[Seventies Rock]

Hello- I thought this information might be helpful to those still seeking their first vaccine shot and looking for other options outside of the Villages. My parents live in the Villages and we went through the hassles with GMR but eventually were able to get a vaccine appointment after much time in front of the computer at a Publix in Deltona.

FEMA has a Covid Vaccine Site at different locations in Tampa and Orlando. My daughter lives in Tampa so when we visited on the weekend I thought I would see if I could get in as you do not need an appointment, although you can schedule one if you wish. The sites run 7am - 7pm every day of the week. We went to the site at the Tampa GreyHound Track.

I can"t express how well run the entire operation was. I arrived without an appointment around 2:30 on Saturday. Lots of signs and people helping you with where to go when you arrive. Our car was directed to a specific line. There were military members walking between cars checking paperwork and answering questions. After waiting in our car for out 15 mins. we were directed to a parking spot and led to a tent where they took my information on a hand held computer device. They Gave me a bar code scannable sticker that was scanned as I entered the next tent for the shot, there were about 15 tables to sit and receive the dose in this tent. They have both the Pfizer and J&J so you can pick which one you want (assuming they have not run out for that day). You are then directed to a another large tent area where you wait for 15 mins for no symptoms, when done they scan your barcode and you leave. In total, with the 15 min after shot wait It took about 45 mins. All the information including your next appointment time is sent to you via email and text.

Every step of the way, including the car line, there were Air Force members greeting you, answering any questions you might have, checking your paperwork and just in general making you feel comfortable. The parking lot was well organized with shuttles for those with difficulty walking. The tents had ropes to move people along and help them know where to stand with plenty of social distance space. Stickers on the ground to also assist with where to go. The after shot wait room had plenty of chairs. Every step of the way there were military members helping you.

Overall it was a great experience, very efficient and well run and I highly recommend it. To my knowledge there are 3 areas in Tampa and a few in Orlando.