🦶 Kickin' Asphalt

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Good morning Saint John! This is SJ Today, and what a sight yesterday - dodging potholes on Chesley Drive on the way in and cruising over freshly filled spots on the way home. Big shoutout to outdoor workers across the region who’ve been filling those suckers faster than we can book an alignment. You’re all the real MVPs this week! 🚗💨

Here’s what’s up this morning:

  • Prepare for the melt 🧊

  • Pricy power mystery continues 🔌

  • You say build a bigger rink 💬

One more sleep to the weekend!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

Jaymee at Loch Lomond Mitsubishi has been shouting about the RVR all month—and for good reason. It’s built for NB roads, sips gas like a hybrid (without the hybrid price tag), and yes, even her 6’5” son fits inside comfortably.

But here’s the deal: RVR Days end tomorrow. Once the calendar flips to March, the price cuts disappear. No extensions. No second chances. Right now, every new RVR is marked down, and biweekly payments start at just $203 ALL IN—even less if you already drive a Mitsubishi.

✅ All-wheel control
✅ Loaded with features—even at base
✅ The best fuel economy of any SUV in the country

This is it—your last shot at a brand-new RVR at these prices. Don’t miss out. RVR Days end Friday.

NEWS NOTES

🌀Spring Thaw 101: Keep That Water Moving

Ah, the great New Brunswick spring thaw, where the snowbanks turn into lakes, driveways become rivers, and basements... well, let’s try to keep them dry, shall we?

Not to get ahead of ourselves (we always love a good plot twist), but the forecast is serving up a strange mix over the next few days - some snow, some rain, and temperatures that can’t quite commit. Classic.

With rain in the mix and the inevitable snowmelt ahead, now’s the time to make sure water is draining away from your home, not straight into your basement. Clear out those ditches, unblock those drains, and for the love of dry socks, don’t send all that water down your driveway, it’ll only chew up the road and leave your street looking like an off-road course. A little prep now can save you from a whole lot of soggy regret later.

⚡ NB Power Bills Still a Mystery

Still waiting on answers about those shockingly high power bills? Don’t stop now - NB Power says the independent review is taking longer than expected.

The audit, meant to investigate sky-high charges, was supposed to be done by now. But officials say they need more time. So far, they’ve tested 20 smart meters and 20 old-school meters and found… nothing. Most high bill cases? Chalked up to cold weather, longer billing cycles, and customer usage.

In the meantime, NB Power is waiving late payment fees retroactive to January 1st, with credits coming for those who already paid. The review should be done by April, just in time to forget how much we paid to stay warm this winter.

🏠 Tiny Home Community Approved

The Sunnyside Tiny Home Community was officially approved by council earlier this week. Up to 75 affordable homes are coming to East Saint John to help address homelessness. While some concerns about the location were raised, the project is moving forward.

Next steps? The team is working on fundraising, finalizing the land deal, and prepping the site. They're also looking for a builder and support services to ensure a safe, sustainable community. We could see some tiny homes before next winter.

🎶 ECMA Nominations Dropped

The East Coast Music Awards are taking the heat to St. John’s this May, and the nominations are in! Leading the pack with eight nods each are hip-hop heavyweight Classified and genre-bending composer Jeremy Dutcher. Not far behind are Kellie Loder, Jah’Mila, Maggie Andrew, and Vishtèn, each scoring five.

The five-day festival (May 7-11) will be packed with showcases, industry talks, and high-energy performances. Tom Power, CBC’s ‘Q’ host and proud Newfoundland native, will host the awards ceremony. Onstage, expect an eclectic mix of Atlantic talent, from Shanneyganock to Measha Brueggergosman-Lee.

*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.

💬 The Results: Exhibition Raceway Rink

In yesterday’s poll, 70.27% of readers were all in on the idea, submitted by a reader, to transform the old Exhibition Raceway into a giant outdoor skating track, similar to Halifax’s Oval. A few of the comments included:

  • “The former raceway would be a terrific site!” – Terry

  • “Greatest idea ever. Maybe food trucks could be added!” – B

  • “Let’s host outdoor hockey games and speed skating competitions!” – Lorna

A few readers were skeptical, with one commenter questioning the costs and Saint John’s unpredictable weather.

Your business deserves the spotlight. Advertise in our newsletter and be part of the morning buzz!

EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

WEEKEND PREVIEW
The weekend’s almost here, and Saint John’s got a little something for everyone. From live jazz to dance parties, there’s no shortage of fun to be had! 

ALL WEEKEND

ACAA Basketball Championships | February 28 - March 2, 2025
The ACAA Basketball Championships are coming to Saint John this weekend, bringing top-tier Atlantic College basketball action to the G. Forbes Elliot Athletics Centre! Watch as the women’s teams battle it out for the title on Sunday at 1 PM, followed by the men’s championship at 3:30 PM. The games will feature some of the best college athletes from across the Atlantic. Tickets start at $10, with tournament passes available for $30. UNB students and kids under 12 get in free! Can’t make it? You can stream the games for just $7.95 per game.

TONIGHT

Sea Dogs vs. Halifax Mooseheads | February 27
Saint John’s boys hit the ice against Halifax at TD Station, and it’s shaping up to be a good one. Puck drops at 7pm, but let’s talk deals, and by deals we mean BOGO hotdogs and $6 beers! That’s a solid reason to go anywhere.

FRIDAY

The McAloonatics Live Jazz Quartet | February 28
Catch the McAloonatics live at Trinity Galleries for a night of smooth jazz! Jeff McAloon, Chad Ball, Dave Bartlett, and Garry Hansen will be bringing their musical magic to the stage from 7-9pm. Tickets are $25 for an unforgettable evening of live music in the stunning art gallery setting. Get your tickets now and join the fun at 128 Germain Street!

Laser Love 80s Vinyl Dance Party | February 28
Break out the neon and hit the dance floor, Haven Music Hall is throwing a vinyl-fueled throwback to the sparkly sounds of the ‘80s. DJ Assteroidz spins everything from Prince to New Order, Madonna to INXS. Expect non-stop grooves, big hair, and a whole lot of fun. $10 cover, 19+. Doors at 8pm, dancing ‘til midnight.

Glow Night at the Dime | February 28
Five and Dime is turning up the lights, or rather, turning them down, for a blacklight bash with DJ J-Demi. Grab some glow-in-the-dark body paint or wear something that shines under the UV, and get ready to dance the night away. It’s an extra special Friday night at the ‘Dime, and you will light up the room.

SATURDAY

Dolce Delights Pop-Up at Foghorn Brewing | March 1
Swing by Foghorn Brewing this Saturday, March 1st, from 1-4pm for a taste of Italy! Dolce Delights is back, bringing delicious Italian baked goods from Leta. Pair your treats with a fresh brew for the perfect weekend indulgence. It’s a sweet way to spend your Saturday afternoon!

Saturday Pop Ups at the Market | March 1
Head to the Saint John City Market for a Saturday full of local flair! From 9am to 5pm, pop-up vendors will be offering everything from tasty food to unique art and gifts. It’s the perfect spot to discover something new while enjoying the charm of Saint John’s iconic market. Come support local and find something special!

Smurf Rave at Club 506 | March 1
Get ready to blue yourself at Club 506 (9 Sydney St.) on Saturday, March 1st, starting at 10:30pm for the Smurf Rave! DJ Auntie Molly and special guest Circuit Witch will be spinning the smurfiest beats all night long. There’s also a costume contest at 1:30am for the best-dressed Smurf, with a free drink for the winner. Enjoy free cover, parking, and drink specials like $6.75 double rum and the Papa Smurf shot!

SUNDAY

Pokémon Day 2025 | March 2
Heroes' Beacon is celebrating Pokémon Day with a special event full of exclusive goodies! From foil Sylveon cards to Iron Valiant-EX Boxes, there’s something for every Pokémon Trainer. Plus, exclusive Pokémon Day cards, plushies, and even a squishy toy Pikachu. Bring your A-game for a chance to snag prizes and participate in a 2024 Illustration Contest. Starting at 10am, be there for the fun!

Music Bingo at Woodchucks | Sundays, 2-4 PM
Wrap up your weekend with Music Bingo at Woodchucks Axe Throwing! Free to play, just bring your phone and get ready for a blast. Mark off the songs as they play and shout BINGO for a chance to win some amazing prizes. Enjoy great drink specials while you're at it! It’s a Sunday Funday you won’t want to miss.

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*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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SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

Low Tide

4:55 AM(Thu 27 February)

1.03 m(3.38 ft)

High Tide

11:03 AM(Thu 27 February)

8.14 m(26.71 ft)

Low Tide

5:21 PM(Thu 27 February)

0.58 m(1.9 ft)

High Tide

11:28 PM(Thu 27 February)

7.95 m(26.08 ft)

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that appreciates a good pair of slippers. 🥿

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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