Let’s start here, “Towns can have laws that are stricter than state or federal ones in many areas (like noise ordinances, curfews, or building codes). But not when it comes to drones, because the FAA has exclusive authority over the nation’s airspace.”
At the October 27 East Brunswick Town Council meeting, Mayor Brad Cohen used his closing remarks to deliver a pointed reminder to residents: this year’s only local election—East Brunswick’s Board of Education race—carries lasting importance for the community’s future.
“This is the last council meeting before the election,” Cohen began, “and I wanted to emphasize how important it is—this particular election. We are at a crossroads when it comes to the school system here in East Brunswick.”
Cohen highlighted that the district is entering a new chapter under a new superintendent, calling this moment “an opportunity that will not come again for a very long time.” He underscored the need for voters to reflect on what has not worked in the past and to select leaders capable of bringing transparency and collaboration back into the relationship between the township and the school board.
“It is no secret that there has been difficulty between the township and the school board over the past couple of years,” he said. “This is a time for a reset—a brand new beginning.”
Cohen pointed to a lack of transparency as one of the factors that has strained communication between the two entities. “There has been an attempt to look at them as their own island,” he said. “They’re not good at often sharing with the township in a way that promotes what’s in the best interest of the township.”
He reminded residents that the responsibility of setting the district’s course lies squarely in the hands of the voters. “The township does not run the school district,” Cohen stated. “That is run by the Board of Education—and that’s in your hands to pick those people.”
The mayor also emphasized the broader impact of strong schools on the entire community, noting that even residents without children in the district are affected by the district’s performance. “People move to this township because of the quality of our schools,” he said. “Property values—whether you have students in the schools or don’t—are predicated on that fact.”
Cohen concluded with a call to action: “Whatever is wrong with the ship is not so far gone that it can’t be corrected. But it is all in your hands. Vote. Analyze the people that are out there. Make good choices. And let’s all work together to do what we’ve all been elected to do—look out for the interests of everybody that lives, works, or travels through this great township.”
Continuing Coverage from Eyes on EB
Here at Eyes on EB, we’ve been closely following every aspect of the Board of Education—from the $12 million budget shortfall and program cuts to ongoing issues of transparency and leadership transitions. As Mayor Cohen noted, this election represents a crucial turning point for East Brunswick’s schools, and our commitment remains the same: to keep you informed, engaged, and equipped with facts that matter.
We’ll continue to lead the way in covering this Board of Education election—tracking the candidates, the conversations, and the decisions shaping the future of our district. Stay tuned to Eyes on EB for updates, insights, and post-election analysis as East Brunswick chooses the leaders who will help steer our schools forward.
We’ve queued up the video from the meeting so you can hear Mayor Cohen’s full remarks — check it out below.
There’s a growing sentiment in East Brunswick and surrounding towns that Trunk-or-Treats have quietly killed traditional trick-or-treating.
It’s a bold claim, but scroll through any local comment section this time of year and you’ll see dozens of people nodding in agreement. Parents who remember what Halloween used to be — the thrill of racing down dimly lit streets with pillowcases full of candy, the freedom to explore, the independence of choosing your next stop — now watch as Halloween night has been replaced with folding tables, parking lots, and plastic pumpkin buckets filled before dark.
The Magic of the 70s and 80s Halloween
Back in the late 70s and early 80s, Halloween wasn’t an organized event — it was an adventure.
Parents rarely went with you. Maybe they’d remind you to wear something reflective, maybe they’d tell you to stay off certain blocks, but once you hit the sidewalk, you were on your own.
You had to make choices — which house looked welcoming, which ones might have full-size bars, and which ones were better to skip because that one guy always handed out raisins. There was a sense of earned candy — a reward for every doorbell you rang and every creepy yard you dared to enter.
And there was something about being out there as a kid in a mob of other kids — some older, some younger, all running in different directions. You learned to navigate, to look out for cars, to remember which streets got good traffic and which ones didn’t. It wasn’t just trick-or-treating; it was a night of freedom and exploration.
How Trunk-or-Treat Changed the Game
Trunk-or-Treats came from a good place. They started as safe alternatives — a way for families to celebrate together in one secure, well-lit space. Churches, schools, and community centers embraced the idea, setting up parking lots full of decorated cars and candy trunks.
