A Shipload of Stuff to Know

Good morning Saint John! Can we officially make this the last day of shoveling of the season? Maybe make tomorrow the first day of BBQing… 🍗

Here’s what’s cookin’ this morning:

• Have you met Aerial at the airport yet? 🦮

• OMG Becky, look at that ship 🚢

• Let’s hit the theatre 🎭

Here we go!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

LOCALS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Aerial: YSJ's Facility Dog Who Knows Just What You Need

If you’ve traveled through Saint John Airport (YSJ) lately, you might’ve met the real MVP of the terminal: Aerial, the 15-month-old Bernadoodle and facility dog extraordinaire. Aerial’s not just there for the cute factor (although, let’s be honest, she’s adorable) - she’s there to ease stress and bring comfort to everyone who crosses her path.

Aerial was introduced to YSJ nearly a year ago after airport management noticed how therapy dogs at other airports helped reduce stress and improve the travel experience. But Aerial’s special talent goes beyond the usual fetch-and-snuggle routine. She has an uncanny ability to sense when someone’s stressed out.

“One day I was on a stressful call, and she went under the desk and started licking my wrist. I had no idea why, until I asked the therapy dog trainers. They said, ‘Well, she often does that to comfort people.’ Now, it’s a running joke in the office, if she licks your wrist, we ask, ‘Are you stressed out?’” Lori Carle, Aerial’s handler and YSJ’s Marketing Manager, laughs.

While Aerial is busy working, comforting passengers and staff alike, she knows when it’s time to punch out. At the end of the day, she sheds her official vest and becomes just another playful pup at home with Lori’s other dog, Thor. But when she’s on the clock, it’s all business - offering cuddles, licking away the stress, and even accepting treats from her loyal fans around the airport.

Whether it’s offering a lick to calm a nervous traveler or receiving belly rubs from staff, Aerial has become a beloved member of the YSJ family. And with her natural ability to connect with people, she’s not just a dog; she’s a bridge between the chaos of air travel and a moment of calm.

Next time you pass through YSJ, keep an eye out - Aerial just might be there to help you take a deep breath before your next flight.

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NEWS NOTES

🚢 Big ship, Big Moves

If you glance out at the harbour this morning and think, “Whoa, that’s a big ship,” you’re absolutely right. The Santa Rosa, a 300-metre-long cargo giant, has officially docked, making it the biggest container ship to ever visit Saint John! That’s like 1.5 Reversing Falls bridges…so yeah, hard to miss.

Meanwhile, all that cargo action means the port is busier than ever. A new DHL report says containers are hanging out for about 11 days before catching their train ride out of town. With terminal space sitting 89% full, there’s not much wiggle room - but it’s proof Saint John is moving more cargo than ever. More ships, more freight, more of a waiting game.

⚽️ Turf’s Up for East Saint John

Simonds High School’s field is about to get a $4.5 million makeover. Out with the grass, in with artificial turf, plus LED lighting and a new practice field. That means fewer weather delays and muddy fields for everyone from minor soccer to rugby and even ultimate frisbee.

Peter Woytiuk, Board Chair of Simonds Community Turf Field Ltd., says the project is crucial for the community’s growing sports scene - providing better, year-round access for local teams. Fundraising is in full swing, with work possibly starting in 2026. To check out the plan, or to donate or volunteer, visit the project’s website and help make this vision a reality.

🎉 And the Winner Is... 🎣

Big congratulations to Prince Thomas, our lucky winner of TWO tickets to the Fly Fishing Film Festival at Wasted Day Brewing on March 30th! 🏆

A huge thank you to the event organizers for making this possible, and to Hammond River Angling Association for sharing those incredible local fishing clips with us.

Stay tuned for more awesome giveaways and events coming your way! 🎟️

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

Theatre Talk 🎭
It’s time to grab your tickets and get your applause ready! Saint John is bursting with theatrical talent over the next few weeks, with a lineup of must-see shows that’ll have you laughing, singing, and maybe even crying a little (in the best way).

Mike Biggar Jazz & Blues Revue | March 29 & 30
Due to popular demand, a second performance of the Mike Biggar Jazz & Blues Revue has been added on Sunday, March 30! Local blues legend Mike Biggar and the Jazz Loyalty Program return for an encore performance after last year’s sold-out smash. Don’t miss this chance to experience high-energy jazz and blues as part of the Live @ The BMO Music Series. Get ready for 2 nights of powerful music and unforgettable moments!

Derek Edwards | March 30
Catch the comedy legend Derek Edwards at the Imperial Theatre for his show Oxy Moron. A Just for Laughs vet, Derek's quick wit and hilarious storytelling make for a night of gut-busting laughter and sharp, charming jabs. Widely regarded as Canada’s funniest man, don’t miss this night of laughs and insights at 7:30pm. Tickets are $60. 

Sistema NB Spring Concert | April 4
Join Sistema NB Saint John Centre for a night celebrating the musical talents of their students! Expect an evening full of energy as they showcase the progress and hard work they’ve put in this term. From 6:30 to 7:45pm, you’ll be treated to inspiring performances that prove just how much these students continue to impress. Don’t miss this heartwarming celebration of local young talent!

High School Musical | April 9-12
Get ready to bust a move and sing along as Rothesay High School presents High School Musical! The students are putting on a show full of high energy, catchy tunes, and plenty of heart. With performances from April 9 to 12, including a Saturday matinee, you won’t want to miss this fantastic musical. Grab your tickets now for a night full of fun and excitement!

Freaky Friday: A New Musical | April 10-12
Catch the Hampton High School Theatre Company’s production of Disney's Freaky Friday: A New Musical! Based on Mary Rodgers' novel and the beloved Disney films, this family-friendly show explores the hilarious and heartwarming tale of a mother and daughter who swap bodies. With catchy tunes and an insightful message about seeing the world through each other’s eyes, it’s a show for all ages! Performances run April 10, 11, and 12 at 7pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids and students.

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who’s counting down to hot dogs and potato salad. 🌭

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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