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VALLEY — While Georgia is permitting its gyms to reopen, similar facilities in Alabama won’t be able to until at least May 15. Included in that is Valley Community Center.

“The governor’s latest order limits groups to no more than 10 people, and we can’t do that at the Community Center,” Valley Parks and Recreation Director Laurie Blount told The Valley Times-News. “I miss everyone, and I miss all the activities we have at the Community Center, but the main thing right now is for us to stay safe. We have a lot more than 10 people there every time we are open.”

According to the latest figures, the East Alabama region has been hard hit by the coronavirus with more than 60 deaths in the Lee (25), Chambers (19), Tallapoosa (17) County area.

Lee County has 377 reported cases, Chambers 291 and Tallapoosa County 279.

According to Gov. Kay Ivey’s “Safer at Home” order, all non-work-related gatherings of 10 or more people are prohibited. Drive-in gatherings are permitted as long as people remain in their cars with members of their own families. Beaches can reopen with no gatherings of 10 or more people allowed and with everyone staying at least six feet apart. Senior citizen centers remain closed except for meal pick up or delivery.

Child care centers remain limited to no more than 12 people in a room. Schools remain closed for in-person instruction with the exception of “day-time special activities programs.”

Restaurants, bars and breweries remain limited to take-out, curbside or delivery.

Alabamians are encouraged to stay at home and to practice good sanitation procedures but the stay-at-home order has been lifted.

Most state businesses may open subject to sanitation and social-distancing guidelines. All retail stores may be allowed to reopen, subject to sanitation and social-distancing guidelines.

Occupancy will be limited to 50 percent. Elective medical procedures can restart with the state’s COVID-19 rules and guidelines remaining in place.