On a recent, cool Friday afternoon, I became one of the lucky ones – thus far – by receiving my first COVID-19 vaccine shot.

While I certainly was a little nervous – mainly because the flu shot this year wiped me out for a week or so – I knew this was something I had to do, not just for myself, but for the safety of those around me.

Despite my initial trepidation, the shot – and the entire process – was smooth, simple and uneventful.

After waiting for about 20 minutes in a line of cars, I was directed to a parking spot at Nashua High School South. Again, a short wait of 20 minutes or so, and a nurse and someone from the Nashua Fire Department came by, asked a few questions and administered the shot.

To be honest, it was less painful than the flu shot – I absolutely hate needles – and then I settled into the car for a short wait to make sure there were no reactions.

The fireman suggested I wait about 15 minutes, but he also said I didn’t have to wait if I didn’t want to. He also said, if I stayed and started to feel unwell, to honk my horn and medical assistance would be forthcoming.

Thankfully, aside from a sore spot on my are for a couple days, there were no side effects.

So, in another month, I will receive my second dose – and a bit of relief.

For those on the fence about receiving this vaccine, it certainly is worth it, especially for the piece of mind. If you don’t want to do it for yourself, do it for those around you.

That said, I must extend my personal thanks to all those working at the vaccine site – the National Guard, Nashua Fire Department, Nashua Police Department and all the medical personnel administering the shots. The day I went, they were extremely busy, with a line of cars reaching the highway as I left. All involved were extremely professional, kind and helpful.

One again, thank you for all you are doing to help our community.

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This week’s It’s OUR Community Podcast will feature “The Lady and the Dale,” a four-part documentary now airing on HBOMax.

The mini-series is directed by Nick Cammilleri and Zackary Drucker.

Cammilleri, a New Hampshire native, has expertly crafted this fascinating documentary about the Dale automobile, released at the height of the 1970s gas crisis.

“The Lady and the Dale” focuses on entrepreneur G. Elizabeth Carmichael and the Twentieth Century Motor Car Corporation, the firm behind the three-wheeled automobile that captured the imagination of the entire country and was once a prize on “The Price is Right.”

Carmichael, who was transgender, has a fascinating backstory that includes counterfeiting, before she went on the lam for more than a decade, ultimately being captured after her story aired on Robert Stack’s “Unsolved Mysteries.”

Cammilleri worked on the project for more than a decade before HBO picked it up and assisted in completing the documentary.

“The Lady and the Dale” is definitely worth a watch! For additional details, see Page D1 of today’s edition.

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On April 2, Nashua icon Meri Goyette will be celebrating her 95th birthday. As part of the celebration, a special drive-by parade is scheduled for this Sunday afternoon. Those wanting to participate in the frivolity can meet in the Bishop Guertin parking lot on Lund Road at 1 p.m. Decorations on participating cars is encouraged.

Even though I’m a little early, Happy birthday, Meri. You have done so much for the city of Nashua, its vibrant arts community and for The Telegraph. Thank you, and enjoy your special day!

Publisher and Editor Matthew Burdette may be reached at 603-594-1240 or mburdette@nashuatelegraph.com. Follow him on Twitter @Telegraph_mattb.