📬 Certified stamp certified champ

Good morning, Saint John! If you made it this far into the first week of February without watching the Westminster Dog Show, you don't know the joy you missed out on. While Penny the Doberman (Canadian) won Best in Show, we still loved Cookie the Maltese and of course Ridge the Boxer. Here's some behind-the-scenes pics to help you take a bite out of your Thursday morning. 🐕

Here’s what we’re chasing down today:

Happy Thursday!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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🗳️ Quispamsis mayor stepping aside after 15 years

Quispamsis is heading into the spring election without its longtime mayor on the ballot. Libby O’Hara says she won’t re-offer on May 11, closing a 15-year run in local politics that included two terms as deputy mayor and the last stretch in the big chair.

A former teacher, O’Hara helped guide a period of rapid growth that brought infrastructure upgrades, a splash pad, pickleball courts, a skateboard park and a dog-friendly beach. This week the town was also named one of Canada’s most livable communities, a timing she admits feels like a nice final note.

Her advice to the next mayor is simple… listen, and work with staff. Nominations close April 10. ($)

🎤 Maestro Fresh Wes lands on a Canadian stamp

Saint John resident Maestro Fresh Wes is officially part of Canadian postage. Canada Post unveiled a Black History Month stamp series this week honouring early hip hop trailblazers, with Wes featured alongside Michie Mee and Montréal group Muzion.

The moment has extra poetry. Wes recently joked online about Chuck D’s lyric that heroes don’t appear on stamps. Now he is one that does.

“I feel honored to be honored, man,” he told SJ Today. “That’s an amazing accomplishment… I feel like a hip hop champ.”

If that wasn’t enough for one week, Wes also appears in The Slack, the New Brunswick-shot mystery series premiering today on Bell Fibe.

💸 Fake cash popping up around the city

Saint John Police are warning businesses and residents to take a second look at any paper money changing hands right now. Officers say counterfeit $20, $50 and $100 bills have been popping up more often over the past few weeks.

The advice is simple. If a bill feels off, trust that instinct. Blurry print, weird texture, missing holograms or portraits that don’t match are all red flags. Real Canadian bills have raised ink, clear windows and tiny numbers that line up with the denomination. If yours looks like it came out of a home printer at 2am, maybe don’t accept it.

Knowingly using fake cash is a criminal offence, and police are asking anyone who spots suspicious bills to call 506-648-3333 or tip Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Quick reminder that if a deal feels too good to be true, your wallet might agree. 

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WEEKEND PREVIEW

THURSDAY

A&W x RICC Community Fundraiser | February 5–7
Not that we need an excuse to eat a burger, but Teen Burgers turn into community support this weekend as A&W Rothesay donates $2 from every one sold toward the Rothesay Intergenerational Community Complex, with round-up donations all week. Mascot Rooty will pop in for family photo ops, making this fundraiser equal parts fun and meaningful. Grab lunch and help build something lasting.

The Hypochondriacs | February 5
Haven Music Hall hosts a late-night live show featuring The Hypochondriacs with Nate and the Busy Boys, bringing high-energy local music to the uptown stage. A casual Thursday night set built for those who like a good time even when they gotta get up in the morning. Show starts 9pm.

FRIDAY

Art Battle Saint John | February 6
Painters race the clock in a live art showdown where the audience votes for the winner. Artists create full pieces in just 20 minutes while spectators sip drinks, cheer them on, and bid in a silent auction for the finished work. Fast, loud, and wildly entertaining. Starts 7:30pm at the Kent Theatre.

SATURDAY

Glow in the Dark Skating Party | February 7
Westfield & District Recreation Association hosts a family glow skate in Grand Bay-Westfield with lights, music, and a bonfire warming up the rink. Designed as a winter celebration for all ages, skaters are encouraged to bring their glow gear and lean into the fun. Runs 6–8pm at 600 Brittain Rd.

The Ella Fitzgerald Tribute featuring Dee Hernandez | February 7
Jazz powerhouse Dee Hernandez honours Ella Fitzgerald with an evening of timeless standards and swing classics. The tribute blends silky ballads and playful showstoppers, celebrating one of the greatest voices in music history. A smooth night out during Black History Month. Starts 7:30pm at Water Street Dinner Theatre.

SUNDAY

Drink & Draw at Picaroons | February 8
Creatives gather at the General Store for a casual afternoon of art and drinks where anything goes…sketching, knitting, painting, or digital work. No pressure, no judging, just a social space to make something alongside other artists. Bring your own supplies and settle in. Runs 2–4pm.

Supper Club Macaroni and Cheese | February 8
Chroma NB hosts a community-style supper club where participants cook, eat, and connect over homemade mac and cheese. Open to 2SLGBTQIA+ folks and allies, the evening is about food, belonging, and shared space. RSVP required for dietary options. Runs 5–8pm.

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📸 Prince Thomas Photography | 📍 Renforth

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who could use a little extra grooming this week 🐩.

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher