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Mayor Brad Cohen Announces Run for Congress Following Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman’s Decision Not to Seek Reelection

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East Brunswick Mayor Brad Cohen announced today that he’s entering the race for Congress in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District, a seat currently held by Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman.

In a statement released this morning, Cohen positioned himself as a Democrat willing to “fight for Central New Jersey” and “stand up for democracy at a time when the clouds of authoritarianism are on the horizon.” He emphasized his record as mayor, stating that he has served “without cutting deals or subverting values,” and highlighted his desire to deliver tangible victories to residents, including cost-of-living relief, as well as improvements in energy and healthcare policy.

The announcement comes just hours after Rep. Watson Coleman confirmed she will not seek reelection in 2026. In her statement, she reflected on decades of public service and said it was time “to pass the torch to the next leader who will continue leading this charge.”

Watson Coleman has had a long and influential career in New Jersey politics, known for her progressive stances and outspoken leadership. At the same time, she has drawn mixed reviews within the state — praised by supporters for her advocacy on equity and social justice, while others have criticized her approach as overly partisan or disconnected from local priorities.

For longtime readers of Eyes on EB, today’s news might not come as a complete surprise. Back in March 2025, we noted that Mayor Cohen had held what several residents described as a quiet “feeling-out meeting” about a potential congressional bid — early signs that his ambitions may have extended beyond East Brunswick.

Now, with the seat officially open, those early discussions appear to have taken shape. For local residents, the focus will shift to how the mayor balances campaign efforts with township responsibilities, and how East Brunswick’s leadership transitions during this pivotal period.

Eyes on EB will continue to follow developments closely as the race for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District begins to take form.

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The Joy of Giving Without Expectations — A Holiday Reminder for All of Us

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Now and then, a Facebook post stops you in your tracks.
This week, one did — a thread about a local restaurant that gave out free meals to families in need, only for someone to call and complain about the food they received.

The post went viral in East Brunswick circles, and most people reacted with disbelief. But instead of focusing on the outrage, I want to focus on the opposite — the good that’s happening quietly all around us.

Because the truth is, we’re lucky to live in a community filled with restaurants and small businesses that open their doors, share their food, and give from the heart. Dusals has been known to help families in need. Pasquale’s has a pay-it-forward wall. Every week, someone somewhere in town donates a meal, feeds a neighbor, or shows up for someone who’s struggling — without expecting a single thing in return.

And that’s the part worth remembering.

When You Give Without Expectations, You Never End Up Disappointed

As the holidays approach, many people feel the strain of doing for others — organizing drives, donating, volunteering, or lending a hand behind the scenes. And it’s easy to think, “I do all this, and I don’t even get a thank you.”

I’ve been there.
And I get it — when you see someone complain about a free meal or act ungrateful after you’ve tried to help, it can be frustrating. It makes you wonder why you even bother. But I once came across a video on Facebook where a woman said something that really stuck with me: when you truly reach the point where you can give without expecting anything in return, it’s liberating.

If you feel like you’re always getting burned, that’s usually because you’re giving with expectations. Once you let go of needing recognition or gratitude, the weight falls off your shoulders. And even when, once in a while, you get criticized for doing the right thing, you can let it go more easily. After all, you had zero expectations — and that freedom keeps you from becoming bitter. It won’t stop you from continuing to do good.

You start to realize that the peace comes not from what others say or do, but from knowing your heart was in the right place — and that’s enough.

A Tip from Rob W — Especially During the Holidays

Here’s what’s helped me:
If you ever feel underappreciated for what you give, stop and ask yourself why you gave in the first place. If it was to help, to heal, to show kindness — that’s the full circle right there. You’ve already done it.

Because giving with expectations turns generosity into a transaction, giving without them turns it into love.

So as we head into this holiday season, let’s celebrate the restaurants, the volunteers, the neighbors, and the quiet givers who keep showing up — not because they have to, but because it’s who they are.

And let’s all try to give a little more like that. No disappointment. No resentment. Just heart.

– Rob W, Eyes on EB

East Brunswick Sports Weekly — “The Season That Fought Back” Edition

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This week, the postseason came knocking — and the Bears answered with heart. From five-set battles to overtime heartbreaks, EB athletes showed that sometimes grit outshines the scoreboard. Every game was a test of composure, pride, and pure effort.

This wasn’t the week for trophies. It was the week they proved what East Brunswick pride looks like under pressure.

🏐 Girls Volleyball (8–14) — “Five Sets of Fight”

Storyline: The Bears nearly flipped the script on Hillsborough in the opening round of the Central Jersey Group 4 Tournament. After dropping the first two sets, EB stormed back behind Smitha Srinivasan’s 14 kills and 14 digs, with Zoe Holeman directing the offense for 20 assists. The match went the distance — a fifth-set thriller that ended 15–9 — but not before the Bears reminded everyone they belong in the big moments.

Results
Mon, Nov 3 (CJG4 1st Rd): Hillsborough 3, EB 2
Kills: Srinivasan 14 • Assists: Holeman 20

Parents’ brag line: “We didn’t fold — we fought like family.”

🏑 Field Hockey (14–5–1) — “The One That Got Away”

Storyline: EB field hockey’s postseason ended earlier than hoped, but not for lack of effort. Facing Scotch Plains-Fanwood, the Bears fell 1–0 despite five clutch saves from Ella Balsamo. The lone goal came off a penalty corner in the second quarter, but this team’s 14-win season tells the real story — unity, leadership, and belief.

Results
Tue, Nov 4 (NJG4 1st Rd): SPF 1, EB 0
Saves: Balsamo 5

Parents’ brag line: “We didn’t just play a season — we built a legacy.”

⚽ Boys Soccer (12–10) — “One Goal, Then One Heartbreak”

Storyline: The boys opened states with composure, as Andrew Lima’s goal and Sean Enda’s assist lifted EB past Sayreville, 1–0. Keeper Aiden Hanas shut the door with three saves. Three days later, the Bears took Hunterdon Central into a penalty-kick marathon after a scoreless draw — falling just short in the shootout. Two games that captured every ounce of heart this squad has.

Results
Tue, Nov 4 (CJG4 1st Rd): EB 1, Sayreville 0
Goal: Lima • Assist: Enda
Fri, Nov 7 (CJG4 QF): Hunterdon Central 1 (SO), EB 0

Parents’ brag line: “We might’ve lost the shootout — but we never lost our edge.”

⚽ Girls Soccer (10–8) — “The Last Stand in Princeton”

Storyline: EB girls soccer hit the road for the state opener and battled hard against a sharp Princeton side. Despite six shots on goal, the Bears couldn’t convert and fell 2–0. It wasn’t the finish they wanted, but it capped a strong 10-win season that showcased depth, determination, and growth across every position.

Results
Wed, Nov 5 (CJG4 1st Rd): Princeton 2, EB 0

Parents’ brag line: “We grew stronger every game — even in the last one.”

💚 Not every week ends with wins. But for East Brunswick, this one ended with heart, hustle, and belief.
The grind continues — and the pride never fades

A Sweet Night at Playhouse 22: The Cake Serves Up Laughter, Reflection, and Real Dessert

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Playhouse 22 in East Brunswick opened its doors Friday night for The Cake, a comedy-drama that manages to be both laugh-out-loud funny and unexpectedly heartfelt.
Written by Bekah Brunstetter, the play follows Della, a vivacious, conservative North Carolina baker who’s forced to question her beliefs when Jen — a woman she loves like a daughter — asks her to bake the cake for her same-sex wedding.

What unfolds is a story that blends humor, humanity, and just the right touch of tension. The script invites the audience to see both sides of faith and love colliding in today’s world. At its heart, The Cake explores the disconnect between generations — how deeply held beliefs can clash with modern values. Macy tries, with patience but growing frustration, to help Della see how her views might no longer fit the world around her, while Della stands firm in the convictions that have guided her all her life. The moment isn’t about proving a point — it’s about recognizing how people can see the same situation through completely different lenses, yet still care deeply for one another. There are a few moments of playful grown-up humor — the kind that earns laughs without ever feeling over the top — and the audience responded with genuine laughter from start to finish.

The Cake runs through November 23 at Playhouse 22 in East Brunswick.
Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m. | Sundays 2 p.m.

The production features an outstanding cast that brought heart, humor, and nuance to the stage.

  • Meg Waldowski as Della, the baker at the center of it all, gives a performance that’s equal parts warmth and conviction.

  • Rob Capici as Tim adds humor and humanity.

  • Ashley Griffiths shines as Jen, the bride-to-be torn between love and loyalty.

  • Tara Hines as Macy brings the perfect amount of wit and strength.

  • Nigel Rogers rounds out the cast as the inner “Voice of George,” delivering humor with perfect timing.

Behind the scenes, director Bill Fikaris and producers Angela Dohl and Jennifer Moffett led a creative crew that turned the intimate Playhouse 22 stage into a charming Southern bake shop.
Muriel Rand, Catherine Rand, and Katie Kane handled costumes with style; Dorothy and Frank Bitetto designed and built the set; Dawn Zaleski stage-managed; and Katie Sillitti guided the show’s intimacy direction with a thoughtful touch.
The lighting and sound design by Rachel Druker and Marc Rogol added warmth and polish to the production.

👥 A Community Effort Worth Celebrating

Playhouse 22 operates entirely through the dedication of volunteers.
The organization is led by President Pete Matseur, Vice President/Director of Operations Adam Neary, Treasurer Angela Dohl, and Secretary Andrea Polselli, with Letitia D. Townes serving as Artistic Director and Jennifer Moffett as Executive Producer.

Their commitment, along with the energy of repertory members — including Dorothy Bitetto, Matt Nickles, Kelly Rayner-Townes, Lisa Rogol, Marc Rogol, and Jeff Seesselberg — keeps East Brunswick’s community theater thriving.

🔧 The Magic Behind the Scenes

After the curtain call, guests enjoyed a dessert reception featuring a real wedding cake — a sweet nod to the show’s theme.

Following dessert, Adam Neary led a backstage tour highlighting the craftsmanship that brings Playhouse 22 productions to life.

Carpenter Vince Markei described how the bakery set’s pieces were built to be both sturdy and lightweight, and Paul Porowski explained how he created the realistic faux cakes and pastries using spackle, foam, and dollar-store finds — a creative blend of artistry and resourcefulness that left guests impressed.

The evening ended with laughter and conversation — the kind of genuine connection that defines community theater.

🎟 Coming Soon to Playhouse 22

Playhouse 22’s 2025–2026 season continues its tradition of thought-provoking and diverse performances:

  • A Merry Little Christmas Carol — Dec 12–21 2025

  • Yes, Virginia — Jan 16–25 2026

  • Althea & Angela — Feb 13–22 2026

  • Cry It Out — Mar 6–15 2026

  • August Wilson’s Fences — Apr 17–May 3 2026

  • Jagged Little Pill (Musical) — Jun 12–28 2026

Tickets and season subscriptions are available at Playhouse22.org or by calling (732) 254-3939.

🧁 Eyes on EB Applauds Playhouse 22

Eyes on EB applauds Playhouse 22 for another memorable night of local theater.
The Cake leaves you smiling, thinking, and maybe a little hungry — proof that when art, humor, and heart come together, everyone gets a slice.

Exclusive: Coach Danielle Butrico Reflects on East Brunswick’s Fifth Straight GMC Field Hockey Title

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For the fifth year in a row, the East Brunswick High School field hockey team has claimed the GMC crown — a remarkable run built on grit, leadership, and a bond that defines what it means to wear green and white.

Six games into the season, the Bears faced a moment of truth. After a tough loss to South Plainfield, the seniors and captains called a players-only meeting to regroup, refocus, and reignite their drive. It wasn’t about frustration — it was about pride.

“I think the girls who came before us showed what it feels like to win a conference tournament,” said a group of team leaders in a joint response from captains Ella Balsamo (Goalie, Senior), Julia Rose (Defense, Senior), and Jolie Salamon (Midfield, Junior). “The younger girls see that and want to achieve the same thing. They’ve taught us what East Brunswick-style field hockey means — playing with heart, discipline, and unity. We don’t see this streak as pressure — we see it as our reason.”

That moment set the tone for what became another unforgettable run.

A Season Built on Leadership and Legacy

Coach Danielle Butrico credits this year’s captains for keeping the team focused and accountable.

“The captains are great at holding their teammates accountable,” Coach Butrico said. “They show their hard work and dedication every day at practice. They’re not afraid to tell teammates to step up or adjust during a game. That’s what leadership looks like — leading by example.”

That example carried through the roster. East Brunswick’s players not only fought for another title but continued the tradition of passing down the program’s standard of excellence to the next generation.

“I think the girls who came before us showed what it feels like to win a conference tournament,” said one of the players. “The younger girls see that and want to achieve the same thing. They’ve taught us what East Brunswick-style field hockey means — playing with heart, discipline, and unity. We don’t see this streak as pressure — we see it as our reason.”

Looking Ahead

Even with five straight championships, the Bears are far from complacent. The coaching staff and players are already focused on the future — inspiring younger athletes and growing the sport.

“We’re involved in youth programs and our middle school teams,” Coach Butrico said. “We have them come to our senior night and end-of-year banquet so they feel supported. We show up to their games, just like they show up to ours. That’s how you build a lasting culture.”

Five straight GMC titles, countless memories, and one powerful message: East Brunswick field hockey is built to last — on teamwork, accountability, and an unbreakable belief in each other.

If any East Brunswick coaches would like to share a write-up or highlight their team — whether it’s a big win, a great season, or simply a group you’re proud of — please email Rob at rob@eyesoneb.com.

Love Letter to Gratitude

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Dear Friends,

By Rachel B.

November has always felt like a pause button on the chaos of the year — a gentle reminder to breathe, to look around, and to truly see all that’s been quietly holding us together, especially when many of us often feel like we are unraveling.

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. There’s something sacred in its simplicity — no gifts to buy, no grand gestures required — just food, family, football, and gratitude. It’s a holiday that transcends religion and culture, inviting all of us to gather in the spirit of appreciation and reflection, for one day, all at the exact same time. There is something so powerful in that thought.

In a world that so often chases “more” — more success, more stuff, more noise — Thanksgiving whispers “enough.” It asks us to notice what’s already here: the people, the moments, the small acts of kindness that sustain our days. More and more, even the stores that once prided themselves on the earliest Black Friday openings are recognizing the value of slowing down — choosing to let their doors stay closed a little longer so their employees can gather with loved ones instead of crowds. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that sometimes, choosing family over the almighty dollar is the richest decision of all.

Gratitude, at its best, is not a list. It’s a way of seeing. It’s the gentle shift that turns ordinary moments into meaningful ones, the lens that reveals how much good quietly surrounds us even on the hardest days. Gratitude changes nothing and yet somehow changes everything — not by adding to our lives, but by helping us see what was already there. In these days where so much of our world seems dark and unforgiving, taking a moment to acknowledge the simple gestures that so often pass us by unnoticed, can be the spark our souls need to recharge.  

So today, I want to say thank you.

Thank you to the educators, school staff, and administrators who pour their hearts into shaping young minds.

Thank you to the candidates who recently ran for our Board of Education — whether you won or not, you showed courage, conviction, and care for our community.

Thank you to the coaches who give their time, their weekends, and their hearts to teach lessons that go far beyond the game.

Thank you to the religious leaders who offer guidance, comfort, and a sense of belonging when we need it most.

Thank you to the volunteers who show up — often unseen and unheralded — to lift others up, patch what’s broken, and remind us what community really means.

Thank you to the people behind the counters, at the gas pumps, in the kitchens, and on the roads — our quiet heroes who keep daily life moving forward.

Thank you to the mail carriers, garbage collectors, crossing guards, and municipal workers — whose consistency is the backbone of every city and town.

Thank you to the police officers, firefighters, and EMS workers who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and steady when chaos hits close to home.

And thank you to our families and friends — the ones who love us, listen to us, and remind us who we are when the world feels too heavy.

I offer one small piece of advice — during this time of year, when the days grow shorter and our patience often follows, take a moment to give yourself some grace, a dose of gratitude, and the space to reset, recharge, and reconnect with what truly matters. Wishing you and your families a peaceful and blessed holiday season.

East Brunswick BOE Election Results: Unofficial, but the Outcomes Are Clear

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The unofficial results are in for the East Brunswick Board of Education election — and while the totals have not yet been officially certified by Middlesex County, the margins are wide enough that the outcomes are not expected to change.

All 40 districts have reported, and while a small number of provisional and late mail-in ballots may still be counted, they won’t be enough to alter the results.

Three-Year Full-Term Seats (Top Three Elected)

  • Anna Braun — 7,384 votes (21.47%)

  • Marianne Tanious — 5,568 votes (16.19%)

  • Liwu Hong — 5,139 votes (14.94%)

Other candidates included Maria Mueller (4,602), Kimberly Conetta (4,358), Neal Shah (4,349), and Heather Gaus (2,840).
A total of 34,387 votes were cast in this contest.

One-Year Unexpired Term (Single Seat)

  • Antoinette Evola — 5,438 votes (41.53%)

  • Jeffrey M. Winston — 4,005 votes (30.59%)

  • Mary Petersen — 3,591 votes (27.43%)

A total of 13,093 votes were cast in this race.

Confidence in the Results

Although the results remain technically unofficial until the Middlesex County Board of Elections completes its certification process, these numbers represent all districts reporting and nearly all ballots counted.
Given the significant vote margins in each contest, the outcomes can be considered final in effect — with only minor numerical adjustments possible once every last ballot is verified.

What Comes Next

East Brunswick’s new Board of Education members will soon be sworn in, taking on key challenges ahead — including ongoing budget pressures, program changes, and questions of transparency in district decision-making.

Eyes on EB will continue to follow the certification process and the board’s upcoming reorganization meeting, where leadership roles and committee assignments are typically decided.

Only 100 People Watching: Why East Brunswick Needs a Watchdog Group

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When you look at the facts, it’s pretty eye-opening. The Township of East Brunswick, NJ has a population of 49,715, yet most Town Council meetings draw under 100 viewers — sometimes fewer than 150 unless there’s drama. That’s fewer than one in 500 residents keeping an eye on the people making decisions that shape our town. At Eyes on EB, we plan to change that. We’ll be sharing the information — the good, the questionable, and everything in between — so the community can see what’s really happening inside Town Hall.

1 out of every 500 residents (in some cases) is paying real attention at the moment decisions are being made about the things that affect us all. How can a small handful of people effectively represent or keep watch on what goes on in a township of nearly 50,000?

Why This Matters
We all lead busy lives: jobs, kids, errands, commutes (and yes, many East Brunswick residents spend 30+ minutes extra getting from A to B on certain local roads). Time is short and priorities are many.

But local government is not a back‐burner item. When an ordinance passes odd or quietly, when something happens that seems strange — we can’t just shrug and say “oh well”.
For example: the recent drone ban awakened many of us at Eyes on EB. If we weren’t watching, who knows what else is slipping through the cracks?

When only 100 or so people are tuned in, that’s exactly how a township depends on low oversight. It’s much easier for unusual or even illicit things to occur if few are watching.

Introducing Our Watchdog Group

So here’s what Eyes on EB is doing: we’re forming a Watchdog Group with a strong focus on the Town Council. We already have a couple of members committed, and we’re actively looking for more.

What will we do?

  • We will attend, watch, and review Town Council meetings.

  • We will report more faithfully on what’s happening: trends, oddities, proposals, ordinances, road/traffic issues, whatever surfaces.

  • We will not pretend we’re experts on everything — we’re media and community members. However, we will depend on your support: if you have knowledge, experience, insider information, or concerns, we welcome respectful dialogue and community contributions.

  • We’ll call attention to items that deserve a broader public view. Because when only a tiny group pays attention, the rest of us are operating blind.

What Needs More Spotlight
Here are some of the recurring concerns we’ve seen:

  • Low attendance/viewership means low civic engagement for a community this size.

  • When odd ordinances pass quietly, there’s limited public awareness.

  • Traffic/infrastructure issues: why are some routes consistently clogged, or detoured, or delayed; who’s accountable?

  • Regulations such as the proposed drone ban — which many believe to be unlawful and overreaching — raise serious questions. What prompted it? How was it communicated? And was there any real effort to inform or involve the public before it advanced?

  • Transparency & access: when decisions are made, are they being properly publicized, is the community aware, is resident input sought?

A Call to You
If you live in East Brunswick:

  • Consider tuning into the Town Council meetings (in person or via recording).

  • Join our Watchdog Group. It doesn’t require perfection — just interest, commitment, respect.

  • Share your concerns: perhaps you’ve noticed something unusual in your neighborhood, maybe you’ve been affected by a change you weren’t aware of, or perhaps you want to ensure the public voice is stronger.

  • Engage respectfully: We believe in civil dialogue. We are not about conspiracy or sensationalism — we’re about community awareness and accountability.

Final Thought
It’s startling, but true: only around 100 people (sometimes fewer) are the ones watching what happens in a township of nearly 50,000. That’s not sufficient if we want robust local democracy. At Eyes on EB we are stepping into the gap. But we cannot do it alone. We need you — residents, business owners, parents, commuters — to join in, to pay attention, to speak up.

If you would like to sign up for the Watchdog Group or receive updates on Town Council items, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Let’s raise the participation of East Brunswick from “100 people” to hundreds, thousands. The township’s future deserves that.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for caring about our community.

EBHS Weekly Sports Recap — October 27–30, 2025

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It was a defining week for East Brunswick athletics — one that captured the grit, heart, and spirit that have come to define the Bears across every field, court, and pitch. From the tennis team closing out their regular season with dominance, to football ending on a high note under the lights, East Brunswick athletes showed exactly what it means to wear green and white with pride. There were heartbreaks, statement wins, and performances that hinted at even brighter seasons ahead. Here’s how the week unfolded for the Bears.

🎾 Girls Tennis

East Brunswick 4, Edison 1
Record: 15-2 (10-1 GMC Red)

Under a late-October sky, East Brunswick’s girls tennis team stayed composed and clinical, rolling past Edison 4-1 to keep one of the best records in the GMC Red. Stacy Arkhipova and Arya Joshi both split early games before locking in, while Kellyanne Mossi left no doubt with a straight-set sweep. In doubles, Kaitlin Wang and Prisha Patel didn’t surrender a single game, and Aria Kapadia and Grace Shin closed it out with identical 6-1 sets.

The Bears have built a season on chemistry, depth, and quiet dominance—and this one was more proof that they’re a team built for November.

East Brunswick 5, Old Bridge 0
Record: 15-2 (10-1 GMC Red)

The Bears finished their regular season with another statement match. East Brunswick blanked Old Bridge 5-0, showing why they’ve been near-untouchable all fall. Arkhipova, Joshi, and Mossi each won 6-0, 6-0 in singles play—an extraordinary team sweep from the top of the lineup.

In doubles, Wang and Patel played with rhythm and precision, while Diya Gurunath and Aria Kapadia gutted out a tight third-set tiebreak (10-6) to complete the clean sheet. Fifteen wins, two losses, and a tone of consistency that any program would envy.

⚽ Boys Soccer

St. Joseph (Met.) 7, East Brunswick 2
Record: 11-8 (2-4 GMC Red)

The Bears’ county-tournament run ended in the semifinal round against unbeaten St. Joseph (Met.), but they didn’t go quietly. Facing a 17-0 juggernaut, East Brunswick kept pushing and found moments of brilliance—Ben Lyons’ first-half strike and an assist to Lucas Henriques kept the Bears fighting deep into the second.

Goalkeeper Aiden Hanas faced 15 shots on goal and recorded 8 saves, showing grit that defined this team’s season. The Bears finish 11-8 after battling through one of the toughest schedules in the conference—a program once again proving it belongs among the best.

🏑 Field Hockey

Bridgewater-Raritan 3, East Brunswick 2
Record: 14-4-1 (6-2 GMC Red)

It took a fourth-quarter goal to finally cool off one of the hottest teams in Central Jersey. East Brunswick’s 14-win campaign came down to a 3-2 heart-stopper against Bridgewater-Raritan. Julia Rose opened the scoring off an Arianna DeMaio assist, then DeMaio tied it again in the third before Bridgewater slipped the winner past with minutes to go.

Ella Balsamo tallied 10 saves in a back-and-forth match where every possession mattered. The Bears walk away with a 14-4-1 record—and a season that reminded everyone just how fierce East Brunswick field hockey has become.

⚽ Girls Soccer

Sayreville 3, East Brunswick 1
Record: 10-7 (3-5 GMC Red)

The Bears’ postseason push ended in Sayreville, but it was a fight to the final whistle. Senior Jacqueline Goldovsky broke through late with a goal in the 76th minute, her team’s tenth win season already secured—a testament to the squad’s growth and resilience.

Goalkeepers Caylin Docherty and Charlotte Moore combined for five saves, and while the scoreboard favored Sayreville, East Brunswick’s 10-7 season was one of hard-earned chemistry, young depth, and consistent improvement.

🏈 Football

East Brunswick 35, Perth Amboy 12
Record: 3-7 (1-3 Big Central National Gold)

East Brunswick closed its season with fireworks, putting up 35 points behind a dominant ground attack. Nathan Charleston was unstoppable—145 yards and four touchdowns on 15 carries—while quarterback Sean Christie added 65 rushing yards and a score of his own, plus 155 yards through the air.

Noah DeJesus led all receivers with 101 yards on six catches, and the Bears’ offense clicked from start to finish. It was the kind of night that gives a program momentum heading into 2026 — proof that when EB finds its rhythm, it can light up the scoreboard with anyone.

🏐 Girls Volleyball

East Brunswick 2, McNair 0
Record: 8-13 (4-8 GMC Red)

In one of their sharpest performances of the year, the Bears swept McNair 25-21, 25-22 to advance in the tournament and cap their season with statement energy. After a gritty regular season spent learning to close sets, East Brunswick found its spark—outlasting a 21-win McNair team through disciplined defense and clean service.

For EB, it was more than a win. It was a reflection of growth—the kind of performance that shows how far the program has come, and how bright the next chapter looks for Bears volleyball.

Hear Me Out — If East Brunswick Can Ban Drones, What’s Stopping Them From Banning Guns?

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By Rob W.

If East Brunswick can ban drones, what’s stopping it from banning guns? Sounds silly? That’s because the proposal is. In legal terms, this all comes down to preemption — when higher law takes priority over local rules. The point isn’t about rights — it’s about authority. Towns can’t override either.

In both cases, higher laws already exist. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates airspace and drone operations, setting national standards for flight, registration, and safety. Meanwhile, federal and state laws — and in the case of firearms, even the U.S. Constitution itself — set the boundaries for gun regulation. The federal government establishes the baseline, like prohibiting automatic weapons and requiring background checks, while each state decides how strict to be beyond that. That’s why gun laws in Texas look completely different from gun laws in New Jersey.

The point isn’t about rights — it’s about authority. Towns can’t override either.

But what doesn’t change is this: local governments can’t rewrite higher law. In New Jersey, towns cannot pass ordinances that contradict or override state law, and that same logic applies federally. Federal law preempts state and local law when it comes to airspace. The state, in turn, preempts municipal governments on matters like gun regulation. It’s a hierarchy for a reason — to keep local politics from interfering with national and state frameworks.

So when East Brunswick tries to push through an ordinance banning drones altogether, it’s not just an overstep — it’s a misunderstanding of how the law actually works. The FAA controls the sky, and the state controls firearm regulation. Both have already drawn the lines that towns are supposed to respect.

Like I said, it was never about the drones. It’s about leadership that understands the difference between governing and overreaching. We need council members who see technology and innovation not as threats but as opportunities — people who adapt, not restrict.

Five “Bad” Analogies That Hold Up in Court

In legal terms, this all comes down to “preemption” — when higher law decides how far local government can go.

  • The FAA controls airspace the same way the FDA regulates medicine — local governments can’t just make up their own rules because they don’t like how it’s used.

  • Towns can’t pass drone bans for the same reason they can’t change abortion laws — those decisions are governed at the state or federal level, not the municipal one.

  • A township regulating airspace is like a town trying to rewrite immigration policy — both fall under exclusive federal authority.

  • Just as states decide their own marijuana laws within federal boundaries, only states can build on federal drone rules — not individual towns.

  • Local government banning drones is as legally shaky as a town creating its own version of the DMV — some things are simply outside their lane.

When Local Law Can Bend the Rules

While higher laws almost always override local ones, there are a few narrow situations where towns can act within or even beyond them — but only if state or federal law allows it.

Here are a few examples:

  • Federal “opt-in” systems: Some federal laws let states or major cities adopt stricter rules. Example: under the Clean Air Act, local governments can set tougher emissions standards than the federal baseline.

  • State delegation of power: States sometimes hand specific authority to towns. In New Jersey, the Municipal Land Use Law gives towns control over zoning, letting them decide where businesses like gun shops or dispensaries can operate.

  • Home rule flexibility: In “home rule” states, towns can make local rules on issues not covered by state law — like noise, curfews, or public safety — as long as they don’t conflict with higher laws.

  • Public health and emergencies: Local governments can use temporary powers during emergencies to restrict activities or impose safety measures within their borders.

  • Explicit carve-outs: Some laws say directly, “Nothing in this section prevents local governments from enacting stricter rules.” When that language exists, stricter local laws are legal.

Outside of those cases, towns can’t override state or federal law. When they try — like East Brunswick’s drone proposal — they’re stepping into territory that doesn’t belong to them.

P.S. For you gun experts, we do understand — towns in New Jersey can’t make their own gun laws, but they can differ in how they enforce them. Local police handle the permits, timelines, and enforcement, so the experience may vary, even though the laws themselves are the same statewide

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