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A Fox, A Dog Named Winston, a Shed, and a Heroic Early Morning in East Brunswick

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East Brunswick woke up to a wild story this morning. While most people were still sleeping, Winston was underneath a backyard shed having the adventure of a lifetime. Somehow he and a fox both ended up wedged under there together. For more than an hour Winston’s family and friends tried everything to get him out, but Winston is no ordinary dog. He is stubborn, brave, blind, and apparently convinced he is a Navy SEAL. The fox, understandably, was not enjoying the bonding experience. The sounds coming from under that shed were intense, and no one could tell who was making them or who was getting the upper hand.

After trying every trick they could think of, the family called for help.

Officer Murray from the East Brunswick Police Department arrived first and immediately brought calm to a chaotic situation. He made sure everyone stayed safe and assessed what needed to be done. It is not every day you arrive to find Winston, a full-on action hero, and a fox sharing a cramped space under a shed, but Murray handled it like a pro.

Then Dan from New Brunswick Animal Control arrived. Winston was stuck deep under the shed, and Dan got right to work. Crawling, reaching, planning, adjusting, doing everything he could to bring Winston to safety without further stressing the injured fox. Winston, true to character, refused to give up his position easily, but with patience and teamwork, the team finally pulled him out.

Winston emerged looking proud, unharmed, and utterly confident that he had just survived a movie scene. He was taken to the vet for a checkup, but he appeared perfectly fine. The fox had a rougher time and was bleeding from the nose and then disappeared into the woods.

Here is the message Winston’s family wants to share with the team who showed up today:

“Thank you to the police officer and the animal control officer who came to help rescue our Winston from a fox under my shed. I appreciate your patience, your teamwork, and your willingness to crawl around after a dog who apparently thinks he’s a total badass. Thanks for getting my tough guy safely back home. Your patience, kindness, and determination meant the world to me. I’m so grateful for the care you showed and for going above and beyond to get him out!”

Winston is headed to the veterinarian for a check-up. The fox returned to the wilderness. And two responders turned a stressful morning into a happy ending.

These are the moments that usually go unseen. The quiet acts of care. The early morning calls. The work our officers and animal control team do for families, pets, and wildlife is done without asking for recognition.

Today we saw it up close.

And Winston will be telling this story forever.

 

How The New School Funding Bills Could Affect East Brunswick

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Understanding S4312 and A5800 Without the Politics

New Jersey lawmakers have been moving two major pieces of legislation that could shape how school funding works across the state: S4312, which changes how districts are reimbursed for services provided to students in nonpublic schools, and A5800, which is the state budget that includes new rules for how public-school aid is calculated.

Both bills have statewide intent, but every district feels the impact differently. Here is a straightforward look at what these changes could mean for East Brunswick — the good, the bad, and the uncertain.

S4312: Changes to Funding for Nonpublic School Services

East Brunswick Public Schools must provide certain auxiliary and remedial services to students who live in town but attend private or parochial schools. The state reimburses the district for these costs.

S4312 changes how that reimbursement is calculated.

What might help East Brunswick

• More predictable reimbursement
The bill uses a three-year rolling average of service costs. This smooths out spikes from year to year and could make budgeting easier.
• Quarterly reimbursement
Instead of waiting until the end of the year, the district could receive funding in smaller waves. That improves cash flow and reduces the risk of the district fronting too much money.

What could be challenging

• More documentation required
Averaging three years of data means EB’s staff may need to maintain deeper cost tracking, adding administrative work.
• Impact depends on the number of private-school students
If the number of nonpublic students requiring services rises, East Brunswick may temporarily cover more costs upfront until reimbursements catch up.
• If actual costs change significantly
Averaging can sometimes lag behind reality, meaning reimbursements might not perfectly match the district’s current year expenditures.

Bottom Line for East Brunswick

S4312 does not dramatically change public-school aid. Its impact is narrower and affects how East Brunswick interacts with nonpublic schools. For most residents, the biggest question is whether reimbursements will more closely match what EB spends. On that front, the bill could be helpful, but it introduces some administrative complexity.

A5800: The State Budget and New School-Aid Rules

A5800, the FY2026 state budget, includes several provisions that directly affect how much money every district receives from the state.

Key changes

• Aid cannot decrease more than 3 percent from last year.
• Aid cannot increase more than 6 percent from last year.
• The state will use three-year averages for property values and income when calculating what a town is expected to pay locally.
• Special education funding will be based on actual enrollment, not estimates.

How could this help East Brunswick

• More stability
East Brunswick has experienced unpredictable state aid swings over the last several years. The new caps help avoid sudden drops that force emergency cuts.
• Three-year averages protect against volatility
If property values spike in one year, the district won’t immediately be penalized with a big reduction in state aid the next year.
• Special education funding may become more accurate
If EB’s special-education population has increased, the district could receive funding more aligned with actual needs.

How could this hurt or limit East Brunswick

• Aid increases are capped
If East Brunswick is entitled to a large increase under the formula, the 6 percent cap could delay the district from receiving the full amount.
• Aid decreases still exist
A 3 percent drop cap softens the blow but doesn’t eliminate it.
• Long-term structural issues remain
The budget language isn’t permanent law. It can be changed again next year, meaning these protections may not last.
• If local property values rise steadily
The state could eventually expect East Brunswick taxpayers to cover a larger share of the district’s cost burden.

Bottom Line for East Brunswick

The budget does not overhaul the entire funding formula, but it does create a “smoother” year-to-year experience. East Brunswick is less likely to face sudden shocks but may also be limited in the amount of new aid it can receive in a single year.

For taxpayers, the main takeaway is predictability. For the district, the question becomes whether stability outweighs the limitations created by the caps.

The Uncertain Future

The budget also requires the New Jersey Department of Education to produce a report by December 2025 on rewriting school-funding policies. That could lead to significant changes in the future — changes that could help East Brunswick, hurt it, or redistribute funding in ways no one can predict yet.

 

Charts & Visuals

A5800: East Brunswick Aid Stability Window

Shows last year’s aid vs. the maximum possible increase and decrease under the new rules.

S4312: How the 3-Year Rolling Average Works

A simple visualization of how the State will reimburse auxiliary/remedial services for nonpublic students.

Final Thought

These bills don’t come with simple “good” or “bad” labels. They create a landscape where East Brunswick experiences more stability, more predictability, and more gradual change, but also more administrative work, new limitations, and questions that the state has not fully answered yet.

Game On, East Brunswick! Winter Sports Tryouts Are Here

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The Bears are lacing up, stretching out, and getting ready for another season of East Brunswick athletics. Whether you’re shooting hoops, hitting the ice, or cheering from the sidelines, here are the important tryout dates you need to know — all in one place.

📅 EBHS Winter Tryouts (Grades 9–12)

  • Bowling, Ice Hockey, Swimming → Nov. 17 @ 3:00 pm, EBHS
  • Basketball & Wrestling → Nov. 24 @ 3:00 pm, EBHS
  • Winter Track → Dec. 1 @ 3:00 pm, EBHS
  • Cheerleading → Dec. 8 @ 3:00 pm, EBHS

🏀 Churchill Jr. High Winter Tryouts (Grades 7–8)

  • Basketball → Nov. 12 @ 3:00 pm, CJHS
  • Wrestling → Nov. 24 @ 3:00 pm, CJHS
  • Freshman Cheer → Dec. 8 @ 3:00 pm, CJHS

🎉 A Few Extras

  • Dance Club Tryouts → Oct. 14 & 15 @ 3:00 pm, EBHS
  • Fall Soccer Tryouts (MS Boys) → Sept. 25 @ 3:00 pm, CJHS

🐾 Eyes On EB Spirit

Mark your calendars, Bears fans — because the gyms, pools, mats, and tracks are about to come alive. Remember, dates can change, so keep an eye on updates from the EB Athletic Department.

Whether you’re trying out, cheering on, or just loving the energy, this winter season promises plenty of Bear pride. Let’s make it one to remember!

 

Who Represents the Middle? A Serious Look at the NJ-12 Democratic Field (Thus Far)

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New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District leans overwhelmingly Democratic, which means the winner of the Democratic primary will almost certainly become the district’s next member of Congress. With Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman retiring, the race is wide open — and Eyes on EB has decided to go down the rabbit hole early, because the direction of this primary will directly shape East Brunswick’s representation for the next decade.

At this early stage, three candidates have officially entered the race. More are expected to join before the filing deadline, but here’s where things stand thus far — and how we’re evaluating which candidate may be the strongest fit for the moderate voter.

How Eyes on EB Is Defining “Moderate”

To keep this analysis consistent and fair, we’re evaluating candidates through four criteria:

  • Tone and communication style

  • Governance approach and experience

  • Fiscal steadiness

  • Social and cultural positioning

Brad Cohen — The Most Moderate, Predictable Candidate So Far

Brad Cohen, the long-serving Mayor of East Brunswick, is the most familiar name for our town’s residents. With an MD and MBA, years on the Board of Education, and nearly a decade as mayor, Cohen’s approach to government is methodical, administrative, and grounded in policy rather than performance.

Cohen’s record on the municipal portion of East Brunswick taxes — the only part the mayor controls — shows small, incremental increases. While residents have felt the impact of large school tax hikes, those stem from state aid cuts, district budget issues, and Board of Education decisions, not the mayor’s office. For many moderate voters, Cohen’s fiscal management style signals steadiness.

