CLEVELAND — Bars and restaurants across Ohio were allowed to reopen for outdoor service Friday, roughly two months after being completely shut down to stop the spread of coronavirus.
Gov. Mike DeWine believes business can be conducted safely, provided the establishments adhere to strict social distancing and capacity guidelines. However, not everyone appears to be getting the message.
Standard Hall in Columbus was seen packed with customers last night, with little (if any) even attempting to stay six feet apart. On Saturday, the same was occurring at Cleveland's Lago East Bank on West 10th Street.
3News cameras witnessed people on Lago's patio jammed shoulder-to-shoulder, with virtually none even visibly carrying face masks or observing other protective measures. Other photos of the restaurant made their way to social media.
DeWine's office is aware of what is happening at these locations, and the governor does not appear too pleased: A statement issued by his press secretary to 3News sister station 10TV in Columbus called the business' actions "irresponsible," and warned legal actions could be taken if things do not change.
Read the full statement below:
"Ohio was able to responsibly reopen businesses quickly due to the fact that Ohioans have widely followed the expert guidance to socially distance, practice proper sanitization and hygiene, and avoid unnecessary contact with others. Ohio is a success story for following these protocols.
"As restaurants and bars opened yesterday for patio service, we know many establishments across Ohio are doing their part to follow best practices to keep patrons safe and socially distanced. However, anecdotes are also being distributed across the state about establishments that opened and allegedly ignored these safety guidelines.
"Those who operate their businesses while disregarding safety guidelines, designed to protect the health of their customers and all Ohioans, are being irresponsible and need to understand that these guidelines will be enforced."
Many of the customers at Lago appear to be younger people, who are much less susceptible to dying of COVID-19. However, people who are not symptomatic can spread the virus, and health experts have stressed that those of any age are capable of passing it on to more vulnerable people.
3News has reached out to restaurants around the Cleveland area for comment on the matter. Andrew Horansky will have more on this story tonight at 11 on "What's Next."