars and have a great time without denting the budget. An important consideration in an area where jobs are hard to come by.

Allan.

allanjustallan

01-14-2009, 04:18 AM

If you are going to open for New Years eve open early.

I wanted to give my bartenders most of the day off, we opened about 6.30 in the evening which led many people to assume we were not going to open at all that day. Had a one third drop in customers and revenue as a result. On the plus side another great evening was had by all, Zero problems once again.

Some of my customers have lost their jobs as a result of the recession, not sure how its going to affect us but if job losses continue its bound have have some effect. So far however still getting new people in as their friends tell them about how much more friendly the Buckhorn is.

I wish everyone a really good New Year,

Allan.

BadMonkeyBistro

01-14-2009, 05:53 AM

Allan,

Wow!!! I just realized that I have been reading your entire thread (start to finish), which I began at about 4pm this afternoon and it is now nearly 2:30am. What a compelling read.

To be honest with you, as I reached about mid 2007 in your posts, I wanted to make some comments, but was fearful that by current day you would have sold the bar or been hospitalized. Just being honest, that's what I thought. It took all of my self control not to click to the end of the thread to find out if you were still posting.

To my delight =) you're still here and I am absolutely enthrawled by your journal. Please keep it up.

So... now that I have finished reading the entire thread, I decided I should probably register so that I could make a post. Sorry, this is probably going to turn out to be a bit long, but I will do my best to keep it condensed.

I am in the process of opening my second bar ever. My first was absolutely from scratch. It was an empty space that never housed a bar or restaurant operation, so I literally designed, contracted, supervised, performed and stressed over the build-out and opening. So reading your threads of the past years made me want to comment so many times, but I realized that your postings were so old that you would have already received answers (which you did).

For my current bar concept, I am purchasing an existing restaurant/bar and will mold it to my design. I will probably start a new thread on that in the next couple of days.

Okay. So about COGS. Here is a quick snapshot of what I expect COGS to look like for my operation:

Liquor 18% to 23% (this depends on what items you include in your COGS)
Food 27% to 40%
Labor 26% to 40% (including taxes and depending on how well you staff)

I like to run a tight ship, but I treat my customers and staff with the utmost respect. I also come down hard if need be.

On the revenue side, I expect my restaurant/bar to generate around $200 per square foot in gross sales annually. Now, understand that this is on the high end, I believe (and don't necessarily quote me on this) the national average is around $160 per square foot.

Also, someone asked about how you price a bar for sale. As my research has shown and as my business brokers tell me, the sale/purchse price of a restaurant/bar is correct when it is around 2 to 3 times the annual NET profit. Any price above 3 times is too much.

If you're planning to purchase an existing business for the first time, I STRONGLY recommend that you work with a reputable business broker that knows your geographic area and the restaurant industry.

A couple more things and then I'll shut up (for now).

As far as wages go, I live in Seattle, Washington and Washington state has the highest Minimum Wages in the Nation at $8.55 per hour as of January 1st. I pay no one less than $9 and most bartenders (depending on experience and position with me) get $9.50 to $11.00. That's it. Now Cooks and Chefs is a different story. ALSO --- YOU SHOULD ALWAYS PAY YOURSELF A SALARY! From the start. If you don't budget yourself in, you won't get paid. It may seem silly, because I also agree that you should put money back into your establishment. Here's what I suggest. Take your salary, pay your income taxes; then loan the money back to the business with interest. This of course only really works if your are running your bar as a Corporation (which you should do to protect your personal assets). On that note Insurance is an ABSOLUTE MUST! The last thing you need is someone suing you and taking your personal assets with them.

As far as pricing of your drinks go, I truly understand and appreciate your position of offering "affordable" drink pricing. However, I also believe that your prices dictate the crowd. Nuff said on that, unless you want to hear more.

Okay, one more thing. I know I said 2 more, but hell I'm on a roll.

I, like you, am a very trusting person, however, I have learned that in this business you can trust no one when it comes to money and inventory. Period.

Okay, I'm done. Please keep the thread going and keep an eye out for mine.

Cheers,
Daniel

allanjustallan

01-17-2009, 02:47 AM

Welcome Daniel,

You along with many others have added much valuable information to this Journal of mine and I thank everyone for sharing their hard learned experience.

My revenues 218 per square foot last year, just got to keep a handle on bartender giveaways and my sales per square foot will dramatically improve this year. cogs still on the high side but declining rapidly as I once again pay more attention. Whole of last year was 55%, but better than the 62.5 average thru September.

With my reasonable prices and off sale component I doubt I can get lower than 35%, and that's my goal. Employee costs about twelve % of sales.

I really want to have an inclusive bar, and that means very very reasonable prices. I understand your point about higher prices but that's something I simply don't want to do.

Insurance in California is outrageous.

You know I wish I had read someones Journal about running a bar before I had bought this bar, would have helped to learn from others mistakes instead of making them myself.

The key to not getting hurt is to give people a face saving way out, even the most violent people, when they know they are on camera usually, usually if you give them a face saving out will take it, of course if they are bent on mayhem then all bets are off. I have learned a lot by watching how the police handle potential conflict situations, they may or may not realize it but I observe closely to my benefit.

Actually, on the rare occasions that I have been angry at a misbehaving customer I have been scolded by local deputies, because I was contributing rather than helping to reduce tensions, I took those lessons to heart because it was common sense once I thought about it,

Allan.

BadMonkeyBistro

01-17-2009, 03:46 AM

Allan,

Your points are duelly noted and heeded. I think your situation is unique and appreciate your experience. I think we can all learn from what you are, not only going through, but learning from.

As far as insurance goes (not knowing California), I have to believe that there is some sort of "affordable" insurance out there to "cover your backside". Some insurance, no matter how much or what kind, is better than none.

I should be starting my blog thread VERY soon, so I would appreciate your input as well.

Cheers,
Daniel

allanjustallan

02-05-2009, 03:58 AM

I do have insurance Daniel,

Cost me 7500 but better than the 12+ I paid before.

Have not had anything much to post about, that's a good thing. As a matter of fact have been spending more time away from the bar recently, just need a break to recharge my batteries.

This did happen however, not a real big thing. Managed to stop it without anyone getting hurt.

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=allanjustallan&view=videos

Allan.

allanjustallan

03-17-2009, 11:34 PM

Its been so generally quite that I have not really had anything much to say in the past month or so, for some reason the weakness in the economy has to date mostly bypassed this beautiful valley.

Did have an unprovoked attack on a visitor :http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=allanjustallan&view=videos

Also a young teen, age 17 I believe attacked a customer as he exited the bar, the teen was walking by. What a group of teens are doing at 12.30 at night on a school day is beyond me.

Bought the latest touchtunes jukebox, cost 6000 but I think its worth it, over two million songs, once again on the cutting edge.

Allan.

allanjustallan

03-21-2009, 08:21 PM

Went to the monthly Sheriffs meeting, they finally have qualified people willing to relocate to Covelo, but now the county has pulled the funds due to cash shortfalls.

Darn, anyway am going to the supervisors meeting and hope to try and convince them that its being penny wise and pound foolish. Deputies really help stop problems before they start, and we really need them here in this beautiful valley.

On a positive note, Lieutenant Ron Welsh asked me privately if everything was going well, they have had very few calls and in my opinion are really happy with the Buckhorn right now. He also said that they have arrested the majority of the known troublemakers, another reason why its relatively quite in the valley. As a matter of fact during the past three months or so Sheriffs cars have screamed past the Buckhorn on calls in other parts of the valley.

I feel my working relationship is once again right where it needs to be.

Business continues to be very good, hope the current trend continues,

Allan.

allanjustallan

03-31-2009, 01:08 AM

Arson,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46EbRQlgqa0&feature=channel_page

The police are hot on their heels, they just have to prove it which I really hope they do. Individuals like this are the reason why Covelo has such a bad reputation County wide. None of these malcontents work, all they do is victimize hard working individuals who are trying their best to make a difference in this wonderful community. We do have a great community, but these few individuals are the thorn in this very beautiful rose called Round Valley.

Fortunately the fire was stopped few minutes before it would have destroyed the bar. Five well paying jobs would have been lost, along with the only adult place to recreate in this town.

Its at times like this that I understand why not a single local would buy this bar, even at a decent price, they simply know that the stress level does not compensate for any financial advantage, assuming one has honest bartenders, which of course I have struggled with in the past.

Hoping they put away these five people involved in the arson. On the positive side violence is really at an all time low, reason why I have not really posted much in the past three months,

I have to really thank the Covelo volunteer firefighters for their great work, Chief Bill Baker and his crew are the very best, beyond belief and one of the reasons I always contribute each and every year to them, they saved my business and my employees jobs and our only place to play at night,

And also the witness who first saw the fire and promptly reported it, thank you so much, it made all the difference,

Sis, ty for calling my brother, he called me just in time to open the bar and back gate, reducing possible damage and saving time to save the bar, ty,
Allan.

walawdog

04-04-2009, 11:29 AM

If only you had caught that bastard red handed....and had a shotgun.

allanjustallan

04-04-2009, 09:47 PM

A prime suspect in the arson brutally kicked an old man to death, guy just got out of prison I heard. How did he get out when so many people on far lesser charges get really punished with much longer prison sentences? I sometimes have a hard time understanding the criminal justice system. I think people who know the system play it to their advantage.

While out this short time he has already attacked a number of people, or so I have heard. Many victims are scared to press charges, its a prime reason why malcontents get away with their anti social actions.

I still have faith that Mendocino county deputies will make all of the individuals pay, every time in the past almost everyone has paid, all except the young guys who broke into my bar the last time, I gave the police the name of one of the individuals, but so far he has been careful to stay out of trouble keeping him out of trouble.

Just heard while I was typing this that one of my bartenders was attacked by a female and two males, at the gas station, cause she kicked out the female who is just under age. My bartender refuses to press charges, damn, this cycle of violence will simply continue if locals refuse to press charges.

If everyone pressed charges every time this bs would be significantly reduced, but not everyone has the courage to go that route so what can I say.

Anyway, time to take a nap and then get back to work, the good news is the bar has never been a nicer place to have fun,

Allan.

scott1988

04-07-2009, 12:56 AM

I couldn't remember the last time I actually read this thread so I checked, it's been about 5 or 6 months.

Anyway, I feel for you bud. You keep hanging in there.

****This is sort of off topic and I don't want to hi-jack the thread so don't get too far out of bounds if you read this........but part of it will make sense with this thread as well so follow along******

This is partially one of the reasons why I want to invest in "affordable" MINI-GPS systems for business and/or personal use and market them to everyone. You could have a GPS chip that you could place or implant into anything you wanted. For example, if you had a car, truck, motorcycle or skooter, laptop computer, harddrive, tv, MP3 player, cellphone, or anything that you felt was of value, you could place a cheap (say $20 to $30) chip in the item of value. Perhaps it could even be a human being. Anyway, the GPS chip would send off a signal that could be received let's say within 500 miles of wherever you are with the transmitter that would maybe cost $1000 or something cheaper. This way, anytime you ever had anything taken, or in a really really bad situation, kidnapped, you could find whatever it was that was taken.

Could you imagine how cool it would be to catch a criminal that stole your laptop or car because you were following them with a transmitter. And instead of calling the police, you just took matters into your own hands and dealt with them the way that they should be. Disrespectfully (insert your own ideas here). Because that's what they did to you. Sure some of you will think that I'm being mean not to let the law deal with these criminals but let's think about it for a second ok.

Anyway......how this relates to this video is the fact that criminals still think that they can get away with anything because they don't give a crap because..........sometimes they don't get caught. But what if they had to worry about getting caught because they knew that there was a camera on them, or a motion detector that would go off (ahhhum).....or a sign that said "smile you're being watched" (cough--cough)......or a MINI-GPS chip in the item they were "thinking" of stealing? They might think twice about lighting that match or taking that computer. Just a thought.

Of course, some people would still do it even know they would get caught just to ruin property. Kind of like a thief breaking into a car that has a removable CD player or faceplate and completely busting out the window and ruining the dash just to be a jerk. Sure, they didn't get the CD player but your window is still broke and so is your dash. Now that's just plain cruel.

By the way, didn't they use their hands to climb over the fence? I didn't see any gloves on their hands so maybe you could get fingerprints from the fence perhaps? Just a thought.

owneroper

04-07-2009, 01:31 AM

wow allan, that is so weird, is there a reason they started the fire?? I mean for somebody to climb a fence, bring lighter fluid then set the fire. I mean why that wall, why your bar? Are they angry with you? Were they trying to divert attention from something else? Were there other fires in the area? Just vandals?

allanjustallan

04-09-2009, 01:23 AM

In response to comments,

I have and really know how to use a shotgun walawdog, heck my dad had me shooting before I was five, growing up in Africa it was an important skill. However much as the idea of blowing away arsonist malcontents may be appealing theoretically I feel the legal system must be allowed to take its course, after all this is California, one has to feel personally threatened before extreme action is taken, A life, even some malcontents life is something precious and would hate to have that kind of negative karma unless my life was in danger.

owneroper, Covelo has a serious problem with vandalism, arson and violence unfortunately. As I have stated repeatedly its a very small segment of our community but they have a really big impact in the quality of life here. It only takes a few malcontents hurting people or property a few times a week to impact a significant proportion of this peaceful community because there are so few people living here.

I was surprised and shocked this past week with people telling me about past arson's over the years, I mean why would you burn an institution like the health center, the only place for medical care in this valley and a vital resource, or the local school. One of the reasons there is a serious shortage of housing here in my opinion is that all too often when tenants have problems paying rent the house falls prey to fire, and those houses never get rebuilt. This happened to me as a matter of fact, fortunately the fire was caught in the early stages, but the circumstances were very suspicious. Tenant moved out shortly afterwords. When we had a local newspaper someone tried to burn their building as well, adjacent to it is the only fine restaurant in town. Some structures at the airport were torched. I could go on and on with other examples, there are so many. Since I have been here on my immediate block including the arson on my bar there have been four arson's, one building lost completely and there were only eight buildings in total. In other words half the buildings have been targeted in the past 4.5 years. If I count correctly there are only ten business in town, grim odds for arson its almost as if certain people want to burn the small business people out. Where would they go to get the services we collectively provide???

Start their own business, I think not. These malcontents suck off the system, working 12, 14, 16 hours a day to make a small business a success it not something they are interested in. Besides, most small business make less profit than they are getting by using the system without working.

Seems some malcontents have no clue to the damage they do to this wonderful struggling community. No bar means no adult social center, loss of five well paying jobs and damn I pay a whole lot in taxes plus contribute every year to support youth athletics, library, volunteer fire department and a host of other deserving groups.

Certain people are very angry with me, in the past before I owned the bar they came to the bar to hurt people and vandalize cars, there were no cameras no consequences. I brought in cameras and some of these people or their family members have gone to jail or prison as a direct result of their actions and my cameras.

Look carefully at the arson video, I cannot post publicly but it was not lighter fluid, hopefully we can get prints from the container found on site and put this malcontent back where he came from and where he belongs. And yes we have a good idea who he is and who he was with.

Man this job is not easy but still liking it and still hanging in there, met a whole lot of very special people and its never boring,

I really love living in Covelo,

Allan.

AF_COP

04-09-2009, 01:49 AM

Man, you should write a screen play... your place would make a cool TV show... sorry to hear you have so much drama... but man, its entertaining to read... you have a completely unique situation as a bar owner...

walawdog

04-09-2009, 08:20 PM

I appreciate what you are saying Allen about not wanting to kill somebody over something like this, but that scumbag didn't care if anyone was inside the building and he could easily have killed somebody...and he didn't care. If he gets away with it...he might just kill somebody one of these days. We have to remember that police only show up after a crime has been committed or when there is a body to tag and bag. It's up to us as citizens to protect ourselves, and not wait for the law to do it. Sorry, this kind of stuff really bugs me.

scott1988

04-10-2009, 12:11 AM

Amen to Walawdog. Well put. Everyone has to look out for "numero uno."

bruce

04-10-2009, 07:01 AM

Killing someone is a horrible thing to consider, please don't. If you find yourself in this position be sure to dump the perp elsewhere and keep your mouth shut.

allanjustallan

04-14-2009, 12:23 AM

Met with Detective Burns today, yes I made a comment about his last name, really funny. They are very serious and are in fact pursuing an active investigation. I know they know who did it, they are going to get them one way or the other, Mendocino county way. If current evidence does not warrant an arrest they will get them later and pile on the charges, as they have done so many times before in other cases with malcontents who simply cannot stay out of trouble.

Mixpro I wish I had posted from day one, what I have on utube is kindergarten compared to what I have had to face in the past. Fortunately its now a much nicer bar.

walawdog I sometimes crash at the bar, so you are right I could have been killed by this arsonist. Its only a matter of time that all these people go back to prison.

Bought a new ice maker, Manitowoc 500 series. Matched it with a five hundred pound bin, makes almost 500 pounds of ice a day, only uses 5.4 kilowatts per hundred pounds of ice and the bin is so well insulated that I turned it on for a day, and ten days later which is today turned it back on again. Very cost effective.

Used Superior products, a little higher but they ship fast. Part number 871818

Business continues to be very good, still waiting for the slowdown,

Allan.

walawdog

04-14-2009, 09:27 AM

Allan, how many pounds of ice are you using a night?

allanjustallan

04-14-2009, 05:05 PM

Recently very little,

Touchdowns and shots are back in vogue at the bar, using no ice. I usually run thru 150 to 300 pounds a day, just very little in the past week. We also sell a whole lot of beer. Also had about 120 pounds of ice in the freezer that I had bought while without an ice machine.

Once the weather gets hot iced drinks will come on strong. Was seven not ten days, I forgot it took me three days to get someone to install it. Still am very impressed with this highly energy efficient machine. Ice hardly melts at all in the bin. Am going to save a whole lot on energy. Recently installed led lights behind the bar, they use 3.5 watts. Electric in California is very expensive, but with

BTW a touchdown is half a pint glass of rockstar, shot of absolute mandarin dropped into the glass by the patron, very tasty,

Allan.

walawdog

04-14-2009, 08:11 PM

Thanks for the quick answer on the ice.

allanjustallan

05-08-2009, 11:11 PM

Got another warning letter from ABC,

Incident August 17th 2008. My bartender came into work sick, was vomiting and trying to call someone to cover for her. Two minors came into the bar and were served a beer. They had been drinking elsewhere and someone called one of the young mens mother who called the police.

My bartender claimed she had I.D. these guys before, one was using his brothers I.D. the other had a fake I.D. Few weeks later the guy with the fake I.D. came into the bar and we confiscated it.

Fortunately its a warning letter, but darn it means more serious ramifications if something else happens over the next few years.

This lady is related to the same family grouping that has given me so much trouble in the past, she did not even seem to care that her son was drinking, just interested in how much trouble we might be in.

Anyway the local police and ABC have been more than fair to me, they seem to know that my bartenders and myself are really trying to run a lawful bar.

While shopping at our local grocery store few days ago my car hood was stabbed, and about a month ago one of my bartenders was assaulted at the gas station because she is doing a fine job keeping out minors.

Business is up, better than this time last year, hope the trend continues during this nasty recession,

Allan.

allanjustallan

06-03-2009, 02:37 AM

After more careful review of my cameras I found out my car was stabbed right outside the bar, and yes the very same family grouping that has given me so much grief over the years. I wish they would simply leave me and my customers alone, and thankfully recently they have, after the arson.

In general however its been so quiet and peaceful its hard to believe its the same bar I bought almost five years ago. Business continues to improve, 86 ing violent people has totally changed the mix and feel of the bar, for the better. I know 99% of my customers by name, it really makes a difference to greet people by their names as they enter the bar.

People have lost jobs here, but for the most part this nasty downturn has more or less bypassed this community.

Thinking about doing a five year celebration, not sure yet what to do, discounts and something fun, any ideas anyone?

Allan.

jackell76

07-05-2009, 02:21 PM

Hello all, and hello especially to Allan. I'm new to this thread and to the site and just wanted to say that this is an amazing thread, Allan it seems you started "blogging" on here before the term was ever actually coined!

Anyway I have recently come into an opportunity to purchase a fully operational bar is a small town in Nebraska, at an almost to good to be true price. The current owners are no longer interested in running the place and basically have made their money and just want to off load the place. Of course I am doing my research on it trying to figure out if it is to good to be true, but so far it seems to be on the up and up.

So I just have a couple of questions for all of you out there in cyberspace. But first off I want to lay out the basics of the situation. The bar is in a rural town of around 1000 people, it is an established place that has been there for years and years. The people who own it now have basically given up wanting to run it and are offering it to me for an unimaginable price of $10,000. This includes everything: all equipment, coolers, taps, walkin, a very small kitchen with fryers, a flat grill, hoods, and a residential type stove and oven. The whole property will be owned outright with no lease payments or anything of the sort. All inventory is also included. I inquired about any tax liens that there may be on the property and the owners have insured me that they own it outright with nothing pending against them. I plan on using my current employers attorney and accountant to do the majority of the checking up on everything for me. (Lucky to have an awesomely supportive boss!!!) Anyway here are the questions I have...

1. What am I going to overlook, from the obvious to the not so obvious?
2. How many years of financials should I request, current owners have had the place for 3 years.
3. Should I have an LLC in place prior to purchasing, or go ahead and purchase then form the LLC. (Probably know the answer to that already, but not sure if I could transfer the business into after the purchase is made.)
4. What am I going to overlook!! Can't stress that one enough I guess!

Anyway just thought with the wealth of knowledge on here I could get some great answers and feedback. Thanks for the time!!

Jake

allanjustallan

07-15-2009, 01:29 AM

Well well well,

Got a visit from a police dispatcher, he was simply enjoying a ride on his harley with his girl. I have spoken to this guy a number of times when calling for help. He told me that we are no longer number one in calls for service from the police, second is just fine for now.

A huge improvement one that really makes me proud of our local community, I knew with the right standards I could make a real difference in this fine community.

We did about 200,000 in the first six months, almost 40,000 in the past month, unfortunately my insurance costs about 3% of sales, and this increase is mostly due to my very low prices before 10pm for offsale. Insurance is really killing my profits. Would love to find a lower priced insurance policy.

Violence is virtually gone, little scuffles etc but nothing serious. Did have one incident where a young man came into the bar, told the bartender that he was not leaving and told her to call the police. She called me and asked one of his relatives to get the underage minor out of the bar. Relative got him out and once I arrived few minutes later he was okay. Police arrived and were not happy, they were hour away on their way home and had to return back. They thought we had called for help, I heard later that the boys mother, an ex bartender of mine had called the police representing that she was calling on behalf of the bar. Anyway compared to what I have faced in the past this is small potatoes.

Still really enjoying this business, as it continues to grow,

Allan.

Lemondrop

07-15-2009, 12:50 PM

Allan, I must say your journey has been a most interesting one. I am thinking of buying a bar that is already established and was doing some homework when I came across your journal. Wow. It tooks me a few days but I read the entire thing about 3 weeks ago. I found myself looking everday to see if you have added something. It sounds like you have most of the violence under control. Good for you. I am so intrigued that I am thinking of dropping in when I go up North to visit a friend of mine. The entire town (area) of Covelo sounds wonderful and scary for a single girl all at the same time. Forgive me for asking and please don't take offense but would I be safe coming in to town and going to your bar by myself? Also wondering if they cought the guy who stabbed your car?

Thanks, Lemondrop.

allanjustallan

07-25-2009, 08:11 PM

Covelo is a very safe beautiful destination, and my bar is also now very safe as well. We are no longer number one in calls for service in Mendocino county.

I filed a complaint against the 21 year old who stabbed my car, nothing has come of it but police here have a long memory. He tried to enter the bar but was politely informed that he is no longer welcome.

Allan.

Brugaldy

08-15-2009, 09:03 PM

HI, I want to start out by saying that I'm sorry for this post since it may not be placed under the right thread, but this was the only way i could figure out how to post a question on here. I'm new to this website and I'm trying to figure out how to create a new post.

Here's our situation, we have been trying to obtain a business loan through the city to start out a nightclub, we have attended several meetings already so we are on our last stages of the city's decision making on whether to approve the loan or not.

we have a meeting to meet with the city at the end of this month. "The Problem" is, that in our business plan we stated that the liquor license would be owner financed, to cut down on our start up expenses. However, the process on trying to obtain the financing needed to start the club has taken so long that the person that was willing to owner financed his license sold his license, due to the process with the city taking so long. So we are unsure on what to tell the city in our next meeting in reference to the liquor license. We don't know whether to be honest and say we lost the liquor license, or go ahead with the meeting and see if we finally get our start up funds, and then go back to the city and tell them what happened.

Sorry for the short book that I wrote but I tried to explain as much as I could so you guys can understand. I believe you guys will help us out as much as you can. Please be honest as we are open to any suggestions or comments that you experts may have.

Thanks
Tito. Ivannamusicinc@yahoo.com

allanjustallan

09-19-2009, 11:47 PM

This happened 8/19/2009 http://www.youtube.com/my_videos

Very violent assault outside the bar.

Most of the trouble makers are back in prison again for a while, so its been mostly trouble free. Did take a hit in business as the rumor spread that the victim had been stabbed. I estimate this assault cost me about 15,000 in lost sales.

Next week Indian days, the bar should be packed and then with harvest coming in soon business should be back on track thru the end of the year. We finally got two resident deputies, many of the malcontents that used to hang around the bar have gone somewhere else and a resident deputy lives close to me and right around from the bar, response time has improved significantly with this local police presence. Both deputies very young and seem very nice, glad to have them available,

Allan.

atir-n-kram

10-17-2009, 02:25 PM

Me and my husband are purchasing a building in Staunton, IL (pop 5000)that has a bar and four apartments. The bar has been closed for a long time and the apartments are empty. The building needs a lot of work, but the bar looks like we could open it within a month. The previous owners didn't pay their distributors or vendors. Is this going to be a problem for us?

I need help breaking things down so I can present my projections to the banker.

Help please! :confused:

xpirtdesignseo

10-21-2009, 01:29 PM

i would recommend that you dont buy your own pool table and arcades just revenue share with a company you can revenue share with companies such as ocgames.com and things like that where they give you all the equipment you need and you guys share the profit but anyways goodluck

Dman

12-01-2009, 11:25 AM

This happened 8/19/2009 http://www.youtube.com/my_videosjust to let you know, you gave a generic link rather than the link to your specific video :)

allanjustallan

12-06-2009, 10:07 AM

Business doing really well, violence minimal, my relationship with the police is close and I really like the new resident deputies. My halloween party was the most amount of business I have ever done, zero problems as well.

Try this link or just look up allanjustallan on utube dman n thanks. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avI6Lj7lX9o
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dd0UvhAnjoA&NR=1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0sJzdIxGog

Owning my own equipment has been a huge benefit to me. However I do see the benefits of having others take care of headaches that always arise with equipment, living in a rural area these guys dont want to have me as a customer so its not even a choice.

atir-n-kram, whatever you think its going to cost you to renovate, think three times as much, and distributors or vendors will have liens on the property for past debts due. Talk to the title company, they will have the info, you may be getting in over your head unless you fully understand why previous owners failed and in addition you have a whole lot of cash or credit to carry you through the learning phase. Talk to local law enforcement as well, before you buy, they know all about the problems of this establishment. Also find out how much previous owners grossed, and what their net was.

All the best,

Allan.

allanjustallan

12-29-2009, 09:09 PM

Another robbery, new resident deputies are on it, I think none of these guys are going to get away with it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siJ0FAqhKzo

Christmas rocked, very busy nice crowd. Two guys, friends got into it near the bar few nights ago, One guy pulled out a huge knife, managed to get everything calmed down, neither were customers at the time, just bringing their bs nearby the bar.

Hope everyone has a great new years event, know we are going to be way busy,

Allan.

allanjustallan

12-31-2009, 09:26 PM

Good luck for tonight, New Years Eve,

For those looking to buy a bar I came across these websites, hope they are usefull

http://www.diomo.com/course.html#12
http://www.fastbusinessvaluations.com/biz-valuation-formula/bars.htm

They arrested one of the thieves, and I think I know the names of the other two, man these people, this family grouping is just so bad, I sometimes wonder what happened to the three strikes law in California, these guys have done so much mayhem in this valley and have been a thorn in my side and this community for so long, and yes few of them are associated with the attempt to burn done the only bar, guess they got a negative reaction from family and friends cause this time they simply stole, no attempt to destroy,

Allan.

Evil Dewars

02-24-2010, 01:56 PM

while there bf is back home. what happend to self respect? i can see the young mtv crowd today loves it. maybe that is the future. its like watching italian girls gone wild. beautiful women but empty. .

Can you say "Spammer?":mad:

allanjustallan

05-05-2010, 09:06 PM

Another attempted breakin, but this time they did not get in, business gets better and better, lowering the violence level is the key, my opinion,

Allan.

allanjustallan

05-24-2010, 11:31 PM

More lessons, Damn. Had to fire two bartenders, they were coming into the bar after hours because I foolishly allowed everyone to have keys. I should have caught it earlier because suddenly I was having to go to the bank to get fives and tens and quarters, when before I almost never had to do that. And cost of goods versus profit was way down.

The one bartender was even stealing some of the rent money I collect from other rentals. I did realise about four months ago that something was not right, just could not believe it was the people it turned out to be.

Lessons learnt, no access to bar or backroom supplies, watch changes in petty cash, they are a great indicator of bartender theft, when a bartender is way too helpful they are probably stealing from you. Also watch out for increased orders for alcohol and other bar items, these people were walking out with cases of beer, cigarrets and hard alcohol. Plus comming in after hours and stealing petty cash.

Another lesson learnt, fortunately the bar is booming due to the low incidence of violence. Did have to kick out a 20 year old, he had someone elses id but a trusty bartender knew who he was and that was that. These underage people keep trying to come in, but my crew is right on it fortunately,

Allan.

Luca Power

05-25-2010, 02:55 PM

You got a link for me re: those down load content jukes?

Por favoré!

allanjustallan

07-24-2010, 01:58 PM

Business continues to stay strong, no recession here in this beautiful valley. Did have an incident but fortunately it worked out really well. No one hurt but it could have been really bad. I took the guy down and other bar customers took away the weapons.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPJEeGdQMqE

Having a pajama party tonight, it really is a lot of fun doing theme type nights with prizes and dollar off drinks.

Allan.

casabar

08-23-2010, 02:56 AM

The bar business. Ya gotta love it! It is a hands on business and even as Owner's irregardless of age or demeanor have to get our hands dirty. I should start posting a "My knocks on the rocks" videos too and then we can have the "Best of" bar brawls thread. I have just suspended my ROE for locals policy and instituted a FFZ on all after an episode last month. It is a tough business even in the most gentile surroundings.

I do miss the nightclub business. Pretty people, no food, no draft beer and operate solid a few nights a week for high volume, higher profit and less horseshit. Funny trade off is in clubs if your in an incident it is usually an intentional hit and your dancing with worms. I like this option too actually.

Alan pay the monkeys that are hired for this to handle these situations my friend or one day it is not going to end with a cold beer and a bar fight story. I recommend if available in your town to hire an off-duty police officer for the entry with a supplemental security man inside. Well worth the expense and makes the staff and patrons much more at ease. In the mean time with all my security I am still the main man and will be until I can find someone to run things so I can move on down the road.

Great to read your thread and happy business is good. Best of luck as always. Maui