Raffle winner will launch fireworks

For $5, you could win the chance to press the button that starts the Fourth of July community fireworks celebration on Siesta Key.

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is raffling off the opportunity to start the fireworks, which take place July 4. The winner will be given the opportunity to tour the launch site, typically off-limits to attendees, and start the show via a TNT plunger box. The winner will also receive a Zambelli hard hat.

All the money raised through the raffle will go toward the cost of the fireworks, which can cost between $1,200 to $1,300 per minute.

“Across the country, many cities are being forced to stop having fireworks because of budgetary constraints, but we’re able to continue enjoying it because of the support of local businesses and residents,” said SKCC Executive Director Kevin Cooper. “I think there’s a common misconception that fireworks just happen. Here on Siesta Key, it takes a small army of volunteers and a lot of community support.”

The raffle winner will be drawn Saturday, July 2. Call 349-3800 for information.