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Immigration Attorneys in Sarasota, FL

When you think about the American Dream, what comes to mind? For many citizens, it means the freedom to provide for one's family through hard work, dedication, and good deeds. For others, it means having a reliable career and enough financial security to buy a modest home and maybe even a white picket fence. In modern times, however, it's harder than ever to achieve the American Dream - and that's for people who are born in our great nation. For men and women coming to the U.S. from another country, it often seems impossible. These are good, hardworking people who simply want the opportunity to provide for their families and adopt the American way.

Unfortunately, getting through the United States immigration system is seldom straightforward or easy. Many immigration cases face hurdles and difficulties that require expert legal assistance to achieve favorable outcomes. It can be challenging to figure out how to properly organize application materials or discern the options available to you. Fortunately, immigration attorneys in Sarasota, FL, can help you avoid the common mistakes so many make and help you gain access to the immigration benefits you rightly deserve. It all starts with a one-on-one conference at Central Florida Immigration Attorneys.

Immigration Attorneys Sarasota, FL

Services Areas

Helping You Pursue the American Dream One Step at a Time

Central Florida Immigration Attorneys possesses extensive knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. immigration system, derived from decades of specialized legal expertise. We prioritize treating our clients as partners, with the foremost goal of assisting in resolving any immigration-related challenges.

Our principal attorney, Charlene Seda, has previously served as an adjudicator for immigration services at USCIS, and Attorney Alejandro Salgado has an extensive background as a criminal lawyer. This combined experience gives our law firm a distinctive viewpoint on all facets of the immigration system, allowing us to better support our clients. Collectively, our legal team has over 20 years of combined experience and remains dedicated to offering the skilled and empathetic assistance you require.

Clients recommend their friends and families to our immigration lawyers in Sarasota, FL, because we provide:

Two Decades of Professional Experience

Attorney Charlene Seda & Attorney Alejandro Seda have over 20 years of combined experience. They are both graduates from the prestigious Universidad Católica de Ponce, Puerto Rico and both received Masters Degrees from the University of Miami School of Law.

Knowledge of the System

Attorney Charlene Seda previously worked in USCIS - the United States Citizenship & Immigration Service. She knows the system from the inside and knows what she must do in order to set up your immigration case for success

Clear Communication

Our immigration lawyers strive to be accessible to our clients. We want to make sure we follow up and share the status of your case so that we are all on the same path.

Transparent Expectations

You can trust us from the moment you walk into our office. We will let you know exactly what we can and cannot do for your case. We want to set up clear expectations from day one.

The Central Florida Immigration Attorneys Difference

When you engage our firm, you gain access to decades of professional experience. We stand ready to assist as your ally and advisor at every stage of your immigration journey. Our team can support you in obtaining legal status through various application processes, explore dual intent visas, help you prepare for naturalization, and advocate for your rights if you face removal proceedings. With extensive knowledge of all aspects of the U.S. immigration system, we can guide you in identifying the most feasible paths to reside and work in the United States of America.

Unlike some immigration attorneys, our firm is truly dedicated to helping you achieve the American Dream. Together with our partners, we assist "credit invisible" men and women obtain the financing they need to hire immigration attorneys in Sarasota, FL. These loans cover both government filing fees and your immigration attorney fees. In doing so, we help clients establish credit profiles to help them access credit in the future as they take the necessary steps along the journey toward full citizenship.

At the end of the day, our goal is to use every legal route available to help you build a better life for your family. When you work with our immigration lawyers, you can rest easy knowing we'll always be straightforward about what each immigration strategy entails, as well as the risks, costs, and timeline involved. Our attorneys will also be upfront and honest about what we can and cannot do. We believe transparency is paramount to helping you make informed decisions, which is why we always keep you abreast of updates pertaining to your case.

Our immigration lawyers focus on providing expert legal representation for a range of immigration needs, including:

  • Immigration Law
  • Family-Based Immigration
  • Employment-Based Immigration
  • Citizenship & Naturalization
  • Deportation Defense
  • Cancellation of Removal
  • 601a Provisional Waiver
  • Visas
  • U Visas
  • Visa Extensions
 Immigration Benefits Sarasota, FL

Our Immigration Lawyers Understand What's at Stake

Whether you need to reunite your family in the U.S., establish permanent employment, or protect against deportation, the result of your immigration case will greatly affect your future. Our immigration attorneys recognize the significance of your situation and will make every effort to attain a positive outcome in your case. Instead of bragging and boasting, at Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we let our track record do the talking. We encourage you to review our firm's testimonials to learn more about how we have made a direct, positive impact on our clients' lives. Our clients rely on us to help them achieve their American Dreams. We're ready to help turn your dreams into reality, too.

 American Dream Sarasota, FL

Do You Really Need Immigration Lawyers in Sarasota, FL?

If you're in need of U.S. immigration benefits, it's always best to work with a qualified immigration attorney. Trying to navigate the hurdles of immigration law on your own is like flying a plane without any experience. It may seem easiest to jump in without any guidance, but doing so can be more detrimental to your goals than hiring a great lawyer. If you're wondering whether or not you need an immigration lawyer, keep these common benefits in mind.

 Florida Immigration  Sarasota, FL

Trying to understand legal paperwork is hard enough, even when you’re born in the U.S. For non-native English speakers, figuring out immigration paperwork is even more difficult. Filling out the forms and gathering the necessary supporting documents can be quite overwhelming and bewildering. Seasoned immigration attorneys are well-versed in the correct procedures for filling out these forms. Failing to fill out these forms accurately can lead to significant delays in the approval of your immigration benefits and may result in additional filing fees.

There are multiple ways to obtain U.S. citizenship, and if you're on your own, you might not be aware of all the options. This is where an immigration lawyer can step in to help. They can present different paths, explain the advantages and disadvantages of each, and make sure you fully grasp the implications of your choice on your citizenship journey.

Immigration lawyers are equipped to assist you in obtaining the necessary authorization to work in the U.S. A skilled attorney is familiar with the precise information you must provide to secure work authorization and to ensure the smooth progress of your application. Without a legal expert, errors in the process can cause significant delays.

If you're looking to become a U.S. citizen, chances are this is your first time trying. Thankfully, when you secure counsel from a reputable firm like Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, you can sleep a little easier knowing they have years of experience helping people just like you. Your immigration lawyer should be familiar with the various scenarios and pathways to the immigration benefit you seek. This will be advantageous for you as they have the expertise to identify the necessary documentation, recommend the most suitable options, and provide you with guidance on what to anticipate throughout the process.

Remember that the government can deem you inadmissible for various reasons, such as unresolved financial issues, criminal activity, or providing false information. If you're considered inadmissible, it doesn't have to be the end of the road. There are methods to challenge this ruling. An immigration attorney can assist you in presenting a compelling case. Although there's no guarantee that the immigration court will reverse the decision, having a seasoned lawyer by your side will undoubtedly improve your chances.

How Can You Find the Best Immigration Lawyers in Sarasota, FL?

Finding the right immigration law firm can feel a little bit like searching for a needle in a haystack. That's true in every state but especially so in Florida, where immigrants make up approximately 21% of the population, according to the American Immigration Counsel. So, how do you find the top immigration attorneys in your state? Here are a few tips we've compiled together to help make your search easier.

Immigration Attorneys Sarasota, FL

While your immigration matters are in progress, it's important to stay informed about the status of your case, any challenges that may arise, and what actions you might need to take. That's why it's crucial to work with immigration lawyers who value proactive communication. You can ask your attorney about their communication skills and how often they communicate with you, but take that answer with a grain of salt. It's also helpful to check reviews and read what former clients have to say about their responsiveness. Don't settle for a lawyer who fails to keep you updated.

This tip piggybacks off our first point because it involves communication. If you have questions about your case or any other facet of your immigration status, your lawyer should be available to answer those questions and provide reassurance when needed. It's not always realistic to expect that a lawyer will be able to answer your call right away, but it is reasonable to anticipate that your attorney will respond to you within a few days. If a lawyer has a track record of not returning calls from previous clients (which you might find out from client reviews, for instance), then be cautious about working with that lawyer and keep looking for another one.

If a lawyer has ever been publicly criticized or had formal complaints made against them by former clients, the state bar association will keep records of these incidents. If you're thinking of hiring a lawyer for an important immigration matter, it's a good idea to see what their reputation is like with the state bar association. That way, you can verify the immigration lawyer's experience and also potentially become aware of any professional issues the lawyer may have had in the past.

Immigration law can be quite complex, and the procedures associated with such matters can be equally intricate. That's why it's so important to work with an immigration lawyer who has experience handling different types of immigration cases or - at the least - a good deal of experience working cases just like yours. You can gauge an attorney's experience with immigration cases by checking their website first. If that information is not readily available, don't hesitate to reach out to the lawyer directly to inquire about their experience in handling cases similar to yours. Don't forget to check reviews online.

When it's all said and done, you've got to have confidence in your immigration lawyer, trust them to be honest about your case, and provide upfront advice about your options when faced with obstacles. You can get a sense of an immigration lawyer's integrity and truthfulness by meeting them for an initial consultation and reading client testimonials to learn about their honesty. If you don't feel entirely at ease with an immigration lawyer after this meeting, it's best to look elsewhere.

Even if you're fluent in English, it's important to have an immigration attorney who can provide services in multiple languages. This is especially crucial if your immigration matters involve family members, colleagues, or others who have limited English proficiency. If language might be an issue for you or someone else involved in your immigration case, make sure that the lawyer you're interested in offers services in your native or preferred language. At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we proudly offer legal services in both English and Spanish.

If you're new to this country, trying to understand immigration law is overwhelming. But with the right guidance and preparedness, your family's immigration goals are within reach. At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we help clients achieve success and peace of mind through years of combined experience, honesty, communication, professional guidance, and innovative immigration law strategies. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help when you need it most.

Top 3 Immigration Attorney Red Flags

Wondering if there are any red flags you should be aware of when choosing immigration attorneys in Sarasota, FL? The simple answer to that question is yes. If you've got a bad gut feeling or notice any of the following red flags, be wary.

Lawyer

Lawyers Who Wait at USCIS Offices

Attorneys who try to approach you at an office offering United States Citizenship and Immigration Services often provide lackluster legal services. Great immigration lawyers won't have the time to hang out at a USCIS office all day because they're busy serving clients.

Experts

"Experts" Who Aren't Really Lawyers

Beware of individuals who present themselves as "visa consultants," "notarios," or "petition preparers," as they are not the same as licensed attorneys. Oftentimes, they simply assist with filling out forms but lack a genuine understanding of your legal circumstances. There is a possibility that they may complete the forms incorrectly or even abscond with your money without providing any services at all.

Guidance

Illegal Guidance and Advice

Be very careful of lawyers who give you unethical or even illegal advice. For example, be cautious of lawyers who advise you to lie on an immigration form, deceive a USCIS officer, or attempt to bribe an immigration authority. If you get caught, it could result in a permanent bar from U.S. immigration benefits.

SMART_SLIDER

Changing Lives One Immigration Case at a Time

At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we have years of combined experience successfully representing clients in a range of immigration cases. We're dedicated to providing reliable, transparent legal services, whether you need help with a basic immigration application or litigation for an extremely complicated federal matter.

Unlike some immigration law firms, we combine state-of-the art technology with traditional one-on-one service to give our clients robust, effective counsel. You can count on your case progressing as fast as possible while having confidence that our immigration lawyers in cityname, state, will answer your questions honestly, clearly, and efficiently. To learn more about our immigration, citizenship, and deportation defense services, schedule your initial consultation today.

Latest News in Sarasota, FL

Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Sarasota-Manatee

St. Patrick’s Day is coming at us this Monday, March 17, and with it comes the desire to do one thing: Party like the Irish. If you promise to tag a designated driver or open up that Uber app, we’ll tell you the best spots to party down in Sarasota-Manatee. Don’t forget to wear green!Shamrock Pub2257 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, (941) 952-1730, ...

St. Patrick’s Day is coming at us this Monday, March 17, and with it comes the desire to do one thing: Party like the Irish. If you promise to tag a designated driver or open up that Uber app, we’ll tell you the best spots to party down in Sarasota-Manatee. Don’t forget to wear green!

Shamrock Pub

2257 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, (941) 952-1730, instagram.com/shamrockable

The Shamrock Pub—which has a legendary list of beers on tap and is an excellent spot to catch soccer— also throws a memorable St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Join in its 18th year with loads of live music and plenty of drinks. The party starts at 3 p.m. and lasts well into the night. Don’t forget to bring cash; Shamrock doesn’t accept credit cards.

Gator Club

1490 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 366-5969, thegatorclub.com

If you haven’t experienced a Gator Club block party for one of our many notable drinking holidays, be sure to check out the historic bar on St. Paddy’s. This year’s event promises live music, food trucks and other vendors out on Lemon Avenue. The party starts at 6 p.m.

Clancy’s Sports Bar and Grill

6218 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, (941) 794-2489, clancysirishsportsbar.com

Clancy’s Sports Bar and Grill starts its New Year on March 17. All year long, the bar counts down to its epic St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Save room for plenty of corned beef, cabbage and shepherd’s pie. All guests must be 21 and older.

Main Street Lakewood Ranch

8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch, lakewoodranch.com

McGrath’s Irish Ale House and Ed’s Tavern invite you and the fam downtown Lakewood Ranch for family-friendly festivities. Enjoy kids’ games, live entertainment, raffles and, as always, beer. The celebration starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 15.

Molly’s Pub

1562 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 366-7711, eviesonline.com

This year, Molly’s Pub is celebrating not one but two big milestones. St. Patrick’s Day (the obvious one), but also its three-year anniversary. Come for the party but stay for the whiskey flights, which include Slane, Jameson and Teeling. The celebration kicks off at 5:30 p.m.

Gecko’s Grill and Pub

Multiple locations, geckosgrill.com

If you want to keep things quieter this year and honor the holiday with Irish fare in a comfortable bar setting, head to your neighborhood Gecko’s. Expect shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, and bangers and mash made with Geier’s sausages. Can’t decide between the three? Opt for the platter option for a sampling of everything.

Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar

428 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, (941) 954-8688, leftysoysterseafood.com

The new kid on the block in the Rosemary District, Lefty’s has come out swinging for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day. It’s sourced local cabbage from Blumenberry Farms that it will serve alongside Gulf grouper or lamb osso buco. We hear there will be plenty of Jameson, too.

Jack Dusty at Ritz-Carlton Sarasota

1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota, (941) 309-2000, ritzcarlton.com

Don’t think of The Ritz when you think of St. Paddy’s? Think again. This year, Jack Dusty is serving up New York-style corned beef with braised savoy cabbage, red bliss potatoes, heirloom baby carrots and mustard velouté. Trade in the green beer for a swanky night out for once. You won’t regret it.

Total lunar eclipse schedule: Best time to see it in Sarasota, Manatee County, city by city

Click here for important updates to our privacy policy.NEWSBlood moon, total lunar eclipse in Sarasota, Bradenton, Florida: The moon will slip entirely through Earth's shadow and turn a ghostly copper color.Jennifer Sanga...

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NEWS

Blood moon, total lunar eclipse in Sarasota, Bradenton, Florida: The moon will slip entirely through Earth's shadow and turn a ghostly copper color.

Jennifer Sangalang

USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida

The next total lunar eclipse is March 13 and March 14, 2025 — and we’re over the moon.

Why the cause for celebration? The moon will slip entirely through Earth's shadow – the umbra – and turn a ghostly copper color. The total lunar eclipse is the first since November 2022. It’ll be visible to much of the world — including the Sunshine State (at night, of course!). The total lunar eclipse in March 2025 will be visible across much of North America and South America and many regions beyond, including Europe and the United Kingdom.

In Florida, we can best see this natural phenomenon just before 3 a.m. EST.

What time is the lunar eclipse, and what can we (potentially) see in Sarasota and Manatee counties? A rare "blood moon" lunar eclipse will be visible March 13 and overnight March 14, 2025, weather permitting.

Here’s a list of best times to see the total lunar eclipse in Sarasota and Manatee County, Florida for max viewing (when the moon is closest to the center of the shadow) and other things to know about lunar eclipses and the blood moon.

What will total lunar eclipse look like in Florida? Photos of lunar eclipse in Florida, blood moon, other super moons

The total lunar eclipse, sometimes called a blood moon, will be visible in Florida. This story contains an alphabetical roundup of what time to look up in various Florida cities. No eclipse glasses needed!

When is the 2025 total lunar eclipse? What time does lunar eclipse start? What time does lunar eclipse end?

Total lunar eclipse in Sarasota County, Florida: Best viewing times for blood moon

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Longboat Key, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Longboat Key, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Longboat Key weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South wind around 6 mph becoming north in the evening.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in North Port, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in North Port, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

North Port weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 57. Light and variable wind.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Sarasota, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Sarasota, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Sarasota weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Siesta Key, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Siesta Key, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Siesta Key weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South southwest wind around 5 mph becoming light and variable in the evening.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Venice, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Venice, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Venice weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 58. Calm wind.

Total lunar eclipse in Manatee County, Florida: Best viewing times for blood moon

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Anna Maria, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Anna Maria, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Anna Maria weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South wind 3 to 5 mph.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Bradenton, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Bradenton, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Bradenton weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 58. Calm wind.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Bradenton Beach, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Bradenton Beach, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Bradenton Beach weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South wind 3 to 5 mph.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Holmes Beach, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Holmes Beach, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Holmes Beach weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South wind 3 to 5 mph.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Longboat Key, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Longboat Key, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Longboat Key weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South wind around 6 mph becoming north in the evening.

What time is total lunar eclipse 2025 visible in Palmetto, Florida?

According to timeanddate.com, the eclipse could be visible in Palmetto, Florida, from 11:57 p.m. ET Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 6 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025, with max viewing at 2:58 a.m. ET Friday, March 14, 2025.

Palmetto weather Forecast for Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 59. Calm wind.

Watch March 2025 total lunar eclipse NASA livestream, Facebook Watch and YouTube

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Safe Children Coalition collecting gift baskets for foster families

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Neighbor NewsTo observe National Foster Care Month in May, SCC will show appreciation through gift basket collection and distribution for foster familiesSharon Kunkel, Local NonprofitIn advance of National Foster Care Month ...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Neighbor News

To observe National Foster Care Month in May, SCC will show appreciation through gift basket collection and distribution for foster families

Sharon Kunkel, Local Nonprofit

In advance of National Foster Care Month in May, child welfare agency Safe Children Coalition (SCC) is encouraging the community to show foster families their deep appreciation for caring for children in crisis. The organization is collecting gift baskets and gift cards to present to foster families in Florida’s Circuit 12 (Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties) during Foster Parent Appreciation month in May.

Gift baskets might cover themes including: movie night, with a Netflix gift card and snacks, or a restaurant gift card and movie theater tickets; game night, with board games and snacks; date night, with movie and/or restaurant gift cards, meal delivery service, or tickets to a local attraction; gardening supplies such as tools, plant nursery gift cards, and flower or vegetable seeds; or a theme of the donor’s choosing. Community members can also organize gift card drives for spa services, restaurants, recreational outings, groceries, gas, or other services and resources.

Commitments are needed by March 31; community members can indicate their participation by filling out a simple form at sccfl.org/foster-parent-appreciation. Once the commitment has been made and the chosen items purchased, gift baskets can be dropped off at SCC’s office between April 1-15. For further information, help in completing the form, or to schedule the drop-off of items, email scoachman@sccfl.org or call 941-315-3071 to speak with Resource Specialist Stephanie Coachman.

Additionally, to make a monetary donation, visit sccfl.org/donate. These donations support critical lifesaving programs and services for children and families.

“The community’s support, through the donation of a gift basket or gift cards, will help us to show these everyday heroes how much we appreciate them for the difference they make for children and families in our community,” said SCC president and CEO Brena Slater. “One caring foster household can make a lifelong positive impact on a child and their family. We are so grateful for our foster families – and hope others with room in their hearts and homes will consider looking into becoming new foster families.”

Find out what's happening in Sarasotafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

At any given time, more than 1,400 children in Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties are not able to remain safely in their homes. Foster homes provide abused or neglected children with stability and a place to heal until they can safely return to their families. The agency is actively looking for those who might want to explore becoming foster parents.

The next virtual session for those interested in fostering children in Circuit 12 will begin on June 2, 2025. For more information, visit sccfl.org/foster-care; to inquire about becoming a foster parent, contact foster parent recruitment specialist Melissa Hueser at 941-334-2971 or mhueser@sccfl.org.

About Safe Children Coalition, Inc.Safe Children Coalition, Inc. (SCC) serves as the lead agency for community-based care for Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties. SCC is a collaboration between local community agencies who provide services to children and families in need. SCC is committed to protecting children, strengthening families, and building community. The core functions provided by SCC include child welfare case management, foster care, adoption, independent living, prevention, diversion, quality management, and support services. Visit sccfl.org or call 941-371-4799.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

Red tide drifts closer to Sarasota and Charlotte counties. Are beaches are affected?

Red tide is in bloom near the Florida Gulf coast, and over the past week it has slowly crept closer to south Sarasota County.Satellite images ...

Red tide is in bloom near the Florida Gulf coast, and over the past week it has slowly crept closer to south Sarasota County.

Satellite images published by the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science show that a red tide bloom in the Gulf lingering around the Naples and Sanibel Island in Lee and Collier county area this month is slowly drifting northward, and has crept closer to Charlotte and Sarasota counties.

Images published Wednesday show that as of Tuesday the bloom was closest to shore near the Manasota Key and Englewood area, near the Sarasota and Charlotte county line. However, popular SRQ area beaches like those on Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island are still in the clear.

Where is red tide blooming in Florida?

Red tide has been off the Lee and Collier county coast for at least the past two weeks. Satellite images show the bloom has drifted northward away from Naples and Collier County since early February, and that it predominantly affected the Sanibel Island area in Lee County until recent days.

Satellite images show the red tide bloom has slowly drifted northward toward the Charlotte and Sarasota county line, but also slightly away from shore.

Water sample results from affected beaches published by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed satellite imagery findings. The most recent water samples, collected on Feb. 10, showed medium levels of red tide at Blind Pass Beach in south Sarasota County and Boca Grande Pass in Lee County near the Charlotte County line.

Water sample results show Sarasota or Manatee County beaches have been in the clear for at least one week, including those at Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Lido Key and Siesta Key.

What is a red tide bloom?

Red tide is caused when Karenia Brevis, an algae that naturally exists in the Gulf, blooms at a level that can cause harm to marine life. It is called red tide because typically blue waters turn red or brown during a bloom. Red tide can also cause health problems in humans, typically respiratory irritation especially among those who may be susceptible because of chronic health issues.

Although red tide is a naturally occurring phenomenon, human-caused nitrogen runoff is believed to help amplify red tide blooms because Karenia Brevis thrives in nitrogen enriched waters. Red tide has bloomed near parts of the Florida Gulf that have been affected by hurricanes in recent years, including the ongoing bloom which formed in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and Milton.

Red tide blooms tend to linger near shore until they are potentially carried away by a seasonal change in water currents.

Where can I learn more about red tide?

Visitors can learn more about current red tide conditions by visiting official state and federal websites to plan trips to local beaches.

Available resources include satellite imagery published by NCCOS, water sample results published by FWC, notes from a local beach conditions reporting system published by MOTE Marine Laboratory. Visitors can also check weather forecasts to determine if winds are blowing toward or away from shore.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
 Immigration Benefits Sarasota, FL