👀 This sold for $2M

Good morning, Saint John! We’ve been complaining about potholes this week, but it could always be worse….A politician in South Africa literally went snorkeling in one 🤿.

Here’s what else we’re jumping into this morning:

Enjoy the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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🏡 Irving estate sells for $2M

One of the most recognizable homes in the region just changed hands, and the price has people talking.

The former J.K. Irving estate on Maiden Lane in Rothesay, a massive waterfront property with a 20,000+ sq ft home and its own former chapel, sold last month for $2 million.

That’s after being listed around $5.4 million and assessed closer to $3.7 million.

On paper, it sounds like a steal, especially for a property that’s been on the market since last summer.

If you’re curious, the full property details and assessment are publicly available through the province.

🌱 Spring melt reveals… everything

Spring in New Brunswick comes with a bit of a reveal. Not all of it is pretty.

The Town of Grand Bay-Westfield is leaning into that exact moment with its annual Community Litter Clean-up Program, offering local non-profits $200 per kilometre to tackle roadside garbage around town.

The program typically draws 8–12 groups each year, with most coming back season after season. Each stretch of road can mean a few bags of garbage collected, which tells you just how much winter leaves behind.

Mayor Brittany Merrifield said the program “brings local groups together to take pride in our shared spaces, supports our not-for-profit sector, and helps keep Grand Bay-Westfield clean, welcoming, and vibrant.”

Groups can apply to take on sections of some of the town’s busiest roads, with the clean-ups making an immediate difference once they’re done. Applications are open until April 30.

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🎈 Bubbles turns one

It’s been a year since Bubbles Haircare for Kids opened its doors, and if you’ve got kids, there’s a decent chance you’ve already heard about it.

Turns out, making haircuts fun actually works. The car chairs are a hit with kids, while parents are just relieved it’s not a full-on ordeal. “They make the whole experience feel fun and special,” said owner Alex Weaver Crawford. Plus, little extras like hair tinsel and sparkle glitter give kids something to get excited about.

The bigger surprise has been the relationships. Regulars, favourite stylists, families coming back…plus the occasional person assuming it’s a franchise, which she takes as a compliment.

One year in, she’s already looking at growing the team and even exploring a second location. “We’re so grateful for the amazing families who support us,” she said.

They’re marking the milestone Saturday with face painting, cupcakes, and a few birthday surprises. If you’ve been meaning to check it out, this might be your moment.

There’s more here than you might expect at the YMCA.

From group fitness classes and a fully equipped fitness floor to swimming pools and gymnasiums, there are plenty of ways to stay active in one place.

Right now, you can join now and pay later, making it easier to get started.

Try a class, explore the fitness floor, or drop into an open gym session to see what works for you. The team is there to help you get going with confidence.

Financial assistance is also available, so membership stays accessible to everyone.

If you’ve been thinking about it, this is a good time to check it out.

WEEKEND PREVIEW

THURSDAY

S.E.A.M. Sewing Escape and Mingle | April 9-11
If your ideal spring getaway involves fabric, snacks, and not having to explain why you own that much thread, this one’s for you. Quilting with Murphy is hosting a three-day sewing retreat at the Best Western Plus Saint John Hotel & Suites with space to sew, socialize, and create. Registration is $250, with lunch, snacks, tea, coffee, swag bags, prizes, and a make-and-take project included.

Fundy Sea Shanty Night | April 9
O’Leary’s is handing the mic to the sea dogs on Thursday night for another round of sea shanties, stories, and singalongs with Before the Mast. The fun starts at 7pm at 46 Princess Street, and there’s no cover, which feels very in the spirit of a good pub night. Bonus: they’ll also be announcing the lineup for this summer’s Shanty Festival in St. Martins.

Menopause Sleep Workshop | April 9
Women dealing with the sleep chaos of perimenopause and menopause can head to Hampton for an evening workshop focused on practical help, not just sympathy. Certified Menopause Coach Tammie Black will dig into night sweats, racing thoughts, early wakeups, and ways to get more restful nights back on track. It runs at 7pm at 966 Main Street. Pre-registration is required and spots are $25.

Free Watercolour Trial Class | April 9
Anyone who’s been art-curious but not quite ready to commit to a full semester can test the waters at this free beginner watercolour class in Quispamsis. High Tide Art School is offering a trial session focused on painting birds, with a little sales pitch for their spring and summer classes baked in too. It’s happening at the qplex area, and future artists can register online in advance.

FRIDAY

VIEW Dance Challenge | April 10-12
The Trade and Convention Centre turns into a full-on dance zone this weekend as VIEW Dance Challenge rolls into town. Dancers from around the region will take over Market Square for three days of competition, costumes, big stage energy, and the kind of proud-parent audience reactions you can hear from space. It runs April 10-12 at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.

Meet and Eat with the Team Night Fundraiser | April 10
Port City Power is taking things off the court for a 19-plus fundraiser night at Amici’s in Quispamsis. Fans can hang out with the players, grab a meal, and support the team in a more relaxed setting than the usual game-day buzz. It starts at 7pm, tickets are $20 in advance, and guests need to send an e-transfer with their meal choice to lock in a spot.

SATURDAY

Port City Power Spring Basketball Camp | April 11
Young players looking to sharpen their game can hit the court at Irving Oil Field House for this spring basketball camp from Port City Power. The day runs 11am-4pm and promises drills, skill-building, teamwork, and plenty of gym energy. It’s designed for a range of skill levels, so whether someone’s already got a crossover or just likes the sound of “awesome hoops action,” they’ll fit right in.

Montre Carlo Night in Support of KV Oasis | April 11
A little casino-night energy is heading to Valley Sands in support of KV Oasis Youth and Family Support Services. This fundraiser promises games, raffle tickets, prizes, and a good excuse to get out in Quispamsis for the night while backing local youth and family programs. It runs 7-9pm and is built more around fun and community spirit than trying to become the next high roller.

Stash Sale and Handmade Gift Market | April 11
Crafters, consider this your warning. A stash sale is taking over the Quality Inn in Quispamsis with 20 tables of supplies covering sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, knitting, painting, cross-stitch, and probably a few things people swore they were not buying more of. Handmade gifts will be available too, including quilts and paintings. It’s in the conference room, runs for six hours, and shoppers are asked to bring cash and bags.

The Fabulously Rich The Tragically Hip Tribute | April 11
Kent Theatre is going full Hip Saturday night with The Fabulously Rich. Expect a night of hits, deep cuts, and singalong moments that can get very emotional very quickly after a couple of beers. Doors open at 7pm, the show starts at 8pm, and limited tickets will be available at the door.

Epic Eagles The Definitive Eagles Tribute | April 11
Epic Eagles hits the stage at 7pm with a set full of Eagles classics and Don Henley favourites, from Hotel California to The Boys of Summer. Tickets are $62.50, and this has strong “sing every word, even the guitar parts” potential.

SUNDAY

James Mullinger live at Long Bay Brewery | April 12
James Mullinger is testing out new material at Long Bay Brewery in Rothesay with a Sunday matinee show that sounds a little loose, a little risky, and probably pretty funny. He’ll be working through 90 minutes of new and old material ahead of a TV recording, which means the crowd gets the rough-cut version before the rest of the country does. It starts at 5pm and tickets are $25.

Brent Butt | April 12
The Corner Gas creator and longtime stand-up comic is at Imperial Theatre Sunday at 7:30pm for what should be a very easy sell to anyone who likes smart, dry Canadian comedy. Tickets are $68.25, and while there’s no gas station involved, there will almost certainly be jokes delivered with the kind of calm confidence that makes it look way easier than it is.

_{^{*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.}}

📸 Ruth Ellen Smith | 📍 Loyalist Burial Grounds

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🌅 6:49am | 🌇 8:02pm

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-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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