I hope this message finds you and your families healthy and safe and that you are enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Further to my message last weekend, I have been working with the Y CT/RI Alliance on seeking interpretations of the latest rules, particularly as it relates to our Aquatics programs – lessons as well as teams – and pools.   Questions surrounding the over focus (youth sports only or should be extended to adult/senior aquatic) as well as more detailed definition and interpretation of “Team” would be helpful to us to assure compliance with the new rules.

Indication that these comments were being considered and would be addressed in an upcoming announcement – could be as soon as Wednesday but could just as easily be released after the holiday.

There was a release of updated reopening rules we have been following since our reopening in June.   While many of the sections were updated for the Teams on Pause language from the original announcement, there was some supplemental information provided.  In the “Pool Specific” section under “Capacity”, there was an updated that stated “No more than 4 swimmers will be allowed in the pool at any time.”

As we know, not all pools are created equally – one need only look at our Olympic and Alumni Pools.  The fact that we would be limited to the same number of swimmers in these two drastically different pools begs further clarification.  Our fellow CT YMCAs join us in seeking answers to these important questions.

It is my hope that we will have further guidance in the early part of next week.  In the interim – we had cancelled swim lessons, several teams had taken planned to not pursue their regular activities during this shortened holiday week and we are conducting an American Red Cross class that was suspended due to our closure last spring.  Members are welcome to make reservations but be mindful that they can be changed on a short-term basis.  I strongly recommend that you check your reservation status prior to departing for the Y.

Last – we need to be socially responsible to our fellow Members.  This means following the state-mandated rules surrounding face covering and social distancing throughout the facility – pool deck, locker rooms, Wellness Center, lobbies, etc.  All Members are welcome at the Y, provided you can follow the state-mandated guidelines.  You may share a different viewpoints related to the pandemic rules but you are only permitted to practice the state rules that the Y is mandated to follow.

Enjoy the remainder of your holiday weekend.  Stay Healthy and Safe!