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The City of Andalusia’s Adult Activity Center will officially re-open on Monday, November 1, 2021.

Gov. Kay Ivey closed senior nutrition centers across the state shortly after the first COVID-19 case was diagnosed in Alabama in March of 2020. During that time, the AAC has continued its senior nutrition program, providing drive-through pick-up of meals and continuing its Meals on Wheels delivery program.

The City has had the facility pressure washed, installed new flooring, installed additional exercise equipment and had other equipment repaired in anticipation of the re-opening.

Sonja Godwin, program coordinator, said there will not be a mask requirement.

“We are so excited to be opening, but we want to do so with caution,” Godwin said. “It is our hope that we will not have to shut down again. While we will not be taking temperatures or requiring masks, we will have some on hand if you forget yours.

“We ask that you social distance as much as possible. If you are not wearing a mask, please be mindful of those who are,” she said. “Some individuals may have health issues that put them at greater risk than others but still desire to attend the Center and its activities.”

For those not yet comfortable in public settings, take out meals will continue to be available, but must be arranged in advance.

While the Center is reopening, Godwin said they will not resume regular dinner dances until COVID-19 numbers decline more. As of Oct. 29, the Alabama Department of Public Health listed Covington County among the counties that have a “moderate” risk (shown as yellow on the statewide map) of COVID-19 – the first time the risk has been this low since early summer. As of Friday, there had been 6,745 local cases of COVID and 183 deaths. There has been an average of 8 new cases a day in the county in October. Earlier this week, both county hospitals still reported COVID-positive patients.

The Adult Activity Center is open to anyone 21 years old or older from 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Godwin asks that anyone who has not previously used the center check in at the office and provide a driver’s license of photo identification.