All aboard the trolley campaign

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and nonprofit representatives gather Jan. 22 at the Chateau Anna Maria, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, for the chamber’s annual Trolley Grant Awards. The Chateau served light bites and the chamber served up checks to nonprofits that totaled $17,472. The money comes from the chamber’s surplus from trolley advertising revenue. To help keep the trolley fare-free, the chamber years ago committed to selling advertising space. Each year, after subtracting funds for the trolley and program management, the chamber awards the surplus to nonprofits benefitting the island and Cortez communities. Islander Courtesy Photo