But over time, something shifted. Parents began to see Trunk-or-Treat as a replacement, not an addition. And kids, especially younger ones, got used to the idea that Halloween was something that happened in a parking lot before dinner — not something that stretched into the night under streetlights and glowing porch pumpkins.
Now, on October 31st, entire neighborhoods that once buzzed with laughter and flashlight beams sit quiet and dark. The once-magical feeling of seeing kids darting from house to house is fading, replaced by organized events with time limits and sign-ups.
A Loss of Adventure
Maybe this is what people mean when they say Trunk-or-Treat “killed” Halloween — not that it took away the candy or costumes, but that it removed the adventure.
It made something wild and unpredictable into something neat, tidy, and convenient. It traded risk for routine, and in doing so, took away one of the few nights a kid could be independent — to get a little lost, to be a little brave, to see what was waiting at the next porch light.
And if you’ve noticed lately, it’s not just the kids who disappeared — it’s the whole feeling of Halloween night. You used to hear laughter echoing down the street, doors opening, and candy hitting buckets. Now you hear nothing but silence — maybe a handful of trick-or-treaters, if that. You get those one or two neighbors every year who swear, “We were packed!” and you can’t help but wonder if they really were… or if everyone just ended up at the same Trunk-or-Treat.
Halloween used to be a night where kids ruled the streets. Now, it feels more like another family outing on the calendar.
Can We Bring It Back?
The streetlights still come on every October 31st. The pumpkins still flicker on porches. But now, most of the doors stay closed — and that silence says everything.
It’s not too late. Maybe the kids can still have it all! Maybe neighborhoods can come back to life with porch lights and jack-o’-lanterns — the safety of community events and the thrill of old-school trick-or-treating.
Because for those who remember — the sound of leaves under your sneakers, the pillowcase getting heavier by the block, the feeling of being out past dark on a “school night” — it wasn’t just candy. It was freedom, friendship, and a tiny taste of growing up.
It was a packed week across East Brunswick athletics, with multiple tournament runs, rivalry matchups, and standout performances. From another GMC title in field hockey to a strong soccer push, here’s how the Bears stacked up across every sport.
🏑 Field Hockey: Five Straight GMC Titles
GMC Final – Oct. 25 East Brunswick 3, Old Bridge 1 The Bears captured their fifth straight Greater Middlesex Conference Championship, defeating Old Bridge behind goals from Molly Blatties, Alexa DeRado, and Arianna DeMaio. Assists came from Rachel Gerould and Julia Rose, while Ella Balsamo was sharp in net with nine saves. Record: 14-3-1 (6-2 GMC Red)
GMC Semifinal – Oct. 23 East Brunswick 3, South Plainfield 0 EB advanced to the finals with goals from DeRado, Logan Hooper, and Julia Rose. Balsamo stopped one shot in the shutout.
GMC Quarterfinal – Oct. 21 East Brunswick 8, South Brunswick 0 The Bears exploded for eight goals, led by Hooper (2) and Rose (2). Additional goals came from Carissa Kovarcik, Gerould, DeRado, and DeMaio. Molly Blatties assisted on two.
⚽ Boys Soccer: Rolling Through the GMC Tournament
GMC Quarterfinal – Oct. 23 East Brunswick 5, Perth Amboy 1 The Bears moved into the semifinals with a commanding win. Giovanny Sousa and Ben Lyons each scored twice, with John Matos adding one more. Assists were credited to Sebastian Vargas, Sean Li, and Lucas Henriques.
GMC First Round – Oct. 21 East Brunswick 3, South Plainfield 1 EB started its postseason strong with goals from Li, Robert Perillo, and Mateo Dela Cruz. Aiden Hanas, Rosario Volino, and Ty Hecht combined for six saves in goal.
⚽ Girls Soccer: Bears Fall in Double Overtime
GMC Quarterfinal – Oct. 22 Spotswood 3, East Brunswick 2 (2OT) The Bears’ tournament run ended in a heartbreaking double-overtime loss. Samantha Baker scored early, and Jacqueline Goldovsky added one more in the second half, with assists from Hannah Cheraibi and Baker. Goalkeeper Caylin Docherty made four saves in the effort.
🏐 Girls Volleyball: Monroe Sweeps Quarterfinal Match
GMC Quarterfinal – Oct. 21 Monroe 2, East Brunswick 0 (25–20, 25–23) Despite a hard-fought effort, East Brunswick fell in straight sets to Monroe. Kristina Latosh led Monroe with nine kills and Adhya Mukunda tallied 14 assists.
🏈 Football: Bears Fall to South Brunswick
Oct. 24 South Brunswick 43, East Brunswick 18 East Brunswick dropped to 2–7 after a tough road loss in Big Central Conference play.
🤸♀️ Gymnastics: Bears Top Hightstown
Oct. 21 East Brunswick 98.4, Hightstown 93.95 The Bears turned in one of their best meets of the season. Isabella Wasserman led the team with an all-around score of 33.225, followed by Ellah Levi (32.15) and Alexandra Cooperman (32.0). EB dominated the beam and floor routines to secure the win.
🐻 Summary
It was another big week for East Brunswick athletics — highlighted by the field hockey team’s fifth straight GMC championship and boys soccer’s deep tournament push. With postseason play still underway, the Bears continue to represent EB with pride and momentum heading into late October.
Good news, East Brunswick — you don’t have to wait until the last minute to make your voice heard. New Jersey’s in-person early voting option is back for the 2025 General Election, and it’s designed for anyone who likes to get things done early — whether that’s grocery shopping, holiday decorating, or voting for the future of your town.
Let’s break it down so you can plan your ballot run like a pro.
🗳️ Middlesex County Early Voting Locations
(You can vote at any of these, regardless of where you live in the county.)
Municipality
Location
Address
East Brunswick
East Brunswick Community Center
721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
Edison
Minnie B. Veal Recreation Center
1070 Grove Avenue, Edison
Monroe
Monroe Public Library
4 Municipal Plaza, Monroe
New Brunswick
New Brunswick Hub Teen Center
411 Joyce Kilmer Avenue, New Brunswick
Old Bridge
Old Bridge Civic Center
1 Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge
Perth Amboy
Jankowski Community Center
1 Olive Street, Perth Amboy
Piscataway
John F. Kennedy Public Library
500 Hoes Lane, Piscataway
Sayreville
Sayreville Senior Center
423 Main Street, Sayreville
South Brunswick
South Brunswick Community Center
124 New Road, Monmouth Junction
Woodbridge
Acacia Youth Center (formerly Hungarian Manor)
95 Port Reading Avenue, Woodbridge
🏛️ Where and When
Location: East Brunswick Community Arts Center (yep, the one everyone calls the Community Center) 📍 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
Early Voting Runs for Nine Days: 🗓️ Saturday, October 25 through Sunday, November 2, 2025
Hours:
Monday – Saturday → 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday → 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
No appointment needed — just walk in any day during the early voting period, cast your ballot, and enjoy the satisfaction of being ahead of the curve.
🖥️ What to Expect
Early voting feels exactly like regular voting — minus the long lines and the stress. You’ll sign in electronically, get your voter activation card, and head to a sleek touchscreen machine. Make your picks, review them on the summary screen, hit “Cast Ballot,” and you’re done.
It’s fast, secure, and convenient — the trifecta of good civic engagement.
💡 Why It’s Worth Doing
Life happens. Work runs late, kids have practice, or maybe Netflix just gets the best of you on November 4. Early voting takes the pressure off. You can pop in any day that week, even on a lunch break or after dinner.
Plus, you can vote at any early voting site in Middlesex County — so if you’re in Edison for work or in Old Bridge visiting family, you can still cast your East Brunswick ballot.
📨 Prefer Mail-In Voting Instead?
You can still go that route — just apply for your mail-in ballot by October 28 (if mailing the request) or by 3 p.m. on November 3 if you apply in person at the Middlesex County Board of Elections (11 Kennedy Boulevard, East Brunswick).
But remember: once you request a mail-in ballot, you can’t vote in person at the polls. So if you love the energy of voting in person, early voting is the perfect middle ground.
📅 Election Day Is Still November 4
If you’re a traditionalist who likes to wait until Election Day, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. across East Brunswick. Check your sample ballot or the county poll locator to confirm your spot.
❤️ Your Vote, Your Voice
Whether you vote early, vote by mail, or show up on Election Day, what matters most is that you show up. Our local elections shape the community we live in — from schools and roads to the future of downtown East Brunswick.
So grab a friend, take a selfie at the Arts Center, and celebrate democracy, Jersey-style.
Early voting runs October 25 through November 2 at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Road.
See you there, East Brunswick — let’s make this election season one for the books!
Building Confidence, Connection, and Community Through Movement
At the Raritan Valley YMCA, sports and fitness are about so much more than just the scoreboard — they’re about growth, confidence, and belonging. This season, Senior Program Director Ara Farley, M.B.A. is leading the charge with new and expanded offerings that invite children, teens, and seniors alike to get active, stay connected, and discover the joy of movement.
“We’re excited to introduce several programs designed to give more children opportunities to stay active and have fun — especially during evening hours,” Farley shares. “As a parent myself, I know how valuable it is to have options outside of weekends so families with young children can participate too!”
Youth Sports Highlights
This season brings an exciting variety of new and returning programs to the Raritan Valley YMCA, giving every child — from preschoolers to pre-teens — a chance to shine.
For our youngest athletes (ages 3–5):
Pre-K Soccer – A playful introduction to teamwork and ball control.
Fitness Scavenger Hunt – Movement meets adventure as kids explore, run, and learn.
Yoga Adventure Story – Story-based yoga that builds balance, flexibility, and focus.
Expanding skills for older youth:
Soccer Basics and Advanced Soccer – Children ages 5–7 and beyond can develop skills at their own pace.
Basketball with Camryn – Led by standout East Brunswick High School player Camryn, this program builds confidence through teamwork and attention to detail.
Tennis with Varsity Players Ojas and his teammate – North Brunswick Varsity coaches bring fresh energy, mentorship, and technique to young players.
Agility & Games – For kids who love action and friendly competition, this class boosts coordination, speed, and fun.
Boccia – An inclusive, strategy-based game similar to bowling, open to children of all abilities.
Farley emphasizes that these programs are not just about athletic ability — they’re about confidence, teamwork, and joy.
Coaching Philosophy: A Balanced Approach
The Raritan Valley YMCA’s coaching philosophy blends structure with playfulness.
“Our coaching style is a balanced mix of instructional and recreational,” explains Farley. “Each class is designed with skill development in mind, but we know kids learn best when they’re having fun. Our coaches are flexible — if the group needs to refocus or switch things up to stay engaged, we make that happen.”
With both high school and adult coaches working side by side, young athletes benefit from role models who bring energy and relatability, along with the structure and experience needed for growth.
Parents often comment on the warmth and encouragement they see in every class. Kids leave each session not just stronger in skill, but also in self-esteem and connection. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
Standout Moments
One of Farley’s favorite success stories centers on volunteer tennis coach Ojas.
“I was leading the class, but as a left-handed coach, I sometimes struggled to demonstrate certain skills for our beginners,” Farley recalls. “When Ojas stepped in, the energy completely shifted — the kids became more engaged, confident, and eager to learn. A huge shout-out to Ojas for making such a meaningful impact!”
Stories like these highlight what makes the YMCA unique: a community where mentorship thrives and every participant — coach or child — grows through shared experiences.
Senior Wellness: A Matter of Balance
The YMCA’s commitment to health extends beyond youth. For older adults, A Matter of Balance is transforming lives through practical, empowering strategies to reduce fear of falling and promote independence.
“Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for older adults, yet many falls are preventable,” Farley explains. “When I learned how effective A Matter of Balance is in helping seniors build confidence, stay active, and remain independent longer, I knew it was something our community needed.”
This free program supports adults 60+ who have experienced falls, worry about balance, or have reduced activity due to fear of falling. Participants report measurable improvements in:
Balance and mobility
Strength and flexibility
Confidence in daily movement
Social connection and independence
Farley reminds participants that staying active is the best fall prevention. “Fear of falling actually increases the risk. Small, consistent changes in balance and strength can make all the difference.”
The YMCA runs A Matter of Balance twice a year — and many participants continue exercising together long after the program ends.
How to Register and Get Involved
The upcoming season begins October 27th and runs through December 19th. Most youth sports allow flexible registration throughout the session — but spots fill quickly!
To learn more or register, visit www.raritanvalleyymca.org or stop by the front desk to speak with the Fitness & Sports team.
Why It Matters
At its core, the Raritan Valley YMCA is about more than fitness — it’s about community. From preschoolers scoring their first goal to seniors regaining balance and confidence, each program is a reminder that movement brings people together, strengthens families, and builds lifelong habits of health and connection.
As Farley puts it best:
“We’re not just coaching sports — we’re helping people of all ages find joy, confidence, and belonging.”
When you talk about East Brunswick athletics, few names carry as much weight as Coach Cindy Todoroff. For years, she’s been the backbone of the Bears’ field hockey program — the kind of coach who doesn’t just build teams, but builds traditions.
At Friday’s Rutgers Field Hockey alumni game, that tradition came full circle. In the pre-game huddle, alumni led the circle with the same energy and heart that Coach T instilled years ago. The stands might have been filled with Scarlet, but there was plenty of East Brunswick pride on the field too — including one alum in black representing our town with the same fire she had back in high school.
Coach Todoroff has been instrumental in shaping the foundation of East Brunswick Field Hockey, helping it grow into a competitive, spirited program that continues to thrive. She’s also been a steadfast supporter of girls’ lacrosse, always showing up to champion the athletes who give their all for their school and teammates.
Sometimes influence isn’t loud — it’s consistent, steady, and deeply felt. That’s what Coach T represents. Her players still carry her lessons long after they hang up their jerseys, and moments like this remind us how far her reach truly extends.
At this week’s council meeting, Mayor Brad Cohen took time to address one of the most common concerns shared by East Brunswick residents — roadwork and traffic. While the orange cones and detours may be frustrating, the mayor made it clear that the township’s long-term infrastructure plan is both responsible and necessary.
Every year, East Brunswick allocates roughly $2–4 million dollars toward road improvements, ensuring that aging infrastructure gets the attention it needs. This year, $2.7 million has been set aside for the upcoming paving projects.
“We do this every year so we can get the best possible rates,” Mayor Cohen explained. “It would be foolish to wait until spring when most companies are already booked. By bonding now, we save taxpayer money.”
The mayor also emphasized why the township doesn’t release a detailed list of roads months in advance. Weather and changing conditions can alter the schedule, and publishing early lists often leads to confusion when priorities shift.
“We don’t publish that list until we’re close to starting,” he said. “Things can change after a tough winter, and we want to make sure the information we share is accurate.”
While many residents have voiced frustration over traffic delays, Mayor Cohen clarified that much of what people experience isn’t even township construction. Route 18, for example, falls under the New Jersey Department of Transportation, and the township has no authority over when or how that work is scheduled. Similarly, projects by PSE&G are handled by the utility company, which is legally entitled to access its own lines for repairs or upgrades.
“We only ask that they coordinate with us so projects don’t overlap,” Cohen said.
In addition to township roads — of which there are about 180 miles — residents are also seeing improvements to county roads like Milltown Road, Cranbury Road, Ryders Lane, and Old Bridge Turnpike. Those projects are funded and managed by Middlesex County, which allocates funds across all 25 municipalities.
The mayor acknowledged that no matter when work is done, someone is inconvenienced — daytime projects affect commuters, while nighttime work can disturb sleep.
“People complain when it’s not done, and they complain when it is,” Cohen said with a smile. “Sometimes we just have to take a deep breath. When it’s finished, it will be better — I promise.”
Cohen reiterated that East Brunswick’s approach is proactive, not reactionary. The township coordinates closely with county, state, and private agencies to ensure projects don’t overlap unnecessarily, while continuing to invest responsibly in local infrastructure.
At the end of the day, the goal is simple: safe, smooth, and sustainable roads for everyone who calls East Brunswick home.
🎥 We’ve cued up the clip so you can hear Mayor Brad Cohen explain it himself — straight from the meeting.
🐻 East Brunswick Sports Weekly — “The Grind & Shine” Edition
Mid-October brought tournaments, tight games, and a whole lot of heart. From Goldovsky’s hat trick to clutch football grit and gymnasts sticking their landings, EB athletes kept the green-and-white spirit alive across every field, court, and mat.
This week wasn’t about easy wins — it was about earning them.
🎾 Girls Tennis (13–2) — “Finals Heartbreaker, Season to Remember”
Storyline: The Bears clawed to the sectional final in a rematch of last year’s thriller, but fell just short to West Windsor-Plainsboro South. Every court told a story — long rallies, emotional points, and teammates cheering through every serve.
Parents’ brag line: “We didn’t lose heart — we proved we belong in every final.”
⚽ Girls Soccer (10–5) — “Seven Shades of Green”
Storyline: In the first round of the GMC Tournament, EB looked like a team on a mission. The passing was fluid, the finishing clinical, and Jacqueline Goldovsky was unstoppable — a hat trick in under 35 minutes.
Results Thu, Oct 16 (GMC 1st Rd): EB 7, Wardlaw-Hartridge 0 Goals: Goldovsky 3, S. Baker, Fernandes, Ilnitskyy, L. Baker Assists: Arevalo 2, Fernandes 2, Docherty, Hamm, Aleixo GK: Docherty & Moore combined for 3 saves
Parents’ brag line: “Teamwork makes the goals work — and Goldovsky makes it look easy.”
🏑 Field Hockey (11–3–1) — “Back-to-Back Shutouts”
Storyline: Two games. Two 4–0 wins. EB field hockey has found its stride just in time for the postseason. From Julia Rose’s opening strikes to Rachel Gerould’s leadership and Ella Balsamo’s calm in net, this squad is firing on all cylinders.
Results Tue, Oct 14: EB 4, Metuchen 0 Goals: Hooper, Blatties, Gerould, Salamon Thu, Oct 16: EB 4, Somerville 0 Goals: Rose 2, Blatties, Gerould Assists: DeRado 3, DeMaio
Parents’ brag line: “Four quarters. Four goals. Two clean sheets. That’s EB hockey.”
⚽ Boys Soccer (9–7) — “Momentum Builders”
Storyline: A confident week for the Bears — a 5–2 win over Bloomfield followed by a gutsy 2–1 result against North Brunswick. Giovanny Sousa stepped up with two goals, while Ben Lyons and Lamine Ndao kept the attack sharp.
Results Tue, Oct 14: EB 5, Bloomfield 2 Thu, Oct 16: EB 2, North Brunswick 1 Goals: Sousa 2, Lyons, Vargas, Dela Cruz Assists: Ndao, Lima, Taha
Parents’ brag line: “Two wins, seven goals, zero doubt — these boys came to play.”
🏐 Girls Volleyball (5–13) — “Fighting Every Point”
Storyline: It was a full tournament stretch for the girls. A strong sweep of Piscataway showed how much this group has grown, with Smitha Srinivasan and Addyson Danchak leading the way. Close losses to JP Stevens and Mother Seton showed the grit that’s become this team’s trademark.
Results Mon, Oct 13: JP Stevens 2, EB 0 Tue, Oct 14: EB 2, Piscataway 0 Wed, Oct 15: Mother Seton 2, EB 0
Parents’ brag line: “We may bend, but we never break — lessons today, wins tomorrow.”
🤸♀️ Gymnastics (1–5, 5th at GMCs) — “Raising the Bar”
Storyline: EB gymnasts competed twice this week, capped by a strong fifth-place team finish at the GMC Championships. Isabella Wasserman (33.25 AA) and Alexandra Cooperman (32.325 AA) led a balanced lineup that’s showing more consistency every meet.
Results Thu, Oct 16: Old Bridge 98.375, EB 96.45 Sat, Oct 18 (GMCs): EB 94.15 (5th place)
Parents’ brag line: “Clean routines, steady hands — the details are adding up.”
🏈 Football (2–6) — “The Grit Game”
Storyline: Friday night football doesn’t get much tighter than this. The Bears fought through four quarters to edge North Hunterdon 13–10 on the road. Sean Christie threw for 106 yards and a TD, while Nathan Charleston ran in the game-winner.
Fri, Oct 17: EB 13, North Hunterdon 10 TDs: DeJesus (receiving), Charleston (rushing)
Parents’ brag line: “Character win. Every inch earned.”
