🗳️ New name enters mayor race

Good morning, Saint John! Across the Bay, people are finding empty Big Mac sauce bags washing up along the shoreline. Not the burgers. Not the wrappers. Just… the sauce bags. Which, oddly enough, is what they used to call me in the hockey dressing room 🍔 .

Here’s what else is topping the day:

Let’s get it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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🔄 West side drivers, start practicing your yield

The city’s next roundabout location is all but official, and west siders are next to drive around in circular celebration. 

City council has approved shifting $250,000 toward early design work for a roundabout at Gault Road, Ocean Westway and the Route 7 ramps, with construction potentially landing in 2027.

The move comes as part of the city’s long-term transportation plan, which flagged the area for its awkward layout and speeding issues. 

The funding is being pulled from a Harbour Passage expansion that didn’t get federal support, but the trail project isn’t gone, just bumped down the list for now.

If it moves ahead, the roundabout would join our OG roundabout on Foster Thurston that opened late last year. ($)

🏳️‍⚧️ Flag raised for Trans Day of Visibility

The Transgender Pride Flag was raised at City Hall yesterday as part of International Trans Day of Visibility, with a small crowd gathering for the ceremony and a follow-up event at Haven Music Hall.

The mayor and several city councillors were in attendance, alongside members of the local community.

🧢 Westsider throws name in the hat

There’s a new name in the mix ahead of Saint John’s municipal election, and while she may not be as widely known as some of the other candidates, she’s already starting to build a following.

People who know her describe her as friendly, energetic, and highly engaged at the neighbourhood level. She’s a regular presence in parks, on walking trails, and just about anywhere people tend to gather, often making time to stop and connect.

We’re told she’s especially strong on community engagement, with a knack for showing up consistently and responding quickly when something needs attention.

Her team held a casual meet-and-greet at Picaroons General Store on Tuesday night, where turnout was solid and the vibe, from what we’ve heard, was overwhelmingly positive.

Early priorities appear to centre around quality of life, more time on bike lanes, and making the city feel a little more connected.

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Port City Power vs Halifax Hoopers | April 2
Fast-paced hoops, loud crowd, and a legit night out at UNBSJ. Port City Power hosts the Halifax Hoopers at 7pm, with tickets starting at $12. Courtside if you’re feeling bold, general admission if you just want to be in the mix. Easy play for a Thursday night with friends or family.

Future Engage Maker Space Visit | April 2
A cool one if you’re looking to mix things up midweek. Head to Rothesay Hive from 10am–12pm to check out the student Maker Space, try a few Easter-themed challenges, and get a look at their award-winning robot. It’s part of the Future Engage series, built around connecting generations, and a nice low-key way to see what local students have been working on up close.

Fish Friday at Grannan’s | April 3
If you needed an excuse to skip cooking on Good Friday, here it is. Grannan’s is turning every order of fish and chips into a donation for Rocmaura Foundation, supporting residents and programs at their “home away from home.” Runs all day (11am–1am), so whether you’re a lunch crowd or late-night plate, it all counts.

Drag Show Eggztravaganza | April 4
Haven Music Hall goes full Easter weekend energy with a 9pm drag show packed with performances, drinks, and a scavenger hunt thrown in for good measure. Costumes encouraged, vibes guaranteed, and a strong late-night option if you’re not quite ready to call it after dinner.

Saint John Ultimate Intro League | April 21 – May 26
A sneaky-fun way to shake off winter. Saint John Ultimate’s 6-week intro league is built for beginners, mixing drills with actual game play so you’re not just standing around wondering what’s happening. Tuesdays 7–9pm at the Irving Oil Field House, $45 to join, with options if cost’s a barrier. Show up solo or with friends and learn something new.

D&D One-Shot Series at the Library | April 12 & 19
Calling all adventurers. The Saint John Free Public Library is hosting a pair of one-shot D&D sessions (12:30–4:30pm), built for ages 15+ and capped at just six players per date. It’s a Level 5 campaign called “The Wizard and Oz,” with characters and dice provided. Whether you’re brand new or know your way around a campaign, this is a fun, low-commitment way to jump in.

Coffee & Conversation Gardening Session | April 17
If you’ve been side-eyeing your yard thinking “this is the year,” this might help. Head to St. Mark’s United Church from 10–11am for a relaxed coffee chat on square foot gardening with horticulture tech and Master Gardener Amy Cleveland. Easy, practical tips, no pressure, and a good excuse to get thinking about spring.

Comedy for a Cause | April 22
A midweek laugh with a side of doing good. GenNext is bringing comedians from across the Maritimes to Five and Dime, headlined by Chanel Freire, for a 7–9pm show supporting United Way initiatives. Expect a lively crowd, strong lineup, and a night that feels a little more meaningful than your average comedy set.

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who knows it’s April Fools Day, but still might vote for my dog 🐶!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher