😲 Hope You're Not Afraid of Heights

Good morning Saint John! It’s official…we’ve made it to the May Long Weekend. Weather’s not lookin’ great, but hey, three glorious days ahead! We’re takin’ Monday off for a golf day and will be back with fresh news on Tuesday. Enjoy the long weekend! ⛳️

Here’s how today is shaping up:

• How much to rappel down the Hilton? 🪂

• Road rage round up underway 🚓

• A wild new BBQ spot dropping anchor in SJ 🍢

Happy Friday!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🧗‍♂️Going Down in Style at Market Slip

Forget escalator rides at Market Square…how about leaping off the Hilton?

A company called Over The Edge just launched in Saint John, letting anyone with $199 and a touch of nerve rappel 135 feet off the rooftop of the Hilton Hotel. It’s all perfectly safe, highly supervised, and extremely dramatic. Think scenic city views, full safety gear, and your heart pounding like the final scene of Cliffhanger (without the chopper).

Originally dreamed up in Halifax by founder Paul Griffith, who convinced some friends to climb down a skyscraper for charity, Over The Edge has now helped raise $150 million for good causes around the world by turning buildings into vertical playgrounds. “I was hooked,” says Griffith. “And clearly, so was everyone else.”

While fundraising is still at the heart of it, the company’s 20th anniversary brings a new mission: adrenaline for everyone. Local charities can still sign up to run rappel-based fundraisers…just add a building, some brave supporters, and let gravity do the work.

Book your drop-in descent or plan a charity rappel…just be sure to send us the pics! 

🚨SJPD Cracking Down on Aggressive Driving

If your driving style is less Sunday cruise and more Too Fast, Too Furious, Saint John Police want a word. Their Aggressive Driving Campaign is on now through May 17…and they’re watching for more than just speeding.

Tailgating? Weaving? Ignoring signs? Blasting through lights like it’s Mario Kart? It all counts. The goal is keep our roads safe, sane, and sign-compliant.

Wonder if they’ll light up those wide-lane turners too…

🌀More Main Street Maze Madness

If you've been white-knuckling your way through the Main Street construction zone lately, buckle up. Starting Monday, the ramps from Station Street to Main Street (a.k.a. your go-to shortcut to the Harbour Bridge from TD Station) will be closed for seven weeks.

Detours will send you toward Crown or Somerset, so plan ahead unless you love improvising your commute. And yes, it’s all part of the grand plan to make the street greener, safer, and way more bikeable…eventually.

🏆 Top Clicks of the Week

Monday: Imperial Theatre Holiday Lottery Draw is today
Tuesday: Hemmings House announced free screening of Revival
Wednesday: Come From Away tickets (only a few left)
Thursday: Get the full schedule of events for Loyalist Day

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LOCAL BUSINESS
FOODIE FRIDAY

🔥 All aboard for BBQ at The Baratie

The Baratie, a bold, anime-inspired BBQ and seafood restaurant, is opening June 4 at the Reversing Falls, and it might just be the most unique dining experience Saint John has seen yet. Inspired by the floating restaurant from One Piece, Baratie promises an all-you-can-eat feast with flame-glazed meats, fresh seafood, nautical flair, and views that don’t quit.

“We wanted to reimagine the Reversing Falls with fresh energy,” says owner Alex, who saw an opening for something new and joyfully over-the-top in the local food scene. “Baratie is more than just a restaurant…it’s an experience.”

The format? Think Brazilian steakhouse meets waterfront party. You’ll pay one flat rate and get endless grilled skewers brought right to your table, plus sides, seafood, and desserts with flair. There’s also an à la carte menu, if you’re just popping in for something sweet and a drink.

And yes, there will be specialty cocktails. And anime decor. And possibly more meat than you’ve seen in one sitting!

The Baratie officially opens June 4. Skewers at the ready!

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

Big Fun, Big Causes
Giving back is always more fun with some good tunes, good laughs and the odd door prize or two…here are a few upcoming fundraisers worth checking out!

Laugh for a Cause with James Mullinger | May 22
Comedian James Mullinger is taking the stage at the Saint John Trade & Convention Centre this Thursday for a night of food, laughs, and fundraising in support of the Centre for Youth Care. The $85 ticket includes a buffet, a cash bar, and performances from both Mullinger and the Saint John Youth Orchestra. It runs 5–8pm and supports vital programs for local at-risk youth.

Seniors Health and Wellness Fair | May 24
This Saturday, Grand Bay-Westfield’s Church of the Resurrection is opening its doors to a lively health and wellness fair designed just for seniors. From 11am to 3pm, locals can explore programs and services that make daily life better, healthier, and more connected. Vendors will be on hand sharing info, tips, and resources tailored to the 55+ crowd. Interested businesses can still sign up by contacting Rick Adams at the town office.

Purse Party Fundraiser | May 25
Harmony United Church is hosting a purse party this Sunday from 3–5pm, where every $20 ticket guarantees you a purse, and a good time. Expect tea, treats, silent auctions, ticket draws, and door prizes, all in support of the church’s outreach programs. It’s a mix of fun and fellowship with a fashionable twist. For tickets or details, reach out to the church office at [email protected] or call 506-696-3773.

Robert Thomas and the Sessionmen in Concert | May 30
He’s written hits for legends like Kenny Rogers and Bonnie Raitt, now Robert Thomas is bringing his award-winning sound to Saint John. On May 30, he and the Sessionmen take the BMO Studio Theatre stage for a toe-tapping night of Americana, folk, and bluegrass, all in support of the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation. Doors open at 7pm, show at 7:30pm. Tickets are $35, with every dollar going to better patient care.

Saint Mary’s Band Fundraiser | June 5
After fire damaged their rehearsal space, Saint Mary’s Band is getting back on their feet, with a little help from their friends. On June 5, they’ll take the stage at the Imperial Theatre alongside the Port City Second Chance Band and Harbour View High’s senior band for a one-night fundraiser full of music and community spirit. Show starts at 7:30pm and tickets are $30 at imperialtheatre.ca.

Got an Event to Share?

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LOCAL PICS
WHERE WERE WE WEDNESDAY? 📸

📍 On Wednesday we shared this pick and asked you to guess where we were…and there wasn’t a single correct answer! Jeff Carew and Kirsten Thistle both guessed views from lower west side, but were incorrect. The actual location of this lookout is deep down the path at Tin Can Beach. If you’ve never wandered around down there, it’s worth the trip…and bring the dog!

Tag @sjtoday.ca to get your photos featured!

SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

🍬 Imagine not being able to have candy...
Back on May 17, 1918, New Brunswick put the brakes on homemade cane sugar candy—limiting everyone to just a 15-day stash to save sugar for the war effort. So basically, even your sweet tooth had to practice patience.

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who’s got at least one round under their belt so far this year 🏌️!

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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