Some days feel routine. This isn’t one of them.

Today’s issue starts with a major political move as Hernando County Commissioner Steve Champion officially jumps into the race for Congress, bringing local leadership into a national spotlight. At the same time, the school board is holding onto its student representative role after intense controversy, but not without talk of major changes ahead. We’re also highlighting today’s local blood drive, a simple way to make a real impact in just a few minutes.

Then we shift into everything happening around town. Strawberry and blackberry picking, multiple farmers markets, craft fairs, a car show, art walks, the St. Joan of Arc Carnival, live music, drifting events, karaoke, and enough food trucks to make your weekend decisions harder than they should be.

If you want the stories that matter and the best ways to spend your next few days, without digging through ten different sites, keep scrolling.

Steve Champion, a lifelong businessman and current Hernando County Commissioner, today announced his candidacy for the United States House of Representatives in Florida’s 15th Congressional District

Hernando County Commissioner Steve Champion just announced his bid for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 15th Congressional District. This move positions the lifelong businessman and three-term local leader to bring his focus on fiscal discipline, lower taxation, and reduced regulatory burden to a national stage, potentially shifting our broader community’s representation.

Champion, known for his instrumental role in achieving "significant tax reductions in Florida" during his commission tenure, also built a career in the private sector, founding and owning multiple successful businesses like American Gun and Pawn. He sharply criticized, "Washington has failed the American people," pledging to "restore accountability, defend our constitutional freedoms, and bring real-world leadership to a system consumed by bureaucracy."

Committed to conservative principles, individual liberty, and working alongside former President Donald Trump, Champion now seeks to earn the support of voters. What will his ambitious leap from local leadership to the national arena mean for Florida’s 15th District, and our community's voice in Washington?

Source: Nature Coast News (FB Page)

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Springstead High School is proud to welcome Mr. Angel Lopez as our new Assistant Principal

Twenty-two years dedicated to education, many right here in Hernando County, now bring Angel Lopez into a pivotal new role. Springstead High School recently appointed Lopez as its Assistant Principal, entrusting him with boosting student achievement, strengthening teacher collaboration, and cultivating a positive school culture for "Eagle Nation." His extensive background explicitly includes these areas, and the school looks forward to the leadership and experience he brings.

Lopez first made Hernando County his home when he launched his teaching career, committing himself to serving this community ever since. Outside the classroom, he finds enjoyment spending time with his family, exercising at the gym, fishing, and unwinding at the beach. Given his deep local ties and proven dedication to fostering student success, what new directions will Lopez steer Springstead High School toward in his fresh leadership position?

Source: Springstead High School Eagles (FB Page)

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Reminder: LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will host a blood drive today, May 1, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hernando County Administration Building, located at 15470 Flight Path Dr,

Your chance to save a life and score a free t-shirt arrives tomorrow for our community at the Hernando County Administration Building. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers hosts a crucial blood drive today, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 15470 Flight Path Dr in Brooksville. Every donor receives a free t-shirt and cholesterol screening.

Beyond these immediate perks, donors giving platelets or double red cells also earn an additional $40 e-gift card. Eligibility requires you to be at least 16 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and present a photo ID. Sixteen-year-old donors specifically need written parental permission to participate. Schedule your appointment by scanning the provided QR code or calling 352-596-2002. How many local residents will make a difference tomorrow?

Source: Hernando County Government (FB Page)

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Hernando School Board’s Student Representative Position will Remain, but Could be “Revamped and Restructured”

Intense online harassment against Hernando's student representative nearly ended the role altogether, but students will keep their seat on the School Board – for now. Board Member Shannon Rodriguez initially moved to eliminate the position, citing "safety concerns" after local activist Louis Johns repeatedly attacked current representative Jaserah Abdul-Rahim online over her Muslim faith and appearance. While Rodriguez now supports retaining the role, she insists the position needs "revamping and restructuring" due to rising political violence and the current political climate, emphasizing student safety.

Numerous speakers urged the board to preserve this valuable student voice, emphasizing its role in fostering civic engagement and leadership. Current representative Abdul-Rahim also expressed her desire to participate in discussions, stating, "You can’t just remove a position when things get hard." Crucially, before public comments, the board adopted new anti-harassment policies specifically updating definitions to include cyberstalking, religious harassment, and threatening gestures. Still, it remains unclear if these new protections extend to students targeted by individuals outside the district. What shape will this "restructuring" take, and will it truly shield student leaders from online hostility?

Source: Hernando Sun (Feed)

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Blackberry Picking
May 1, 2026 | 9 AM – 4 PM
JG Ranch, 17200 Wiscon Rd., Brooksville
U Pick Blackberries

U Pick Strawberry at JG Ranch
May 1, 2026 | 9 AM – 4 PM
JG Ranch, 17200 Wiscon Rd., Brooksville
Strawberry picking and good farm fun.

St. Joan of Arc Spring Carnival
May 1, 2026 | 5 PM – 10 PM
St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 13485 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
Food Available for Purchase, Outdoor Event, Pre-Purchase Tickets

Glow Ball Golf
May 1, 2026 | 8 PM
Hernando Oaks Golf Club, 5230 Delacroix Dr., Brooksville
The most fun way to play!

Life Line Screening Event
May 2, 2026 | 8 AM – 5 PM
Brooksville Elks Lodge #2582, 13383 County Line Road, Spring Hill
Screenings are simple and painless. Get peace of mind or early detection. Cost is $129. Details for booking your appointment are on the flyer.
Tickets Required

Blackberry Picking
May 2, 2026 | 9 AM – 4 PM
JG Ranch, 17200 Wiscon Rd., Brooksville
U Pick Blackberries

Brooksville Farmers Market at Central Florida Beef
May 2, 2026 | 9 AM – 2 PM
The Market at CFB, 605 E. Jefferson St, Brooksville
Bringing you local farmers, artisans & makers on the lawn every first Saturday of the month 9am-2pm. Interested in being a vendor? Email us at bvlfarm…
Vendor Market, Outdoor Event, Local Crafts, Free Parking, Free Admission

U Pick Strawberry
May 2, 2026 | 9 AM – 4 PM
JG Ranch, 17200 Wiscon Rd., Brooksville
Strawberry picking and good farm fun.

Berry Bash Craft Market
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 3 PM
Masaryk Winery, 19121 Phillips Rd., Masaryktown
FREE Entry! FREE Parking! Berry Bash is four weekends: April 11 & 12, 18 & 19, 25 & 26, May 2 & 3 Saturdays (10am-5pm) Sundays (10am-3pm) FREE Live Mu…
Vendor Market, Local Crafts, Free Admission

Central High NJROTC Car Show
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 1 PM
Mission BBQ, 14363 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville
Mark your calendars! This event will benefit Central High School's NJROTC program. Come check out some really cool cars, grab a coffee at Dutch Brothe…

Farmers Market Spring Hill
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 3 PM
Chili's Restaurant, 3085 Commercial Way, Spring Hill
Vendor Market, Outdoor Event, Local Crafts, Family Friendly, Dog Friendly, Free Admission

Happy Tails Market
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 2 PM
Humane Society of the Nature Coast, 7200 Mobley Rd., Brooksville
Come join us again for this Saturday’s Market! Stop by, say hello, and show your support — we’d love to see you there!
Family Friendly, Vendor Market

Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 2 PM
Silver Dolphin Restaurant & Store, 4036 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach
The "Perfect Saturday" Vibe ✨ Escape to the Coast for a Morning of Art & Magic! ✨ Looking for the ultimate Saturday plans? Swap the ordinary for the e…
Family Friendly, Free Admission

Stepping Into the Stream
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 11 AM
WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center, 4242 Lake in the Woods Dr., Spring Hill
Stepping Into the Stream A six- session educational series beginning Saturday, March 14th WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Join us for a se…

The OM Grown Garden: Free Garden Education Talks
May 2, 2026 | 10 AM – 11 AM
WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center, 4242 Lake in the Woods Dr., Spring Hill
🌱🌿 Our mission: to offer sustainable gardening education and supply our community with nourishing, top-quality, naturally grown food. The garden thr…

St. Joan of Arc Spring Carnival
May 2, 2026 | 12 PM – 11 PM
St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 13485 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
Food Available for Purchase, Outdoor Event, Pre-Purchase Tickets

Star Wars Galactic Slime @ Spring Hill Branch
May 2, 2026 | 1 PM – 2 PM
Hernando County Library - Spring Hill Branch, 9220 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill
Join us at the library and make galactic slime to celebrate May the 4th. This program is for children in grades K-5. Space is limited. Registration is…
Limited Space, Pre-Registration Required, Children Grade K-5, Free Admission

Lead Foot Fiesta Drifting Fest May 2nd at Lead Foot City
May 2, 2026 | 2 PM – 9 PM
Lead Foot City, 17109 Old Ayers Rd., Brooksville
TICKETS & TECH CARDS (NOT RELEASED YET) SAVE THE DATE, TICKET SALES OPEN SOON CALL 844-532-3366 FOR ANY QUESTIONS Lead Foot Fiesta Drift Fest at Lead…

Monthly Steak Shoot at Brooksville Elks Lodge #2582
May 2, 2026 | 3 PM – 5 PM
Brooksville Elks Lodge #2582, 13383 County Line Road, Spring Hill
First Saturday of every month - Like BINGO but you yell STEAK! Come join us for some fun, visit with friends and win some steaks! Public Welcome - Br…

Karaoke Night
May 2, 2026 | 5 PM
Hernando Oaks Golf Club, 5230 Delacroix Dr., Brooksville
Let's Party!

Kentucky Derby Party - Carry-In / Potluck Dinner
May 2, 2026 | 5 PM
Brooksville Elks Lodge #2582, 13383 County Line Road, Spring Hill
The Lodge is going to have a Kentucky Derby Party on Saturday, May 2nd at 5:00 (immediately following Steak Shoot). This will be a Carry-In / Potluc…

Storybook Market at Citrus & Sage
May 2, 2026 | 9 PM – 11:59 PM
Citrus & Sage Bookshop, 309 S. Main St, Brooksville
Stop by for a night of fun at Citrus and Sage Bookshop. Check out vendors, solve puzzles, complete the scavenger hunt and shop unique, curated vendors…

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,…
May 1, 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
May 1, 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
May 1, 2026 | 11 AM – 6 PM
Ken's Spring Hill Service Center, 11175 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill

Krafted by Kiki (Caribbean | Wings | Comfort Food)
Caribbean | Wings | Comfort Food
May 1, 2026 | 11 AM – 4 PM
Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery, 17810 Forge Drive, Spring Hill

TaterHeads (Stuffed Baked Potatoes)
We serve baked and stuffed russet potatoes. We also serve stuffed potato skins.
May 1, 2026 | 11 AM – 8 PM
Ken's Spring Hill Service Center, 11175 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill

It's Lemonlicious (Fresh Squeezed Lemonade | Dirty Sodas | Energizers)
May 1, 2026 | 12 PM – 6 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
May 1, 2026 | 12 PM – 7 PM
Pink Dinosaur, 3275 Commercial Way, Spring Hill

The Lobster Tank (Lobster Rolls)
Lobster Food Truck Featuring authentic, original MAINE Lobster Rolls.
May 1, 2026 | 12 PM – 6 PM
Advance Auto, 14321 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill

Various Artists
2026 Hernando County Fair
Hernando County Fairgrounds, 6436 Broad St., Brooksville
May 1, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
🎡 THE FAIR IS BACK, HERNANDO! 🎡 Stars, Stripes and Carnival Lights! Lights, rides, food, and family fun… it’s time for the Hernando County Fair! 📅…
Varies | Pre-purchase Required: No
Pre-purchase Tickets Here

George Mac
Musical Performance
Bayport Inn, 4835 Cortez Blvd., Spring Hill
May 1, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Pre-purchase Required: No

Fiesta Floor It Friday - Drag Racing, Burnouts, Car Truck Bike Meet at Lead Foot City (May 1st, 6-10
Lead Foot City, 17109 Old Ayers Rd., Brooksville
May 1, 2026 | 6 PM – 10 PM
Racing in Mexico!!! This is a special Friday Night Fiesta Theme in honor of Cinco de Mayo 🇲🇽 BUY TICKETS & TECH CARDS DAY OF SHOW CASH or CARD AT TH…
Pre-purchase Required: No

Mrs. RED Band
Lazy Lizard Hernando Beach, 3192 Shoal Line Blvd, Hernando Beach
May 1, 2026 | 6 PM
Mrs. Red will be rocking the Lazy Lizard starting at 6pm!
Pre-purchase Required: No

Friday Dance Music with Angelo
Brooksville Elks Lodge #2582, 13383 County Line Road, Spring Hill
May 1, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Kitchen is open from 5:30 – 7:30 with a variety of menu items, such as burgers, fried fish, chicken tenders, meatball sandwiches, pizza, etc. Dance $…
$5 Cover | Pre-purchase Required: No

Dixon's Violin live in Spring Hill/Stage West Playhouse
Stage West Playhouse, 8390 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill
May 1, 2026 | 6:50 PM – 8:15 PM
The electric violin, reimagined by Dixon. Join us for the mesmerizing experience of musical magic by acclaimed violinist Dixon, live in concert! Don't…
Pre-purchase Required: No

Jacob's Well
Craft Life Brewing Co., 6810 Tower Dr., Hudson
May 1, 2026 | 7 PM – 10 PM
Pre-purchase Required: No

Music Bingo By: Irvy
Southern Axe House, 10507 Hearth Rd., Spring Hill
May 1, 2026 | 7 PM – 9 PM
Get ready to sing it loud and mark it off! 🎤🎶 Join us at Southern Axe House for a night of Music Bingo — where your favorite songs replace numbers…
Pre-purchase Required: No

The Wizard of Oz Jr.
The Live Oak Theatre, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville
May 1, 2026 | 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Youth Theatre production of Wizard of Oz Jr.
See Pricing | Pre-purchase Required: No

The Wizard of Oz Jr.
The Live Oak Theatre, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville
May 2, 2026 | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Youth Theatre production of Wizard of Oz Jr.
Pre-purchase Required: No

Various Artists
2026 Hernando County Fair
Hernando County Fairgrounds, 6436 Broad St., Brooksville
May 2, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
🎡 THE FAIR IS BACK, HERNANDO! 🎡 Stars, Stripes and Carnival Lights! Lights, rides, food, and family fun… it’s time for the Hernando County Fair! 📅…
Varies | Pre-purchase Required: No
Pre-purchase Tickets Here

Tim Machine
Musical Performance
Bayport Inn, 4835 Cortez Blvd., Spring Hill
May 2, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Pre-purchase Required: No

TC and Sass debuts @ The Lazy Lizard Hernando Beach
Lazy Lizard Hernando Beach, 3192 Shoal Line Blvd, Hernando Beach
May 2, 2026 | 6 PM
Time to Dance Your Sass Off! at the Lazy Lizard, sat May 2nd! Make sure to arrive for early for a delicious menu item, a great seat and enjoy the debu…
Pre-purchase Required: No

ZACHARY WESTERVELT🎶
Broad Street Brewing Co., 291 E. Jefferson St., Brooksville
May 2, 2026 | 7 PM – 10 PM
Come listen to the quirky jams of Zachary Westervelt live at BSBC May 2nd from 7-10pm!
Pre-purchase Required: No

The Wizard of Oz Jr.
The Live Oak Theatre, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville
May 2, 2026 | 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Youth Theatre production of Wizard of Oz Jr.
Pre-purchase Required: No

The Gaturz
Musical Performance
Bayport Inn, 4835 Cortez Blvd., Spring Hill
May 3, 2026 | 1 PM – 5 PM
Pre-purchase Required: No

The Wizard of Oz Jr.
The Live Oak Theatre, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville
May 3, 2026 | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Youth Theatre production of Wizard of Oz Jr.
Pre-purchase Required: No

Mark Anthony Band
Lazy Lizard Hernando Beach, 3192 Shoal Line Blvd, Hernando Beach
May 3, 2026 | 3 PM
Sunday Funday with the Mark Anthony Band! Let’s dance!
Pre-purchase Required: No

Let us know your thoughts on today’s issue