🥗 Give Me Something Green

Good morning Saint John, and congrats on making it through the first full work week of 2025! 🖐️

Here’s how we’re heading into the weekend:

• Saint John’s economy is on the rise 📈

• What caught your interest this week 👀

• Grab something healthy to eat this weekend 🥑

Let’s get it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🚀 Saint John’s Economy Is Having a Moment 

Things are looking up in the Saint John Region! In 2023, the region had its fastest population growth in three decades—a 2.5% boost—and it’s not just retirees anymore. Younger, working-age residents are moving in, thanks in large part to immigration, which drove most of the growth, according to Envision Saint John’s State of the Economy report.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. To keep this streak going, the region needs to up its game with more exports and people to fill jobs. Industries like manufacturing and healthcare are on the rise, but housing demand is outpacing supply, and companies are still struggling to find skilled workers.

Curious about what’s next? Lana Asaaf, a senior economic advisor, lays it all out in a recorded presentation from earlier this week. 

✈️ Saint John Airport Is Taking Off

Saint John Airport is climbing out of its post-pandemic slump and looking ahead to a brighter 2025. With new flights to Halifax on PASCAN, winter getaways to Orlando, and improved Montreal connections, business travel is back on the radar.

The full financial picture lands in May, but early signs suggest the airport is gaining altitude with 6,000 annual seats on PASCAN and Flair Airlines sticking around for the long haul. (Telegraph-Journal) ($)

🍻 Cyber Glitch Keeps the Beer at Bay

As you’ve probably heard, ANBL’s systems went down on Tuesday night, January 7, after a potential cyber threat was detected. To investigate, they temporarily shut everything down.

Late yesterday, ANBL announced that stores are now open for cash transactions only. Debit and credit are still unavailable, but promotional pricing and the HST break are being honoured.

Check ANBL’s socials for updates or head to local grocery stores and agent locations. And don’t forget to hit the ATM on your way—yes, they still exist!

🎓 Quispamsis Cash for Class of 2025

Quispamsis grads, listen up! The town has three $750 scholarships with your name on them. If you’re rocking good grades, love giving back to the community, and wouldn’t mind a little help with tuition, it’s time to shine.

The rules? Be a Quispamsis resident, show financial need, and get accepted to a post-secondary school. The Scholarship Committee will handle the tough job of picking the winners, but you’ve got to apply first. Applications are open now and close June 1, 2025.

🏆 Top Clicks of the Week
It’s been a big week for clicks at SJ Today! Here are the links you were most curious about this week… 

Monday: Taxing New Brunswick: challenging property assessments
Tuesday: Canoeing in a pool this weekend
Wednesday: Behind the scenes tour at Imperial Theatre
Thursday: Brick City Beatdown this weekend at the Field House

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LOCAL BUSINESS
FOODIE FRIDAY

After weeks of cookies, cakes, and eggnog on repeat, it’s time to treat your taste buds to something a little… greener. Lucky for us, the Saint John Region is home to some fantastic spots that know their way around a fresh plate.

From vibrant salads to hearty bowls packed with all the good stuff, these local favourites are dishing up meals that’ll have you saying, “Holiday who?” Dig in!

VEGolution - 26 Germain St
VEGolution is the spot for fresh, tasty vegetarian and vegan food in the city. You’ve got to try their fried brussel sprouts—sweet, crispy, and drizzled with maple glaze and vegan parmesan. They’re a total hit! Plus, the menu has plant-based donairs and burgers, and tons of other options, all made with locally sourced ingredients. 🌱

Wild Carrot Café - City Market
When was the last time you went to the Wild Carrot? Talk about fresh! Tasty food made daily right in the heart of the City Market. From different soups each day to wraps and sandwiches, they’ve got you covered. You can even build your own salad with over 26 options. 🥕

LebanOn The Go – 101 Prince William Street, Uptown
Craving fresh Mediterranean? Lebanon The Go has you covered. From fresh falafel to savory shawarma, everything is made with local, organic ingredients for maximum flavor. Grab a warm Fatayer or dive into a bowl of Mujadara—either way, you’re in for a treat. And don’t skip the Baklava; it’s the perfect sweet ending to your meal. 🌯

Harvest - 77 Catherwood Street
If you’re after fresh, whole foods, Harvest Café has you covered. From their tasty all-day breakfast wraps to sandwiches like the Italian Panini and vegan-friendly options, everything is made to order. Don’t miss their hearty soups and refreshing smoothies, perfect for any time of the day. 🍳

Nela's Kitchen – 157 Hampton Rd
Busy day? Nela's Kitchen has you covered with fresh, prepackaged meals and salads. Grab them at locations around the Saint John area, including Simply for Life in Quispamsis and SJ West, Cochran's and the Regional Hospital. Enjoy hearty, fresh soups, Pesto Pasta with Chicken, Buddha Bowls, and more – all packed with fresh ingredients and ready to fuel your day.🍲

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

SATURDAY

Family Indoor Jump Party | January 11
Ready to bounce? Jump for Fun brings the action to St. Mark’s United Church (50 Dexter Drive, Saint John) with an epic indoor jump party. Expect bouncy castles, inflatable games, and obstacle courses—all in a safe, weather-proof venue. Perfect for kids to burn some energy and have a blast! Don’t forget—tickets are required, so grab yours early. The fun runs from 9-11am!

SUNDAY

Shakespearean Serenade | January 12
Join SJAC and Early Music Studio of Saint John for a magical afternoon of music from Shakespeare's plays! Tim Blackmore will bring to life melodies adapted from contemporary sources, capturing the essence of the Bard's works. Don’t miss this unique performance on Sunday, January 12, from 2-3:30pm. Storm date is January 19. Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Seniors, Free for Students.

Saint John Sea Dogs vs. Halifax Mooseheads | January 12
Catch the action as the Saint John Sea Dogs take on the Halifax Mooseheads on January 12! Don’t miss a thrilling afternoon of hockey and show your support for the home team. Plus, it’s Fleaburn’s Birthday! Tickets are just $20 for the rest of the season, so grab yours and cheer them on!

MONDAY

Retro Film: Raising Arizona | January 13
Coen brothers fans, get ready for review of their classic Raising Arizona (1987) on Monday night at 7pm.! Follow the wild adventure of an incompetent robber and his policewoman wife as they go to extreme lengths to have a child. The comedy features chaos, crime, and a hilarious bounty hunter. Tickets are just $10, so grab yours and enjoy a night of classic film fun!

Latin Rhythms Fitness Class | January 13
Head to Hillcrest Baptist Church (476 Lancaster Ave, West SJ) for a high-energy dance session that blends Latin beats with functional fitness moves. This isn’t just a workout—it’s a party! Expect cardio, improved posture, and tons of fun. No experience needed; just bring comfy clothes and your best vibes. Hosted by Eunice Flores and DANCE Therapy TIME with Salo, this is your chance to move, sweat, and smile. Starts at 6:30pm.

Got an Event to Share?

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LOCAL PICS
WHERE WERE WE WEDNESDAY? 📸

📍 On Wednesday we went for dinner and snapped a pic of this neon version of the voice in our head - found at Abuelita's on Wellington Row. Shout out to Andrew Craft & Kathryn Melvin for correctly guessing over on our facebook page! Check in next week to see if you know where we are.

Tag @sjtoday to get your photos featured!

Tag @sjtoday to get your photos featured!

SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone counting down the 12 weeks ‘til spring! 🌼 

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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