❄️ 20–30 cm today

Good morning, Saint John! Congrats to all of our nation’s incredible athletes for making us proud in Milan. And of course we know in our hearts how great our hockey teams are… but we can’t help but feel for those silver medal stuffies, knowing at least a few of ‘em are sitting in a trash bin somewhere.

Here’s what we’re passing around this morning:

Have a wonderful week!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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🌨️ Winter storm warning in effect today

Hope you enjoyed that sunny Sunday. Despite the slightly warmer air and the fact the sun now hangs around past 6pm, it’s still February.

Environment Canada is calling for 20 to 30 cm of snow starting late this morning and continuing through tonight, with heavy bursts and blowing snow at times. Northeasterly winds could gust to 70 km/h, and up to 90 km/h in exposed areas, meaning visibility may suddenly drop to near zero.

Travel will likely be challenging and road closures are possible. If you don’t have to be out, today and tonight might be the time to stay put.

📞 Seniors get tools to fight fraud

Saint John Police are launching a six-part Senior Safety Education Program with The ONE Change Inc. to help older residents spot scams and protect their personal information.

The sessions, led by a neighbourhood officer, will focus on practical advice seniors can use right away, from recognizing fraud tactics to staying alert at home and in the community. Participants can also ask questions and raise concerns directly.

Chief R. M. Bruce says the partnership is about enhancing “the safety and security of our community.”

🥅 New twin-rink arena pitched in Quispamsis

New Quispamsis resident Stefanie Vieten is floating a big idea: build a year-round training arena with two smaller ice surfaces, a multipurpose field and space for things like a gym or smoothie bar. ($)

She’s not asking the town for money. Instead, she’s seeking support in principle and a long-term lease on municipal land while she fundraises privately. Council hasn’t committed to anything and staff made it clear she’s still at step one of the process, advising that she’ll need to secure financial backing and move through planning and permitting before any land discussions go further. Still, with ice time already tight in the region, it’s a pitch that’s getting attention.

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💅 Students pop up at In Pursuit for a cause

In Pursuit on King Street is handing the space to the next generation on March 12, teaming up with Infinite Beauty Academy for an afternoon of complimentary gel manicures and hand massages, all in support of Sophia Recovery Centre.

For owner Dominique Léger, opening her shop to students is personal. “I always think back to when I was pitching my business for start-up funding. I needed someone to take a chance on me in order for me to live out my dream. It’s the same for these students.” She says real-world experience is what builds confidence and clarity, and strong communities are built through connection.

The event runs 1–6pm and includes refreshments and no tax in-store. Donations are optional, with proceeds supporting women in recovery locally.

“Community doesn’t just happen, you build it,” Dominique says. “When business owners lean in and collaborate in this way, it creates an energy you can feel throughout the neighbourhood.”

⚖️ Saint John Council Meeting - February 23 | 6pm

Sydney Street rebuild moves ahead with $1.25M contract - Council is set to award the Broad to St. James reconstruction to Fairville Construction for $1,248,969, under the engineer’s estimate. The project replaces aging water and sewer lines and rebuilds the street with new sidewalks, trees, curb extensions, a bike lane and a one-way northbound layout.

Library asks for upgraded security at all branches - The Saint John Free Public Library is seeking city funding for trained security staff at Main, East and West after a spike in violent incidents in 2025, including weapons and harassment. A recent violent incident at the East Branch forced a temporary closure, and officials say the current “observe only” model isn’t enough.

Grand Bay could request Saint John’s ladder truck in major emergencies - Council will consider an MOU allowing Grand Bay-Westfield to request Saint John’s aerial fire apparatus when needed, with Saint John able to refuse or recall resources at any time. There’s no fee; Grand Bay covers suppression materials, and Saint John gains access to Grand Bay’s fire training facility.

Lakewood Heights expansion nearing final approval - Council is set to give third reading to amendments tied to the Summit and Clint Drive subdivision, redesignating about 18 hectares for residential use and extending the Primary Development Area. Phase 1 would include vesting land for a new public street and subdivision agreements to extend Summit Drive.

Stompin’ Tom statue pitch returns with location concepts - A local group is scheduled to present updated renderings showing possible locations for a waterfront Stompin’ Tom statue. No formal report is attached, but the visuals alone are likely to spark debate over where, and whether it belongs.

See the full agenda.

Meeting starts at 6pm at City Hall, with the public welcome in person or watching live on Rogers TV or via livestream.

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Here are a few things to look forward to this week. Don’t forget to send us your events any time!

MONDAY

Chinese New Year 7-Course Dinner at Mimimi | February 23-26
Mimimi, 725 Millidge Ave, continues its Year of the Horse celebration with a 7-course Chinese New Year dinner served Monday to Thursday, February 23-26 at 6pm. The $89 per person experience highlights traditional holiday dishes centred on reunion and sharing, marking Lunar New Year which began February 17. Reservations are required by phone or online for this limited seasonal menu in Saint John.

TUESDAY

Freaky Film Fellowship Presents Koyaanisqatsi | February 24
Haven Music Hall, 201 Union Street, hosts the Freaky Film Fellowship on Tuesday, February 24 with a screening of Koyaanisqatsi. Doors open at 7pm and the film starts at 8pm for this 19+ winter series curated by Jamie Greening. Attendees can enjoy happy hour beer and work toward perks for attending multiple screenings as part of this ongoing Saint John film club.

Esty Drinks Beer & Eats Chips | February 24
Foghorn Brewing Company, 47 Clark Road in Rothesay, hosts a guided beer and chips pairing on Tuesday, February 24 from 6-7:30pm. Head Brewer Esty pairs four 4oz beers with Covered Bridge chips, plus a welcome and closing pint, for $30 per person. Spots are limited and tickets are available at the taproom for this relaxed midweek tasting event.

WEDNESDAY

Skate with the SJ Sea Dogs Winterfest Series | February 25
The Rothesay Common hosts a free family skate with Saint John Sea Dogs players on Wednesday, February 25 from 6-8pm as part of Fundy Winterfest. Skaters are encouraged to wear jerseys for a chance to win a signed youth jersey, bring a mug for hot chocolate and donate non-perishable food items for the KV Food Basket.

THURSDAY

Feelin’ Lucky Spelling Bee | February 26
The Porch, 370 Main Street in Hampton, hosts a luck-themed spelling bee on Thursday, February 26. Participants compete using Scrabble tiles in a fast-paced monthly challenge inspired by the stretch between Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day. The two-hour public event invites word lovers to test their speed and spelling for bragging rights.

FRIDAY

Glow Night at Broken Pieces Rage Room | February 27
Broken Pieces Rage Room, 10 Tim Street Unit 3, hosts its recurring Glow Night on Friday, February 27, turning smashing sessions into a neon-lit experience. Under blacklight, participants safely break items in a high-energy, two-hour stress-relief session designed for memorable nights out in Saint John.

Port City Power vs Tri-City Tide | February 27
Rothesay Netherwood School hosts Port City Power as they take on the Tri-City Tide on Friday, February 27 at 7pm. The home game features youth, adult and courtside ticket options for fans looking to catch fast-paced basketball and a spirited Saint John versus Moncton matchup inside the RNS gym.

SATURDAY

Coldest Night of the Year Walk | February 28
Market Square hosts the Coldest Night of the Year Walk on Saturday, February 28 from 5-7:30pm. Participants can choose a 2k or 5k route to raise funds supporting Outflow Ministry and local homelessness initiatives, gathering beforehand to receive fundraising toques before heading out across the city.

Battle of the Sexes Curling | February 28
Thistle St Andrews Curling Club, 49 Dufferin Avenue, hosts its Battle of the Sexes game on Saturday, February 28. Limited to 64 curlers with a $15 entry fee, the friendly competition pits 32 women against 32 men for a fun night on the ice in Saint John.

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-Geoff Walsh - Publisher