The Issue The issues in the case are whether the allegations set forth in an Administrative Complaint filed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants (Petitioner), against Pita's Restaurant (Respondent) are correct, and, if so, what penalty should be imposed.
Findings Of Fact The Petitioner is the state agency charged with regulation of hotels and restaurants pursuant to chapter 509, Florida Statutes (2010).1/ At all times material to this case, the Respondent was a restaurant operating at 8412 West Hillsborough Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33615, and holding food service license number 3912285. On October 28, 2009, Rich Decker (Mr. Decker), employed by the Petitioner as a sanitation & safety specialist, performed a routine inspection of the Respondent and observed conditions that violated certain provisions of the Food Code. Food Code violations are classified as "critical" or "non-critical." A critical violation of the Food Code is one that poses a significant threat to the public health, safety, or welfare and is a risk factor for food-borne illness. A non- critical violation of the Food Code is one that does not meet the definition of a critical violation. At the conclusion of the October 28, 2009, inspection, Mr. Decker noted the observed violations in an inspection report. The owner of the Respondent signed the report and received a copy at the time of the inspection. Mr. Decker advised the owner that a follow-up "callback" inspection was scheduled to occur on December 28, 2009, and that the violations needed to be corrected by that date. The callback inspection did not occur on December 28, 2009. Mr. Decker performed the callback inspection on January 5, 2010, and observed some of the same Food Code violations noted on the October 28, 2009, inspection report. At the conclusion of the January 5, 2010, inspection, Mr. Decker again noted the observed violations in an inspection report. The manager of the Respondent signed the report and received a copy at the time of the inspection. The Petitioner subsequently filed the Administrative Complaint at issue in this proceeding. During the October 28, 2009, inspection and again during the January 5, 2010, callback inspection, Mr. Decker observed raw eggs being stored above prepared, ready-to-eat pita bread. This violation was deemed to be critical because raw food stored above ready-to-eat food can lead to bacterial contamination of the ready-to-eat food. During the October 28, 2009, inspection and again during the January 5, 2010, callback inspection, Mr. Decker observed unidentified medicine being stored in a refrigeration unit along with food supplies. This violation was deemed to be critical, because the medicine could have contaminated the food. During the October 28, 2009, inspection and again during the January 5, 2010, callback inspection, Mr. Decker observed prepared, ready-to-eat, and potentially-hazardous food being stored without having been date-marked to identify the last date upon which the food could be consumed. Prepared food has a limited shelf life during which it may be safely consumed. The failure to date-mark prepared food was a critical violation, because such failure may result in the consumption of unsafe food. During the October 28, 2009, inspection and again during the January 5, 2010, callback inspection, Mr. Decker observed that there was no consumer advisory warning related to consumption of raw or undercooked foods posted on the premises. The Food Code requires the posting of such a notice, and the failure to comply is deemed a critical violation, because consumption of certain raw or undercooked foods poses a health risk to some consumers. During the October 28, 2009, inspection and again during the January 5, 2010, callback inspection, Mr. Decker observed an employee engaged in food preparation without wearing a hair net. Although food can be contaminated by human hair, this violation was deemed to be non-critical, because no immediate threat to human health was presented by the violation.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, enter a final order imposing a fine of $1,350 against the Respondent and requiring that the Respondent complete an appropriate educational program related to the violations identified herein. DONE AND ENTERED this 20th day of May, 2011, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S WILLIAM F. QUATTLEBAUM Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 20th day of May, 2011.
The Issue Whether Respondent committed the violations alleged in the Administrative Complaint dated May 23, 2011, and if so, whether disciplinary action should be taken against Respondent.
Findings Of Fact The Department is a state agency charged with the duty and responsibility of regulating the operation of hotel and restaurant establishments pursuant to section 20.165 and chapter 509, Florida Statutes. Respondent is a Florida corporation named Stugotz, Inc., doing business as Joey's On Beach. The corporation is wholly owned by Joseph Di Meglio. Respondent holds a public food establishment license issued by the Department. Respondent's business address is 2521 Thomas Drive, Unit A, Panama City Beach, Florida 32408. Inspector Smith has been employed by the Department as a Sanitation and Safety Specialist for approximately five years. She has received training in laws and rules regarding public food service and lodging, is a certified food manager, and performs approximately 1,000 inspections each year for the Department. Formerly, Inspector Smith was a restaurant manager for 15 years. On March 2, 2011, Inspector Smith performed a food service inspection of Joey's On Beach located at 2521 Thomas Drive, Unit A, Panama City Beach, Florida 32408. During the inspection, Inspector Smith prepared and signed an inspection report on her electronic personal data assistant setting forth violations she allegedly encountered during the inspection. Ann Marie Di Meglio, the wife of the owner of Joey's On Beach, was present during the inspection and signed the report on the electronic device. According to the inspection report, the March 2, 2011 inspection of Joey's On Beach occurred at 11:11 a.m. Joey's On Beach opens at 11:00 a.m. The inspection occurred during active food preparation. Inspector Smith made the Respondent aware that all violations noted during the inspection needed to be corrected by May 2, 2011. All of the pages of the three-page March 2, 2011, inspection report are prefaced with the heading "FOOD SERVICE INSPECTION REPORT LEGAL NOTICE" with the warning that "Failure to comply with this Notice may initiate an administrative complaint that may result in suspension or revocation of your license and fines." The third page of the March 2nd report set forth alleged violations as follows: Warning(s) 12A-09-1: Observed food employee wearing jewelry other than a plain ring on their hands/arms while preparing food. 22-25-1: Observed buildup of soiled material on mixer head. 08A-28-11: Observed bag if [sic] bread crumbs on foor [sic] in walkin cooler. 08A-29-1: Observed sauce and bread crumbs uncoverd [sic] in walkin cooler. 02-22-1: Ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food prepared on site and held more than 24 hours with not properly date marked. Sausage 08A-23-1: Observed shell eggs over sausage in walkin cooler 08A-28-1: Observed jug of oil stored on the floor. 53B-08-1: No proof of required employee training provided. All public food service establishments must provide the division with proof of employee training upon request, including, but not limited to, at the time of any division inspection of the establishment. This violation must be corrected by: 5/2/11. 32-16-1: Hand wash sink lacking proper hand drying provisions. Corrected on site. 09-04-1: Observed bare hand contact of ready-to-eat food by employees and establishment has no approved Alternative Operating Procedure in effect. Corrected On Site. On May 3, 2011, Inspector Smith performed a callback inspection of Joey's On Beach. According to the report, the inspection was performed at 10:18 a.m. Respondent had not yet opened for business and the callback inspection was conducted during active food preparation. During the callback inspection, Inspector Smith did not discuss specifics of the case with the owner, Joseph Di Meglio, because, according to Inspector Smith, inspectors are "not allowed to discuss the case at an inspection." Inspector Smith prepared and signed a two-page report for the May 3rd callback inspection on her electronic personal data assistant indicating that some of the violations noted on the March 2, 2011, inspection report had not been corrected. Mr. Di Meglio signed the May 3, 2011, inspection report. Both pages of the May 3 inspection report had the same "Legal Notice" as the earlier report, stating "Failure to comply with this Notice may initiate an administrative complaint that may result in suspension or revocation of your license and fines." Alleged uncorrected violations recommended for an administrative complaint were noted on the May 3 inspection report as follows: The following item(s) have been recommended for Administrative Complaint: Violation 53B-08-1 No proof of required employee training provided. All public food service establishments must provide the division with proof of employee training upon request, including, but not limited to, at the time of any division inspection of the establishment. This violation must be corrected by: 5/2/11. At callback no training provided for Ann Marie. Violation 22-25-1 Observed buildup of soiled material on mixer head. Violation 08A-29-1 Observed sauce and breadcrumbs uncovered in walkin cooler Violation 08A-28-1 Observed bag if [sic] breadcrumbs on floor in walkin cooler Violation 02-22-1 Ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food prepared on site and held more than 24 hours with not properly date marked, sausage, and at callback sausage and meat balls not date marked in walkin cooler The Administrative Complaint in this case charged Respondent with the same five alleged violations recommended in the May 3rd callback inspection report, in the following order (Counts 1 through 5): (1) Observed ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food prepared on site and held more than 24 hours with not properly date marked in walk-in cooler [referencing 02-22-1, and citing 3-501.17(A), Food Code]; (2) Observed bag of bread crumbs on floor in walk-in cooler [referencing 08A-28-1, and citing 3-305.11, Food Code]; (3) Observed sauce and break [sic] crumbs uncovered in walk-in cooler [referencing 08A-29-1, and citing 3-302.11A)(4), Food Code]; (4) Observed build up of soiled material on mixer head [referencing 22-25-1, and citing 4-601.11(A), Food Code]; and (5) Observed no proof of required training provided, at call back no training provided for Ann Marie [referencing 53B-08-1, and citing 509.049, Florida Statutes]. At the final hearing, the Department announced that Count 5 of the Administrative Complaint, alleging a lack of training in violation of section 509.049, Florida Statutes, had been dropped because Mr. Di Meglio had established to the Department's satisfaction that Respondent's employees were properly trained. The Department presented some evidence in support of the remaining allegations. As discussed below, however, the Department only met its burden of persuasion as to Count 2 alleging that breadcrumbs were improperly stored in an open container on the floor of the walk-in cooler. As to Count 1 of the Administrative Complaint, at the final hearing, Inspector Smith referred to both inspection reports and observed that the reports indicated that Respondent had failed to properly date mark ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food (sausage and meatballs) held on site for more than 24 hours in the walk-in cooler. She explained that such failure was a critical violation because food must be date- marked to indicate the day it was prepared, and the day that it expires. She further explained that potential hazardous foods, such as precooked sausage and meatballs, are only good for seven days from the date prepared. Respondent's witness, Ann Marie Di Meglio, works at the restaurant and was there when the first inspection took place. Her husband, Mr. Di Meglio, was not. According to Ms. Di Meglio, it is Respondent's procedure to date-mark the containers in the walk-in cooler. She further testified that at the time of the inspection, there was active preparation, and it is hard to keep things covered during active preparation. Mr. Di Meglio, through his testimony, further explained that they date-marked the covers of the sausage and other prepared foods in the cooler, but remove the lids to gain access to the food during active preparation. He testified that there were labels on the lids of the sausage and meatball containers at the time of the inspections, but that the lids had been set aside because of preparation. Inspector Smith suggested that she would have cited the sausage and meatball containers for being open, but could not recall whether they were open or not. She did not see the labels on the lids. There were no photographs or specific descriptions of the containers or observations by Inspector Smith. During the final hearing, when asked whether there were dates on the lids of the containers, Inspector Smith testified, "I can't answer that because I'm not there. I didn't write anything about it being uncovered." Based upon the explanations provided by the Di Meglios, the timing of the inspections, the lack of specific recollection by Inspector Smith, and considering that the Department has the burden of persuasion, it is found that the Department did not prove that Respondent failed to properly date its containers of potentially hazardous foods as alleged in Count 1 of the Administrative Complaint. As to Count 2, Inspector Smith stated in both the March 2 and May 3, 2011, inspection reports that she observed an open bag of breadcrumbs stored on the floor in Respondent's walk-in cooler. Storage of breadcrumbs on the floor in an open container is a critical violation because when food is stored on the floor, it can become contaminated by exposure to wastewater or germs from walking back and forth outside to the bathroom. While perhaps an open container could be explained by the fact that there was active food preparation, no excuse or explanation was offered as why an open bag of breadcrumbs was found on the floor during both inspections. Respondent's witnesses did not otherwise address the improper storage of breadcrumbs on the floor as alleged in Count 2 of the Administrative Complaint. As to Count 3 relating to the open containers of breadcrumbs and sauce, it is found that Respondent's explanation of active food preparation was reasonable given the timing of the inspections. In other words, the Department failed to prove that Respondent was storing foods in open containers because it is found that the containers were only opened temporarily during active food preparation.3/ As to Count 4, relating to an alleged dirty mixer head, the inspection reports for both the March 2 and May 3, 2011, inspections indicate there was a "buildup of soiled material on mixer head." While Ms. Di Meglio testified that she did not know if there was something on the mixer head at the time of the inspections, she testified that the mixer is cleaned every day, and that the material on the mixer head, if any, was not old. Rather, she explained, she had used the mixer around 10:00 a.m. the very morning of the first inspection to make dough and cut cheese. Ms. Di Meglio further explained that Respondent's mixer is very old and has some discoloration. And, while admitting that there may have been some dust or flour on the mixer from recent use, both she and her husband denied that there was any soil on the mixer or the mixer head. Inspector Smith's testimony regarding the state of the mixer, and the brief descriptions in the inspection reports referring to "soiled material" on the mixer head, without more, provided less than clear and convincing evidence of a violation. While Inspector Smith testified that she would not cite the equipment as being dirty if it was soiled with everyday use dirt, she was unable to definitively recall her observations. When questioned about the mixer head at the final hearing, Inspector Smith observed: I just noted that it was extremely2/ soiled when I was there at the initial inspection and at the callback. Not the top, but the mixer head being - - that goes over the unit, from what I can remember. When further asked to explain the difference between "soiled" and "dusty," Inspector Smith testified: It was all food debris with - - I mean, I just remember it just being soiled. It was over a year ago. I can't describe in detail what was on it. I would not cite it unless it was old food debris, or it was mold-like substance maybe with a combination. I don't cite everyday dirt. Considering Inspector Smith's less than specific recall, Respondent's explanation, and the Department's lack of specific details or photographs contrary to the testimony of Respondent's employees, it is found that the Department failed to prove the violation alleged in Count 4 of the Administrative Complaint. While the inspection reports were accepted into evidence as corroborative hearsay, it is found that, under the facts and circumstances, they are documents prepared in anticipation of litigation.4/ Specifically, the reports contain warnings and requirements of compliance, with specific mention of the fact that failure to comply may "initiate a complaint." Moreover, the evidence showed that the investigator could not discuss the allegations with Respondent's owner because inspectors are "not allowed to discuss the case at an inspection." Even if the inspection reports were not merely hearsay, their lack of detail when compared to the recollections of Respondent's employees regarding operations and the state of affairs during the inspections, was insufficient to meet the Department's burden of persuasion necessary to prove Counts 1, 3, and 4 of the Administrative Complaint. Count 2 of the Administrative Complaint alleging improper storage of bread crumbs on the floor, however, was uncontroverted, and the Department proved by clear and convincing evidence that Respondent's improper storage of bread crumbs was a critical violation.5/
Recommendation Upon consideration of the facts found and conclusions of law reached, it is RECOMMENDED that the Department enter a final order which dismisses Counts 1, 3, 4, and 5 and confirms Count 2 of the Administrative Complaint, and imposes an administrative penalty in the amount of $250 for Respondent's critical violation of Rule 3-305.11, relating to improper storage of breadcrumbs discovered during the inspections conducted on March 2 and May 3, 2011. DONE AND ENTERED this 13th day of July, 2012, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S JAMES H. PETERSON, III Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 13th day of July, 2012.
The Issue The issue for determination is whether Respondent committed the offenses set forth in the Administrative Complaint dated December 2, 2009, and, if so, what action should be taken.
Findings Of Fact At all times material hereto, the Restaurant was licensed as a public food service establishment in the State of Florida by the Department, having been issued license type 2010 and license number 2323257. At all times material hereto, the Restaurant was located at 762 Northwest 183rd Street, Miami Gardens, Florida 33169. A critical violation in food service is considered to be a violation that, if not corrected, is directly related to food-borne illness, food contamination, or health risk. A non-critical violation in food service is considered to be a violation that, if not corrected, can become a critical violation. On August 14, 2009, Daniel Unold, an inspector with the Department, conducted a routine inspection of the Restaurant. During the inspection, Inspector Unold found violations, which were considered to be critical and non- critical violations. Further, during the inspection, Inspector Unold prepared a food inspection report, setting forth the alleged violations and the date for the callback inspection, which was October 14, 2009. The inspection report was signed by Inspector Unold and a representative of the Restaurant. Inspector Unold made the representative aware of the alleged violations and that the violations had to be corrected by the callback date of October 14, 2009, and he provided the representative with a copy of the inspection report. On October 19, 2009, Inspector Unold performed the callback inspection. Among other things, four critical violations were not corrected from the routine inspection of August 14, 2009. During the callback inspection, Inspector Unold prepared a food callback inspection report, setting forth, among other things, the alleged critical violations. The callback inspection report was signed by Inspector Unold and a representative of the Restaurant. Inspector Unold made the representative aware of the alleged violations. The most serious alleged critical violation, which had been found on August 14, 2009, and was not corrected by October 19, 2009, was no certified food manager for the Restaurant. This violation is critical because it is necessary for the person operating a food service establishment to be knowledgeable regarding food contamination, hygiene, cloth contamination, and food-related diseases. That person is a certified food manager, and the certification process requires class training and a test. The next most serious alleged critical violation not corrected by October 19, 2009, was no proof of required employee training. This violation is a critical violation because it is necessary for every food service employee to have basic knowledge regarding hand washing and food contamination. The next most serious alleged critical violation not corrected by October 19, 2009, was the hand wash sink lacking the proper hand drying provisions. This violation is a critical violation because hand drying is an important part of the hand washing procedure, and, if not performed correctly, it is as if hand washing had not occurred at all. The next most serious alleged critical violation not corrected by October 19, 2009, was the Restaurant operating without a current Hotel and Restaurant license. The new owner of the Restaurant, Elise Benabe, had not completed a change of ownership application. This violation is a critical violation because the State of Florida requires all public food service establishments to be licensed.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, enter a final order: Finding that Five Star Haitian Restaurant violated Florida Administrative Code 61C-4.023(1), Section 509.049, Florida Statutes (2009), Food Code Rule 6-301.12, and Section 509.241(2), Florida Statutes (2009); and Imposing an administrative fine in the amount of $1,875.00 against Five Star Haitian Restaurant. DONE AND ENTERED this 6th day of December, 2010, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S ERROL H. POWELL Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 SUNCOM 278-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 6th day of December, 2010. COPIES FURNISHED: Charles F. Tunnicliff, Esquire Louise Wilhite-St Laurent, Qualified Representative Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street, Suite 42 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2202 Elise Benabe Five Star Haitian Restaurant 762 Northwest 183rd Street Miami Gardens, Florida 33169 William L. Veach, Director Division of Hotels and Restaurants Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792 Reginald Dixon, General Counsel Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792 Louise Wilhite-St Laurent Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-220
The Issue The issues to be resolved in this proceeding are whether Respondent committed the violations alleged in the Administrative Complaint dated August 31, 2012, and, if so, what disciplinary action should be taken against Respondent.
Findings Of Fact Petitioner is the state agency charged with the regulation of hotels and restaurants pursuant to chapter 509, Florida Statutes. At all times material to this case, Respondent was a restaurant, El Ceviche Del Rey, located at 9947 Southwest 142 Avenue, Miami, Florida 33186, holding food service license number 2324027. Critical violations are those violations that are more likely to result in food-borne illness if not corrected. Non- critical violations are those violations that, if not corrected, are less likely to contribute to food-borne illness. Gladys Diaz ("Inspector Diaz") is employed by the Department as a Sanitation Safety Specialist. Inspector Diaz has worked for the Department for approximately one and one-half years. Prior to working for the Department, Inspector Diaz managed a McDonalds franchise for 18 years. Upon gaining employment with the Department, Inspector Diaz received training in laws and rules pertaining to the public food service and public lodging establishments. She is a Certified Food Manager and continues to receive monthly training in the area of food management. On August 29, 2012, Inspector Diaz performed a routine food service inspection at El Ceviche Del Rey. During the inspection, Inspector Diaz observed El Ceviche Del Rey opened for business but operating with no running water. Inspector Diaz prepared and signed an inspection report setting forth the violation she encountered during her inspection. Inspector Diaz prepared the inspection report on- site at El Ceviche Del Rey. The inspection report was signed by Inspector Diaz and a representative of the El Ceviche Del Rey. Inspector Diaz specifically noted the violation as being out of compliance and stated, "At the time of the inspection, there was no water at establishment." The Division determined that operating a food service establishment without water was a critical violation because an establishment cannot clean utensils and employees cannot wash their hands without water. Unclean utensils and dirty hands can lead to contamination of food. The Division closed the restaurant with an Emergency Order of suspension of license for the critical violation. On or about August 31, 2012, the Division issued an Administrative Complaint against El Ceviche Del Rey for operating a food service establishment with no water at the establishment in violation of Food Code Rule 5-103.12. Respondent challenged the Administrative Complaint and requested a hearing. No dispute exists that the request for hearing was timely filed. Additional evidence introduced at hearing showed that El Ceviche Del Rey received previous discipline by Final Order in case 2011-040929, entered on December 7, 2011.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, enter a final order: Finding El Ceviche Del Rey violated section 509, Florida Statutes, through a violation of Food Code Rule 5- 103.12; and Imposing an administrative fine in the amount of $1000.00 against El Ceviche Del Rey, due and payable to the Division of Hotels and Restaurants, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1011, within thirty (30) calendar days of the date this Order is filed with the agency clerk. DONE AND ENTERED this 11th day of April 2013, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S JUNE C. McKINNEY Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 11th day of April, 2013. COPIES FURNISHED: Charles F. Tunnicliff, Esquire Department of Business and Professional Regulation Suite 42 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2202 Alberto Villalobos El Ceviche Del Rey 9947 Southwest 142nd Avenue Miami, Florida 33186 William L. Veach, Director Division of Hotels and Restaurants Department of Business and Professional Regulation Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792 J. Layne Smith, General Counsel Department of Business and Professional Regulation Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792
The Issue The issue is whether Respondent is guilty of the violation described in the Administrative Complaint, and if so, what is the appropriate penalty.
Findings Of Fact Petitioner is the state agency charged with regulation of restaurants pursuant to chapter 509. By rule, it has incorporated by reference the regulations in the federal Food Code. These regulations apply to all public food service establishments. See Fla. Admin. Code R. 61C-1.001(14). Respondent operates a public restaurant (using its corporate name) located at 12318 University Mall Court, Tampa, Florida, and is subject to Petitioner's regulatory jurisdiction. It holds license number NOS3917320 (Permanent Food Service). Rule 61C-1.005(5)(a)-(c) classifies violations of the Food Code as either "high priority," "intermediate," or "basic," essentially reflecting the level of threat to public health posed by the deficiency. A high priority violation is one that poses a direct or significant threat to public health. Id. This type of violation is at issue in this case. Around 12:24 p.m. on June 11, 2014, Ashley Herrmann, a trained and experienced sanitation and safety specialist employed by Petitioner, performed a routine inspection of Respondent's restaurant, during which Ms. Herrmann observed various violations of the Food Code, including a "high priority" violation. According to the Food Code, except during preparation, cooking, or cooling, potentially hazardous food must be maintained at a temperature of 41° Fahrenheit or less.2 See rule 3-501.16(A)(2)(a), Food Code. A violation of this regulation is classified a high priority violation because food maintained above that temperature is a major contributor to foodborne illnesses. Ms. Herrmann observed several potentially hazardous food items in the walk-in cooler, including (a) raw meat/ poultry, (b) cooked fruits/vegetables, and (c) cheese/milk/ creamer/other dairy products, that were maintained at a temperature greater than 41° Fahrenheit. See Ex. 2. At the conclusion of her inspection, Ms. Herrmann prepared a written report documenting the Food Code violations observed by her. A copy of the inspection report was given to Javari Moore, an employee who was present at that time, and the violations were explained to him. Also, he was told that the violations must be corrected by 10:30 a.m. the following day, June 12, 2014, and that a call-back inspection would be performed at that time to verify that the violations had been corrected. Around 10:30 a.m. on June 12, 2014, Ms. Herrmann performed a call-back inspection of Respondent's premises. While some violations had been corrected, she observed that the high priority Food Code violations observed during the routine inspection on June 11, 2014, had not been corrected. See Ex. 3. Before leaving, Ms. Herrmann provided a copy of the inspection report to Mr. Moore and discussed the violations with him. The findings contained in the inspection reports were used in the preparation of an Administrative Complaint issued against Respondent. Other than stating that no food had been taken out of the walk-in cooler that morning, Mr. Moore gave no further explanation for the high priority violation.3 There is no evidence that Respondent has been found guilty of a prior offense of this nature.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Division of Hotels and Restaurants enter a final order finding that Respondent is guilty of one high priority violation, and imposing a fine of $250.00. Such fine shall be due and payable to the Division of Hotels and Restaurants, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1011, within 30 calendar days of the date the final order is filed with the agency clerk. DONE AND ENTERED this 21st day of October, 2014, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S D. R. ALEXANDER Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 21st day of October, 2014.
The Issue The issues in this disciplinary proceeding arise from Petitioner's allegation that Respondent, a licensed restaurant, violated several rules and a statutory provision governing food service establishments. If Petitioner proves one or more of the alleged violations, then it will be necessary to consider whether penalties should be imposed on Respondent.
Findings Of Fact The Division is the State agency charged with regulation of hotels and restaurants pursuant to chapter 509, Florida Statutes. At all times material to this case, Respondent was a restaurant operating at 3100 Northwest 17th Avenue, Miami, Florida, and holding food service license number 2328990. On May 19, 2010, and July 23, 2010, Respondent was inspected by Reginald Garcia, a sanitation and safety specialist employed by the Division. During both visits, Mr. Garcia noticed multiple items that were not in compliance with the laws which govern the facilities and operations of licensed restaurants. Through the testimony of Mr. Garcia and the exhibits introduced into evidence during the final hearing, the Division presented clear and convincing evidence that as of July 23, 2010, the following deficiencies subsisted at Respondent Alma Caribe Café Restaurant: (1) potentially hazardous food held at a temperature greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit, contrary to Food Code Rule 3-501.16(A); (2) potentially hazardous food not cooled from 135 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within six hours, in violation of Food Code Rule 3-501.14(A); (3) holding equipment incapable of maintaining potentially hazardous food at proper temperatures, in violation of Food Code Rule 4-301.11; (4) raw food stored over cooked food, contrary to Food Code Rule 3- 302.11(A)(1); and (5) no proof of required employee training, in violation of section 509.049, Florida Statutes. Each of the foregoing deficiencies is considered a critical violation by the Division. Critical food code violations are those that, if uncorrected, present an immediate threat to public safety.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Division of Hotels and Restaurants enter a final order: (a) finding Respondent guilty in accordance with the foregoing Recommended Order; and (b) ordering Respondent to pay an administrative penalty in the amount of $1250, to be paid within 30 days after the filing of the final order with the agency clerk. DONE AND ENTERED this 20th day of December, 2011, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S Edward T. Bauer Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 20th day of December, 2011.
The Issue The issue in this case is whether on April 19, 2010, and July 27, 2010, Respondent was in compliance with food safety requirements set forth in administrative rules of the Division of Hotels and Restaurants of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (Division), and if not, what penalty is appropriate.
Findings Of Fact The Division is responsible for monitoring all licensed food service establishments in the state to ensure that they comply with the standards set forth in relevant statutes and rules. Julianne Browning has been employed as a senior inspector with the Division for six or seven years. It is part of her responsibility to inspect food service establishments for safety and sanitation. She conducts approximately 850 inspections each year. Respondent is licensed as a public food establishment operating as The Green Mango at 7625 West Newberry Road, Gainesville Florida. On April 19, 2010, Ms. Browning conducted a food service inspection on Respondent. Ms. Browning prepared and signed an inspection report setting forth the violations that she observed during the inspection. During her April inspection, Ms. Browning observed an employee engage in food preparation, handle clean equipment or utensils, or touch unwrapped single service items, without washing hands. Ms. Browning identified this as a critical violation on DBPR Form HR-5022-015, the Food Service Inspection Report. The failure of a food service employee to wash their hands constitutes a significant threat to the public health, safety, and welfare. Inspector Browning also observed in April potentially hazardous cold food held at temperatures greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Specifically, she observed potatoes at 68 degrees, batter at 70 degrees, rice at 85 degrees, soup at 55 degrees, turnovers at 90 degrees, and butter at 90 degrees. Ms. Browning made notes of these observations in her report. She identified this as a critical violation on DBPR Form HR-5022-015, the Food Service Inspection Report. Potatoes, batter, rice, soup, and turnovers are potentially hazardous foods and Respondent failed to maintain them at a temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit or less. This failure constituted a significant threat to the public health, safety, and welfare. On July 27, 2010, Ms. Browning conducted another food service inspection on Respondent. Again she prepared and signed an inspection report setting forth the violations that she observed during the inspection. During the July inspection, Ms. Browning again observed an employee engage in food preparation, handle clean equipment or utensils, or touch unwrapped single service items, without washing hands. She observed that an employee did not wash his hands before putting on gloves to prepare food. Ms. Browning identified this as a critical violation on DBPR Form HR-5022- 015, the Food Service Inspection Report. It is necessary for employees preparing food to wash their hands even if they are going to be wearing gloves because the gloves could have a tear, or a pin hole, or be otherwise compromised. The failure to wash hands constituted a significant threat to the public health, safety, and welfare. During the July inspection, Ms. Browning observed what she described as clarified butter, which here will be referred to as ghee, on the counter with a temperature of 80 degrees. Inspector Browning also again observed potentially hazardous cold food held at temperatures greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In this instance she observed cream at 47 degrees, tofu at 45 degrees, milk at 45 degrees, potatoes at 45 degrees, yoghurt at 45 degrees, and cooked vegetables at 55 degrees. Ms. Browning identified this as a critical violation on DBPR Form HR-5022-015, the Food Service Inspection Report. Cream, tofu, milk, potatoes, yoghurt, and cooked vegetables are potentially hazardous foods and Respondent failed to maintain them at a temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit or less. Potentially hazardous food must be kept at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below because when the temperature rises above that temperature, bacteria begin to grow at a much faster rate. A person consuming the food can then contract a food-borne illness. The failure to maintain these temperatures constituted a significant threat to the public health, safety, and welfare. Ms. Pandey, witness for Respondent, is an experienced cook. She worked for many years at a Hare Krishna Temple in Alachua County. She is knowledgeable in the preparation and use of ghee. Ms. Pandey testified that ghee is a form of clarified butter that has been used for a great many years in India, and is still used in significant amounts there, precisely because of the widespread lack of refrigeration. Ghee does not spoil as fast as butter or milk or yoghurt. Ms. Pandey testified that ghee is not perishable and that it is therefore not dangerous when at room temperature. She further testified that refrigeration in fact makes it very difficult to use ghee, because it becomes hard and loses its flavor. It was not clear from the evidence presented that ghee is a potentially hazardous food or that failure to keep it at a temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit or less constituted a significant threat to the public health, safety, or welfare. The testimony and admitted reports of Inspector Browning as to the failure of Respondent's employee to wash his hands were clear and the reports were recorded at the time of the observation. Ms. Pandey offered no evidence to the contrary. Her unsworn assertion during argument that her husband was not preparing food, but only put on protective gloves because he was aware of the inspection and was scared was not credible, even if it had been offered as testimony. The testimony and admitted reports of Inspector Browning as to the temperature of the foods was clear and was recorded at the time of the observation. Ms. Pandey offered no evidence to the contrary. Her unsworn assertion during argument that the refrigerator holding the food was not being used in the restaurant but was only for storage of personal items was not credible, even if it had been offered as testimony. Petitioner issued an Administrative Complaint against Respondent for the above violations on August 2, 2010. Respondent has had two previous disciplinary Final Orders entered within 24 months of the Administrative Complaint issued in this case. In the first Stipulation and Consent Order, signed by Anuradha Pandey on January 10, 2010, and entered on January 15, 2010, Respondent agreed to pay a fine of $1550.00, but did not admit nor deny the allegations of fact contained in the Administrative Complaint, which would have constituted critical violations. In the second Stipulation and Consent Order, signed by Anuradha Pandey on June 2, 2010, and entered on June 10, 2010, Respondent agreed to pay a fine of $2,000.00, but again did not admit or deny the allegations of fact contained in the Administrative Complaint, which would have constituted critical violations. The June 10, 2010 Stipulation and Consent Order was in settlement of an administrative complaint issued on May 10, 2010, alleging violations of the Food Code revealed in an April 19, 2010 inspection, one of the same inspections for which evidence was submitted in this case.
Recommendation Upon consideration of the above findings of fact and conclusions of law, it is RECOMMENDED: That the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, enter a Final Order imposing a total fine of $1500.00 against The Green Mango for the two critical violations occurring on July 27, 2010, to be paid within 30 calendar days of the filing of the Final Order with the Agency Clerk. DONE AND ENTERED this 23rd day of January, 2012, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S F. SCOTT BOYD Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 23rd day of January, 2012.
The Issue The issues in the case are whether the allegations of the Administrative Complaint are correct, and, if so, what penalty should be imposed.
Findings Of Fact The Petitioner is the state agency charged with regulation of hotels and restaurants pursuant to Chapter 509, Florida Statutes (2004). The Respondent is a restaurant located at 1560 North State Road 436, Winter Park, Florida, holding Permanent Food Service license number 5809302. Kaliopi Chrissanthidid owns and operates the restaurant. On September 15, 2004, Jim Thomason, a Senior Sanitation and Safety Specialist representing the Petitioner, performed a routine inspection of the Respondent and found violations of applicable Food Code regulations. The violations identified by Mr. Thomason were noted in a written Food Service Inspection Report, a copy of which was provided to the person in charge of the restaurant on the date of the inspection. Mr. Thomason's inspection revealed both critical and non-critical code violations. Critical food safety code violations are those which pose serious public health risk due to potential contamination and subsequent transmission of food- borne illness. Violations that do not pose a serious health risk to the public are identified as non-critical. On September 15, 2004, Mr. Thomason identified several critical violations related to food storage equipment, including a reach-in cooler and a "make line" cooler that were incapable of maintaining proper temperatures. Additionally, Mr. Thomason observed chicken and calimari being improperly thawed in a bucket of water. Mr. Thomason also observed a cook handling ready-to-eat salad materials with his bare hands. Food storage coolers must be capable of maintaining a temperature of 41 degrees or below to prevent contamination. The Respondent's reach-in cooler and make line cooler were incapable of maintaining proper temperatures. Mr. Thomason determined that pre-cooked lamb was being held at 60 degrees, precooked beef was held at 58 degrees, lasagna was held at 58 degrees, rice was held at 54 degrees, and feta cheese was being held at 86 degrees. Mr. Thomason estimated that the food items had been maintained at an improper temperature for well in excess of four hours. Improper storage temperatures increase the potential for contamination and transmission of food-borne illness to the public. Due to the issues with the food storage equipment, a Stop Sale Order was issued on September 15, 2004, directing the Respondent to remove the pre-cooked lamb and beef, lasagna, rice, and feta cheese from sale. The Stop Sale Order stated that the items constituted an immediate danger to public safety or welfare due to improper refrigeration. On September 15, Mr. Thomason identified non-critical violations including: missing hand-washing signs; an open trash receptacle in the women's restroom; a torn screen and missing automatic closing device in a backdoor; the lack of a posted license; the lack of a certified food manager; and the lack of documentation related to employee food safety training. According to the inspection report, a re-inspection was scheduled for September 16, 2004. On September 20, 2004, Mr. Thomason re-inspected the Respondent. Although many of the items cited in the September 15 inspection report had been corrected, the faulty food storage equipment had not been repaired and was still not capable of maintaining proper food storage temperatures. Mr. Thomason determined that pre-cooked lamb was being held at 60 degrees, meat pies were being held at 57 degrees, lasagna was held at 58 degrees, rice was held at 54 degrees, and feta cheese was being held at 86 degrees. Mr. Thomason issued another Stop Sale Order, directing that the Respondent remove the precooked lamb, meat pies, lasagna, rice, and feta cheese from sale. The Stop Sale Order stated that the items constituted an immediate danger to public safety or welfare due to improper refrigeration. Mr. Thomason also referred the critical food storage violations to his supervisors with the recommendation that an Administrative Complaint be filed against the Respondent. On October 18, 2004, Mr. Thomason re-inspected the Respondent at which point, according to the Callback Inspection Report, the food storage and refrigeration violations had been corrected. The only item remaining for repair was the automatic closing device on the backdoor. At the hearing, the Respondent testified that the restaurant had been closed during the month of August, and that no food had been stored during that time. During August 2004, Hurricane Charley came through Central Florida. The Respondent asserted that the restaurant equipment was damaged during the storm, and that the Respondent was unaware of the damage until several weeks after the restaurant reopened. The Respondent testified that repairs to refrigeration equipment were made, but that the coolant was quickly leaking out. Eventually all of the refrigerated food storage equipment was replaced.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation enter a final order imposing a fine of $1,000 against the Respondent, and requiring the Respondent to complete an appropriate educational program related to the violations identified herein. DONE AND ENTERED this 12th day of April, 2006, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S WILLIAM F. QUATTLEBAUM Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 SUNCOM 278-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 12th day of April, 2006. COPIES FURNISHED: Jessica Leigh, Esquire Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street, Suite 42 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2202 Kaliopi Chrissanthidid Greek Flame Taverna 1560 North State Road 436 Winter Park, Florida 32792 Josefina Tamayo, General Counsel Department of Business and Professional Regulation Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792 Geoff Luebkemann, Director Division of Hotels and Restaurants Department of Business and Professional Regulation Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792
The Issue The issue is whether Respondent committed the violations alleged in the Administrative Complaint and, if so, what penalty should be imposed.
Findings Of Fact Harrison’s is licensed by the Division as a permanent food service establishment. Harrison’s license number is 6213138. Laura Kennedy, a sanitation and safety inspector for the Division, conducted a routine inspection of Harrison’s on March 16, 2005. Based upon her inspection, Ms. Kennedy documented 28 areas in which Harrison’s was in violation of the statutes and rules governing restaurant operations. One of the violations, No. 35A-01, was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation of ten dead roaches in Harrison’s dry storage area. She required Harrison’s to correct that violation within 24 hours. Ms. Kennedy conducted a “call-back” inspection of Harrison’s on March 17, 2005, to determine whether the roaches had been cleaned up, which they had been. Ms. Kennedy gave Harrison’s 30 days to correct the remainder of the violations that she documented during her inspection on March 16, 2005. Ms. Kennedy conducted a “call-back” inspection of Harrison’s on April 19, 2005, to determine whether the other violations had been corrected. During the inspection, Ms. Kennedy noted that some of the violations had been corrected, but that others had not been corrected. Five of the uncorrected violations were “critical” violations because, according to Ms. Kennedy, they posed an immediate threat to the public health. Three of the uncorrected violations were “non-critical” because, according to Ms. Kennedy, they posed a risk to the public health but not an immediate threat. The critical violations that had not been corrected at the time of Ms. Kennedy’s “call-back” inspection on April 19, 2005, were Nos. 45-17, 45-10, 45-30, 46-11, and 8A-04. Violation No. 45-17 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation that the tag on the fire suppression system on the hood over the cooking area was out of date. The tag is supposed to be updated every six months, but the tag observed by Ms. Kennedy at Harrison’s was dated July 2003. Violation No. 45-10 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation that the portable fire extinguishers were out of date. Fire extinguisher tags are supposed to be updated every year, but the tags on the extinguishers at Harrison’s reflected that two of them had not been inspected since December 2002 and another had not been inspected since July 2003. Violation No. 45-30 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation that Harrison’s did not have the required inspection report for the fire suppression system for the hood over the cooking area. The purpose of requiring a current tag and inspection report on the hood fire suppression system and current tags on the portable fire extinguishers is to ensure that those devices are in good working order in the event of a fire. As a result, the out-of-date tags are considered to be critical violations. Violation No. 46-11 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation that the emergency exit signs over Harrison’s side doors and the back door were not illuminated. This is a critical violation because the purpose of the illuminated signs is to guide restaurant patrons to an exit in the event of an emergency. Violation No. 8A-04 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation of uncovered food in the walk-in cooler. This is a critical violation because uncovered food is subject to contamination. The non-critical violations that had not been corrected at the time of Ms. Kennedy’s “call-back” inspection on April 19, 2005, were Nos. 32-14, 22-02, and 23-01. Violation No. 32-14 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation that there was no hand-washing soap at a sink in the kitchen. The absence of soap did not pose an immediate threat to the public health, but it is required so that employees involved in the preparation of food can wash their hands for their own hygiene and for the protection of the restaurant’s patrons. Violation No. 22-02 was based upon Ms. Kennedy’s observation of built-up of grease in the oven. Violation No. 23-01 was based on Ms. Kennedy's observation of built-up of grease on the sides of equipment in the cooking area. The built-up grease did not pose an immediate threat to the public safety, but cleanliness in the cooking area is important so as not to attract vermin and to prevent contamination of the food being cooked. Ms. Kennedy documented the violations described above on the Food Service Inspection Reports that she prepared at the time of her inspections. Copies of the reports were provided to Harrison’s at the end of each inspection, as reflected by the signature of Rafma Balla on each report. Mr. Balla is identified on the reports as Harrison’s manager/owner. The record does not reflect whether the violations described above have been corrected by Harrison’s since Ms. Kennedy’s last inspection on April 19, 2005. Harrison’s was provided due notice of the date, time, and location of the final hearing, but no appearance was made on its behalf at the hearing.
Recommendation Based upon the foregoing findings of fact and conclusions of law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Division issue a final order that: Imposes an administrative fine of $2,600 on Harrison’s for Violation Nos. 45-17, 45-10, 45-30, 46-11, 8A-04, and 32-14, payable on terms prescribed by the Division in the final order; and Requires Harrison’s to correct the critical violations related to the portable fire extinguishers, hood fire suppression system, and exit signs within 15 days of the date of the final order, and to provide proof thereof to the Division; and Requires Harrison's owner and/or manager to attend an educational program sponsored by the Hospitality Education Program within 60 days of the date of the final order, and to provide proof thereof to the Division. DONE AND ENTERED this 28th day of October, 2005, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S T. KENT WETHERELL, II Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 SUNCOM 278-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 28th day of October, 2005.
The Issue The issues in these consolidated cases are stated in the counts set forth in the Administrative Complaint for each case: Whether Falcon Catering Service No. 7 (hereinafter "Falcon 7") and Falcon Catering Service No. 8 (hereinafter "Falcon 8") failed to maintain the proper protection and temperature requirements for food sold from their mobile site in violation of the federal Food and Drug Administration Food Code ("Food Code"). In the Prehearing Stipulation filed in this matter, each Respondent generally admitted to the violations in the Administrative Complaints, but suggested that mitigating factors should absolve them of the charges or greatly reduce any administrative fine imposed.
Findings Of Fact The Division is responsible for monitoring all licensed food establishments in the state. It is the Division's duty to ensure that all such establishments comply with the standards set forth in relevant statutes and rules. Respondents Falcon 7 and Falcon 8 are licensed mobile food dispensing vehicles. Falcon 7 has license No. MFD5852560, which was initially issued on April 23, 2005; Falcon 8 has license No. MFD5852642, which was issued on October 19, 2005. Each of the Respondents serves meals and snacks to, inter alia, laborers at construction sites. On or about March 13, 2009, the Division conducted a food service inspection on Falcon 7. At that time, the food truck was located at 4880 Distribution Court, Orlando, Florida. One of the Food Code violations found by the inspector was Item 53b. That citation meant there was no validation of employee training on the truck. A follow-up inspection was deemed to be required. On April 10, 2009, a follow-up inspection was conducted by the Division. At that time, Item 53b was cited as a repeat offense. Also, Item 8a was cited. Item 8a refers to protection of food from contaminants and keeping food at an acceptable temperature. Notes by the inspector indicate that a further violation of Item 8a occurred because customers were allowed to serve themselves directly from food containers, and there was no fan in operation during the serving of food. On May 28, 2009, another inspection of Falcon 7 was conducted. At that time, the food truck was located at 12720 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida. Item 8a was again cited as a deficiency. The inspector's notes indicate that food was not properly protected from contamination and that customers were being served "buffet style" from the back of the truck. The inspector noted that this was a repeat violation. A follow-up or "call-back" inspection was conducted on December 3, 2009, at which time the temperature in Orlando was unusually cold. The food truck was at the same address on Orange Blossom Trail as noted in the prior inspection. Falcon 7 was again found to have been serving food buffet style from the back of the food truck. An Item 8a violation was again noted by the inspector. Another inspection of Falcon 7 was conducted on January 19, 2010, another very cold day in Orlando. At that time, the food truck was located at the same site as the last two inspections. The inspector cited the food truck for an Item 8a violation again, stating that the food was not being protected from contaminants. Dust was flying up on the back of the truck to exposed food items. An inspection of Falcon 8 was conducted on August 25, 2009, while the truck was located at 4880 Distribution Court, Orlando, Florida. An Item 8a violation was noted by the inspector, who found that displayed food was not properly protected from contaminants. The food truck was located under an Interstate 4 overpass and was open to flying debris. The inspector noted that customers were being served buffet style and that there was no protection of food from contamination by the customers. A follow-up inspection for Falcon 8 was conducted on August 27, 2009, at 9:12 a.m., while the food truck was located at the same site. Another Item 8a violation was cited at that time. The violation notes indicate essentially the same situation that had been cited in the initial inspection two days earlier. Less than one hour after the follow-up inspection, another inspection was conducted on Falcon 8 at the same location as the prior two inspections. There were no Item 8a citations issued during this inspection, but the food truck was found to have no water available for hand washing. The food truck employee was using a hand sanitizer to clean her hands. Respondents do not dispute the facts set forth above. However, Respondents provided mitigating facts for consideration in the assessment of any penalty that might be imposed. Those mitigating factors are as follows: The food trucks were serving an inordinately large number of workers during the dates of the inspections. The City of Orlando was constructing its new basketball arena, and there were numerous laborers involved in the project. In order to serve the workers, it was necessary for the food trucks to put their food out on tables, rather than ladle the food directly from the food warmers in the food truck. In fact, the shelves in the food trucks are so narrow that dipping food out of the warmers would be impossible. Due to the cold weather in Orlando during this time, it was impossible to keep the food at acceptable temperature levels for very long. The large number of workers washing their hands at the food trucks caused the trucks to run out of water much more quickly than normal. When the water ran out, the employees took care to sanitize their hands as well as possible. Ms. Falcon testified that the inspector's testimony concerning use of tables to serve food was erroneous. However, Sabrina Falcon was not present during the inspections, and her contradictory testimony is not reliable.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that a final order be entered by Petitioner, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Hotels and Restaurants, imposing a fine of $500.00 against Falcon Catering Service, No. 7, in DOAH Case No. 10-10925; and a fine of $750.00 against Falcon Catering Service, No. 8, in DOAH Case No. 10-10930. All fines should be paid within 30 days of the entry of the Final Order by the Division. DONE AND ENTERED this 10th day of May, 2011, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S R. BRUCE MCKIBBEN Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 10th day of May, 2011. COPIES FURNISHED: William L. Veach, Director Division of Hotels and Restaurants Department of Business and Professional Regulation Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792 Layne Smith, General Counsel Department of Business and Professional Regulation Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0792 Charles F. Tunnicliff, Esquire Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street, Suite 42 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2202 Sabrina Falcon Falcon Catering Service 642 Mendoza Drive Orlando, Florida 32825 Megan Demartini, Qualified Representative Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2202
