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SJ Today
February 03, 2025
Good Morning Saint John, this is SJ Today! Is it just us, or are Mondays a great reminder of why we love coffee so much? ☕
Here’s the buzz this morning:
What does a lobster know about predicting the weather anyway? 🦞
Keeping the lights on in Rothesay 💡
Lots of fun events this week 🎟️
Let’s get it!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
🦔 Groundhogs Can't Agree, So We’ll Just Wait and See
Groundhogs across Canada have spoken, but the verdict is, well... muddy. In Nova Scotia, both Shubenacadie Sam and Lucy the Lobster saw their shadows, giving us six more weeks of winter. Meanwhile, Wiarton Willie in Ontario didn't see his shadow, promising an early spring.
But, let's be real, Puxatawny Phil, the big shot in Pennsylvania saw his shadow too, so... the forecast is basically Hold onto your toque.
Now, who are you choosing to believe? Sam and Lucy might be onto something with more snow, or maybe Willie’s feeling optimistic. Either way, we’ll just keep counting the days.
🍁 Holt Calls for Local Support as Tariff Tensions Rise
With President Trump’s 25% tariffs set to kick in Tuesday, Premier Susan Holt is calling on New Brunswickers to stand strong together. "We’ll use every tool in our toolbox," she says, ready to defend the province and push back.
Local business experts are all about that buy local life, urging us to support the shops and services that keep our region, and Canada, ticking. Now’s a great time to show some love to the businesses that make this place (and the whole country) go round.
Want to make a difference? Support local or Canadian-made when you can. It’s not always easy, but even small steps could make a big difference to the businesses that need it most. Here is a site that could help you find some Canadian products.
🌳 Tree Trimming in Rothesay to Cut Power Outages
Rothesay residents who’ve spent a little too much time in the dark recently will be happy to hear the lights will be a little more reliable soon. Starting February 3, NB Power’s tree trimming crews are heading out to clear up trouble spots along Grove Avenue, Hampton Road, and other key spots to keep the power flowing smoothly.
The three-to-four-week project will focus on removing only the trees that are giving the power lines trouble, and the brush will be chipped and cleaned up. Bigger logs will be left behind for the town to handle.
LOCAL BUSINESS
🎨 Calling All Hampton Creators and Makers!
Got a craft, art, or quirky creation you’re itching to share with the world? Hampton wants you in the spotlight! Whether you’re looking to showcase your work at the Visitor Information Centre gift shop or hustle in the Hampton Market this summer, it’s time to get your applications in.
Local artisans, crafters, and makers, here’s your chance to shine. Applications open February 3 and close March 3, so don’t miss out! Market spots are just $25 for lawn space and $30 if you need some electricity to power your booth. Get the details and apply at hampton.ca/vendors.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
Here are a few things to look forward to this week. Don’t forget to send us your events any time!
TODAY
Winter Wellness Monday | February 3
As part of Fundy Winterfest celebrations, you can start your week with a 60-minute meditation session led by Kate Colwell and Hanna Watson at Rockwood Park Interpretation Centre. Learn how to make meditation part of your winter wellness routine. Then, enjoy a free yoga class by the lake from 7-8pm, guided by volunteer instructors. Drop-in donations support Lily Lake Pavilion’s community programs.
TUESDAY
Sea Dogs Skills Competition | February 3
Don’t miss the 3rd Annual Sea Dogs Skills Competition at the Peter Murray Arena from 6:30-9pm. Watch your favourite Sea Dogs compete in events like fastest skater and hardest shot. Try your own luck with a shot from centre ice for a prize! Enjoy live tunes from DJ Demi, delicious food from Back To the Snack, and FREE hot chocolate. Meet the team during the autograph session from 7:30-8pm, and join in the Chuck A Puck fundraiser for a chance to win a cash prize.
WEDNESDAY
Winter Carnival on the Common | February 6
Step back to 1945 and join in the fun at the Winter Carnival on the Rothesay Common from 5-7pm. Dress in your favourite costume and enjoy a skate on the ice. It’s a free, family-friendly event, with hot chocolate served—just bring your mug! Donations of non-perishable food for the KV Food Basket are welcome.
THURSDAY
James Mullinger Work-In-Progress Show | February 6
Catch James Mullinger testing out new material ahead of his next national tour at Long Bay Brewery in Rothesay from 8-9:30pm. Expect surprises, laughs, and possibly a bit of chaos at this intimate show. Book quickly, this one’s sure to sell out!
FRIDAY
Faces of Fusion | February 7
Celebrate the people making a difference in Saint John at the Faces of Fusion event from 5-8pm at the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal. Network with community leaders, bid on silent auction items, and cheer on the five award winners across categories like Entrepreneur/Business and Environmental/Sustainability. The evening will honor those creating a lasting impact in our city. Tickets available online.
SATURDAY
Pooches, Smooches, and Pints | February 8
Bring your pup to Picaroons General Store from 1-3pm for a paw-some time! Enjoy $1 off your beer with a donation to the Saint John SPCA, snap Polaroids with your furry friend, and grab a goody bag for your four-legged sidekick. Hosted by The Snell Group Realtors, it’s an afternoon filled with wagging tails and fun vibes!
*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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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
High Tide | 2:52 AM(Mon 03 February) | 7.99 m(26.22 ft) |
Low Tide | 9:10 AM(Mon 03 February) | 0.83 m(2.73 ft) |
High Tide | 3:18 PM(Mon 03 February) | 7.82 m(25.66 ft) |
Low Tide | 9:34 PM(Mon 03 February) | 0.91 m(2.99 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with a lucky someone who gets to sleep in on Mondays. 😴
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher