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- ⏳ The January Grind
⏳ The January Grind
SJ Today
January 23, 2025
Good morning, Saint John! Good morning Saint John! If January was a movie, it’d be The Neverending Story—except instead of an awesome flying dog, it’s just your to-do list. Hang in there, February’s creeping up like a plot twist!
Here’s what’s up this morning:
Huge boost for Sophia Recovery Centre 📣
Dog parents mark your calendar 🐕
What’s your go to Disney karaoke track? 🧞♂️
Happy Thursday!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
💙 Sophia Recovery Centre Wins $900K to Support Women in Recovery
The Sophia Recovery Centre is celebrating a major boost with over $900,000 in federal funding to expand its programs for women in recovery. Announced by MP Wayne Long yesterday, the initiative will help train women with lived experience to mentor others, share substance use health information, and lead harm reduction and recovery initiatives in Saint John, St. Stephen, and Quispamsis.
Executive Director Julie Atkinson says the funding brings lived experience to the frontlines of the overdose crisis, offering hope and action to the community. This support from Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program will also enhance access to therapy and wellness education.
The money ensures Sophia can continue to make a real difference for local women on their recovery journey while strengthening community care across the region.
🎖️ New Brunswick’s New Lieutenant-Governor Takes the Reins
Louise Imbeault was officially sworn in Wednesday as New Brunswick’s 33rd lieutenant-governor at a ceremony in Fredericton. A former journalist with a 40-year career, she’s also a champion of women’s rights, Acadian culture, and social justice.
Imbeault says she’s ready to bring communities together, promote equity, and celebrate the province’s accomplishments. With accolades like the Order of Canada and the Ordre national du mérite of France, she’s no stranger to the spotlight. Move over, Brenda Murphy—there’s a new LG in town!
🐕🍻 Mark Your Calendars for Pooches, Smooches, and Pints!
Yesterday was Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day, but honestly, the only question on our minds was where are all the doggos? We’ve got your answer—Picaroons General Store on February 8 from 1-3pm. Bring your furry friend to Pooches, Smooches, and Pints, hosted by The Snell Group Realtors.
Expect wagging tails, $1 off your beer with a donation to the Saint John SPCA, Polaroids with your pup, and goody bags for your four-legged sidekick. It’s a bark-tastic way to spend the afternoon!
📞 Town Office Phones Are Down—Cue the Hold Music
Grand Bay-Westfield’s Town Office experienced some technical drama with their TELUS Business Connect lines Wednesday. If you’ve been trying to call about snow plows or potholes and getting nowhere, it’s not you—it’s them.
For urgent matters, you can reach the Town at (506) 343-0974. Regular numbers like (506) 738-6400 and (506) 738-2230 are temporarily out of order. No word on when the phones will be back, but maybe it’s a sign to send that email instead.
📚 ASD-S French Immersion Registration Now Open
Grade 5 and K families—time to brush up on your "bonjour"! French Immersion registration for 2025-2026 is now open. If you're ready to introduce your little ones to Early French in Grade 1 or Late French in Grade 6, make sure to fill out the registration form by February 14. For more info, check out the Language Programs page.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
WEEKEND PREVIEW
There’s lots going on this weekend, here are a few ideas to get out and enjoy yourself!
TONIGHT
Disney Sing-Along Night | January 23
Calling all princes, princesses, and everyone in between! The Saint John Free Public Library at Market Square is hosting a magical evening from 6:30-7:30pm, where you can channel your inner Disney star. Dress as your favorite character, sing your heart out, and join in whimsical activities fit for a fairytale. Whether you’re a lion king or a sea-faring adventurer, it’s your time to shine—no fairy godmother required. Best of all, it’s free!
‘Dry’ January Movie Series: The Mummy | January 23
Things are heating up this January at Haven Music Hall’s dusty, desert-y movie series! This week, it’s The Mummy (1999) on the big screen—an epic adventure of treasure hunters, cursed tombs, and one very angry undead priest. Doors open at 7:30pm, and the movie starts at 8pm. Enjoy free entry, $2 popcorn, and deals on domestic cans and café snacks. Why stay cold when the Sahara awaits?
