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🍦Is This SJ’s Real Sign of Spring?
SJ Today
April 09, 2025
Good morning, Saint John! Need a local sign that spring is on the way? In just one week, the Pumpkin Patch on the west side will be serving ice cream! 🍦 What are you most looking forward to as the season changes? Hit reply and tell us your favourite signs of spring around here!
Here’s what we’re talking about today:
The future of SJ Water 💧
Shakespeare returns to Fort La Tour 🏰
Your event listings 📍
Let’s dive in!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
🚰 Metered Future Ahead for Saint John Water Customers
Saint John’s pipes may be 150 years old, but the city’s water system is finally stepping into the 21st century thanks to a 10-year plan, gradual rate hikes, and a big ol’ infrastructure bill.
City council just signed off on Saint John Water’s long-term strategy to fix up $370 million worth of crumbling infrastructure (some of it dating back to 1872 - cheers to terra cotta pipes that have outlived empires). The plan means rates will stay flat this year, then creep up by 1% in 2026 and 2027, and 2% a year after that.
But here’s the splashy change: by 2028, we start the shift to metered billing, meaning what you pay will finally reflect what you use. The city says this could make water more affordable for many, and they’re also exploring a discounted “lifeline rate” to keep basic needs covered. Full metering is expected by 2031.
💸 Seniors Benefit Bumped and Applications Are Open
Back on April 1, the Low-Income Seniors’ Benefit quietly went up to $616 for 2025 and applications are now open.
The annual benefit helps New Brunswick seniors manage rising household costs. To qualify, applicants must be 60 or older, live in NB, and receive federal benefits under the Old Age Security Act, like the Guaranteed Income Supplement or Allowance programs.
Applications are available online or at Service NB locations, with a deadline of Dec. 31. Questions? Call 1-833-796-0944
🎟️ Shakespeare Takes the Fort
Mark your calendars and hope for that perfect fog roll as The Tempest is blowing into Place Fort La Tour this July, and it’s set to be another summer stunner from the Saint John Theatre Company.
Running July 16-19 and 23-26, this outdoor production brings Shakespeare’s tale of magic, revenge, and redemption to life against a backdrop of crashing waves, salty air, and Harbour Passage charm. Directed by Sandra Bell, it follows in the footsteps of Macbeth and Hamlet - and yes, it’s just as epic.
Tickets drop in May ($30 or $25 for subscribers), but if you’re dreaming of being onstage instead of in the seats, auditions happen later this month (April 28-29).
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
📅 Reader Events Roundup
I love hearing from you! Every event submission (or reply or subscription referral) that lights up my inbox is so exciting. So here are your subscriber submitted events, ready to fill your calendar. Keep 'em coming, this newsletter is all about supporting local and sharing what you’ve got!
Divine Mercy Catholic School Vendor & Rummage Sale | April 12th
Spring cleaning meets local shopping at the Divine Mercy Catholic School's Vendor & Rummage Sale! Happening this Saturday from 9am to 3:30pm, this event is perfect for bargain hunters and anyone looking to support local vendors.
Free to attend as a shopper, but if you're a vendor, there's still space available! Grab a $20 table and showcase your goods at this community-driven event. Hosted at 30 Douglas St., Saint John, it’s a fun way to find treasures, shop local, and enjoy the spring fling atmosphere. Don't miss out!
Treble Clef Women's Choir - Pop Through the Years | April 13th
Get ready to groove to some classic hits at the Treble Clef Women's Choir's "Pop Through The Years" concert! Happening at Harmony United Church in East Saint John on April 13th at 2:30pm, this fun-filled event will feature fan-favourite songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
In addition to the choir’s talented performance, special guests Heartbeat and the Ceol Ceilidh Band will join in to make this an unforgettable afternoon. The concert is freewill donation at the door, so it’s a great way to enjoy some local talent while supporting the arts. Find more info on their Facebook page.
Holocaust Memorial Day Observance | April 24th
Join the Saint John Jewish Historical Museum for a moving Holocaust Memorial Day program at Shaarei Zedek Synagogue on April 24th at 7:30pm. The evening will feature Roslyn Harrush, who will share her mother Eta Langsam’s survival story, from the Vilna Ghetto to three Nazi camps, including Stutthof in Germany.
The event will also include memorial candle lighting, music, and photographs honoring those impacted by the Holocaust. Roslyn, originally from Montreal, will reflect on her experience as a child of Holocaust survivors. This event is made possible by the Atlantic Jewish Council and is a powerful opportunity to remember and reflect. For more info, contact Katherine at (506) 633-1833 or [email protected].
Sussex Art Club Show & Sale | May 2-3
Get ready for some local creativity at the Sussex Art Club’s Annual Show & Sale on May 2nd (7-9pm) and May 3rd (10am-3pm) at the Golden Jubilee Hall, 50 Perry St, Sussex. With free admission, this event showcases a range of beautiful works from local artists, and you might just find the perfect Mother’s Day gift!
Two free draws will take place: one for a small painting and another for a framed 8x10 portrait of your own pet! Don’t miss the Theme Board, featuring a collection of small paintings all with the same theme, come see what it is! Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just looking for something unique, this show is for everyone.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
LOCAL PICS
WHERE ARE WE? 📸
Watch this spot each Wednesday for a random snap from somewhere in the Saint John Region. Where are we? Only true locals will know the answer. If you think you recognize anything going on this photo, hit reply with your best guess! I’ll reveal the location and correct guesses in Friday’s issue.
Tag @sjtoday.ca to get your photos featured!
SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 4:19 AM(Wed 09 April) | 1.72 m(5.64 ft) |
High Tide | 10:28 AM(Wed 09 April) | 7.31 m(23.98 ft) |
Low Tide | 4:46 PM(Wed 09 April) | 1.49 m(4.89 ft) |
High Tide | 10:53 PM(Wed 09 April) | 7.29 m(23.92 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who goes bowl over waffle cone. 🍨
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher