First Selectwoman of Chester, Lauren Gister's Letter To Residents

CHESTER, CT — First Selectwoman, Lauren Gister's letter to the residents of Chester:

Dear Chester,

Chester's 490+ residents over the age of 75 are quickly getting vaccinated! Aaron Manor, Chesterfields and Masonicare have been vaccinated as separate groups, and almost all of the remaining residents in this category have either received at least the first dose, are scheduled for an appointment, have family members assisting them privately, or, in the case of a very small group, declined vaccination for various reasons. Our Long Term Recovery volunteers are doing an incredible job checking in with residents and coaching them at varying levels through the process. There are many different choices of places to get the vaccine - from clinics in Middletown, Rentschler Field, our health district's clinic in Old Saybrook, Yale's clinic at Mitchell College, the VA, Nutmeg Pharmacy in Higganum, and more. Remember that there is free transportation available if needed - please call the Selectman's office for assistance if you need it.

If you have not yet been contacted and are over the age of 75, we may be having trouble reaching you. Please contact my office (860-526-0013 x202) and leave your name, address and phone number and we will have someone from the Committee give you a call.

I expect to see the state begin to transition to the next vaccine eligible group very soon. Chester volunteers will continue to work with residents to assist in registering and making appointments - we will be ready as soon guidance is provided.

Chester's positive COVID numbers have increased from last week (7 cases in 7 days), although the numbers of hospitalizations and deaths locally and statewide have dropped greatly. With the new mutations fast overtaking previous forms of the virus, it is important to remain watchful. It is important to remember, even though the vaccines are not 100% effective in preventing infection as a whole, but it is becoming clear that they are very effective in preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID. Very encouraging!

Also encouraging and heartwarming - such a great feeling to drive through Chester village surrounded by stars and snow tonight. We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place...

Be well,

Lauren