‘All I wanted for my birthday this year was a vaccine,” said Key West hotelier Kate Miano. ‘I was scared to death.’ Miano was vaccinated in February and has since launched a citywide campaign to distribute 9,000 free rubber bracelets to those who are fully vaccinated.
‘I just want people to know they don’t need to be afraid of people, while eliminating the need for the awkward or divisive conversation about COVID or the vaccine, which has become so politicized.’ Maria Sharpe, founder of Williams Hall, learned of Miano’s project and volunteered to sponsor the second round of bracelets. ‘I’d love for Key West to influence a national movement with this inexpensive, but inclusive measure,’ Sharpe said.
The women have provided bracelets to CVS, Publix and the health department. Bracelets are also available at the Gardens Hotel on Angela Street and Williams Hall at William and Fleming streets. For information, email MIano at kwqueenkate@gmail.com.
