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👀 6-7 things to know today
SJ Today
October 23, 2025
Good morning, Saint John! Kids are out here saying 6-7 like it’s a secret code. It can mean anything: “What’s for dinner?” → 6-7. “Are we late?” → 6-7. “Will the Jays win the world series?” → 6-7. And if you’re wondering when the bridge is shutting down tonight… yep, literally sometime between 6-7. It’s nonsense, it’s genius, it’s the world we live in 🤯
Here’s what to know today:
Young nurses leaving NB in droves 🩺
Sunny mornings support women in recovery 🌞
Saint John galleries stay open late 🎨
One more sleep ‘til the weekend!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
💉 Young nurses leaving NB at record pace
Saint John’s hospitals are feeling the pinch as New Brunswick struggles to keep young nurses in the province. For every 100 nurses under 35 who started in 2023, 62 packed up and left…the second-worst retention rate in Canada. Locally, that means heavier shifts and more burned-out scrubs on the floor. Officials hope new contracts, retention bonuses, and smarter staffing tricks will help, but the province is still chasing a cure for its nursing “exodus.”
🧾 Uptown wants its 2026 levy locked in
Uptown Saint John Inc. is asking City Hall to green-light its 2026 budget, just over $539K, funded by a 16-cents-per-$100 levy on non-residential properties in the district. Most of the money goes to basic blocking and tackling (ops/admin ~$266K), with the rest split across marketing, clean & safe, beautification and a splash ($20K) for urban design. Council votes November 17…unless enough written objections land by November 1
🍳 Sunny Side Up Breakfast brings hope to Saint John
Saint John is getting a little brighter this Friday as Sophia Recovery Centre hosts its 5th annual Sunny Side Up Breakfast fundraiser. The Delta Marriott ballroom will serve up more than just bacon and eggs…guests will hear from Dr. David Best, an international expert on Inclusive Recovery Cities, plus a panel of local leaders and a moving personal story. Raffle prizes include a $500 Air Canada gift card, and all proceeds support women on their recovery journey. Doors open 7:45am, program wraps 9:30am. Start your morning sunny side up.
🗺️ Grand Bay-Westfield writing its future together
Grand Bay-Westfield is cracking open its next strategic plan and wants residents in the room as they draw the map. Three identical workshops are set for November 17 (10-noon, 2-4pm, 7-9pm) with one in Nerepis and two at the Community Centrum. If you can’t warm a folding chair in person, an online survey is open now.
💙 Cheering on the boys in blue
The Blue Jays kick off the World Series tomorrow night vs. the L.A. Dodgers, and TD Station is turning into a free watch party! Catch games 1 & 2 on the concourse TVs and the big video board, enjoy $3 hot dogs, and score prizes…Friday could get you FMX World Tour tickets, Saturday a Sea Dogs suite. Doors 8:15p, games 9p. Free admission and parking!
*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
As always, here’s a look at some of the most exciting events coming up this weekend. For a full guide to all the Halloween happenings across the region, check this out 🎃!
THURSDAY
Paint & Sip at The Porch | October 23
Get into the spooky spirit at The Porch with a Halloween-themed Paint & Sip from 6-8pm. No painting experience? No problem…step-by-step guidance will have you creating a festive ghost masterpiece while sipping handcrafted cocktails from Ole Foggy Distillery and Gridiron Brewing. Cozy, fun, and perfect for a night out with friends. Seats are limited, so grab your spot before they vanish.
Community Job Fair | October 23
The Kennebecasis Regional Police Force and KV Oasis are hosting a Community Job Fair at the McCluskey Brothers Conference Centre (Q-Plex) from 4-8pm. The event aims to support youth and families in finding meaningful work while building connections in the community. Stop by to meet local employers, explore opportunities, and take a step toward your next career move.
FRIDAY
Saint John Fall Gallery Hop | October 24, 2025
Take a stroll through uptown Saint John and enjoy a night of art, community, and extended gallery hours. On Friday, October 24 from 4-7pm, select galleries stay open later, some even until midnight, showcasing everything from contemporary pieces to handcrafted works. Walk from Cobalt Gallery to Mitote Gallery and beyond, and soak up creativity in every corner of the city. All galleries are within easy walking distance.
Casino Night | October 24
Try your luck for a good cause at Exhibition Park from 7-10pm. The Knights of Columbus is hosting a Casino Night to support the Vocational Training Centre, helping adults with disabilities gain life and work skills. Enjoy $20,000 in casino play money, live music from Scott Mullin, special prizes, a silent auction, and a rotating photo booth. Tickets are $25…call or text 506-609-0499 to reserve your spot.
SATURDAY
GB Local Business Showcase | October 25
Grand Bay-Westfield’s Community Vitality Committee and local business owners are rolling out a fun, family-friendly afternoon at the Community Centrum. Check out local businesses like Hatch & Parley, Rainbow Valley Childcare, and Cask & Kettle, enjoy live music by Vince Dixon, sip free coffee or hot chocolate, and let the kids meet some furry friends at the petting zoo. 11:30am-1pm.
Great Pumpkin Pet Party | October 25
Dress up your furry friends for a Halloween costume contest at the Saint John City Market from 12-3pm, with the contest starting at 2:30pm. Mayor Donna Reardon is one of the contest judges. Prizes include over $300 in goodies for first place and $100+ for second and third. Bring a donation for the SPCA to score a trick-or-treat bag full of toys and treats. Coffee, cuteness, and pumpkin vibes guaranteed for both pets and humans!
Dia de los Muertos Celebration | October 25
Saint John lights up with art, music, and culture at AREA 506’s Dia de los Muertos festival. Enjoy live Latin jazz from Dee Hernandez, sugar skull face painting, and interactive art contests where young artists can see their creations on the big stage. This vibrant, inclusive celebration honors those who came before us and brings the city together in style. 5pm onward. Hit the link for full details and schedule.
2025 Model Train Show | October 25
Train fans of all ages can explore modular layouts, popular scales, and even a Lego setup at the Quispamsis Lions Club from 9am-3pm. Vendors will have new and used model trains, rail cars, and accessories. Admission is $7, with kids under 12 free. A fun, hands-on day for hobbyists and families alike…all aboard for a miniature railway adventure!
SUNDAY
Sunday Breakfast at the Legion | October 26
Start your Sunday morning right at the Royal Canadian Legion in Hampton with a delicious breakfast for the whole family. Enjoy hearty fare from 9am–12pm for $10 adults and $5 kids, with cash and debit accepted. It’s a relaxed, friendly morning to catch up with friends, fuel up for the day, and support your local Legion.
Music Bingo at Woodchucks | October 26
Saint John’s Woodchucks Axe Throwing cranks up the fun every Sunday with Music Bingo from 2–4pm. Sing, shout, and shout along to your favorite tunes while competing for prizes every round and a grand prize for the ultimate winner. Thirst-quenching drink specials, themed rounds, and a lively Sunday Funday vibe make this the perfect way to end the weekend.
*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 🌊
High Tide | 1:28 AM(Thu 23 October) | 7.25 m(23.79 ft) |
Low Tide | 7:34 AM(Thu 23 October) | 1.59 m(5.22 ft) |
High Tide | 1:40 PM(Thu 23 October) | 7.52 m(24.66 ft) |
Low Tide | 7:56 PM(Thu 23 October) | 1.28 m(4.2 ft) |
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🎸 LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN
THURSDAY
Five & Dime | Steph Clifford with Katie Marti | 9pm
Imprial Theatre | The Stampeders | 7:30pm
O’Leary’s | Sarahtonein (Front Bar Stage) | 9pm
FRIDAY
Fusion East Taproom | Dolores - Live Music | 7pm
Hampton Brewing Co. | Wayne Hansen | 7pm (no cover)
Haven Music Hall | Butcher, Death As It Shook You, Pnoom, Last Words | 9pm
Imperial Theatre | Symphony NB-Cosmic Adventure | 7:30pm
Wasted Day Brewing | East Coast Emo Night | 8:30-11:30pm
Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who went from being a cool kid, to the old man protecting his lawn…🙋♂️!
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher