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- 🍲 Dinner & a Movie in Saint John 🎬
🍲 Dinner & a Movie in Saint John 🎬
Good morning Port City - This is SJ Today and the goal of this daily newsletter is to shine a light on the people and organizations that make living here great. I’d love to hear from you with story ideas and feedback.
In todays addition:
StreetTeamSJ is a group of volunteers cooking for the unhoused 🥖
Check out the awesome short film from the Mullinger boys 🎥
It’s council night around the region - see whats on your local agenda ⚖️
Have a great Tuesday!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
Locals You Should Know
COOKING UP KINDNESS 🍲💖
Johanne McCullough and her husband Ivan (centre) started StreetTeamSJ by cooking meals for Saint John’s unhoused population in October 2022.
When Johanne McCullough saw tents popping up around Saint John, she knew she had to do something. What started as Johanne and her husband handing out hot meals from their own kitchen has now grown into StreetTeamSJ—a small but mighty network of 50 volunteers delivering meals and essentials nightly to those in need.
But with growth comes new challenges. StreetTeamSJ now serves 30 to 40 people daily, and their needs go beyond meals—sleeping bags, tents, and warm clothes are always in demand, along with funding to sustain their operations. Securing a central home base, ideally with a kitchen and storage, is another key goal for the team, as it would streamline meal prep and better organize supplies.
To support their efforts, StreetTeamSJ is hosting an online auction from November 29 to December 1, inviting businesses to donate items or gift cards, with all funds raised going directly back into the organization. Volunteers are also always welcome, whether it’s sorting donations, baking treats, or lending a hand with meal distribution.
Johanne’s vision has made a real impact, and StreetTeamSJ thrives on the support of people like you—Saint John locals looking to lend a hand, one act of kindness at a time.
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NEWS NOTES
James Mullinger and Son Premiere The Peninsula in Fredericton
Hunter Mullinger, just 11 years old, wrote and starred in the touching short film The Peninsula, which premiered this week at the Silver Wave Film Festival in Fredericton. The story of a young orphan and a man finding friendship in rural New Brunswick is packed with heart and sincerity. Directed by Tyler Warren Ellis and produced by his dad, James Mullinger, it’s a true testament to local creativity. No budget, no funding, just a great idea from a young mind. Now you can catch this beautiful 11-minute film on Maritime Edit’s YouTube channel!
TONIGHT’S COUNCIL MEETINGS
⚖️ Saint John Council Meeting
On the agenda for Tuesday’s Saint John Common Council meeting:
Business Improvement Area 2025 Budget
Discussion of the proposed 2025 budget for the Business Improvement Area (BIA), including plans for local economic development.Housing Accelerator Fund: Zoning and Subdivision By-Law Amendments
A proposal to amend zoning and subdivision by-laws to facilitate new housing projects and expedite development.Proclamation: International Day for Persons with Disabilities
Council will review a request to issue a proclamation recognizing International Day for Persons with Disabilities, highlighting inclusion and awareness.
The meeting is at 6 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The public is welcome to attend. You can also watch the meeting online or on Rogers TV.
đź“ť Rothesay Council Meeting
On the agenda for Tuesday’s Rothesay Council meeting:
Storm Drainage at Goldie Court/Scotiabank
A concern raised about storm drainage will be discussed, with possible recommendations for future improvements.Kennebecasis Regional Police Force Update
Police Chief Gourdeau will provide a verbal update on local policing efforts and community safety.Rezoning Proposal for 7 Stack Road
A proposal to rezone property on Stack Road is on the table, with potential changes to land use in the area.
The meeting is at 7 PM in the Town Hall Common Room. The public is welcome to attend or watch online.
🏠Quispamsis PAC Meeting
On the agenda for this week’s Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting:
167 Palmer Brook Road – Compatible Use Request
Consideration of a proposal to allow a CrossFit training center at 167 Palmer Brook Road, within a Light Industrial (LI) zoned area.443 Gondola Point Road – Waterfront Fence Variance
Review of an application to construct a fence on a waterfront property, requiring variances for height and location.Subdivision at 31 Minstrel Drive
Proposal to subdivide part of 35 Minstrel Drive to create a new lot for 31 Minstrel Drive.
The meeting begins at 6 PM in the Town Hall.
đź“Š Grand Bay-Westfield Council
On the agenda for this week’s Grand Bay-Westfield Council meeting:
Proposed 2025 Budget Presentation
Town administration will present the proposed budget for 2025, outlining financial plans and priorities for the upcoming year.Council Reports & Business from Committee of the Whole
Council members will discuss updates from various committees and any outstanding issues.
The meeting begins at 6PM at Community Centrum - Grand Bay Room. Attend in person or view the livestream.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
TONIGHT
Open Mic Night at Wasted Day Brewing | November 12
Grab your mic and make some noise! Join Wasted Day Brewing every Tuesday from 8 PM to 11 PM for a fun-filled Open Mic Night, hosted by the talented Ryan Gautreau. With over 25 years in the Saint John music scene, Ryan brings his passion for local talent to the stage. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a first-timer, it's the perfect spot to showcase your skills and enjoy live music.
THURSDAY
Abstract Paint Night | November 14th
Join Divine Studios for an evening of creative fun on Thursday evening from 6:30-8:30 PM. No experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm! This event includes all supplies, wine, and refreshments. Experiment with mixed media and canvas to create your own abstract masterpiece, with guidance from an artist-led demonstration. Divine Studios is located at 87 Charlotte Street, Suite 301, Uptown Saint John. Reserve your spot today!
FRIDAY
Water Street Dinner Theatre | November 15th
Get ready for a night of laughter, love, and… some hard times at Water Street Dinner Theatre! The Rise of Drew Peacock is yet another adult-themed production. This musical comedy that’s not for the faint of heart (or the easily offended). Expect a wild ride of outrageous humor, toe-tapping tunes, and maybe even a few blush-worthy moments.
*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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📸 Shawn Hachey | 📍 Queen Square
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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 1:52 AM(Tue 12 November) | 1.24 m(4.07 ft) |
High Tide | 8:02 AM(Tue 12 November) | 7.62 m(25.0 ft) |
Low Tide | 2:22 PM(Tue 12 November) | 1.18 m(3.87 ft) |
High Tide | 8:30 PM(Tue 12 November) | 7.67 m(25.15 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that didn’t know it was Happy Hour Day (seriously)! 🍸
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher