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- ⏳ ER wait times now live
⏳ ER wait times now live
SJ Today
October 27, 2025
Today’s issue presented by:
Good morning Saint John,
On October 29, 2024 I sent the first edition of SJ Today to two people, my partner Nicole, and my mom. This Wednesday marks one year since that initial email and this message will land in the inboxes of more than 3,200 people. That growing number continues to blow my mind, so thank you.
I started SJ Today as a way to reconnect with this city. I moved here in 2011 to work in radio and quickly realized what a special place this is. The best part of local media was always being in the mix, meeting people, hearing stories, and feeling the pulse that makes a place feel alive.
When I stepped out of that world, I felt cut off, and it sucked. One night last October I came home and said, “frig it, let’s do something about that.” And I did.
Since then I have met so many of you and shared your stories with readers every morning. Artists, business owners, quiet doers, loud champions - all the people who add up to a city worth living in. SJ Today has become a fiercely local and independent voice, not because I am chasing a media trophy, but because I care about this place.
Now, bigger outfits are circling and you will see more local newsletters and portals pop up. That is fine. But SJ Today is run by someone you will see at an event, sitting two rows over at a hockey game, or in line at Java Moose half awake. There is no boardroom behind this. Just a guy at my kitchen table at 5 a.m. trying to make something useful and worth opening every day.
I would love to do this as my full-time work one day, and I am building toward that in earnest. Whether I get there or not, I am doing it with you and for you. The support from readers, sharers, advertisers, and champions is the entire reason this exists and keeps growing.
And that door is always open. If you have a story, an idea, a person worth knowing or something happening in your corner of the city and region, reach out and let me know. This whole thing works best when it comes from the people who live here.
Thank you for reading, for trusting me with your mornings and for choosing something made right here by someone who loves being a part of Saint John.
My plan for SJ Today is simple...stay local, stay independent, and keep showing up.
Cheers,
Geoff
Here’s what else is in today’s edition:
Local video scores top provincial prize 🎬
See how long ER waits are ⏳
Saint John port set to expand 🚢
SPONSORED
Sloan Rocks Imperial on Halloween 🎸
Once called Canada’s answer to Nirvana, we’ve been cheering and singing along as Sloan has been lighting up stages since 1991. This Halifax-bred quartet has cranked out over 250 songs and more than 30 singles that helped define the East Coast alternative scene. With fizzy, fuzzed-out guitars, catchy power pop, and moments of pure brilliance, Sloan’s live shows are a masterclass in rock chemistry that’ll have the entire theatre standing on October 31, 2025.
Tickets are $50 for adults and $45 for members and give you access to a legendary night of music and energy. Don’t miss it, these indie rock heroes bring three decades of hits straight to Saint John.
NEWS NOTES
🏥 ER wait times now posted in real time
The province has added a new tool to the MyHealthNB app and website that shows the average time people are spending in emergency departments from registration to either discharge or admission at a hospital unit. The numbers refresh every 15 minutes.
Officials say the goal is to give people a clearer sense of what to expect for non-urgent visits. Life-threatening cases are still assessed and treated first, regardless of the posted wait.
The province notes the estimates can swing with patient volume and staffing, but the data is now public under the Health System Data section of MyHealthNB.
🌍 Saint John port ready for global growth
Saint John’s port is ready to help Canada double non-U.S. exports over the next decade. $300 billion in trade, bigger ships, more jobs, and extra container traffic are on the horizon.
Decades of upgrades, like cranes, rail lines, and a new cold storage facility next spring, mean the port is ready to tap Asia-Pacific markets and beyond. Improvements at Simms Corner should also help keep goods moving smoothly through the city.
The federal budget on Nov. 4 will reveal more on what’s next. Locals can expect economic benefits, job opportunities, and a busier harbour.
🎥 Catherine Kennedy wins Video of the Year
Saint John's Catherine Kennedy scored Video of the Year last week at the Music NB Awards in Moncton. The video for Cloth You’re Made Of was shot by Tyler Burr of Burdock Creative and produced by Naomi Peters. The project highlights the talent coming out of Saint John’s music and film scene.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
THIS WEEK’S COUNCIL MEETING
⚖️ Grand Bay-Westfield Council Meeting | October 27, 6pm
Budget preview — Council will present the proposed 2026 budget, outlining spending priorities and regional service plans.
The full agenda wasn’t shared by publishing time but should be available here sometime today.
The meeting takes place in the Community Centrum, Grand Bay Room at 6pm. Attend in person or watch via livestream.
SPONSORED
Looking for New Customers? 🛍️
We can help! Advertise with us and be seen by readers enjoying their morning coffee!
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!
TUESDAY
Ghost Stories at Loyalist House | October 28
Step inside Saint John’s second oldest building for an evening of spine-tingling tales with master storyteller David Goss, author of Saint John Ghosts and more. Hear stories collected from decades of New Brunswick ghost lore, while supporting repairs at Loyalist House. Space is limited, tickets $15, and advance payment is required to reserve your spot. This session may not be suitable for children.
WEDNESDAY
Spicy Reads Night | October 29
This 18+ evening at The Write Cup Bookstore Cafe features four local authors reading their steamiest scenes. Enjoy special drinks and treats, enter a costume contest with a prize from Pleasures ‘N Treasures, and check out a toy demo. Authors will be available before and after for questions and book signings. Locals and visitors welcome…come for the fun, the heat, and the conversation. 8:30pm-10pm.
FRIDAY
A Nightmare on Water Street | October 31
The spooky party returns with DJ J-Demi and DJ Mike RedBlue spinning all night at AREA 506. Dress to impress in your best costume for a chance at over $500 in prizes, sip on Halloween-themed drinks, and dance till late. Doors open at 7pm with music starting at 8pm. $25 admission, 19+. Arrive before 10pm to maximize your chances of winning the costume contest.
SATURDAY
Money Youth | November 1
Students and curious learners can get a jumpstart on their financial smarts at this free session hosted by IG Wealth Management at the library’s Main Branch in Market Square. Join in for practical tips, fun insights, and a chance to ask your money questions. Spots are limited, so give the library a call to register and make sure you’re in on the action. 10:30am-12pm.
Foodstock | November 1
Peace, love, and live music come together at the Bill McGuire Centre for Foodstock – The Woodstock Experience. Groove with The Come Together House Band and special guests That Zepp Band, browse the Hippy Dippy Boutique, and test your luck with a 50/50 draw and live auction. Boho-chic attire encouraged as you rock out for a great cause: supporting the KV Foodbasket. Doors at 7pm, $25.
Mystery Masquerade Ball | November 1
Saint John’s most enigmatic night of the year invites you to slip on a mask and step into a world of glamour and intrigue. Enjoy a red carpet welcome, champagne, a gourmet meal, live performance, DJ-driven dancing, and a chance to bid in an exclusive auction. With only 125 tickets available, this private, mysterious evening supports Gentle Path Counselling Services. Masks encouraged. Mysteries guaranteed.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. I’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
YOUR PICS
@SJTODAY.CA
📸 Ronda Rhs | 📍 Menahqesk Wabanaki Traditional Powwow 2025
Tag @sjtoday.ca to get your photos featured!
SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
High Tide | 4:02 AM(Mon 27 October) | 6.68 m(21.92 ft) |
Low Tide | 10:10 AM(Mon 27 October) | 2.26 m(7.4 ft) |
High Tide | 4:17 PM(Mon 27 October) | 6.96 m(22.84 ft) |
Low Tide | 10:40 PM(Mon 27 October) | 1.96 m(6.42 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, please share it with someone who would appreciate fiercely local and independent info in their inbox each morning 📰.
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher