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SJ Today
July 17, 2025
Good morning Saint John! One of the city’s most famous exports would’ve turned 90 today…Donald Sutherland, born right here on July 17, 1935, and first bit by the acting bug in puppet class at the New Brunswick Museum. You’ve got to start somewhere ⭐️.
Here’s the happs this morning:
Recognize these local keeners? 🤓
It’s time to fly on Hammond River 🎣
Float City…population; you and your family 👨👩👧👦
Let’s make Thursday fun again!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
🎖️ City gives props to standout citizens
The 2024 Civic Recognition Awards were officially handed out this week, shining a light on locals who go above and beyond. Honourees included Holly and Kenny Singh, BGC Greater Saint John, and the Saint John Exhibition Association, named Citizens and Organizations of the Year.
Council also gave special commendations to folks like Alex Saunders, Elizabeth Isaac, and Bill MacMackin, plus groups like First Steps Housing and the Carlton Community Garden volunteers.
🐟 Spinners Out, Flies In on Hammond River
It’s officially fly fishing only season on the Hammond River. As of July 15, the stretch from the CN Bridge in Nauwigewauk up to McGonagle Brook in Upperton is restricted to single barbless flies - no spinners, worms, or flashy bass lures allowed. Why? Atlantic salmon are making their way upriver to spawn, and even though you’re not allowed to target them, they sometimes get curious. Fly-only rules mean less stress and fewer accidental fish fatalities.
Sarah from the Hammond River Angling Association (who was literally out doing fieldwork when we reached her) says this rule’s been in place since 2014, but this year, low water means salmon need all the cool, calm river they can get. So…be gentle, pack out what you pack in, and if you’ve got old fishing line? Use one of the 100+ recycling bins scattered around NB. Tangled line is a real hazard for wildlife.
🛶 YMCA’s Splashy Wellness Day Hits Saturday
The Y is going full summer mode this weekend for Healthy Kids Day - a free, all-ages event at the Glenn Carpenter Centre this Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Expect canoeing, kayaking, yoga, games, prizes, BBQ lunch, and the debut of their new inflatable water park, Float City. Yes, that’s exactly what it sounds like.
“The YMCA is committed to being a place where people can build positive health outcomes — physically, mentally, and socially,” says YMCA President and CEO Shilo Boucher. “Healthy Kids Day is a great example of how we activate that commitment by making wellness accessible, joyful, and community-driven.”
No registration needed. Just show up, jump in, and get a little muddy in the name of wellness.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
WEEKEND PREVIEW - It’s a big weekend uptown and of course we’re all excited for The Tempest, Colin James & Moonlight….but here are a few more things going on around the region this weekend.
TODAY
Brundage Point Weekly Market | July 17
This riverside market in Grand Bay-Westfield is a Thursday tradition, offering up fresh local goods, handmade crafts, live music, and great views of the Saint John River. It runs 1:30-6:30pm at the Brundage Point River Centre, with plenty of room to stroll and snack. If you’re feeling summery, this is the spot to be.
Rockin’ Uptown Guided Tour | July 17
Take a walk through time…and tectonics. This guided tour with ACAP Saint John and Stonehammer Geopark explores how the city’s unique geology shaped its history and continues to influence how we face climate change. It starts at 3pm at The Gathering Space (by the Market Square boardwalk stage). All ages are welcome, so bring your curiosity and maybe a bottle of water.
The Janzen Boys at The Phoenix | July 17
The Janzen Boys are making their Saint John debut with an intimate evening of music and stories at The Phoenix on Exmouth. Expect warm harmonies, original tunes, a few covers, and road trip tales in a venue that survived the Great Fire. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 7:30pm. All ages are welcome—just be ready to show your ticket at the door.
FRIDAY
Movies in the Park Inside Out 2 | July 18
Bring your lawn chair and settle in for a free outdoor screening of Inside Out 2 at Arts & Culture Park. The movie starts around dusk (about 9:05pm) with complimentary popcorn to keep you cozy. If rain shows up, the show moves indoors to McCluskey Brothers Conference Centre at 7pm. Check the Quispamsis Recreation Facebook page for updates before you go.
Art of the Duo: Bass and Sax Dialogues | July 18
Chad Ball on double bass and James O’Farrell on tenor saxophone team up for an intimate evening of jazz and improvisation at Trinity Galleries. From 7 to 9pm, enjoy a dynamic dialogue between two masters in a cozy, artsy setting on Germain Street. Perfect for music lovers looking to unwind with smooth sounds and creative grooves.
Swift Kick at Hampton Brewing | July 18
Swift Kick brings Canada’s most entertaining Taylor Swift tribute to Hampton Brewing for a 19+ outdoor show that covers everything from her country roots to her latest pop anthems. Doors open at 7:15pm, and the music kicks off at 8pm. Expect a night full of singing, dancing, and Swiftie vibes rain or shine.
SATURDAY
River Valley Gazebo Grand Opening | July 19
The River Valley Lions Club is officially presenting the riverside gazebo by the Nerepis River Bridge to the community. Swing by to check out the view, say thanks, and celebrate this charming new public space. It’s a quiet little upgrade that’ll go a long way for picnics, photos, and lazy summer evenings.
EV Owners Meet Up | July 19
Electric vehicle owners and enthusiasts are invited to gather at the Electrify Canada Charging Station by Canadian Tire East from 10am to 1pm for a casual meet-up. Saint John Energy will be there with EVs on hand, ready to chat about the public charging network and residential programs. Brady and Hayden from their team will answer questions. Whether you own an EV or are curious about switching, come connect and learn about your charging options.
Holi in the Square | July 19
Get ready for a burst of colour, music, and joy as the Indo-Canadian Society hosts Holi at King’s Square. This vibrant festival marks the end of winter and celebrates the triumph of good over evil with dancing, laughter, and plenty of powder. It runs 11am-3pm, and Holi colour will be available to purchase on site. Wear white… and don’t expect to leave that way.
Afternoon Era: Swift Kick All-Ages Show | July 19
For Swifties of all ages, Swift Kick delivers a high-energy afternoon mini-show that’s perfect for families and fans new to Taylor at Hampton Brewing. Get ready for singalongs and dance breaks packed into a fun, accessible concert experience designed to please the whole crew.
TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras at Imperial Theatre | July 19
The Swifty fun ain’t just in Hampton this weekendRelive the record-smashing tour with this tribute to every era of Taylor Swift’s career. Featuring over 20 hits, dazzling costumes, and cosmic production, this show brings the sparkle and energy of Taylor’s biggest moments to the Imperial Theatre stage on Saturday night.
SUNDAY
Queen Square Farmers Market | Sundays
Oh the recovery event…after Moonlight your go to might be dumplings and lemonade from Tall Tom’s…but might we suggest strong coffee from College Fund and grilled skewers from Casa De Lokal? No matter what you choose, the real after party is you and your pals on a blanket in the south-east quadrant (shade city) enjoying our kick-ass city.
Fundy-St. Martins Farmer’s Market | Sundays
This cozy market by the Bay of Fundy is a local favourite for fresh food, crafts, and art. It runs weekly through the summer, offering a friendly spot to browse and support local makers. Perfect for a relaxed weekend outing in Fundy-St. Martins.
The Great Benjamins Circus Last Day | July 20
Catch the final shows of The Great Benjamins Circus under the big top at East Point Shopping. Sunday’s performances run at 1:30pm and 4:30pm, featuring aerial acts, jugglers, motorbikes in the cage of death, acrobatics, and clowns. It’s 90 minutes of family-friendly fun and thrills you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets online before the curtain falls!
MONDAY
Free Legal Advice for Renters | July 21
If you’re dealing with rent hikes, eviction notices, or repair headaches, a Tenant Legal Advice Clinic is coming to Saint John to help. On Monday, July 21, stop by 75 Prince William St for up to 30 minutes of confidential advice from a supervised law student. No appointment needed, just bring your ID and any paperwork. Perfect for anyone wanting to understand their rights and get support.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
High Tide | 5:09 AM(Thu 17 July) | 7.54 m(24.74 ft) |
Low Tide | 11:25 AM(Thu 17 July) | 1.15 m(3.77 ft) |
High Tide | 5:35 PM(Thu 17 July) | 7.69 m(25.23 ft) |
Low Tide | 11:54 PM(Thu 17 July) | 1.25 m(4.1 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with the most famous Saint Johner you know 👑!
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher