Daily News Roundup: November 26, 2025
Step Up Suncoast Seeks Volunteers for 2025 VITA Tax Assistance Program
Step Up Suncoast is recruiting volunteers for the upcoming tax season as part of its longstanding Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which provides free tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income residents across Manatee County. The program, operated in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service for more than 50 years, offers m…
Sheriff’s Office Deploys 500 New AEDs to Enhance Lifesaving Response Countywide
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is upgrading its emergency response capabilities by deploying 500 new automated external defibrillators, marking a significant enhancement to the tools available to deputies during cardiac emergencies. The devices will be installed in patrol vehicles and throughout the sheriff’s office facilities across the county.
Heart of the Holidays Market Brings Festive Traditions and a Familiar Face to the Suncoast
The Heart of the Holidays European Market is returning to the Suncoast for its second year, offering visitors four days of artisan shopping, festive food, and seasonal entertainment. The market will run December 4–7 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature more than 40 vendors along with classic European-inspired dishes such as Swedish meatballs and Bava…
State Declares Phase 1 Water Shortage as Drought Deepens in Manatee County
State water officials are urging Manatee County residents to cut back on water use as a worsening drought continues to strain Southwest Florida’s resources. The Southwest Florida Water Management District announced this week that the region is 13 inches below its average annual rainfall, prompting the declaration of a Phase 1 Water Shortage.