Sea Dogs vs. Chicoutimi | January 23
The Saint John Sea Dogs face off against Chicoutimi this Wednesday at 7pm at TD Station! Get ready for an exciting night of hockey and cheer on the home team as they battle it out on home ice.
FRIDAY
Sea Dogs vs. Rimouski | January 24
Hockey with heart! Thursday’s game against Rimouski at 7pm is all about supporting 20K Sock Day NB. Bring new pairs of socks to donate to local homeless shelters and make a difference while enjoying the game. It’s hockey, community, and kindness all in one night!
Live Music: Sean Roach | January 24
Head to the Tipsy Tomato on Friday for an evening of live acoustic vibes with local talent Sean Roach. From 8-11pm, kick back with specialty pizzas, pub classics, and your favorite drinks in a cozy, laid-back setting. The best part? Admission is totally free. Great food, great tunes, and no cover—it’s the perfect Friday night hangout!
SATURDAY
DIY Wristlet Workshop | January 25
Get crafty this Saturday at the Saint John City Market from 11am-2pm! Make a personalized keychain or charm clip for free (one per person), or design a stylish wristlet keychain with silicone beads and charms for just $20. It’s the perfect chance to get creative and take home something unique. Stop by in front of The Blue Pelican and bring your craft-loving friends!
A Night for Robbie Burns | January 25
Och aye, it’s time to dust off your tartan and toast Scotland’s beloved bard! Join the shenanigans at Hopscotch Whisky Bar this Saturday at 5:30pm for an evening of bagpipes, poetry, and drams of the finest whisky. From Burns’ verses to toe-tapping tunes, it’s a celebration worthy of a Highland fling. Grab your clan and come thirsty—Robbie wouldn’t have it any other way!
Dominique Fils-Aimé Live | January 25
Experience the soulful magic of Dominique Fils-Aimé at the Imperial Theatre this Saturday at 7:30pm. The JUNO Award-winning jazz artist brings her stunning album Our Roots Run Deep to life, weaving African-American musical history with a heartfelt, transcendent performance. From Canada to Europe, Dominique has captivated audiences alongside legends like Diana Krall and Allison Russell. Tickets are $35 for adults, $30 for members. Don’t miss this mesmerizing evening of jazz and blues!
Garrett Mason Live | January 25
Get ready for a night of blues brilliance at the Water Street Dinner Theatre! Garrett Mason, a blues legend in his own right, takes the stage with his inventive guitar style and unmistakable sound. Doors open at 7pm, and the show kicks off at 7:30pm sharp. With his celebrated family roots and a sound all his own, this is a performance you don’t want to miss. Tickets are going fast!
East Coast Emo Night | January 25
Ready to cry in the club? Grab your black eyeliner and dive headfirst into the angst at Wasted Day this Saturday from 8-11:30pm. Scream your heart out to every emo anthem you still know by heart (don’t lie) and bask in the glorious sadness. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door, but the emotional damage is priceless. 19+ only, because even your tears need ID. 🖤
SUNDAY
Beginner Swing Dance Lessons | January 26
Feel the rhythm at the Kent Theatre with Saint John Swing Dance’s beginner lesson series! Whether you're flying solo or coming as a couple, all are welcome—no experience required. The hour-long sessions run Sundays from 5:30 to 6:30pm through February 2. Cost is $80 per person ($40 for students). Get ready to groove and register today at [email protected]. It’s time to dance your way into the week!
Taste of Palestine | January 26
Spice up your Sunday at the Carleton Community Centre with a free hands-on Palestinian cooking workshop at 3pm. Learn to craft flavorful dishes steeped in culture and history, and enjoy the delicious results! Seats are limited, so register now by emailing [email protected] or them on Instagram. Don’t miss this chance to explore the vibrant world of Palestinian cuisine.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 00:10 AM(Thu 23 January) | 2.28 m(7.49 ft) |
High Tide | 6:24 AM(Thu 23 January) | 6.76 m(22.18 ft) |
Low Tide | 12:46 PM(Thu 23 January) | 2.2 m(7.22 ft) |
High Tide | 6:56 PM(Thu 23 January) | 6.38 m(20.93 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that actually loves winter! 🏂
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher