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NEW CANAAN, Conn. Olivia Flora is tired of taking cold showers. But bathing in chilly water has become habit for Flora, 21, since her Oak Street home lost power after Tropical Storm Irene hit last weekend. Thankfully, the New Canaan YMCA allowed her a chance to freshen up in warmer water and style her hair.
You cant do that in cold water, said Flora, who wanted to look good for a babysitting job as well as her pending return to Southern Connecticut State University.
The YMCA opened its doors to all New Canaan residents lacking electrical power and water at their homes. A generator rented from Texas allowed the club to open its doors Monday. Since then, YMCA Executive Director Craig Panzano says more than 200 non-club members have stopped by to cleanup and enjoy a bit of normal life while waiting for electricity to return. In all, the YMCA has seen about 1,300 visitors a day since reopening.
One person came and said God bless the Y, Panzano said. The board (of the YMCA) is glad to provide this needed service and people are very appreciative.
Caroline and Filip Cosseel of Avalon Drive are certainly thankful. They moved into town Thursday after living in San Diego and never thought their first full week in town would be without power. We came in and then, boom! Caroline said.
The couple said that having one of the comforts of home nearby is nice and shows the welcoming spirit of New Canaan. Now they can focus on getting to know the town as well as preparing their son John, 6, for his first day at West Elementary School.
Have you visited the YMCA to shower since the power outages? Let us know by leaving a comment below or by visiting our Facebook page.
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