Siesta Key Chamber bets on poker tournament

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce members and guests went all in for a good cause—fireworks. 

The annual poker tournament Thursday evening at the Sarasota Kennel Club is a fundraiser for the 4th of July fireworks display. 

This year the chamber is fundraising and taking sponsorship for the event that costs $45,000 to produce. 

Chamber Executive Director Ann Frescura is optimistic the goal will be reached and understands how important the tradition is to Siesta Key residents. Currently Frescura estimates that the total amount pledged for the fireworks is $40,000.

The chamber is reaching out to work with local condos and accommodations for sponsorship. 

“It’s a busy and profitable weekend for them,” Frescura said. “Visitors are coming for the holiday weekend and they’re looking forward to the fireworks.” 

The tournament winners were Brett Gatz and Judy Arnold who decided to split the pot of more than $1,000.