Frank Spola is an 88-year-old Korean War veteran who’s been in self-isolation since the beginning of the pandemic. 

Spola got his COVID-19 vaccine Friday so he’d able to go out in public again, but most importantly, so he can see his great-grandkids worry-free. 

“I get to see them very seldom but it’s going to be good to be able to touch them and play with them and hold them,” said Spola, a Dutchess County resident.

Vaccinations at the JCPenny Friday went on ‪from 10 a.m. to 4‬ p.m. and Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro says this site will become the vaccination hub for the county’s health dept. 

“Will be here the same basic time next week. I think we are adding a day, but as vaccine supplies become available we are going to continue to expand,” Molinaro said.

This week, Dutchess County got 700 doses of the vaccine. After receiving the first dose, you make your second dose appointment afterwards. Frank was asked what the first thing is he’ll do with his great-grandkids.

“I think I’m going to try and give them a nice big hug,” Spola said.

For information vaccination information visit the county’s website.