🌱 Wage Increase + Children COVID-19 Hospitalizations Surge

Get on up, Lakewood! Here's everything you need to know to get this Wednesday started off right.

First, today's weather:

Fog in the morning; Cloudy. High: 43 Low: 39.

Here are the top stories today in Lakewood:
1. COVID Hospitalizations Among Children Up In OH As Omicron Spreads: Pediatric hospitalizations for COVID-19 are increasing nationwide, including a 5.2 percent increase in Ohio. (Patch.com)

2. Minimum Wage To Increase In Ohio In New Year: Ohio's minimum wage will increase by 50 cents to $9.30 on Jan. 1, a slight bump from $8.80 in 2021. (Patch.com)

3. Benefit Concert For OH Singer To Feature Cold Play's Chris Martin: More than 25 musicians will take part in a benefit concert Jan. 7 for an Ohio musician battling a debilitating illness. (Patch.com)

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From my notebook:

• LakewoodAlive: "As we wrap up 2021 and our year-end campaign, we reflect on our work and the amazing community that surrounds us. Your support allows us to continue to orchestrate community events that are free and open for all to enjoy.
  If you are able, please consider making a donation to LakewoodAlive by December 31. Your contribution, large or small will make a big impact in the city that we love. Donate today: LakewoodAlive.org/donate (Facebook)
• City of Lakewood, Ohio - Municipal Government: "Reminder: Applications are being accepted through 1/3/22 for students in grades 8 through freshman year of college who are Lakewood residents to join the Lakewood Youth Council. Visit http://ow.ly/CvoQ50HerzH to apply. (Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today! I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with a new update.

— Nikki Gaskins