Gyms may reopen Friday; youth sports still prohibited

Gyms in Menifee such as Fitness 19 are allowed to reopen on Friday, Riverside County health officials said today. File photo

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Gyms and fitness centers and movie theaters may reopen on Friday, according to an announcement today by the Riverside County Health Department.

Gyms and theaters are now considered part of the accelerated Stage 2 in the state’s reopening plan from the COVID-19 pandemic. Also allowed to reopen on Friday are:

-- Hotels, motels and inns (for tourism and travel)
-- Day camps and day cares
-- Campgrounds and outdoor recreation
-- Filming for television and music industries
-- Bars and wineries
-- Museums, galleries, zoos and aquariums
-- Professional sports (with no audience)
-- Family entertainment centers

As continued precaution against the coronavirus, health officials urge residents to wear face coverings and maintain social distancing in public. Face coverings are no longer required by County health officials, but many businesses still require them when entering their establishment.

“We have long looked forward to reopening more Riverside County businesses, which provide valuable goods, services and jobs vital to the fabric of our economy,” said Vice Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “It’s very important that while visiting these businesses, all residents continue to do their part to slow the spread of the disease by wearing face coverings and maintaining six feet from others.”

The County announcement also stated businesses and activities that still are not allowed, including nail salons, threading and waxing salons, libraries, and youth sports.

Although Menifee parks are open (except for playground structures), youth leagues such as Menifee Valley Little League and Menifee Pony Baseball still are not allowed to hold practices or resume game schedules. Officials in both leagues have reported on their Facebook pages that a final decision will be made soon regarding whether a delayed season is still possible.

Any youth sports league representatives or gym managers who would like to comment for a follow-up story may email doug.spoon@menifee247.com or send a message to the Menifee 24/7 Facebook page.