Good morning Saint John! The hot nights continue, and if you’ve finally kicked your blanket off the bed, don’t shove it in a closet…donate it. The SPCA needs twin and double comforters, towels, and throws to keep their pups cozy. You cool down, they warm up. Everyone wins.

Here’s the happs as we head into the weekend:

Enjoy the weekend!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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🤔 What’s Next for Hampton Road?

Big changes are coming to one of Quispamsis’s busiest strips, and no, we’re not just talking about fresh pavement. The town is planning a total reimagining of Hampton Road, and they want your hot takes. Think fewer potholes, more people-friendly space, and maybe even a shot at that elusive “Town Centre” vibe. Whether you’re a stroller-pusher, bike commuter, or driver dodging puddles, now’s your chance to weigh in. The redesign will tackle underground pipes and above-ground life - traffic, sidewalks, safety, accessibility, and possibly that dream of a downtown Quispamsis.

You’ve got five months to speak your mind: speakupland.ca/reimagine-hampton-road

🏠 Property Taxes Freeze Gives Homeowners a Break

New Brunswick is reworking the property tax system to make it fairer and clearer and they want your input. Take a quick 10-minute survey by August 10 online or call 1-833-724-0088.

Meanwhile, there is some instant relief as eligible properties won’t see their 2026 tax bills rise as values are frozen at 2025 levels. No surprise hikes, no extra headaches.

Plus, the monthly payment plan just got bigger, so you can spread out those taxes instead of coughing up a big chunk all at once.

If property taxes have ever made you grimace, now’s your chance to help fix that.

⛳️ Kids Tee Off Free Next Week

How’s your golf swing these days? Maybe your kids could teach you a thing or two. From July 7 to 13, local golf courses are rolling out the green carpet for kids under 16 as they get to golf for free when paired with an adult. Riverside Country Club, Westfield, and Midland Meadows (a bit of a drive but totally worth it) have all signed up for the “Take a Kid to the Course” program.

It’s the perfect chance for kids to chip, putt, and drive their way to some fresh air and family fun, no green fees required. Whether your mini Tiger Woods is just getting started or your little one’s more about chasing the ball than sinking birdies, this week is for them.

🏆 Top Clicks of the Week

Of course it was a short (split?) week, but that didn’t stop your from investigating the most interesting events of the week. Here’s what had you clicking…

Monday: Large development proposal in Rothesay
Wednesday: The Ice Cream Dock open in Kingston Creek
Thursday: Is this the plan for Simms Corner?

After we shared rumours of a $100M Simms Corner overhaul, including a possible overpass, we asked what you thought should happen.

The top pick? Build the overpass already.

Plenty of west side drivers say it’s past time. “Just get it done, been talking about it for 50 years,” one reader wrote. Others pointed to growing delays from train traffic. “Due to increased rail cars and the times traffic is backed up in all directions, an overpass is needed,” said one. Another added, “If we believe the port will continue to grow... an overpass would serve everyone travelling in the area.”

But not everyone’s convinced. One reader called the overpass “a waste of money” and argued a roundabout would work just fine…and for a lot less.

And one local kept it simple: “Leave it alone. Learn how to drive.”

With this much chatter, it’s only a matter of time before we hear some official details.

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Jason Gomke’s wife thinks he’s nuts. He’s opening two food spots in Brunswick Square this August and Jason himself admits, “I’ve never worked in a restaurant…I just like to eat.”

Downstairs in the food court, Foggy City Takeout will serve smash burgers, grilled hot dogs, chicken strips, nachos, mac and cheese, and a poutine he calls “a heart attack waiting to happen”...loaded with options like pulled pork, bacon, and spiced sauce. But it’s not all greasy favourites, there will be some healthier choices too. He’s focused on affordable lunch options, perfect for students looking for a good feed during the school year.

Upstairs on level two, Foggy City Sweets & Souvenirs will scoop 16 flavours of hard ice cream, bring back nostalgic apple turnovers, and sell Saint John-made souvenirs like stained glass and hand-painted scenes. Both spots are aiming to open by early August.

“This isn’t just about a new place to eat,” says Jason. “It’s about helping to revitalize a cornerstone of our uptown core.” He’s hiring a full team, with proper hours and pay, to back that up. And he hopes people will come support local and give Foggy City a try.

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We gave you the weekend preview yesterday, here are some events submitted by you!
Got something coming up? Share it with us here!

Back in Time Big Band | July 7
Saint John’s own 18-piece Back in Time Big Band hits the stage at Trinity Church this Monday at 7pm. They mix classic swing with modern pop, all played with energy and flair. Whether you’re a jazz fan or just looking for some upbeat tunes, this big band brings a night of music that’ll get your toes tapping. Free will offering, all welcome.

Meditation Mandala Painting | July 9
At the Peter Salmon Art Gallery in St Martins, dive into a meditation mandala painting workshop this Tuesday from 10am to 3pm. Led by Michele Mouton, you’ll create your own acrylic mandala while finding calm and emotional clarity. No art experience needed, all supplies included for $50. Bring your lunch and register by July 4th via email to [email protected].

Ghosts of Grand Entrances | July 12
Local doormaker Hatch + Parley teams up with historian David Goss for a spooky Uptown walking tour this Saturday at 8:30pm. Explore the stories behind Saint John’s historic doors—and maybe meet a ghost or two. Limited to 25 guests, so book by July 9th. Dress warm, bring a flashlight, and a comfort buddy for this one-of-a-kind night tour. Tickets $25.

St Martins Summer Theatre Camp | July 13-17
Kids and teens get a chance to shine at St Martins Summer Theatre Camp this July. Ages 8-16 will dive into acting, singing, movement, and an original musical called "True Blue Summer," wrapping up with a live show July 17 at 7pm. Little ones 5-7 explore arts through fun activities July 14-17 mornings. Early registration discounts apply. Info and sign-up: (506) 833-2220 or [email protected].

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📍 On Wednesday the morning was spent drinking coffee and parusing the local book selections at The Write Cup in Market Square. That’s also where these delightful lights hang from the ceiling so we snapped a pic. Shout out to Stephen R., Jenn B., and Bryn R. for knowing exactly where we were!

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Today’s Tides 🌊

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who still doesn’t have a costume for Halloween! 👻

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher