The sun was bright over West Blalock Park in Venice on Saturday, March 14, as neighbors, families, and community members gathered for the annual Better Together Block Party. From the very beginning of the day, the park buzzed with energy – strolling circus performers entertained the crowd, the sizzle of succulent eats wafted from local food trucks, and the sounds of laughter filled the air as much as the lively tunes from local band Jah Movement. Guests paused to take a few snapshots at the inflatable photo booth, sat in the shade for face-painting, and shared conversations with friends old and new.
The pinnacle of the afternoon came when City of Venice Mayor Nick Pachota presented Gulf Coast President | CEO Phillip Lanham with a proclamation recognizing March 14 as “Better Together Day.” (Earlier in the month, Sarasota County had also honored the day with a similar proclamation presented by Commissioner Mark Smith, officially kicking off the community celebration.)
Looking around this park – neighbors talking, kids playing, music going, great food, lots of laughter – I’d say we’re celebrating Better Together Day exactly the way it should be celebrated.”
After the proclamation, the celebration continued as attendees participated in hands-on, family-friendly activities reflecting Gulf Coast’s focus areas: Arts and Culture, Education, the Environment, and Health and Human Services. Guests joined the You Matter Kindness Campaign, leaving notes of encouragement to spread across the region. Families explored the park on a shark spotting mission, tested their knowledge with Venice-themed trivia to honor the City’s Centennial, decorated Gulf “Coasters” and created beautiful seashell artwork to take home. The crowd also enjoyed complimentary access to the Old Betsy Museum and the Venice Museum and Archives, connecting with the city’s rich history.
“Better Together has always been about bringing people together to celebrate the heart of our community,” said Kelly Borgia, Gulf Coast’s Director of Brand Engagement. “Seeing all corners of our community side by side this year, sharing laughter and experiences, really reminded me of why our community thrives when we mix creativity, curiosity, and joy.”
This year's Better Together captured what makes Venice – and our broader region – so vibrant. It was a day of laughter, creativity, and connection, with small moments—a juggling club flying through the air, a shared bite of food, a note left in kindness – reminding everyone that when we come together, we create a lasting impact.
Better Together continues to be more than an event; it is a living celebration of the people, experiences, and connections that strengthen our region. To learn more about Better Together and to see pictures from this year’s block party, click here: gulfcoastcf.org/bt26.
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