His messaging avoids activist framing and focuses on redevelopment, affordability, and everyday governance. Even when Cohen diverges from his party — including public disagreement with Rep. Watson Coleman over a 2019 BDS vote — he does so from a center-left, not progressive, posture.

Cohen also brings a clear local advantage: East Brunswick could benefit from someone who understands the town’s infrastructure, redevelopment timelines, and regional challenges firsthand.

However, Cohen faces a demographic challenge. NJ-12 is one of the most diverse districts in the state, and Democratic primary voters increasingly lean toward candidates who reflect that diversity. As a white male candidate in an open Democratic primary, he may encounter the same structural headwinds seen in similar races nationwide.

Despite that reality, Cohen remains the most moderate and governance-focused candidate in the field so far.

Shanel Robinson — Center-Left, Service-Driven, Strong on Community Needs

Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson brings executive experience and a compelling biography. An Air Force veteran who served as an avionics mechanic, Robinson approaches public service with discipline, duty, and a deep sense of community responsibility.

Her priorities — housing affordability, infrastructure, disaster response, and support for underserved communities — come from firsthand experience navigating Hurricane Ida’s devastation. She emphasizes planning, responsiveness, and meeting residents where they are.

Robinson’s tone is calm and pragmatic. She’s not a firebrand, and she doesn’t frame her politics in activist terms. For moderate voters who lean center-left but still want stability and experience, Robinson is a credible option slightly left of Cohen but firmly within the Democratic mainstream.

Kyle Little — The Progressive Energy Candidate

Kyle Little brings energy, passion, and a clearly progressive agenda — his campaign tagline, “A Fighter Against Fascism. A Voice for the People.” immediately signals that he’s running from the left.

Little openly aligns with national progressive figures such as AOC, Jasmine Crockett, and Maxwell Frost. He argues that the Democratic Party needs generational change and has been critical of “stagnant Democrats.” His platform emphasizes equality, expanded healthcare access, and standing up for vulnerable communities — themes that resonate with the party’s progressive wing.

Little’s approach reflects a growing national trend. The recent election of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City — a young Democratic Socialist who ran on a platform of rent freezes, free transit, and taxing the wealthy — demonstrates how a populist, activist-first approach can mobilize younger voters. Some strategists compare Mamdani’s success to the organizing blueprint used by Bernie Sanders, and there’s speculation that similar progressive-populist campaigns will spread nationally.

Whether Little fully leans into that model remains to be seen, but his messaging places him closest to the progressive-populist lane. For moderates, independents, or voters seeking predictability and bipartisan appeal, he is the least aligned option so far. For those seeking rapid change and a departure from traditional politics, Little represents that direction.

More Candidates Are Expected

This field is not final.

Open seats almost always attract additional contenders — especially in a safely Democratic district where the primary effectively decides the seat. NJ-12 is no exception.

Early reporting and political chatter have mentioned several possible entrants:

  • State Sen. Andrew Zwicker (listed in early NJ Globe reporting)

  • Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (also on NJ Globe’s early shortlist)

  • Commissioner Shanti Narra (rumored due to her base in Middlesex County)

  • Assemblywoman Linda Carter (discussed in party circles)

  • Commissioner Sam Frisby (widely recognized in Mercer political circles)

  • Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy (included in multiple speculative lists)

As of now, only three candidates have formally announced their candidacy. Additional individuals may have filed exploratory paperwork or be considering a run, but no others have made public declarations that we know of.

If any of these rumored contenders jump in, the dynamics of the race — especially for the moderate voter — will shift quickly.

Political Infrastructure Matters

As the race develops, three structural factors will be critical:

  • Fundraising strength

  • Organizational capacity

  • County-line endorsements in Middlesex, Mercer, and Somerset

In a district this large and diverse, viability will depend on more than messaging — it will hinge on who can build the strongest political operation over the coming months.

Eyes on EB will track each of these elements as more information becomes public.

Bottom Line (For Now)

Based on what we know thus far:

1️⃣ Brad Cohen — Most moderate, governance-focused, locally knowledgeable
2️⃣ Shanel Robinson — Center-left, service-oriented, experienced, pragmatic
3️⃣ Kyle Little — Progressive, energetic, least aligned with moderate voters

This ranking may shift as new candidates enter, endorsements form, and platforms become more detailed.

We Want Your Input

Eyes on EB is digging into this early because the stakes for our community are real.
Now we want to hear from you:

  • What qualities matter most in a congressional representative?

  • Do you value experience, moderation, fresh energy, or specific policy areas?

  • What questions do YOU want us to ask the candidates in future coverage?

New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District includes parts of Middlesex, Mercer, Somerset, and Union counties — covering communities such as East Brunswick, North Brunswick, South Brunswick, Plainsboro, West Windsor, East Windsor, Princeton, Franklin, Montgomery, Trenton, and several neighboring towns.

Send your thoughts to tips@EyesOnEB.com or comment on our platforms — your input will shape the next phase of our reporting.

East Brunswick Drone Ban Pulled From Consideration — And a Wake-Up Call for the Town Council

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Who Says You Can’t Fight City Hall?

At the October 27th East Brunswick Town Council meeting, Ordinance 25-36 was introduced — a sweeping drone restriction that would have banned almost every kind of drone flight in town. It passed its first reading 5–0, without a single question, discussion, or mention that local governments can’t regulate airspace under federal law.

Two days later, on October 29th, Eyes on EB published a blog post breaking down exactly why this ordinance wasn’t just unnecessary — it was illegal. The post hit a nerve and spread quickly, drawing more than 30,000 views, with the majority of readers right here in East Brunswick.

“I was laying on my couch with my laptop, the Town Council meeting Bluetooth’d to my TV, a bowl of ice cream balanced on top of me — and I nearly fell off the couch when I heard what they were proposing,” said Rob W, founder of Eyes on EB. “It sounded like something written without even Googling ‘FAA drone laws.’”

And that reach made an impact.

South Rive resident Robert Wasilewski was the first to come across our blog post exposing the proposed drone ordinance. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, he reached out to Sayreville resident Jason Miklowcic, another experienced drone pilot and advocate. Both were familiar with Ryan Latourette’s work in drone policy and knew he was the right person to contact.

Robert and Jason brought the situation to Ryan’s attention — and from there, Ryan took the lead, engaging legal counsel and ensuring the issue reached the Township’s attorneys. Within days, the matter was under formal review — and the impact was felt.

At the following Town Council meeting, Mayor Brad Cohen publicly announced that there would not be a second reading on the drone ordinance. He acknowledged that “the members of the public and some of us here in the township recognized that the ordinance as it was written was a little bit too broad.” Cohen added that the police department and township attorneys would revisit the language and “look at redrafting it in a way that’s more succinct and gets to the point… without being overly broad.”

In other words — the ordinance that once seemed destined to pass quietly has now been pulled from consideration for now.
For the time being, the Town Council will not be voting on it.

Robert, Jason, and Ryan all deserve credit for stepping up quickly and working together to ensure East Brunswick didn’t move forward with an ordinance that conflicts with existing law.

As Ryan pointed out, New Jersey’s Drone Act (N.J.S.A. 2C:40-27) already provides clear statewide regulations. It prevents municipalities from creating local laws that contradict federal or state rules. Towns can decide where drones take off and land on township property — but they cannot regulate airspace, flight altitude, or flight paths. That authority belongs solely to the FAA.

In short: East Brunswick never had the legal authority to pass this kind of ordinance.

But here’s the bigger concern — if something this obviously flawed slipped through five council members and a mayor without anyone questioning it, what else is sliding through the cracks?

Only about 150 people watch Town Council meetings online, and just a handful of residents attend in person. When that few people are paying attention, accountability disappears.

That’s exactly why Eyes on EB will be paying even closer attention to Town Council meetings moving forward — attending, reviewing, and reporting on the issues that affect taxpayers, homeowners, and residents before decisions are made behind the dais.

This drone ordinance wasn’t just about drones — it was about awareness.
It showed how quickly bad policy can advance when no one’s watching, and how quickly it can stop when people are.

So, who says you can’t fight City Hall?
Sometimes all it takes is one good article, a few informed residents, and a community that refuses to look the other way.

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.

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East Brunswick has been paid for hosting the landfill every year since 1985 — about $4.5 million in 2026. It has also been on the receiving end of thirty years of odour complaints, a withdrawn plan to dig up old waste, two federal settlements and a school evacuation nearly four miles away. The final part of a four-part Eyes on EB series.

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The original Edgeboro landfill had a legal end date written into a state permit in January 1984: December 31, 1992. It did not operate beyond it. It was capped, and it is still there — underneath a second landfill, separately permitted, built on top of it. Part 3 of a four-part Eyes on EB series.

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East Brunswick did not choose to take in seven counties’ garbage. A slope collapse in Old Bridge, a court order and a series of state emergency orders took the truck traffic from a few hundred a day to well over a thousand — and Middlesex County went to court to stop it, and lost. Part 2 of a four-part Eyes on EB series.

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Thousands of us drive past the mound on Edgeboro Road every day. It began as a sand-and-gravel quarry before 1954, it is really two landfills stacked on top of each other, and almost everything it does is invisible from the road. Part 1 of a four-part Eyes on EB series.
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