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⚡Library Card = Pickleball Power
SJ Today
June 05, 2025
In partnership with:
Good morning Saint John! Ever lost a bag while travelling? Thank a Moncton guy named John for making it slightly less chaotic. On this day, back in 1882, he patented the Separable Baggage Check…basically the OG luggage tag. Over 140 years later, it’s still helping your suitcase get lost professionally.
Here’s what we’re tracking down today:
Get active with the library! 🏃♂️
Ball hockey’s best arrive in SJ 🥅
Get your weekend plans in order! 🎉
Enjoy the day!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
🏓 Library Cards Now Come with Pickleball Paddles
Turns out, your local library doesn’t just lend books…it now loans beach carts, badminton nets, and actual snowshoes. The City of Saint John just teamed up with four public libraries to offer free rentals of recreational gear, so you can try disc golf, Spikeball, or even paddle into a heated pickleball rivalry, without having to buy any equipment. .
Whether you're dragging a sun tent to Mispec or trying to relive your high school soccer days, there’s gear for that. Just swing by a branch and check it out (literally).
🏒 Ball hockey hits the LBR…If You Can Find a Way In
The 2025 NB Ball Hockey Provincials are rolling into Saint John this weekend, June 6–8, taking over the LBR and Peter Murray Arena. Expect slapshots, chirping, and probably a few broken sticks…but the real battle might be getting there. With Main Street down to one lane and side streets rerouted, players might need a GPS, a Sherpa, and a bit of luck just to reach the rink in time for ball drop.
Full schedule’s at nbbha.com, if you make it through the construction zone.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE MEETINGS
🏛️ Quispamsis Special Council Meeting | June 5, 2025 - 12pm
Pump station project moves ahead – Council will review two staff reports on upgrades to the Gondola Point Road Wastewater Pump Station #4, including contract approvals and next steps for construction.
Closed-door start – The meeting begins in closed session for contract talks, then moves into open session to vote.
The meeting starts at 12pm Thursday at Town Hall (12 Landing Court). The public session can be attended to in person or viewed via livestream.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
THURSDAY
First Thursday at Wasted Day | June 5
Fusion Saint John is back with their next First Thursday hangout. This time at Wasted Day Brewing from 5-7pm. Whether you’re flying solo or bringing the crew, it’s a laid-back chance to make new connections over a pint. No RSVP needed, just drop in and mingle. Bonus: the beer’s cold, the vibes are warm, and the convos don’t come with a meeting agenda.
Pink in the Park | June 5
Memorial Field goes pink this Thursday as the Saint John Alpines host the Fredericton Royals for the 5th annual Pink in the Park, supporting St. Joe’s breast health programs. Kick things off with a 5:30pm BBQ, catch the 6pm Charity Inning, then stay for the Senior team game at 7:30pm. Admission is $8 cash (free for kids under 12), with raffles, a 50/50, and plenty of hometown pride on deck.
Fibre Fest in Grand Bay-Westfield | Every Thursday
Calling all crafters! Fibre Fest is your weekly Thursday night hangout from 6:30-8:30pm in the River Valley Room at the Community Centrum (use the back entrance). Bring your crochet, quilting, cross stitch, felting, whatever fibre art you’re into, and connect with fellow makers. It’s free, open to all ages, and no registration needed. Just pack your materials and show up ready to stitch, knot, bead, or hook the evening away.
FRIDAY
South End Clean-Up | June 6
Join P.U.L.S.E. Inc. this Thursday from 6-8pm for a community clean-up in the South End in honour of Earth Day (fashionably late). Meet in the parking lot at 251 Wentworth St. - they’ll have gloves and trash bags ready, but bring your own broom, rake, or neighbourhood pride. It’s a quick way to do some good, get a little fresh air, and maybe find out who your tidiest neighbour is.
Moosehead Limeade Launch | June 6
Come party on the west side! Celebrate the launch of Moosehead’s new Limeade at the Moosehead Taproom this Friday from 7pm to midnight. Expect a DJ, food truck, photobooth, games, prizes, and plenty of good vibes. It’s 19+ only, so bring your ID and your party spirit for a night of refreshing fun.
Jazz Night at Trinity Galleries | June 6
Friday night at Trinity Galleries, groove to James O’Farrell and The Jazz Perspective from 7 to 9pm. James leads with sax and vocals, joined by Chad Ball on bass and Jorian Hapeman on piano. It’s the perfect soundtrack to kick off your weekend with some smooth, soulful jazz vibes.
SATURDAY
Teacher’s Gift Workshop | June 7
Swing by the Saint John City Market this Saturday between 10am and 4pm to whip up a handmade thank-you for your favourite teacher. Hosted by The Blue Pelican, the drop-in workshop lets you create a custom beaded keychain or a colourful bath bomb jar for just $10 each. No sign-up needed…just show up and get crafty. It’s the perfect excuse to say thanks with a little heart (and glitter).
Bike Rodeo | June 7
The Town of Grand Bay-Westfield and local RCMP are teaming up for a free Bike Rodeo on Saturday from 11am to 12:30pm at the River Valley Community Centre. Kids can cruise through safety stations, get a helmet check, and maybe even win a new bike. There’ll be a BBQ, obstacle course, and door prizes…all you need is a bike, helmet, and a grown-up in tow. Safety first, fun guaranteed.
Saint John Touch a Truck | June 7
Get ready to climb aboard some of Saint John’s coolest vehicles at Touch a Truck, happening Saturday from 10am to 4pm at 37 McAllister Drive. Fire trucks, construction machines, bouncy castles, carnival games, face painting, and food trucks make it a full day of family fun. Kids 2 and under get in free. All proceeds support First Steps Housing Project, helping young moms in need.
Ghost Stories & Horror Writing Workshop | June 7
The Write Cup Bookstore Café is serving up chills and creativity this Saturday with an all-ages horror writing workshop during the day, followed by classic ghost storytelling by flashlight in the evening. The workshop leans PG, but the host knows their way around the genre if you’ve got darker questions.
SUNDAY
Fishing Derby at Fisher Lakes | June 8
It’s derby day at Rockwood! The Kiwanis Club’s annual Fishing Derby casts off at 9am this Sunday at Fisher Lakes. Kids can reel in prizes by 11am, and no license is needed thanks to Fish NB Days. Expect music, games, and a free hot dog BBQ from the Community Block Party Trailer. Pack your bait, chair, and bug spray, and please fish responsibly (Don’t cut and discard lines and hooks into the lakes) so the other wildlife don’t end up with tackle bling.
Swing Dance Lessons | June 8
Ready to put some spring in your step? Kent Theatre hosts beginner and experienced swing dance classes every Sunday evening. Beginners get into footwork and rhythm from 5:30-6:30pm with the "Knees & Toes" series, no partner or experience needed. Experienced dancers dive into the iconic swing out move from 6:30-7:30pm. Classes run through June 22. Cost is $80 per person ($40 students). Just bring your two left feet and some enthusiasm.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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📸 Andre Fitzpatrick | 📍 South End Skyline
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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 2:16 AM(Thu 05 June) | 1.93 m(6.33 ft) |
High Tide | 8:24 AM(Thu 05 June) | 6.93 m(22.74 ft) |
Low Tide | 2:39 PM(Thu 05 June) | 1.9 m(6.23 ft) |
High Tide | 8:50 PM(Thu 05 June) | 7.14 m(23.43 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that has lost their luggage a time or two. 🧳
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher