🩻 Scan Upgrade at the Regional

Good morning, Saint John! It’s Pay a Compliment Day and can we just say…wow, you’re amazing at getting in the loop each morning. 👏

Here’s what we’re talking about this morning:

• Cool new machine unveiled at the SJ Regional 🧑‍⚕️

• Plans for a news housing development in the north end 🏘️

• If you love dogs, you’ve got a lot to do this weekend 🐶

Enjoy the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🏥 The Regional’s New Scanner is a Big Win for Patients

Saint John Regional Hospital just scored a major upgrade, the first in Canada to roll out the OMNI Legend PET/CT scanner. It’s like the high-tech sports car of medical imaging, helping doctors catch diseases earlier and plan treatments with precision.

The new scanner is all about comfort, it’s faster, quieter, and way less intimidating for patients, especially those who have to go through long treatments or feel nervous about their scans. Plus, it’s enhanced by artificial intelligence, making everything run more smoothly for both patients and staff.

It’s not just a cool piece of tech; it’s a big win for our local health care, putting Saint John on the map alongside places like Stanford University. 

🏠 Affordable Housing Popping Up in the North End

A new affordable housing complex could be popping up at 19 Anglin Drive in Saint John’s north end. Developer Erik De Jong, who recently launched Atlantic Community Housing, is planning a 72-unit project that aims to make housing more affordable—think $1,100 to $1,400 for a two-bedroom instead of $2,000+. He’s hoping to break ground in late summer or early fall, using modular homes for faster construction.

The project needs rezoning and approval through the city’s planning process, so we won’t be seeing construction just yet—but it’s a promising step forward in addressing the city’s affordable housing needs. (Telegraph-Journal) ($)

✈️  YSJ Sees a Lift in Travelers

Saint John’s airport is shaking off the pandemic slowdown, with 180,000 passengers flying through last year—up from 175,000 in 2023. It didn’t quite hit the 189,000 goal, but hey, things are moving in the right direction.

A big boost came from Flair Airlines’ budget-friendly direct flights to Orlando, giving Saint Johners a cheaper way to chase the Florida sun. Meanwhile, Pascan’s launch of new regional service to Halifax, Sydney, and downtown Montréal, has made business trips feel a little more like 2019 again. (CHSJ)

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LOCAL BUSINESS

🧐 Can you guess how many new businesses opened their doors uptown in the last quarter of 2024?

Uptown Saint John welcomed nine fresh additions to their lineup of amazing local spots, and there’s something for everyone—from mouthwatering bites to unique gifts and fun experiences. Here’s the scoop on the exciting newcomers:

🌮 Abuelita’s - Latin fusion restaurant
🧋 The Bubbly Cup - Café offering bubble tea and croffles
🍚 Chops Haven - Nigerian restaurant
🐴 The Country Club - Southern-style bar and dining
🍷 Happinez too - Wine bar with small plates
🎁 Harbourview Emporium - Canadian-made gifts and winter gear
🥙 House of Damascus - Shawarma and falafel spot
🖨️ Martin Max - 3D printing and custom gadgets
🥪 Nick’s Deli - Deli serving sandwiches and soups

Have you visited any of these spots or other new businesses around the region lately? Hit reply and let us know what you’ve tried and what you thought!

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

FRIDAY

Faces of Fusion | February 7
Celebrate the changemakers of Saint John at Faces of Fusion, happening 5-8pm at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal. Mingle over cocktails and a silent auction before the awards ceremony honours five standout community leaders in business, arts, sustainability, and more. Hosted by Fusion Saint John, this is your chance to connect, celebrate, and be inspired. Tickets are available now, and include an exclusive after-party at the Country Bar following the event.

The Dog Bowl | February 7-8
High school hockey takes centre ice at TD Station as the first-ever Dog Bowl gets underway! Four top teams—KVHS, Rothesay, St. Macs, and Sussex—battle in a single-elimination tournament, with the championship set for Saturday at 2pm. Plus, the MVP earns an invite to the Sea Dogs’ training camp. A $20 weekend pass gets you all four high school games and two Sea Dogs matchups. Grab your tickets at TD Station!

Dillon Ryan & Friends | February 7
Join Dillon Ryan & Friends, along with special guests Zach Ingles and Levi Richard, for A Valentine's Day Show to Dance and Cry To! at Haven Music Hall. Doors open at 7pm, with the show kicking off at 8pm. Tickets are $15!

SATURDAY

Valentine’s Bath Bomb Cupcake Workshop | February 8
The Blue Pelican is bringing some fizzy fun to the Saint John City Market from 10am-2pm! Drop in to mix, mold, and decorate your own bath bomb cupcake—pick your colors, scents, and top it with bubble “icing.” Just $5 per bath bomb, making it a perfect Valentine’s gift or a treat for yourself. No need to book ahead, but be ready for a wait if it’s busy!

Pooches, Smooches & Pints | February 8
An afternoon of tail wags, cold pints, and good vibes at Picaroons General Store. Get $1 off your beer for every donation to the Saint John SPCA, snap a free Polaroid with your pup, and grab a goody bag for your furry friend. It’s all happening from 1-3pm—so round up your dog-loving crew and make it a paw-some day!

Pet Kissing Booth Fundraiser | February 8
Sounds like it’ll be a slobbery good time at Feeds’n Needs Saint John from 10am-2pm! Fresh Start Dane Rescue is hosting a pet kissing booth where your furry friend can steal the spotlight with a photo or 360 video—props included! A minimum $10 donation gets you the perfect keepsake while supporting a great cause. Don’t miss out on the snuggles, smooches, and fun!

Sleepy Driver w/ Clinton Charlton & Shawn Corey | February 8
Catch Fredericton's Sleepy Driver bringing their Indie Americana vibe to Wasted Day Brewing in Saint John on February 8th! They'll be joined by local talents Clinton Charlton from Saint John and Shawn Corey from St. Andrews. Doors open at 7pm for an evening of live music and good vibes.

SUNDAY

Culinary Journey to Palestine | February 9
Join the Atlantic Canada Palestinian Society for a hands-on cooking workshop at the Assumption Centre, where you’ll dive into the world of Palestinian cuisine. Learn to create traditional dishes and family recipes that celebrate the rich history and vibrant flavors of Palestine. The fun starts at 2pm—don’t miss out! Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot.

Super Bowl Party @ Tipsy Tomato | February 9
Kick off your Super Bowl Sunday with a bang at Tipsy Tomato Restaurant & Sports Bar! Starting at 5pm, get ready for the ultimate game day experience with drink specials like $6 20oz taps and $30 buckets of beer. The game kicks off at 6:30pm, but don’t wait too long, grab your spot early (reservations encouraged!). Enjoy delicious appetizers, great drinks, and a chance to win awesome prizes.

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with with someone that you work with. 🗄️

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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