- SJ Today
- Posts
- ❤️ Take What You Need
❤️ Take What You Need
Good morning Port City, this is SJ Today - the newsletter that appreciates all those Secret Santas helping our neighbours this holiday season.
In today’s edition:
Take what you need this Saturday 🫶
Your art makes this city great 🖼️
Your dog would like a trip Uptown this weekend 🐩
Happy Thursday!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
LOCAL FEATURE
Community Free Store Brings Everyone Together This Saturday 🤝

Turn your Saturday into something truly meaningful. The Saint John Community Coalition is hosting its first-ever Community Free Store at Haven Music Hall, and it’s your chance to make a difference, find something special, or just connect with the community.
Sarah Durham from the Coalition shared that this event is all about neighbours helping neighbors. Donations are still rolling in, and they’re looking for all kinds of items—warm winter gear, baby supplies, toys, kitchenware, non-perishable food, and even gift wrap. If you’ve got gently used or new items to share, text 506-650-9460 or email [email protected] to arrange a drop-off.
Happening from 11am-2pm, the Free Store invites everyone to come by, whether to donate, pick up something you need, or enjoy a hot meal provided by Food Not Bombs Saint John.
Sarah says this isn’t about charity. It’s about solidarity and making everyone feel welcome. So come as you are, bring what you can, and take what you need.
SPONSORED
Join the Conversation! 🗣️
Connect with our engaged community. Advertise with us and let your business shine!
NEWS NOTES
Calling All Saint John Artists! 🎨
Ever dreamed of your art gracing City Hall or the library? Here’s your shot. The City of Saint John Art Bank program is back for 2024, and they’re looking for local talent to join their collection.
Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, printmaker, or mixed-media mastermind, the Saint John Community Arts Board wants your work. Emerging or professional, solo or part of a group—if you’re a Saint John resident, you’re eligible. Bonus points if your art isn’t already in the City’s collection, which boasts works from local legends like Miller Brittain, Fred Ross, and Herzl Kashetsky.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Submit your application by Thursday, December 19, 2024. Details and submission forms are here.
Renew Your Pet’s License by December 31 🐾
Quispamsis pet owners, it’s time to renew your cat or dog’s license! Required under Animal Control By-Law No. 052, tags start at $10 and are available at Quispamsis Town Hall during regular hours.
Proof of vaccination is a must, and Lifetime licenses don’t need renewal.
Stay compliant and keep your pet’s paperwork up to date before the December 31 deadline!
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
SPONSORED
Make Your Mark! ✍️
Get your brand in front of eager eyes. Partner with us for prime advertising opportunities!
EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
TODAY
David Myles Singing for Supper | December 12
A holiday favourite returns! Join David Myles for his Singing for Supper concert at Brunswick Square today from 12-1:30pm. This free performance features festive classics and original songs, with donations supporting local food banks. Volunteers will collect food and cash donations, and merch sales will also help families in need.
Chiming & Timing Celebration | December 12
Parishioners, neighbours and well wishers will come together tonight at Trinity Church to celebrate the closing of the annual bell restoration campaign. Join The Chiming and Timing into the Future Campaign Chair, Kyle Wells and committee, as they thank everyone that contributed to keep the bells ringing this year. The event runs from 6:30-7:30pm this evening through the Charlotte St doors.
FRIDAY
The Nutcracker | Decemeber 13, 14, 15
It’s a holiday classic and returns to Imperial Theatre. Rothesay Ballet School & Gala Ballet Productions presents E.T.A. Hoffman’s iconic tale, set to music by Ptotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Nothing delivers the magic of the season quite like this performance. Local dancers share the stage with guest principal artists from some of Canada’s most renowned professional ballet companies.
Not Another Christmas Party | December 13
Who's ready for the foot stompin’ good time in support of an amazing local organization? We’re all for more Christmas parties and we can’t pretend we’re not into this one! With performances by Zack Ingles (Band), Joel Strauss, Phil Babineau, Amanda McKay, and Rebekah Lomax, we’re expecting one hell of a holiday bash! Tickets are limited and all proceeds go directly to Coverdale Centre for Women, so don’t wait - get yours now!
SATURDAY
Holiday Treat Pop-Up for Doggos | December 14
Dog Moms get ready for a day out this Saturday at In Pursuit. The Redbarkery will be doing a pop-up from 10a-2p. A fur baby favourite at the Queen Square Market, your pup can score the best treats around to enjoy now or save for the holidays! And don’t forget that In Pursuit is dog friendly, so it’s always a pawsative shopping experience!
SJYO Holiday Concert | December 14
The Saint John Youth Orchestra invites you to an evening of incredible music. Enjoy stunning performances including tenor Gilberto Bermudez, performing Granada & No Puede Ser, Elgar’s Sea Slumber Song from Sea Pictures, sung by Ellis Dingee and orchestral arrangements of Bizet’s dramatic Carmen Suite No. 1, Borodin’s vibrant Polovtsian Dances and Márquez’s dynamic Danzón No. 2. Admission is free with donations accepted!
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
YOUR PICS
@SJTODAY

📸 Peter Lawlor | 📍 Harbour Passage
Tag @sjtoday to get your photos featured!
SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 2:22 AM(Thu 12 December) | 1.16 m(3.81 ft) |
High Tide | 8:31 AM(Thu 12 December) | 7.97 m(26.15 ft) |
Low Tide | 2:55 PM(Thu 12 December) | 0.84 m(2.76 ft) |
High Tide | 9:06 PM(Thu 12 December) | 7.62 m(25.0 ft) |
Your Spot Awaits!
Ready to reach more Saint John locals? Our baseline ads are the perfect fit! Delivered alongside each day's news, events, and community highlights, your message has a prime seat. Find out how you can grab this space and get in front of the city!*
*indicates sponsored content
Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that loves our little corner of the globe as much as we do. 🌎
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher