Hello!

Hello, Anacortes residents. My name is TJ Fantini. I am a devoted husband to my wife, Torie, and a proud father to our one-year-old son, Luca. I strive to instill in Luca the core values of hard work, resilience, and love for family and community that have been handed down in my family since my grandfather immigrated from Italy at the age of 8.

Our family roots in Anacortes are deep and diverse. My father, Mike, was a committed volunteer for American Legion Baseball and a dedicated second-generation refinery worker at Chem Trade. My mother, Jean, championed education as the PTA president and served for 12 years on the Anacortes School Board, with the last four years as its President. Together, they also owned and operated Donatello Flowers and Gifts in downtown Anacortes. My brother, Nick, continues the family tradition of service as a third-generation refinery worker and youth sports advocate.

As a thirteen-year-old, I was fortunate enough to represent Anacortes on a National Level as one of 7 kids chosen from a nationwide search of over 25,000 to become a Mouseketeer on Disney’s Mickey Mouse Club. It was there that I shared stages with now-famous peers, including Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Ryan Gosling, and Christina Aguilera. But while they pursued their paths toward high-profile careers, I felt a strong pull towards service. This calling brought me back home to serve the community and youth of Anacortes - a decision I cherish to this day.

Service to our community is my passion. I'm a board member of the Anacortes Senior Center Foundation, a volunteer and emcee for the yearly Senior Center Unconventional Runway Show, and an Anacortes Chamber Of Commerce Ambassador. I have had the honor of producing the Anacortes Coastal Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony for the past two years, an event I've loved since my childhood. Additionally, I volunteer and emcee for the Fueling Education Fun Run and the Waterfront Festival.

My commitment to education and the arts is deeply rooted. I’ve served as the Anacortes Community Theatre board president through the challenging years of the pandemic.  I've taught classes with Fidalgo Dance Works, volunteered with the Anacortes Schools Foundation, and directed the first show at the newly remodeled Brodniak Hall at Anacortes High School. In 2017, I started AKtion Theater, a unique theater group for developmentally disabled adults.

As proud members of the Anacortes Christian Church, my family and I value community and unity. My commitment is to ensure that all voices in Anacortes are heard, respecting and understanding all perspectives to build a community where everyone feels welcome.

I trust that my actions speak louder than words. My goal is a non-partisan 'Anacortes for Everybody' approach to encourage more involvement in our shared community growth. Together, we can ensure Anacortes continues to thrive. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to serving you.