Newtown Community Center (NCC) and NYA Sports & Fitness (NYA) have both issued updated advisories regarding masks and face coverings following new CDC guidelines and a relaxing of masking rules in Connecticut.

A message e-mailed from NYA states the following adjustments to their facility operating guidelines:

Masks: NYA will continue to require people to wear masks inside the building through the end of the school year, June 15. NYA hosts many programs and events for children under the age of 12 and has taken that into account in making this decision. This guidance will continue to be evaluated leading up to June 15. Masks are not required for activities and fitness classes located outside, for adults. A reminder: People are responsible for bringing their own masks.

Daily health screening: NYA will no longer be conducting the daily health screening at the front desk for members of the gym who scan their membership card. Guests of the facility will continue to go through the health screening questions until further guidance from local officials is given on contact tracing requirements.

Temperature checks: NYA will still be asking all patrons to take their temperature when entering the building.

Showers: Showers in the NYA gym are open for use.

The NYA release states its management is “encouraged to be able to relieve some of the COVID protocols that have been in place throughout the past year.”

“While we are excited about Connecticut’s 50%-plus vaccination rate, we understand there needs to be a delicate balance of transitioning in a manner that recognizes the progress being made, but continues to protect people who are currently vulnerable,” the NYA release concludes. “We are constantly monitoring and assessing based on the most up-to-date information and will make adjustments accordingly.”

NCC’s Executive Director Matt Ariniello said as of Wednesday, May 19, individuals who are fully vaccinated (two weeks after the final COVID-19 vaccination) will no longer be required to wear a face covering while inside the NCC.

Until further notice, the Newtown Community Center will continue to require masks for staff and participants in child care settings, including those in classes, programs, or lessons with participants under the age of 12.

“We will require anyone who has not been fully vaccinated to adhere to the CDC’s and state guidelines and continue to wear a mask while indoors,” Ariniello said. “Signage will be posted at the entrance and around the facility. Members and staff who do not feel comfortable being mask-free should continue to wear a mask or face covering.”

Visitor and staff safety remain top priorities as the NCC advances toward fully reopening, he added.

Anyone with questions about the NCC can reach Ariniello by phone at 203-270-4341.

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Associate Editor John Voket can be reached at john@thebee.com.