By HOI ABC

BLOOMINGTON – A mass vaccination site is now open in McLean County for seniors and frontline workers.

Our news partner HOI ABC reports more than 500 people were vaccinated at Grossinger Motors Arena in downtown Bloomington, including a mother and daughter who were thrilled it was their turn for their first shot of the Moderna vaccine.

Gene Frink, who’s 94, and daughter Deb Foster said they learned last week they would be able to get their first dose.

“When this opened up to have our first vaccine, It was like a shot in the arm literally to my life,” said Foster.

“Didn’t even feel a prick. It was wonderful, great, administration of it, and looking forward to my next one so I can visit my grandkids on the west coast. It’s been over a year,” Foster added.

“It’s very relieving, because it’s been a long haul since last March and I haven’t been many places at all,” Frink said.

The indoor sports arena is currently the venue for a relatively small operation due to limited vaccine supply.

“Well it’s a long walk. It’s kind of like being in an airport, but other than that, things went very well.” said Frink.

Mother and daughter encourage everyone who can to get the vaccine.

“You need the vaccine for your own safety and the safety of other people too,” said Frink.

People eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine are asked to sign up on the McLean County Health Department’s website.