💰 SJ's $25M Pool Reno

Good morning Saint John! I know there’s a chance you’re reading this on the throne…hopefully not the stolen $6.4M gold one .that just got stolen 🚽.

Here’s what we’re diving into today:

• Aquatic Centre upgrades 💦

• Kredl’s new owner 👩‍🌾

• Vote for our local businesses 🏆

Let’s get it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🏊 Big Splash Ahead at the Canada Games Pool

Saint John’s biggest pool party is getting a $25.1 million glow-up. The Canada Games Aquatic Centre, built back in ‘85 for the Summer Games, is diving into major renovations ahead of the 2029 Canada Games. Think of it as Botox for the boiler, a facelift for the change rooms, and a total spa day for the spectator seats.

Some highlights include: A refresh of the 50-metre pool, upgraded warm-up lanes, improved accessibility, and a goal of carbon neutrality by 2029. Oh, and the only Olympic-sized pool in NB will be competition-ready for years to come.

More details (and public info sessions) are coming as plans unfold, so if you’ve got opinions to share, get the details on the plan and stay up to date on times through the Shape Your City page.

💬 Your Opinion, Please!

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LOCAL BUSINESS

🌽 Fresh chapter at Kredl’s

Kredl’s is changing hands again, but don’t panic, the corn’s still local and the ice cream isn’t going anywhere.The beloved Hampton market has officially been passed from the
Mrs. Dunster’s crew to Stephen Campbell of Mirage Foods, a Sussex-based wholesale biz that supplies half the restaurants you’ve probably eaten in. So, what’s the plan? Keep the local charm, go year-round, and bring in some fancy produce we can’t grow here (papayas in Hampton? Uh, okay!). The name might change, but Campbell knows it’ll always be Kredl’s in our hearts…and most likely Google Maps. ($)

🗳️ Best in the Province? Let’s Make It Saint John.

New Brunswick’s People’s Choice Awards are on, and it’s time to rally like it’s power hour at Grannan’s. 

Excellence NB is asking folks to vote for their favourite local spots, and the Saint John Region came to play. We’re talking Beer Daddy BBQ, McPhee’s Bakery, Java Moose, Big D’s Poutine, Britt’s Pub, Hopscotch Whiskey Bar, Tipsy Tails, and more…like Vito’s, Thandi, Keirstead’s Flowers, Dan’s Country Market, Cochran’s, and Out’Fits. (Deep breath.)

Don’t forget Queen Square Farmers Market, James Mullinger, Yip Cider, Bob’s Corner Takeout, Handworks, Glass Roots, Allie Beckwith, Trinity Gallery, Saint John Theatre Company, Area 506, Strange Grooves, Bobby’s Hospice, and WE Believe and so many more. Yeah, no kidding. Let’s make it a Saint John takeover!

Voting’s open till Friday, June 6, so grab a coffee, flex those clickin' fingers, and cast your votes to help our homegrown shops get the love they deserve.

👉 Vote here

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

Fundraising Focus
Saint John never misses when it comes to doing good and having a good time. Whether you’re grilling hotdogs, dancing to ABBA, or running in red and white, we love seeing the city show up for a cause. Here’s a roundup of some upcoming feel-good fun with a side of fundraising.

Grill & Give at the ReStore | May 24
Hotdogs for a cause? Yes please. Swing by Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore from 11am–1pm for a laid-back BBQ with dogs, drinks, and a side of community spirit. Eat by donation, enter a 50/50 draw, and try your luck at a raffle for a ReStore gift card. It’s a tasty way to support local housing efforts, and maybe walk away a winner.

Business with ❤️ Networking | May 28
This isn’t your average schmooze-fest. Entrepreneurs Who Care is launching its new monthly mixer with real connection, good vibes, and live charity pitches. Expect a room full of heart-led business folks, fresh ideas, and a few surprises about what’s next for EWC. It’s happening 6-8pm at USTATION, and it’s open to anyone who believes business can be generous and still get things done.

Robert Thomas & the Sessionmen | May 30
Award-winning songwriter Robert Thomas takes the BMO Studio Theatre stage with his legendary sessionmen for a night of story-rich, toe-tapping Folk-Americana. Expect great tunes, bluegrass vibes, and a touch of humour woven between the tunes. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are $35 and proceeds support the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation.

Mamma Mia! Dance Party | May 31
If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the dance floor like a true Dancing Queen, this one’s for you. Quispamsis Lions Club is going full ABBA with a DJ, disco lights, themed cocktails, a glam outfit contest, and even a surprise performance. It’s all in support of Hestia House, and yes, there’s a selfie wall. Doors open at 7:30pm for this 19+ night of pure sparkly joy.

Bootin’ It for Vets Fun Run | May 31
Lace up and show your red and white pride at this feel-good fun run for all ages. Choose your distance, 1km, 2km, or 5km, then stick around for bouncy castles, face painting, and a BBQ. It’s not a race, just a great excuse to move, munch, and support the Ridgewood Veterans Patient Comfort Fund. Runs start at 9am at Ridgewood Veterans Wing; family registration is just $50.

Got an Event to Share?

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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 can pinpoint where this gull is perched, hit reply and give it your best guess. We’ll reveal the location and correct guesses in Friday’s newsletter.

Tag @sjtoday.ca on Facebook to get your photos featured!

SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who loves some quality bathroom reading 📖!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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^{Web headline photo by Jordan Mattie via Envision Saint John Content Hub}