🚨 Text Me, Maybe?

Good morning, Saint John! What an evening on the waterfront last night - warm air, calm breeze, happy pups. We even saw a lab with a cone… and it definitely wasn’t at the vet. 🍦🐾

Here’s what’s up for your Thursday:

• Saint Johners have missed some alerts 🚨

• What got caught down in your well? 💧

• SJ Today hits 2k! 📬

Enjoy the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

⚠️ Delayed Texts, Immediate Concern 

Saint John’s emergency alert system is getting an upgrade after some residents didn’t get timely warnings during two separate May emergencies. Turns out the city’s text alert system was overloaded and some carriers filtered the messages completely. Meanwhile, email and voicemail alerts went out on time. The city says it’s switching to a faster, verified number and testing improvements. Cost: $400 a month. Peace of mind? TBD…

💧 Summer Heat Means Sketchy Water Wells

Heads up: summer’s heat turns well water into a bacteria playground. If your on a well and your water tastes weird, smells funky, or looks off…or if you haven’t tested it lately, get on it! Twice a year is best, especially after spring thaw and heavy rains. Keep wells clear of debris and pets, and check your septic system isn’t leaking. Testing’s simple, labs are legit, and your health depends on it. Don’t drink mystery juice this summer…

💥 2,000 Subs and Counting

Well, that happened fast. We just crossed 2,000 subscribers and honestly, it still blows our little email-loving minds.

A huge thanks to every single one of you who reads, clicks, shares, replies, and occasionally tells us when we’ve spelled “Quispamsis” wrong. You’re the best.

And a major congrats to James McLaughlin, who just happened to be number 2,000. He’s now $50 richer in Uptown bucks…ready to spend on tacos, tote bags, or whatever else he fancies!

Thanks for helping us hit this milestone and stay tuned, because we’ve got more giveaways, good reads, and great local stories ahead.

💬 The Results Are In: The Fundy Rose Deal Floats Most Boats ⚓️

Yesterday we asked if the 50% off Fundy Rose ferry fares would finally get you on board, here’s how you voted:

• 47% said, I’ve been before... now I’ll go more

• 39% are shouting, All aboard! I’m finally doing that Digby trip

• 9% say, I just like waving at the ferry from Tin Can Beach

• And just 5% think, Still too pricey for me

The repeat riders are stoked: “I think it’s wonderful!!!” one reader cheered. Another plans to swap walking on for driving, time to explore the South Shore like a local. Vacation dreams are waking up too: “Hoping this is the beginning of affordable vacations,” wrote one hopeful.

Of course, not everyone’s crossing the water anytime soon. One wave-waver reminded us there’s still work to be done for island residents stuck with steeper fares in Campabello.

Best comment goes to Bryn R, who joked the poll missed an option: “Are you IN Digby on a little getaway and reading that SJ Today?” Classic.

Looks like the Fundy Rose discount has stirred up some serious travel plans.

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LOCAL BUSINESS

🥯The City Market is getting even tastier

It’s a big week inside the Saint John City Market. First, the Pub Down Under crew revealed their comeback plans with Market Street Kitchen at the top of the market. Now, The Bagel Artist is rolling in at the bottom of the market with fresh bagels and espresso drinks, and Kim’s Korean is moving on up, taking over the old Slocum & Ferris stall. Call it a market shuffle. Lunchtime just leveled up.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

Here’s a look at what’s going on in our neck of the woods this weekend. Of course there are some major festivals, but also a few things you may have missed.

TONIGHT

Saint John Night Market | July 31
This Thursday night, Uptown Saint John lights up with local flavor from 5–9pm inside the City Market and along South Market Street. Expect everything from mouthwatering eats like Charlotte Street Bakery, Kim’s Korean Food and Casa Latina to handmade crafts from artists like Fiddling Ferens and Cali Girl Candles. Try axe throwing, snap pics at the photo booth, and catch live music all evening. Support local, have fun, and eat well.

Sleepover with Just Fine and Frown Line | July 31
Saint John’s finest indie trio Sleepover hits Haven Music Hall with friends Just Fine and Frown Line for a night of fresh local sounds. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. Tickets are $10 in advance or pay what you can at the door. 19+ event—come early to grab a spot and enjoy great live music.

Ethan Ash Concert in the Common | July 31
Take your evening stroll to Rothesay Common and enjoy free live music with Ethan Ash starting at 7pm. Bring a blanket or chair and soak in the summer vibes outdoors. If the weather turns sour, the show moves inside to Rothesay Park School Cafeteria (7 Hampton Road). Parking is available at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Gondola Point Road.

FRIDAY

AREA 506 10th Anniversary | August 1-3
Saint John’s waterfront turns into a music lover’s paradise for the 10th anniversary of AREA 506. With headliners like Broken Social Scene, Alexisonfire, and Arkells, plus a stacked local lineup, this festival delivers three days of high-energy indie, rock, and alt beats. Catch sets from Matt Mays, Death From Above 1979, and more. Don’t miss the late-night Afterburner parties for exclusive DJ sets and special guests. And remember the ANBL Safe Ride shuttles to get you there and back hassle-free! 

Quilt Display at Darling’s Island Covered Bridge | August 1
Step inside the historic Darling’s Island Covered Bridge to see a stunning display of modern quilts by local quilters alongside heritage pieces from Kings County Museum’s collection. Part of the provincial “Love Your Covered Bridge” week, this event celebrates local art and history in a unique setting. Perfect for art lovers and history buffs alike.

SATURDAY

Bay of Fundy Sand Sculpture Festival | August 2-4
For nearly 40 years, New River Beach’s sand sculptors have turned sand and water into breathtaking art, only for the tides to reclaim it. This summer, the festival grows into a three-day coastal celebration with world-class masters, amateur competitions, family workshops, artisan vendors, live music, and a licensed beer garden. Watch art and nature in perfect harmony from early mornings to evening awards.

Keep an eye out for the CCSPCA and St George & Area Food Bank booths, they’ve been part of this event for years. They’ll be collecting donations of non-perishable food and money all weekend, plus raffling a paddleboard donated by the Park. Tickets are $5 each, 3 for $10, or 7 for $20. The draw happens Aug 4 at 2 p.m. Donations can also be made by e-transfer, credit card, or cash.

International Culturefest | August 2–3
Celebrate Saint John’s rich diversity at the Newcomers Centre’s International Culturefest, a vibrant two-day celebration packed with music, dance, food, and fun from over 22 countries! Explore the Cultural Village with interactive booths, enjoy family-friendly activities, and sample global flavors. Connect with community partners working to make Saint John a welcoming home for all. RSVP on Facebook and join the celebration August 2 and 3.

Pop Up Community Market | August 2
Halloween comes early with the Pop Up Community Market’s “Halloween In August” edition at qplex. Support local vendors, including some fresh student talent, and get into the spooky summer spirit…costumes or orange and black encouraged but optional. Kids can enjoy table treating, a scavenger hunt, and a colouring station. First 50 kids score a treat bag. The pool opens at noon for a swim or stroll the walking trails after the market.

Free Face Painting at Junior Dance | August 2
Join the Women’s Auxiliary of the Black Community Jr. Dance at Rockwood Park for an afternoon of music, community, and creativity from 1 to 4pm. Maddie’s Face Paint & Glitter Bar will be there offering free face painting for all ages. Come celebrate, connect, and make some great memories!

SUNDAY

Queen Square Farmers Market | August 3
Head to Queen Square this Sunday from 9am–2pm for live music, fresh produce, local art, handmade goods, and a world of flavours…from lemonade and dumplings to pad Thai and so much more. It’s a weekly Uptown staple for a reason: good vibes, great food, and something new every time.

Chroma NB Supper Club | August 3
Foodies and 2SLGBTQIA+ community members, get ready to roll up your sleeves and learn to make pizza at Chroma NB’s monthly supper club. Meet new friends, enjoy great food (with vegan and gluten-free options), and celebrate community at their new spot on Carmarthen Street. All ages welcome, but kids need an adult. RSVP on Eventbrite to save your spot!

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it a dog owner that needs to be in the loop! 🐩

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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