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Good morning, Saint John! It’s a short week, but somehow it’s felt like a long haul. The good news is the weekend’s stacked with things to do! 🎉

Here’s whats in today’s edition:

• Another parking warning for Saint John 🚨

• Ever hear of the Saint John skyjacking? 🤯

• Weekend preview 🔎

Enjoy the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

SPONSORED
🚗 RVR Days Are Here – And Jaymee Swears By It

Jaymee at Loch Lomond Mitsubishi is obsessed with the RVR. Why? Because it’s built for NB roads, sips gas like a hybrid (without the hybrid price tag), and, oh yeah—her 6’5” son fits inside with room to spare.

Once a year, general manager Fred lets her slash prices, and that time is now. Every new RVR is marked down, and biweekly payments start at just $203—even less if you already drive a Mitsubishi. See the RVR deals.

✅ All-wheel control
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That’s a brand-new, winter-ready SUV for less than most people spend on takeout. And for that price, you’re getting advanced safety tech, a touchscreen display, backup camera and heated seats—all standard.

RVR Days end this month. Shop RVR Days before they’re gone.

NEWS NOTES

🚫 Saint John -  No Parking Today for Snow Clearing

If your car’s on this list, it’s time to find a new spot! Snow clearing is happening TODAY (Thursday, Feb. 20) from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and there’s no on-street parking on:

• St. John Street

• Forbes Drive (Millidge Ave to Tartan St)

• Tartan Street

• Piper Court

• Lauder Court

Signs went up in advance, and any cars still parked could be ticketed or towed. So, move it or lose it and help keep the streets clear and safe.

🐾 Happy Tails Gets a Big Upgrade 

Veterinary bills aren’t getting any cheaper, and for many families, that can mean making heartbreaking choices. But the NBSPCA’s Happy Tails program is stepping up. Originally launched to help with cat spay and neuter procedures, the program is now expanding to cover emergency vet care for low-income pet owners—because no one should have to choose between paying rent and saving their furry best friend.

“We’re seeing more families than ever struggle with medical costs for their pets,” says NBSPCA Executive Director Lesley Rogers. “When they have to surrender an animal, it’s devastating for everyone.”

The expansion kicks in this weekend.  Donations fuel the Happy Tails fund, so if you want to help, visit nbspca.ca.

🎭 SJTC Teams Up With Regional Partners
Big news for theatre lovers! This summer, the Saint John Theatre Company is teaming up with Rogue Productions in Fredericton and the KIRA Amphitheatre in Saint Andrews to bring a beloved Broadway musical to life. The title is under wraps for now, but the big reveal will happen in early May! Auditions will be announced soon, so keep your eyes peeled.

“There’s nothing better than two great teams joining forces to make incredible theatre,” says Stephen Tobias, SJTC's Artistic Director. Having seen Rogue’s Rock of Ages, Stephen can’t wait to see what magic this collaboration will bring. Stay tuned, and get ready for some serious stage magic this summer!

✈️ The Skyjacking You May Never Heard Of

A local podcast is reviving a nearly forgotten piece of history - the country’s first skyjacking, which began in Saint John.

In Saint John: Nothing Happened Here, hosts Greg Marquis and Mark Allan Greene unravel the 1968 hijacking of Air Canada Flight 303 by Charles Lavern Beasley. Boarding with no ID and a gun under a raincoat, Beasley pulled a .22-calibre pistol mid-flight, demanding to be flown to Cuba.

The pilots convinced him to land in Montreal instead, where police swarmed the plane. Despite the chaos, passengers stayed remarkably calm, a detail that fascinated Marquis.

Check out Saint John: Nothing Happened Here for the full story and other cool tales of our city. You can also read more about it here. 

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

THURSDAY

Speed Dating 40+ | February 20
Ready to meet someone new? Fusion East Taproom is hosting a night of straight-to-the-point speed dating for singles 40+. Show up at 6:45pm, grab a drink (included with your ticket), and get ready for a fun, fast-paced evening of conversation. Whether you find a match or just enjoy the chats, it’s a great way to mix, mingle, and maybe meet that special someone. Runs from 7-9pm!

Board Game Night at Heroes' Beacon | February 20
Looking for a fun way to spend your Wednesday night? Head over to Heroes' Beacon for a board game night from 6pm-9:45pm. Grab a game from their extensive library or bring your own! Whether you're a strategy master or just in it for the fun, it's a perfect chance to meet new people and enjoy a low-key evening. Only $5 to join the fun!

Smith & Maber at Five & Dime | February 20
Settle in for a night of live acoustic jams as Smith & Maber, the duo from The Last Call, take the stage at Five & Dime. Expect smooth melodies, great vibes, and the perfect excuse to sip something good while enjoying the music. Showtime’s at 9pm—drop by, grab a seat, and let the tunes carry you through the night.

The Price | Running until February 22
Saint John Theatre Company brings Arthur Miller’s The Price to the BMO Studio Theatre, a gripping drama about family, sacrifice, and old wounds. When two estranged brothers reunite to settle their late father’s estate, long-buried tensions resurface in a clash of past choices and regrets. With sharp wit and deep emotion, this Tony-nominated play delivers a powerful exploration of sibling rivalry and reconciliation.

FRIDAY

Elm & Ash Pop-Up | February 21
Craving top-tier bread? Simply For Life is hosting Elm & Ash for a Nordic-inspired pop-up from 10am-2pm. These handcrafted loaves, made by a Danish baker in Hampton, bring authentic Scandinavian flavors straight to your table. Using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients, each bite is a taste of true craftsmanship. Swing by, grab a loaf (or two), and support local baking at its best!

Karaoke Night at Haven Music Hall | February 21
Grab a mic and take a stroll through the Karaoke District at Haven Music Hall this Thursday! From 8pm-12am, Lindsay J will lead the charge in a fun and supportive atmosphere with all your favorite songs, drink specials, and plenty of laughs. Free to join, 19+, and a perfect way to let loose with friends!

Swing Dance Workshop at Imperial Theatre | February 21
Get ready to swing into the weekend with a fun-filled workshop at Imperial Theatre! Join Claire Ahern from Saint John Swing Dance from 7:00-8:30pm for an exciting lesson—partners are welcome, but not required. After the workshop, the bar will be open, and the dance floor will stay alive with more moves on stage. Just $20 per person for a night of great music, dancing, and fun!

SATURDAY

Saint John Heritage Fair | February 22
Step into the past at Trinity Church starting at 10am, where ten heritage exhibitors will showcase everything from military artifacts to historic Saint John photos. At 2pm, dive into the fascinating world of hot air ballooning in war, including New Brunswick’s role in the Boer and U.S. Civil Wars. Expect rare finds, local history, and even some old Saint John puzzles and games—free to attend!

Zen Garden Workshop | February 22
Take a moment for yourself and create your very own Zen Garden at Cedarcrest Gardens, starting at 3pm. Begin with a calming meditation, then learn about the history and purpose of Zen gardens while crafting a peaceful tabletop garden to take home. The workshop is $30, and space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot by emailing [email protected]. Arrive early to explore the Winter Market from 9am-2pm!

Coldest Night of the Year | February 22
Grab your mitts and hit the pavement for this winter walk in support of Outflow Ministry. Choose a 2km or 5km route through the city while raising funds for those in need. It’s all about helping the hungry, homeless, and hurting—plus, it’s a great excuse for a hot chocolate afterward. Walk runs from 4-7pm, and you can register at cnoy.org/location/saintjohn.

Saving Sweet Polly at Grove Lounge | February 22
Get ready to rock with Saving Sweet Polly at Grove Lounge this Saturday night! From 9pm-1am, enjoy their high-energy set and good vibes. 

SUNDAY

Right Dope Bop-Up | February 23
Vintage fashion, fresh ink, and killer beats—this pop-up at Woodchucks Axe Throwing has it all. From 12-4pm, shop a curated lineup of vintage and pre-loved clothing from local vendors, catch live DJ sets from Groovy Tuesday and Soundseeker, and even get some fresh ink from SLM Tattoo and Britt Corinne. It’s all about dope music, good vibes, and community—plus, it’s free to attend!

Multicultural Ramadan Bazaar | February 23
Celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with a lively afternoon of culture, community, and festivity at the Bill McGuire Centre. Shop for handcrafted decor, jewelry, and traditional clothing, enjoy delicious cultural foods, and explore ethnocultural stalls from around the world. Kids can enjoy henna art, fun tattoos, and even a circus playground! Swing by from 2-6pm for a vibrant mix of flavors, traditions, and entertainment.

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that’s been showing off their ice spikes this week. 🥾

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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