Judy Losier Lobby and Reception Area named following 35K donation and birthday surprise

Judy Losier and Mayor Adam Lordon at the surprise announcement. (Northumberland Free Press photo)

A $350,000 donation from Dr. Gerard Losier for the naming rights to the lobby and reception area in the Arbec Wellness Centre came as a big surprise to his wife, Judy Losier.

Mayor Adam Lordon revealed the facility’s lobby and reception area will carry her name. It will be named The Judy Losier Lobby and Reception Area for the life of the centre.

The surprise announcement was done on Losier’s 64th birthday at City Hall on Friday, June 27th , 2025.

“I’m not usually speechless. I haven’t been since I was born. But this blew me away. I would have never dreamed this up in a million years. This is delightful, and I will remember this forever, ” said Losier.

Losier was joined by her sisters, Colleen Power and Jennifer Walker for what she thought was a meeting with Lordon to share a birthday cake.

“I am so humbled, touched, surprised, and emotional that this would be done for me. It’s an incredible gift. Everyone here today is special. I feel loved. It’s a privilege. What better way to celebrate a birthday than to have the mayor, friends, and family here today to make this the most spectacular birthday ever.”

On hand for the announcement were (from left) councillors Jason Harris and Ryan Somers, Judy’s sister Colleen Power, Deputy Mayor Paddy Quinn, Judy, Mayor Adam Lordon, Judy’s sister Jennifer Walker, and councillors Peggy Doyle and Veronique Arsenault. (Northumberland Free Press photo)

In his remarks, Lordon, who was joined by members of City Council, said Losier has devoted decades of her life to community service and helping people.

“Judy is the best kind of Miramichier,” Lordon said. “When I think of all of the areas in the multiplex that we could name after you, none of them was a better fit than the welcome area that everyone sees when they first walk in the door.

“This will be a community hub and gathering space where receptions will be held and people will come together. You are a convener of people. We all love to see you on the mic. You are like the queen of social gatherings, and for the next 50 to 60 years, many social gatherings will happen in the Judy Losier Lobby and Reception Area.”

This donation came the same week Frank and Julie McKenna donated $1 million for the naming rights of the aquatic centre. It will be known as the McKenna Aquatic Centre.

Other donations include $4 million from Arbec for the naming rights of the building. The Campton Christie Foundation Inc. donated $300,000 for the naming rights of the leisure pool and competition pool. Deborah Lyons, the honourary chair of the fundraising campaign donated $250,000 for the naming rights to the gymnasium.

The City of Miramichi launched a fundraising campaign in 2024 with a goal to raise $5 million for the multiplex project. A fundraising committee, working DCG Philanthropic Services, increased the goal due to significant contributions.

If anyone is interested in donating to this fundraising campaign for the Multiplex project, they can contact Sandra Gauger at the City of Miramichi.

Multiplex Project

The Arbec Wellness Centre is scheduled to open in September 2026. It will offer an 1860-seat arena, walking track, double gymnasium, 25m/6 lane competition pool, leisure pool as well as enhanced community spaces - all of which incorporate sustainable design features.

(With files and photos from Nathan Delong, Northumberland Free Press)