Brian Stewart, Hernando County Democratic Party Chair, has had the battery charge against him dropped after an incident last month. Stewart was arrested March 28 for allegedly hitting a counterprotester with a bullhorn during a tense moment in the community. This development will likely shift local political conversations, especially with the county’s elections coming up. Many folks here have been following the case closely, curious about what it means for leadership in Hernando County politics.
Elsewhere in Hernando County, a recent crash on Blanton Road claimed a life, reminding us all to stay cautious on local roads. On a lighter note, Hernando High School’s former starting quarterback, Michael Saltsman, is taking his talents to Hillsdale College in Michigan. There’s also an interesting look at candidates starting to emerge for the upcoming county commission and school board races. Plenty happening around here today, so let’s get into the details.
Battery Charge Against Hernando Dems Chair Brian Stewart Dropped
The battery charge against Brian Stewart, chair of the Hernando County Democratic Party, has been officially dropped. Stewart was arrested on March 28 after an incident where he allegedly struck a counterprotester in the head with a bullhorn. The case drew attention due to the political tensions around local demonstrations. With the charge dismissed, Stewart remains in his role as party chair, which could impact how Democratic campaigns and events move forward in Hernando County. Neighbors watching local politics closely will want to monitor any upcoming statements or actions from Stewart and the party.
Driver Killed After Vehicle Crashes, Catches Fire on Blanton Road
A fatal crash occurred early April 13 on Blanton Road when a vehicle left the roadway and caught fire. The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that the driver died at the scene. This tragic accident is a stark reminder for all who travel these roads to be cautious, especially in less populated areas. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. Residents who frequently drive on Blanton Road or nearby routes should be alert to any updates or traffic changes related to the crash.
Hernando’s Michael Saltsman Signs with Hillsdale College
Michael Saltsman, who led Hernando High School as the starting quarterback for three seasons, has signed with Hillsdale College in Michigan to continue both his football and academic journey. At 6-foot-2, Saltsman showed strong leadership and skill on the field, earning recognition from coaches and peers alike. His commitment to Hillsdale is a proud moment for Hernando High and the Spring Hill community, highlighting the talent our local athletes develop before moving on to college sports. Neighbors interested in local sports will want to follow Saltsman’s progress at the collegiate level.
An Early Look at Hernando’s BOCC and School Board Candidates
Election season is shaping up in Hernando County, with candidates starting to emerge for two county commission seats and three school board positions. Voters can expect a competitive field as incumbents and newcomers prepare their campaigns. The article breaks down who is running, what the qualifications are to enter the race, and important dates for voting. For neighbors who want to understand their options or even consider running themselves, this is a helpful primer. Local elections have a big impact on the county’s direction, so paying attention now makes sense.
Steve Van Gorden Seeks Return to Public Office in Dade City
Steve Van Gorden, who resigned as Zephyrhills Mayor and principal of Zephyrhills High School back in 2012 amid sexual harassment allegations, is now running for a seat on the Dade City Commission. Van Gorden says he hopes voters will give him a second chance. His candidacy has sparked discussion in the community about accountability and redemption in local politics. Though Dade City is outside Hernando County, many folks here follow developments in neighboring Pasco and would benefit from understanding how regional leadership is evolving.
Karaoke Night
April 14, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Bayport Inn, 4835 Cortez Blvd.,, Brooksville
Join us for some food, drinks, and karaoke.
Kid's Night at Florida Cracker Cook Shack
April 14, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Florida Cracker Cook Shack, 511 S. Broad St, Brooksville
Bring out the whole family every Wednesday for Kids Night at the Florida Cracker Cook Shack in Brooksville, FL! Featuring balloon twisting and face pa…
Family Friendly
Public Bingo
April 14, 2026 | 6 PM – 8:15 PM
Spring Hill Moose Lodge #521, 5214 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill
� Attention Bingo Lovers! � Looking for a fun night out? Join us every Tuesday at 6:00 PM for Public Bingo at the Springhill Moose Lodge 521! � Doors…
Tidal Book Club
April 14, 2026 | 7 PM – 8 PM
Tidal Brewing Co, 14311 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
The April book is Death and Other Occupational Hazards by Veronika Dapunt Please join us to discuss the book, vote on June's book and pick up March pr…
Business Builders Spring Hill Weekly Meetup
April 15, 2026 | 11:55 AM – 12:55 PM
Marco's Pizza, 5150 Commercial Way, Spring Hill
This is a FREE non seat specific networking group. All we ask is that you show up and participate. Bring lots of cards and get ready to meet new profe…
Food Purchase Required
Karaoke Night
April 15, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Bayport Inn, 4835 Cortez Blvd.,, Brooksville
Join us for some food, drinks, and karaoke.
Murder She Wrote: a thriller bookclub
April 15, 2026 | 7 PM
Citrus & Sage Bookshop, 309 S Main St., Brooksville
Join us for our thriller book club. We will be discussing the book The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea and will vote on the next month's book. Th…
Marie & Me Coffee (Coffee)
We are a mobile coffee trailer specializing in handcrafted lattes, specialty coffee drinks, delicious cocoas. We pride ourselves on using only clean,…
April 14, 2026 | 7:45 AM – 12 PM
Verizon, 4106 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill
Cali Street Tacos, LLC (Mexican | Tex-Mex | Tacos)
Originally from California and bring authentic Mexican flavors to Spring hill Fl. Voted best food truck and Mexican restaurant
April 14, 2026 | 9 AM – 5 PM
Ken's Spring Hill Service Center, 11175 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
Cheese Dreams, LLC (Gourmet Grilled Cheese)
Cheese Dreams offers foods from Classic to Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Soups, sides and more
April 14, 2026 | 11 AM – 5 PM
Ken's Spring Hill Service Center, 11175 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
La Florizza (Wood Fired Pizza)
Authentic wood fired pizza made in a Marra Forni brick oven
April 14, 2026 | 12 PM – 7 PM
Pink Dinosaur, 3275 Commercial Way, Spring Hill
Spice Corner (Indian)
Authentic Indian flavors, home recipes. Butter chicken, chicken Tikka masala, Samosa, Naan, Indian tacos and Basmati rice.
April 14, 2026 | 4 PM – 8 PM
Broad Street Brewing, 291 E Jefferson St, Brooksville
Marie & Me Coffee (Coffee)
We are a mobile coffee trailer specializing in handcrafted lattes, specialty coffee drinks, delicious cocoas. We pride ourselves on using only clean,…
April 15, 2026 | 7:45 AM – 12 PM
Verizon, 4106 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill
Cali Street Tacos, LLC (Mexican | Tex-Mex | Tacos)
Originally from California and bring authentic Mexican flavors to Spring hill Fl. Voted best food truck and Mexican restaurant
April 15, 2026 | 9 AM – 5 PM
Ken's Spring Hill Service Center, 11175 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
Cheese Dreams, LLC (Gourmet Grilled Cheese)
Cheese Dreams offers foods from Classic to Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Soups, sides and more
April 15, 2026 | 11 AM – 5 PM
Ken's Spring Hill Service Center, 11175 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
La Florizza (Wood Fired Pizza)
Authentic wood fired pizza made in a Marra Forni brick oven
April 15, 2026 | 12 PM – 7 PM
Pink Dinosaur, 3275 Commercial Way, Spring Hill
Krafted by Kiki (Caribbean | Wings | Comfort Food)
Caribbean | Wings | Comfort Food
April 15, 2026 | 4 PM – 9 PM
Marker 48 Brewing, 12147 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville
Lazy Baker Pizza Maker (Pizza | Italian)
Family owned and operated Pizzeria on wheels! Serving deliciousness, one slice at a time! BEST PIZZA THIS SIDE OF THE MISSISSIPPI!!!!!
April 15, 2026 | 5 PM – 8 PM
Deerfield Lakes, 12353 Drakefield Dr., Spring Hill
Open Mic Comedy Night
Tidal Brewing Co, 14311 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
April 15, 2026 | 8 PM – 9:30 PM
Please join your host and Tidal’s awesome bartender, Ryan Cleveland, in the taproom every other Wednesday night for an open mic comedy night where we…
Pre-purchase Required: No
Mark Connors (Acoustic)
Mark Connors Music
Florida Cracker Cook Shack, 511 S. Broad St, Brooksville
April 17, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Stop on out for some good times, good food and music!
No Cover | Pre-purchase Required: No
Floor It Friday - Drag Racing and more...
Lead Foot City, 17109 Old Ayers Rd., Brooksville
April 17, 2026 | 6 PM – 10 PM
Floor It Friday's at Lead Foot City is a Party Night! Drag Racing, Live Entertainment, Car, Truck & Bike meet, and more!
$20 and up | Pre-purchase Required: No
Pre-purchase Tickets Here
Multiple Performers (Rock & Roll)
Rock & Roll Revival Music Festival
Florida Sand Music Ranch, 85 Myers Rd., Brooksville
April 17, 2026 | 6 PM – 6 PM
The powerful music of the 60s/70s left an indelible mark on the world. No other music has endured like this period in history. Join us as we relive, c…
Price Varies | Pre-purchase Required: No
JR Lewis (Country)
Live Misuc @ Jigger Bar
Jigger Bar, 7394 St. Andrews Blvd., Spring Hill
April 18, 2026 | 7 PM – 11 PM
Join us April 18th from 7PM–11PM for a live performance by JR Lewis bringing the energy, the vibes, and the kind of music that keeps your drink full a…
Pre-purchase Required: No
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From the Inside Spring Hill Team