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🌲 It's Monday, Gnome Saying?

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SJ Today
November 25, 2024

Good morning, Saint John! This is SJ Today—the newsletter that helps you shake off that case of the Mondays by giving you lots of local to look forward to this week.

In todays edition:

  • Don’t let the postal strike delay utility payments 📬

  • Going gnome for the holidays 🧙‍♂️

  • Ask-a-Vet session scheduled this week 🐶

Here we go!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

Bills Are Still Due—Canada Post Strike or Not 💸

Hate bills? Same. But the City of Saint John wants you to know they’re still expecting payments, even with the Canada Post strike causing some delays. If your utility bill was printed on Nov. 14, it’s not showing up in your mailbox, but it’s still due by Dec. 17—penalties apply if you’re late (ugh).

Skip the mail drama and pay your water, sewer, or parking dues online, by phone, or in person. Got questions? Swing by City Hall, call 506-658-4455, or email [email protected]. The bills don’t stop just because the mail is on strike! (City of Saint John)

David Myles Bringing Double Holiday Cheer to Saint John 🎉

This December, David Myles is treating Saint John to two special holiday events! First up, catch him at the Imperial Theatre on Tuesday, December 5, for a festive evening with the Stadacona Band of the Royal Canadian Navy. Known for their musical excellence, this 30-member band will join Myles for a show blending holiday classics, jazz, and a touch of military precision.

Then on Thursday, December 12, Myles will return for his beloved Singing for Supper event at Brunswick Square. From 12-1:30pm, enjoy a free lunchtime concert featuring festive tunes and original songs, all while supporting local food banks. Volunteers will collect food and cash donations, and a portion of Myles’ merch sales will also go to families in need.

With these two events, there’s no better way to enjoy the season while giving back. Save the dates! (David Myles)

Have You Seen These Gnomes on Lawns? 🌲

Are we crazy or are Gnomes really big this holiday season? If you've spotted some quirky pine tree gnomes on doorsteps around town, you've just met Danika MacRae's holiday creations! These adorable decorations are crafted from stacked pine branches and topped off with a festive candy cane touch. Made by Danika to raise funds for her class trip, these gnomes are as cute as they are clever. Each one is $35, and Danika and her parents personally deliver them to your doorstep. “Everyone needs a big friend,” she says, and these gnomes are the perfect oversized buddies for your porch this season! Get one before they’re all gone, and support a local kid working hard for her class trip.

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

TONIGHT’S COUNCIL MEETINGS

📊 Saint John Council Meeting

On the agenda for tomorrow’s Common Council meeting:

  • Climate Change Action Plan Progress
    A report on the ongoing efforts to tackle climate change in Saint John, including steps taken and future plans.

  • Winter Management Plan Update
    An update on the city’s preparation for winter, including snow removal and other services to keep the city running smoothly during the colder months.

  • Proclamation for International Day of Persons with Disabilities
    Saint John will recognize December 3rd as International Day of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting the importance of inclusion and accessibility.

The meeting begins at 6 PM in the Common Council Chamber, City Hall. The public is welcome to attend or view via live stream or Rogers TV.

📊 Rothesay Council Meeting

On the agenda for Monday’s special meeting:

  • 2025 Budget Review
    Council will discuss the General and Utility Funds for 2025, focusing on capital and operating budgets, as well as the Canada Community Building Fund for long-term infrastructure.

  • Code of Conduct for Elected Officials
    A new by-law, 6-24, is up for discussion.

  • Sagamore Heights
    Council will review the release of the letter of credit for the development.

The meeting starts at 6 PM. Watch it live on YouTube here.

📊 Grand Bay-Westfield Council Meeting

The agenda for Monday’s council meeting was not posted by the usual Friday deadline and wasn't available by print time for this issue. However, you can check for updates and access the past agendas on the Grand Bay-Westfield website here.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

TONIGHT

Fusion SJ Meet Up - Karma Class | November 25th
Join Fusion Saint John for their November meet-up at The Nest Yoga! Start the evening with Mix, Shop & Mingle from 5:30 PM–6:30 PM, browsing local goods and enjoying light refreshments. Then, unwind with a rejuvenating All-Levels Hot Yoga class from 6:30 PM–7:30 PM. For just $10, this event offers the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge before the busy holiday season. 

TUESDAY

Foggy Docs Screening | November 26
Foggy Docs returns this week with Someone Lives Here, a powerful documentary screening on Tuesday, November 26, at 7:30 PM at the BMO Studio Theatre. The film follows Toronto carpenter Khaleel Seivwright, who built life-saving shelters for unhoused people during the pandemic, facing both international praise and fierce opposition from city officials. After the screening, join a Q&A with the filmmakers and local community members. Tickets are $15 + fees—don’t miss this compelling look at the housing crisis.

Ukrainian Cooking Class | November 26th
Add something new to your fall cooking line-up. Grab your apron and cook up a storm with Chef Nataliia Kornetska at the Irving Oil Field House from 6:30 PM–8:30 PM for a hands-on Ukrainian cooking class. For just $25, you’ll get all the ingredients to create delicious dishes, and a belly full of flavor! Whether you’re cooking with a buddy or flying solo, you’re in for a fun, tasty evening. Spots are filling up fast—sign up now and let’s get cooking.

WEDNESDAY

Ask a Vet - Understanding Cancer | November 27th
Pet parents, don’t miss out on this informative live Q&A session with Dr. Cody Bourque, Head of Veterinary Oncology at Greater Saint John Veterinary Walk-in & Urgent Care. He’ll share his expertise on recognizing early signs of cancer in pets, plus offer guidance on how to best support them during treatment. Have questions? Submit them ahead of time on the event page or ask live! A must-attend for anyone looking to better care for their four-legged family members.

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

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📸 Larry Harlow | 📍 Saint John Harbour

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SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides đŸŒŠ 

Low Tide

1:11 AM(Mon 25 November)

1.98 m(6.5 ft)

High Tide

7:24 AM(Mon 25 November)

6.86 m(22.51 ft)

Low Tide

1:40 PM(Mon 25 November)

2.09 m(6.86 ft)

High Tide

7:50 PM(Mon 25 November)

6.79 m(22.26 ft)

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found something useful, please share it with someone that knows a great week is just beginning!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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