In Lakewood, Shoppers Prepare for Uncertain Future

(by Jacob Chabowski) March 12th, 2020 is the day many in the world came to grips with the reality that their daily routines would change for the next several weeks because of COVID-19.

It is a day that saw the DOW plummet 10%, schools close, sporting events cancelled, and world leaders grimly announce shutdowns and quarantines. The world collectively became exhausted, fearful, and confused.

"We will get through this - Ohioans are resilient," Governor DeWine said. "The sun will come up in the morning, but it's going to get darker before the sun comes up. The goal is to minimize deaths."

In Lakewood, shortly after the Governor's latest press conference announcing groups of 100 or more would be deemed an unlawful gathering (with few exceptions), residents and visitors flocked to local grocery stores. Toilet paper, bottled water, and disinfectants were in hot demand. All stores had short supply of these items. Other items, like bread and beef, were also in short supply at certain stores.

Lines weaved up and down various aisles. Shoppers told me it took nearly 30 minutes to checkout. At Aldi's, people started to park at a nearby bank. Shoppers at Giant Eagle were forced to park near the Winking Lizard.

Despite the lines shoppers seemed in good spirits. One woman told me with a laugh "None of us know what the future will bring, but we do know we are in this together like it or not."

Local journalism will be more important than ever now. What is your community doing to prepare for this? What events are cancelled? What are your neighbors saying?

The Lakewood Observer will continue to post announcements as they come in from City and Community leaders.

Stay tuned, Lakewood.

Stores photographed below: Giant Eagle (Lakewood) on Detroit, Aldi's (Lakewood) on W 117th, and Marc's (Lakewood) on Detroit

Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

(click photo to enlarge)