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Good morning, Saint John! Hope you’re stretching after last night. An estimated 1.25 billion chicken wings were eaten during the Super Bowl, which means statistically you ate at least a couple of ‘em…and might have some leftover for lunch today 🍗.
In today’s edition:
A standing ovation for Saint John 🎟️
Small suites big second chances 🏡
OT win badge secured 🏆
Let’s get into it!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
SPONSORED
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NEWS NOTES
🎭 Faces of Fusion packed the Imperial
The Imperial Theatre felt like a city-wide standing ovation Friday night as Faces of Fusion celebrated the people helping shape Saint John’s future. The annual Fusion Saint John event spotlighted local leaders, builders, and change-makers, with a full house cheering every winner and yours truly lucky enough to host the ride.
This year’s winners: Jeremiah’s Deli & Charlotte Street Bakery took Business & Entrepreneur, Samir Yammine from the City of Saint John won Environmental Leadership, Fabiola Martinez earned Arts & Culture honours, the Saint John Learning Exchange was named Community Champion, and Dr. Nada Rabie was recognized as the New Johner of the year.
It was a night that reminded everyone how much there is to be proud of in our little corner of the world.
🏠 Transitional housing expands on Thorne Avenue
Fourteen new micro-suites are being added next to the Neighbourly Homes site on Thorne Avenue, giving people transitioning out of homelessness a more independent step toward permanent housing. Each unit includes a bed, bathroom and kitchenette, plus shared laundry, common space and 24/7 staff. The new buildings arrive mid-March, with residents expected by month’s end.
Management of the Thorne and Egbert Street sites shifts from the city to the province April 1, as federal homelessness funding tied to the project expires. City officials say the handoff is meant to secure long-term stability for the program.
🚒 Firefighters take Battle of the Badges in OT
We called it Friday and the Saint John Firefighters delivered. The local squad beat Fredericton FD 2–1 in overtime Sunday to win the Battle of the Badges tournament at TD Station, closing out a weekend of first-responder hockey that felt more Game 7 than exhibition.
The three-day tournament brought police, fire, and sheriffs teams from across the province into one rink, but the final came down to a classic Saint John vs. Fredericton showdown. The Saint John firefighters reminded everyone they work in the city of champions.
THIS WEEK’S COUNCIL MEETINGS
⚖️ Saint John Council Meeting - February 9 | 6pm
Harbour Passage expansion heads to public drop-ins - Council will receive updates on two Harbour Passage extensions, with residents invited to preview early designs and give feedback. The Carmarthen Street to Rockwood Park concept session runs Feb 12, 3–7pm at Trinity Anglican Church. The Cove extension (Riverview Drive to Riverview Avenue) holds drop-ins Feb 10, 2–4pm and 6–8pm at Carleton-Kirk United Church.
Train whistles could stop at Ashburn Lake Road - Council will consider starting the process to silence train whistles at the Ashburn Lake Road crossing following recent safety upgrades. The move would require provincial approval and a rail safety assessment, with the City accepting liability if whistles are removed.
Lakewood Heights expansion goes to public hearing - Council will hold a hearing on a proposed 219-home expansion at Summit and Clint Drive, but staff recommend approving only Phase 1 (about 30 lots) for now due to water capacity and traffic concerns. The developer says the project is single-family homes using modular construction, not mobile homes.
Stompin’ Tom statue pitch coming to council - A local group wants council support to fundraise for a waterfront statue honouring Saint John-born Stompin’ Tom Connors ahead of his 90th birthday year in 2026.
Meeting starts at 6pm at City Hall, with the public welcome in person or watching live on Rogers TV or via live stream.
⚖️ Rothesay Council Meeting - February 9 | 7pm
18-unit apartment building heads to council - Council will deal with a planning item tied to a proposed 18-unit multi-unit building at 79 Donlyn Drive, following a recent public meeting and Planning Advisory Committee review.
Holland Hills rezoning decision - Council will vote on rezoning land at 15-17 Chapel Road in the Holland Hills area after January’s public hearing, along with a draft development agreement tied to the project.
Intergenerational Community Complex project moves forward - Council will consider awarding prime consultant and project management services for the Rothesay Intergenerational Community Complex, the town’s major recreation facility project.
Subdivision and development rules update - Council will review an amendment to Rothesay’s Subdivision By-law, which shapes how future residential developments are approved.
Major infrastructure spending package - Council will consider several capital items including asphalt resurfacing engineering services, repairs to a wastewater tank at the water treatment plant, and the purchase of five pickup trucks for town departments.
Millennium Drive development agreement revision - Council will review a revised agreement with Landmark Living tied to land on Millennium Drive.
Meeting starts at 7pm at Town Hall, with the public welcome to attend.
⚖️ Grand Bay-Westfield Council Meeting - February 9 | 7pm
Students pitch a new River Valley demonym - Council will hear a presentation from River Valley Middle School students proposing an official demonym for residents of the River Valley area.
Clean Fill by-law moves to second reading - Council will give second reading to a proposed Clean Fill By-law regulating how fill can be brought into and used within the municipality.
Public works garage loan draw - Council will consider approving the first loan draw tied to construction of the new public works garage.
Water source assessment proposal - Council will review a Phase 2 proposal for a Municipal Water Source Supply Assessment as part of long-term water planning.
Crane Mountain fund and reserve transfers on the table - Council will discuss a February reserve transfer and matters related to the Crane Mountain Economic Development Fund.
2026 road maintenance agreement - Council will consider the annual Municipal Kilometrage Maintenance Agreement covering road upkeep.
Meeting takes place at the Community Centrum in the Grand Bay Room. The public is welcome to attend 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!
MONDAY
Mini Biometrics Check-In | February 9–14
A quick 10-minute health snapshot is running all week at Simply For Life on Rothesay Avenue. Anyone can drop in for a free mini biometrics check that looks at body composition and grip strength, no membership required. It’s open to the public and designed to give a clearer picture of overall health in just a few minutes. Runs daily February 9–14.
TUESDAY
Celebrating Black Excellence at PRUDE Inc. | February 10
PRUDE Inc. is hosting a Black History Month gathering focused on honouring achievement, impact, and lived experience in the community. The two-hour conversation space is meant for reflection, storytelling, and celebration, bringing people together to recognize Black excellence past and present. Takes place 11am–1pm at PRUDE on Union Street.
Experiential Career Summit | February 10
Students and families can explore career pathways through hands-on learning with employers across health, energy, skilled trades, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship. The free summit is designed for ASD-S learners and includes dinner, prizes, and interactive stations led by industry experts. Runs 5:30–7:30pm at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.
Enjoy Life Expo for 50+ | February 10
Quispamsis is hosting a wellness and lifestyle expo geared toward residents 50+ looking to stay active and connected. Community groups and recreation organizations will be on hand sharing information about volunteering, leisure, and programs that support vibrant living. It’s part of Fundy Winterfest and runs 6–7:30pm, with a storm date the following evening.
WEDNESDAY
Glow in the Dark Skate | February 11
The Rothesay Common rink lights up for a neon skate night under black lights. Families are invited to wear bright colours, grab glow sticks, and skate while hot chocolate is served. It’s free, food donations for the KV Food Basket are welcome, and the event is part of the Winterfest series. Runs 6–8pm.
THURSDAY
Fog Love Reading Night | February 12
Fog Lit Festival is turning Haven Music Hall into a cozy celebration of romance-themed reading and writing. Guests can share original work or favourite passages, then stick around for karaoke and merch browsing. It’s a relaxed, creative night built around stories, music, and community. Starts 7pm on Union Street.
Fundy Sea Shanty Night | February 12
O’Leary’s Pub fills with voices for a sing-along sea shanty night that’s equal parts history and fun. Organizers provide lyric books so anyone can join in, no experience required. There’s no cover charge and you can enjoy the music and songs that shaped coastal culture. Singing begins 7pm.
FRIDAY
Miss Congeniality Retro Film Night | February 13
Imperial Theatre screens the Galentine’s classic Miss Congeniality as part of its retro film series. The comedy follows an undercover FBI agent navigating a beauty pageant while chaos unfolds. It’s a lighthearted movie night built for groups of friends. Show starts 7pm.
Taylor-Themed Galentine’s Night | February 13
Suwanna transforms into a Swiftie hangout with Taylor music, themed cocktails, and photo-worthy décor celebrating every era. The night is dedicated to friendship, sing-alongs, and girls-night energy. Reservations are recommended for the 5pm start.
SATURDAY
Chocolate & Flower Workshop | February 14
The City Market hosts a Valentine’s workshop where visitors can try chocolate-making or craft a hand-made bouquet. It’s designed as a casual drop-in activity for couples or solo guests looking to do something creative. Runs 10am–12pm in the market solarium.
Classic Albums Live Pink Floyd | February 14
Imperial Theatre welcomes Classic Albums Live performing Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon in full. Musicians recreate the iconic album note-for-note, celebrating one of rock’s most influential recordings. Show begins 8pm.
SUNDAY
Healing Voices Benefit Concert | February 15
Healing Voices presents a community choral concert supporting the Cancer Support Centre. All proceeds go directly to the charity, and the performance showcases weeks of open, no-audition rehearsals welcoming singers of all backgrounds. The concert begins 3pm at St. Mark’s United Church.
Multicultural Ramadan Bazaar | February 15
The Bill McGuire Centre hosts a family-friendly bazaar celebrating Ramadan traditions through food, crafts, clothing, and cultural displays. Vendors from across New Brunswick bring sweets, décor, henna art, and specialty goods, alongside kids activities and a photo booth. Runs 2–6pm with free entry.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. I’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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SIDE NOTES
🌅 7:34am | 🌇 5:43pm
Today’s Tides 🌊
High Tide | 4:51 AM(Mon 09 February) | 7.03 m(23.07 ft) |
Low Tide | 11:10 AM(Mon 09 February) | 1.92 m(6.28 ft) |
High Tide | 5:19 PM(Mon 09 February) | 6.6 m(21.65 ft) |
Low Tide | 11:31 PM(Mon 09 February) | 2.18 m(7.15 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with a sports fan who isn’t going to work today 🏈.
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher