🦠 Blue-Green Algae Alert

Good morning Saint John! Ever been told you look like a celebrity? One Brooklyn dad cashed in on it…winning a Pedro Pascal look-alike contest and scoring $50 and a year of free burritos.

Here’s the lowdown for the day:

• Blue-green algae is back 🧪

• Free national park access this summer 🏕️

• It’s grad season 🧑‍🎓

Let’s get it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🗳️Spruce Lake Expansion Clears Major Hurdle
But it’s not a done deal just yet…

After seven weeks, four public hearings, and more than a few tense moments, Saint John Council unanimously passed the first and second readings for the Spruce Lake Industrial Park expansion last night.

The vote came after a fresh round of pro-development pitches from business leaders, but the decision didn’t land quietly…Lorneville residents, many wearing Save Lorneville shirts, voiced their frustration with jeers and warnings that “this isn’t over.”

The project would see 1,500+ acres near King William Road turned into “pad-ready” land for future development. Supporters, including Envision Saint John and Port Saint John, say the area’s existing infrastructure makes it an ideal site and a key piece of long-term growth.

Next step: environmental assessments and a final vote in two weeks. ($)

⚠️ Don’t Let Your Dog Snack on the Shoreline

Ah yes, cyanobacteria season…that yearly reminder that not everything in the water is as chill as a summer swim. The province is warning us (again) to watch for blue-green algae blooms and slimy mats in lakes and rivers that can look like pond scum… because they are.

Some types are toxic, causing rashes, sore throats, stomach trouble, and they’re especially dangerous for dogs, who love sniffing the stuff and sometimes eat it.

So:
- Don’t drink the water (you or your dog).
- Avoid swimming near weird patches or floating goo.
- Rinse off after a dip and wash up before lunch.

If it looks sus, skip the splash.

🧭 Canada Strong Pass = Summer Sorted

The feds just launched the Canada Strong Pass…a summer-long invitation to explore the country without torching your wallet. From June 20 to Sept. 2, you can walk into places like Fundy National Park or Kouchibouguac (and all other national parks) without paying a cent, get 25% off Parks Canada camping, and let kids ride VIA Rail free (if they bring a grown-up).

Also: free museum entry for kids, half-price for 18–24-year-olds, and discounts at select galleries across the provinces.

No registration. No QR code. Just show up and try not to act surprised when something's actually free.

🎓Cue the Confetti

The Class of 2025 is suiting up in caps and gowns this week, ready to take the stage and own their moment.

Big cheers to local grads from Hampton and KVHS crossing the stage Wednesday, and the Thursday crew from Fundy, Harbour View, Rothesay, Saint John High, Simonds, and St. Mac’s. You did it!

Now go forth, be bold, and please…celebrate responsibly. Your mom’s already crying. Don’t make her panic too.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

🎭 Let’s talk theatre and other performances! 

Brian Patafie at Punch Lines | June 20
After decades behind the bench, Brian Patafie is taking centre stage. The former Saint John Flames trainer returns with his Funny as Puck comedy tour, serving up locker-room laughs and life lessons from the wild world of pro hockey. Doors open at 6:30pm, show starts at 7:30pm at Punch Lines Comedy Club. Expect stories, chirps, and a few glove-dropping punchlines.

Broadway, Baby | June 24
The curtain rises on a high-energy history lesson as young local performers take over the BMO Studio Theatre for a revue that hits all the right notes. From Fiddler to Wicked, Footloose to Follies, this all-ages show sings and dances its way through Broadway’s biggest eras. Showtime’s 7:30pm, bring your love of musicals and maybe a few jazz hands for good measure.

Family Movie Night: Despicable Me 4 | June 25
Gru and the Minions are back, and they’re taking the stage at the Waterfront. Join the crowd at 6pm for a free outdoor screening of Despicable Me 4, part of Area 506’s summer movie series. Bring a chair, grab a snack from the Village, and enjoy some animated chaos by the harbour. It’s family fun with a bit of mischief and a view.

Harland Williams Live | June 26
From Rocketman to Dumb and Dumber, Harland Williams has made a career out of stealing scenes, and now he’s headlining his own. The Imperial Theatre becomes a comedy club for one night only as the Canadian funnyman brings his offbeat stand-up act to the stage. Doors at 6pm, show at 7pm. Expect big laughs, weird tangents, and absolutely no intermission for your abs.

Ukrainian Legends | June 27
Take a front-row seat for a sweeping musical journey through Ukraine’s history, told in song, dance, and folklore. Ukrainian Legend hits the stage at 112 Princess Street, blending Cossack tales, wartime resilience, and cultural spirit into one unforgettable performance. With folk music, mysticism, and narration by Nestor the Chronicler, it’s a cultural showcase that deserves a standing ovation. Curtain rises at 7pm.

🗓️ Save the date for these!

Shakespeare by the Sea returns with The Tempest
A storm is brewing at Place Fort La Tour, and not just off the Bay. Loyalist City Shakespeare is back this summer with The Tempest, a story of magic, betrayal, and redemption staged under the open sky. Running July 16-19 and 23-26, the production transforms the waterfront into Prospero’s enchanted island, with director Sandra Bell bringing her signature creative spark.

After packed houses for Macbeth and Hamlet, this year’s show is set to be another standout for local theatre lovers. Whether you’re a Shakespeare buff or just looking for a magical night by the harbour, mark your calendar, this one’s got drama, salt air, and serious talent.

KV Players get into summer lovin’ with Grease
Break out the leather jackets and poodle skirts, Grease is the word in the valley this July. The KV Players are bringing the high school romance, slick dance numbers, and unforgettable tunes of Rydell High to life on stage.

Running July 16-18 and 23-25, this all-local production features all the hits you know (Summer Nights, Greased Lightning, You’re the One That I Want) and plenty of heart. It’s a summer tradition for the KV Players, who’ve built a reputation for big talent and packed houses. Expect toe-tapping, hand-jiving, and just a little teenage drama.

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SIDE NOTES

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-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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