🔥 It's Crunch Time

Good morning Saint John! Welcome to another exciting week in the port city.

In todays edition:

• Shell-ebrating Taco Week! 🌮

• Funding boost for local homeless response 🏠

• Uptown pub getting dessert upgrade 🧁

Here we go!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🌮 Taco Week Starts Today!

Who says tacos should be confined to just one day? Uptown Taco Week kicks off today and runs through Sunday, March 2, bringing bold, tasty tacos to Uptown Saint John. From classic street tacos to daring new combos, there’s something to satisfy every taco craving.

Grab your crew and hit the town to enjoy a taco adventure, and warm up from the winter chill. Lunch break, dinner date, or taco marathon - however you roll, it’s nacho average week uptown.

💰 Funding Boost for Saint John’s Homelessness Response

More help is on the way for Saint John’s unhoused population. The federal and provincial governments have signed on to a $3.5 million plan to support the city’s response to unsheltered homelessness. The funding will go toward temporary housing, rental assistance, and essential services - think medical care, life skills training, and even landlord mediation to help keep people housed.

City officials say this funding is a key piece of the Housing for All strategy, helping ensure vulnerable residents have access to stable housing and support. More agreements with other provinces and territories are expected in the coming weeks.

🚧 Snow Clearing on Douglas Ave

Snow and ice clearing continues this morning on Douglas Avenue (Main to Bentley), which means no on-street parking from 7am to 7pm. Temporary signs went up over the weekend, and any cars left behind risk tickets or towing. Plan accordingly!

LOCAL BUSINESS

🚪 Opening New Doors in Heritage Conservation 

Big win for Laura Weil of hatch+parley - her handcrafted fiberglass doors just got the stamp of approval from Saint John’s Heritage Board. On February 5, the board officially added hatch+parley to its Heritage Pre-Approved Manufacturers’ List, making it easier for homeowners to restore historic properties without the red tape. If the design aligns with the original architectural style, City staff can now sign off on hatch+parley doors for street-facing homes, no extra approvals needed.

It’s a breakthrough for heritage restoration: less hassle, more high-quality craftsmanship, and doors built right here in Saint John. This decision opens up exciting new possibilities for blending history with innovation.

🍰 Sweet News at Churchill’s

JLM Patisserie is bringing the dessert game to Churchill’s Pub & Steakhouse with a fresh lineup of custom treats. Their new creations include a Spicy Hot Chocolate GF Torte, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and a Berry Crumble with almond brown butter topping. So next time you’re at Churchill’s, don’t skip dessert - you’ll be missing out.

THIS WEEK’S COUNCIL MEETINGS

⚖️ Saint John Common Council Meeting

On the agenda for Monday’s Common Council meeting:

• Highway Usage & Skate Park Access
  Council will review highway usage permits, including one that affects the Saint John Skate Park.

• Outdoor Fire Regulations
  A decision is expected on appointing bylaw enforcement officers to oversee outdoor fire rules.

• Simonds High Field Upgrade
  A funding request is on the table for upgrades to the school’s multipurpose field turf.

• Zoning Changes & Development
  Public hearings will be held on zoning amendments for Lancaster Avenue and Golden Grove Road.

• Sunnyside Avenue Closure
  Final approval is up for debate on closing a section of Sunnyside Avenue.

• St. Patrick Street Pedway Mural
  Council will discuss the removal of the Nest Mural from the St. Patrick Street Pedway.

See the full agenda

The meeting begins at 6pm at City Hall and is open to the public. You can also watch on Rogers TV or via live stream.

⚖️ Grand Bay-Westfield Council Meeting

On the agenda for Monday’s Council meeting:

The official agenda has not yet been posted. Grand Bay-Westfield typically releases agendas by 4:30 PM on the Friday before meetings.

The meeting begins at 7pm at the Community Centrum and can also be viewed via live stream.

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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!

WEDNESDAY

DJ Skate Night | February 26, 6-8pm
Skate under the stars at Rothesay Common with DJ Steve spinning live beats! Warm up with hot chocolate (bring your own mug) while enjoying this free, family-friendly event. Bring a non-perishable food item for the KV Food Basket and make a difference.

THURSDAY

Sea Dogs vs. Halifax Mooseheads | February 27
Catch the Saint John Sea Dogs taking on the Halifax Mooseheads at TD Station! It’s sure to be an exciting game, so grab your tickets and don’t miss out on the action. Game starts at 7pm—see you there! Tickets available at the TD Station Box Office or online.

A Sip of Strength | February 27, 6-8pm
Join the CMHA and SJ Suicide Prevention Committee at BMO Studio Theatre for A Sip of Strength - an evening of coffee, music, and open conversations about mental health. This safe space offers a chance to connect, share stories, and find strength in community. With local artists performing, it’s a night to raise awareness and break down stigma. Don’t miss this impactful event!

SUNDAY

Music Bingo at Woodchucks | Sundays, 2-4pm
Wrap up your weekend with a fun twist at Woodchucks Axe Throwing! Join in for Music Bingo, where you’ll match songs to your card and shout BINGO for a chance to win awesome prizes. Best part? It’s free to play - just bring your phone! Plus, enjoy great drink specials while the music plays. Make Sunday Funday unforgettable at Woodchucks!

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who’ll be hitting the snooze this morning. 😴

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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