Avoid Large Thanksgiving Gatherings, Lakewood Mayor Says

LAKEWOOD, OH — Mayor Meghan George is urging Lakewood residents to limit Thanksgiving celebrations to their own households and avoid gathering with more friends and families.

"As we prepare for a Thanksgiving holiday that looks like none we've experienced, I again want to encourage everyone — think twice about having that big Thanksgiving gathering," she said in a video message to the community.

George said Thanksgiving is her favorite holiday. She loves waking up early to begin cooking, sharing moments and laughter with family. But this year, the Georges will be celebrating differently.

"Listen, we all wish we could get together this year, especially after the challenges we've faced, but it's simply too risky," she said.

In recent weeks, Gov. Mike DeWine has issued a curfew (in place from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.) and Cuyahoga County implemented a stay-at-home advisory. Both moves come as Ohio's hospitals strain under an unprecedented statewide surge of COVID-19 cases.

"There were over 1,100 new infections in Cuyahoga County [Sunday] and 8,000 statewide," George noted. "We all must do our part. I again ask you to do yours so all of us can be at the table next year."