🚨 Cops Watching, JYSK Opening

Good morning Saint John! Is it officially river season around here yet? In Washington state, crews just airlifted 14 abandoned boats by helicopter off a remote island…so if you're dreaming of a calm paddle on the river, just be glad the vessels are staying in the water.

In todays edition:

• Cops watching for distracted driving 🚔

• JYSK (actually) coming soon to west side 🛋️

• A few council meetings in the region this week 🏛️

Let’s make it a memorable Monday!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🍟 Eyes on the Road - Your Fries Can Wait

If you’re reading this while driving: pull over, we need to talk. The Saint John Police are rolling out a Distracted Driving Campaign starting today and running through Wednesday, with a reminder that texting, talking, eating, fiddling with your GPS, or holding your phone in-hand while behind the wheel can cost you big time…as in $340.50 and five demerit points.

Turns out, even a second of distraction can make you slower to notice or react to what’s happening on the road, or miss it completely. And the stats back it up: distracted driving now accounts for over 1 in 5 fatal crashes in Canada.

So this week,  and anytime in the future, hands on the wheel, eyes up, and let your snacks, playlists, and that very urgent group chat wait ’til you’re parked.

🇩🇰 Spotted on the West Side: JYSK is (Finally) Happening

It’s been almost two years since we first heard whispers of Danish retailer JYSK setting up shop in Saint John…and now, there’s proof in the parking lot. A giant sign just went up at 384 Lancaster Ave, marking the long-awaited arrival of the Scandinavian furniture and houseware chain that’s often described as “IKEA’s more introverted cousin.”

The building, once home to tech firm T4G, has been under construction by local company Iron Maple. And while the original goal was to open in 2024, it looks like 2025 is the year we’ll finally be shopping for flat-packed furniture and affordable duvet sets without leaving the city.

Well, it won’t be long now ’til we all have the same new bedding.

💫 Three Local Educators Earn Top Honours

The province just handed out its annual Minister’s Excellence in Education Awards…and three Anglophone South educators made the honour roll. Lynn Hayes (Westfield School), Katrina Lee (Rothesay Elementary), and Anne Marie Cusack (Saint Rose School) were recognized for going above and beyond in the classroom. The award celebrates teachers who show leadership, passion, and dedication to their school communities. A well-deserved round of applause for three local champions shaping local young minds. 

🏐 Spike Season Incoming at the Rez

Heads up, east side, the Little River Reservoir is about to get a sandy new upgrade. The city’s building a beach volleyball court, and construction starts today. It’ll be a single-bay setup (so call dibs early) and should be ready to bump, set, and spike by mid-July. The playground stays open, but the construction area will be fenced off with some minor detours.

_{Nothing is this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. I’ll always let you know when something is sponsored.}

THIS WEEK’S COUNCIL MEETINGS

⚖️ Saint John Common Council | Monday June 9, 2025 - 5:15pm

• Tentative deal with CUPE Local 18 – Council is set to review a new agreement with outside workers, though details are still under wraps.

See the full agenda. 

Meeting takes place in the Council Chamber (2nd floor, City Hall). You can also watch it live on Rogers TV or via livestream. 

🏛️ Rothesay Council Meeting | Monday June 9 - 7:00pm

• Traffic and Street Infrastructure – Council will discuss speed bumps and sidewalk changes on Cameron Road, crosswalk updates on Rothesay Road, and a proposal to make Milne Street one-way.

• Rezoning and Development – A public hearing is set for 26 Scovil Road, with other rezoning items for Cameron Road and Millennium/Campbell Drive under review.

• Water System and Equipment – Reports include water source expansion plans, a modelling exercise for system growth, and the purchase of a new walk-behind mower.

• Annual Reporting – The draft 2024 Rothesay Annual Report is up for review.

See the full agenda.

You can attend in person at the Town Hall Common Room or watch via livestream.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

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

TONIGHT

Ali Hassan & James Mullinger | June 9–12
Two standup veterans, four chances to catch the laughs. Ali Hassan brings his sharp storytelling from Just for Laughs and CBC Gem, while James Mullinger delivers his signature charm fresh off a string of sold-out shows. Expect big laughs, British flair, and top-tier comedy chops packed into every show at the BMO Studio Theatre. Each night starts at 7:30pm, grab tickets early!

TUESDAY

Chroma Gayme Night | June 11
Board games, big laughs, and a welcoming crowd! Chroma NB hosts a free, all-ages game night every other Tuesday at Heroes’ Beacon. Whether you roll deep with friends or show up solo, you’ll find a friendly table waiting. It’s a great way to meet folks, connect with the community, and try something new. Runs 6:30–9pm, just check in at the front desk when you arrive.

WEDNESDAY

Rocmaura Community BBQ | June 11
Good food, good company, and a bubble artist? Count us in. Rocmaura Nursing Home is hosting a community BBQ in their courtyard, and Benny Bubblz will be on hand with sudsy tricks for all ages. It’s a casual, feel-good gathering open to everyone, perfect for a midweek lift. Runs 11am–1pm, and yes, there will be hot dogs!

THURSDAY

Ribfest 506 | June 12–15
The grills are firing up and the sauce is ready…Ribfest 506 is back on McAllister Drive for four full days of smoky, meaty bliss. Expect ribs galore, live music, and a bustling vendor scene to keep you fed and entertained. This year’s edition is bigger than ever, so come hungry and pace yourself. It all kicks off Thursday and runs through Sunday.

FRIDAY

ArtLove Live Painting Battle | June 13
Brushes will fly and colours will pop at Saint John City Market during this high-energy painting showdown. Part of the Maritime-wide Festival Hom'Art, this live art battle pits local artists against each other in a three-round faceoff, and you get to watch the magic happen in real time. Tickets are $20, with proceeds supporting P.R.O. Kids. It all starts at 6:30pm. Expect art, energy, and a whole lot of heart.

SATURDAY

Saint John Pet Palooza | June 14
It’s all paws on deck at the Kent Theatre for a full day of furry fun. Pet Palooza is bringing together groomers, rescues, and vendors loaded with swag, basically, it’s a pet lover’s dream. Whether you’ve got a dog, cat, or just a soft spot for animals, there’s something here for you. Doors open at 10am and tails will be wagging all day.

Got an Event to Share?

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who you’d like to spend a little time on the river with. 🌊

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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