Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/332945
Siesta Seen That same statute gives the Sheriff's Office the right to seize illegal fireworks. "We don't want to cite anyone," McGregor added. In fact, in his 16 years of working on Siesta, he told the approximately 30 SKA members present, "We've never arrested any- one. I've never cited anyone." Instead, he continued, officers inform viola- tors about the state law. "I feel education is worth more than its weight in gold," he added, when it comes to those kinds of situations. In response to questions, McGregor explained that because of the number of complaints the Sheriff's Office receives on July Fourth about fireworks being shot off in neighborhoods, the general policy is not to have a deputy respond unless the caller agrees to meet with the dep- uty. However, if an isolated incident occurs at 4 a.m., for example, instead of multiple bursts at 9 or 10 p.m., people should call the office and report the violation. Officers do patrol the island on the night of the Fourth, he noted. But, "We have to see the crime actually taking place," he added, before issuing a citation. SKA Vice President Catherine Luckner sug- gested it would be helpful if managers of the condominium complexes on the key informed guests about the state law. By the way, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce still has plenty of tickets available for its traditional VIP picnic on July Fourth. Each $150 package includes two tickets, a parking pass and a great vantage point for the big fireworks display. (Anyone may come to the beach for the free pyrotechnics show, which lasts about 30 minutes.) For details, call 349-3800 or email chastanna@siestakey- chamber.com. The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is continuing to promote its VIP picnic packages and the chance to start the fireworks display on July Fourth. Image courtesy Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Sarasota News Leader June 20, 2014 Page 72