Good Morning, Saint John! On this day in 1912, the Titanic sank in the North Atlantic, just off Newfoundland. A story that’s stayed in the memory of Maritimers ever since. 🌊
Here’s what what’s going on this morning:
Pump the breaks on the tax 💸
Touch grass somewhere else 🌿
Hold your breath for this 🫧
Let’s get it!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
SPONSORED
A local team for bathroom upgrades
When it’s time to update your bathroom, it helps to work with people who actually live and work here.
Bath Craft is a Saint John-based team specializing in bathroom upgrades that make your space feel cleaner, more functional, and easier to use every day. From accessible roll-in bathrooms and low-entry tub cuts to modern walk-in baths & tub-to-shower conversions they focus on practical improvements that last.
Locally owned and operated, fully insured, and built around real service right here in the community.
NEWS NOTES
⛽ Gas prices getting a summer break
Drivers across the country, including here in Saint John, are about to see a bit of relief at the pump. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the federal fuel excise tax will be suspended from April 20 to September 7. That’s expected to shave about 10 cents per litre off gasoline and around 4 cents off diesel.
The move comes as global fuel prices continue to climb, with the goal of easing costs for both households and businesses heading into the busy summer stretch. It’s temporary, but if you’re filling up regularly, you’ll notice it.
🚜 Nature Park closed for spring prep
No pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles are allowed anywhere in the park while the work is underway.
It’s the spring reset that gets trails and roads back in shape ahead of the busy season. Reopening date coming soon…then it’s back to those ocean views.
🤸♀️Flips in the deep end
About 80 athletes from four clubs across New Brunswick are in Saint John this weekend for the Ann Phillips Provincial Championships in artistic swimming at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, along with coaches and families.
Artistic swimming blends swimming, dance, and gymnastics, with routines choreographed to music and performed without touching the bottom. “As the number of athletes in the water increases so does the difficulty for synchronization and choreography,” said Kathy Archer, head coach of Saint John’s Surf City Artistic Swimming.
Surf City has been based at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre for more than 35 years, and Kathy said past athletes have stayed involved through coaching and officiating as the local community keeps growing. Best times to watch are Saturday 10am-1pm for solos, Saturday 2-5pm for duets, and Sunday 8:30am-12pm for team routines, including an acrobatic team performance around 11:30am.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
SPONSORED
Come try something new!
The YMCA offers more than most people realize. Fitness classes, a full gym, swimming, and space for sports and recreation, all under one roof.
Try a class, test out the fitness floor, or drop into an open gym. It’s an easy way to find what fits your routine.
The staff are there to support you, and financial assistance is available to help keep things accessible.
If it’s been on your list, this might be the time. Find your community at the YMCA.
EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
Cultural Ambassadors Project Vietnam Teen Edition | April 17
Teens can drop into PRUDE Inc. for a lunchtime session exploring Vietnamese culture, food, and identity through real stories shared by guest speakers Emma Bui and Anna Nguyen. It runs 12-2pm at 1 Market Square, Suite W301, and leans into conversation, culture, and a broader look at community and connection.
Artist Talk with Herzl Kashetsky | April 18
The Saint John Art Club is hosting a free afternoon talk with local artist Herzl Kashetsky at the Saint John Arts Centre. He’ll share insights from his career and walk through a range of recent work, including abstract pieces, landscapes, and portraits. It starts at 2pm and is open to anyone curious about the local art scene.
Sistema NB Youth Orchestra Spring Concert | April 18
A full stage of young talent is set to take over Harbour View High School as the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra brings a 150-student Mahler Symphony Orchestra together for a spring concert. It starts at 6:30pm, admission is free, and donations are welcome.
KV Camera Club Meeting | April 21
Local photography enthusiasts are getting together for their monthly KV Camera Club meet-up, and new faces are welcome. It starts at 7pm at the Hammond River Angling Association building, 10 Porter Road in Nauwigewauk, with a casual, come-as-you-are feel for anyone interested in cameras, photos, or just learning more.
Comedy for a Cause | April 22
GenNext is bringing Chanel Freire and a lineup of Maritime comedians to Five and Dime for a fundraiser in support of community impact through United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte. The show runs from 7pm to 9pm and promises laughs with a side of goodwill. Basically, one of the better reasons to spend a Wednesday night at a comedy show.
Mandala Coaster Workshop | April 30
This beginner-friendly workshop returns to Saint John at Bubbly Cup, where participants can make their own set of mandala coasters in a relaxed evening class. It runs from 5:30pm to 8pm, all supplies are included, and spots are limited. Nice one for anyone wanting a low-pressure creative night that also ends with something prettier than their usual Tuesday.
*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. This one could be a bit tricky, but this piece hangs somewhere in the uptown core. If you think you know where, or can name the ship, hit reply and tell us. We’ll reveal the location and correct guesses in Friday’s issue.
SIDE NOTES
🌅 6:39am | 🌇 8:10pm
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 4:43 AM(Wed 15 April) | 1.3 m(4.27 ft) |
High Tide | 10:49 AM(Wed 15 April) | 7.63 m(25.03 ft) |
Low Tide | 5:05 PM(Wed 15 April) | 1.11 m(3.64 ft) |
High Tide | 11:10 PM(Wed 15 April) | 7.87 m(25.82 ft) |
Reach Readers Daily!
Need to get the word out? Our baseline ads give you the perfect spot to connect with Saint John readers. With your message right next to the latest local buzz, it’s a great way to make an impact. Let's chat about getting you featured here!*
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who knows there was enough room for Jack on the door 🚪.
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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Today’s web cover photo courtesy of Envision SJ’s Media Hub.