📌 Quick-Hit Results at a Glance
Girls Tennis (13–2): L 2–3 WWPS (CJG4 Final) Girls Soccer (10–5): W 7–0 Wardlaw-Hartridge Field Hockey (11–3–1): W 4–0 Metuchen • W 4–0 Somerville Boys Soccer (9–7): W 5–2 Bloomfield • W 2–1 North Brunswick Girls Volleyball (5–13): L 0–2 JP Stevens • W 2–0 Piscataway • L 0–2 Mother Seton Gymnastics (1–5): L 96.45–98.375 Old Bridge • 5th Place @ GMCs (94.15) Football (2–6): W 13–10 North Hunterdon
🐻 EB Parent Pride Corner
This week, it wasn’t just about stats — it was about heart. From comeback sets to clean sheets and clutch finishes, East Brunswick athletes proved once again why the green and white mean more than colors — they represent community, character, and commitment.
Post those photos, tag your player, and brag nicely — it was a week worth remembering.
When a community feels safe, it’s never by accident — it’s the result of dedication, professionalism, and integrity. This week, the East Brunswick Police Department once again proved why our town can take pride in its men and women in uniform. The department has officially been reaccredited by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, a distinction earned by only about 12% of law enforcement agencies across the state.
The presentation took place during this week’s council meeting, where Director Harry Delgado of the State Association addressed the significance of the achievement. He explained that accreditation isn’t just a plaque on the wall — it’s a rigorous evaluation of leadership, ethics, community engagement, training, and adherence to the highest standards of professional policing.
“This achievement demonstrates a firm commitment to state and national standards, and continued expectations for quality, professional, and ethical policing,” Delgado said. “East Brunswick’s department stands among the most respected law enforcement agencies in New Jersey.”
Following the presentation, Chief Frank LoSacco took the podium to accept the certificate, emphasizing that success like this is never the result of one person — but of an entire department working together.
“It takes a village,” Chief LoSacco said. “Our officers do phenomenal work every day, and that makes me look good. This reaccreditation is the result of their hard work and dedication.”
He also explained that accreditation not only strengthens the department’s operations but helps safeguard the township by ensuring that East Brunswick follows best practices recognized statewide — practices that make our community safer and protect both residents and officers.
The chief went on to thank the department’s leadership team, including Captain Walsh and Captain Sutter, for their commitment to maintaining excellence in every aspect of police work.
The East Brunswick Police Department’s reaccreditation is more than a ceremonial milestone — it’s a reflection of a culture built on accountability, transparency, and trust. The department continues to set the bar high, serving as a model for how law enforcement and community partnership can thrive together.
From all of us at Eyes on EB, congratulations to Chief LoSacco and every member of the East Brunswick Police Department for this outstanding accomplishment. Thank you for keeping our town safe and for continuing to make East Brunswick proud.
What began as a standard end-of-meeting segment — “For the Good of the Cause” — became one of the most extraordinary evenings the East Brunswick Board of Education has seen in years.
A simple procedural item turned into a raw public conversation about communication, transparency, and leadership. In a town that prides itself on civic engagement, this meeting reminded everyone why transparency is both difficult and necessary.
A Motion Few Saw Coming
After routine votes wrapped up, Board President Dr. Heather Guas invited closing remarks. Instead, Dr. Jaime Falco asked for the floor.
“Madam President, I move to discuss a vote of no confidence in board leadership.”
The room quieted. Even seasoned observers were surprised — votes of no confidence are rare in local boards and, while symbolic, they speak volumes.
Dr. Falco explained her reasoning plainly:
“It’s come to this board’s attention that there have been difficulties in communication and transparency. Those of us who sit up here are of equal standing. When business is conducted on our behalf and without our knowledge or consent, we believe that, according to Roberts Rules, we have the right to discuss a vote of no confidence.”
Her concern stemmed from an email that had gone out to every family in the district announcing the selection of a new superintendent — an email signed solely by President Guas and labeled “on behalf of the Board.” Several members said they had neither seen nor approved the message before it was sent.
Dr. Figueroa quickly seconded the motion.
Dr. Tanious stated that she echoed the frustration that many in the community have voiced for months.
“I received that email as a parent,” she said. “It was disheartening to receive that when I am an appointed official. We are a board of nine. The president of the board is the first among equals. It does not give you the authority to act on behalf of the board without consent of the board.”
Dr. Tanious emphasized that this wasn’t personal:
“This has nothing to do with Dr. Valeski or any administrator. This is about leadership. Respectfully, Madam President, don’t call me a liar. Everyone here knows the email delays we’ve experienced.”
The exchange, firm but civil, crystallized a long-standing tension: how information flows from administration to the board, and from the board to the community.
“Nothing to Report”
President Guas defended her record, pointing to the sheer volume of correspondence she receives.
“The emails from this board are substantial,” she said. “I read them all. I’ve tried to be more responsive, and I will send weekly updates if that’s what the board wants — even if the update simply says, ‘I have nothing to report.’ ”
That remark drew a pointed response from Dr. Tanious:
“There should be something to report. You’ve said you speak with Dr. Valeski daily. How is it possible that there’s nothing to report from those conversations?”
Her comment resonated beyond the dais. For months, parents and teachers have questioned why major developments — from budget presentations to administrative hires — seem to reach social media before they reach the board itself.
Dr. Pan: “We Lost the Pattern of Communication”
When Dr. Wilbur Pan spoke, the conversation shifted from accusation to analysis.
“From my point of view, there’s been a consistent pattern of limited communication that could have been more frequent, more regular,” he said. “During the superintendent search, communication was highly successful. Afterward, that pattern went away.”
He described learning about district matters indirectly — from community events or online posts — rather than through structured board updates.
“It would have been nice for us to know that such meetings were happening. Even a simple ‘things are in process’ would go a long way.”
Dr. Pan stressed that his comments were not political.
“This is not about the election. No one should weaponize this. It’s about leadership, not membership.”
Later, as the discussion wound down, he added somberly:
“Given the tenor of this conversation, it seems clear that the root cause lies in communication from leadership. Our number-one priority should be the students, and that means ensuring a seamless transition for our new superintendent.”
His remarks — calm, methodical, but unmistakably disappointed — drew nods from several colleagues and from many in the audience.
Dr. Falco: “Equal Standing Means Equal Information”
Returning to the floor, Dr. Falco clarified the intent behind the motion.
“A vote of no confidence is not a censure. It’s a declarative statement that we are dissatisfied with the way communication is being handled.”
She cited repeated unanswered emails, inconsistent updates, and confusion over who could speak publicly on behalf of the board.
“Equal standing means equal information. If board members are finding out about district actions as parents, not as officials, something is broken.”
To longtime observers of East Brunswick meetings, her comments reflected a theme that has surfaced all year — questions about process and chain of communication rather than ideology.
Tim Cummings: “We Need a Plan”
When Tim Cummings spoke, the temperature in the room lowered. His remarks were measured but candid.
“Things don’t always work out the way we intend,” he said to Liwu Hong, who had just offered an emotional apology for his own misstep involving an unapproved dinner invitation between the incoming superintendent and the mayor. “I respect and appreciate that your intention was pure.”
Turning to the broader issue, Cummings continued:
“Leadership in any organization is complex. I don’t envy the role of president. But we need a plan. We can’t move anywhere without one. Right now everybody’s confused, everybody’s frustrated, and that doesn’t work. Let’s focus on building a plan that gets everyone rowing in the same direction.”
He also underscored the urgency of preparing for the superintendent transition.
“We still don’t have a plan, and that’s not fair to her — or to us. We’re in the midst of the most massive transition this district has seen, and we need leadership that can pull all of these bright minds together.”
Many in the audience later described Cummings’ remarks as the night’s “reset moment,” steering the conversation from blame to solutions.
Liwu Hong
“My Intention Was to Help, Not to Hurt”
In one of the night’s most emotional moments, Liwu Hong stood to clarify his role in what he described as a misunderstanding that had spiraled into mistrust.
“I NEVER LIE,” HE SAID, VISIBLY SHAKEN. “MY INTENTION WAS TO HELP, NOT TO HURT. IF THE PUBLIC BELIEVES I MADE A MISTAKE, I APOLOGIZE FROM MY HEART.”
Hong explained that his decision to invite the incoming superintendent and the mayor to dinner was made with good intentions — to build bridges, not to bypass protocol.
“I ALWAYS TRY TO HELP THE COMMUNITY,” HE SAID. “IF PEOPLE THINK I MADE A MISTAKE, I’LL TAKE THE BLOW.”
His remarks momentarily shifted the tone of the meeting, underscoring how personal actions and missteps can quickly become part of larger questions about communication and accountability.
Dr. Braun: “I Hate Surprises”
Dr. Anna Braun, though brief, spoke for many when she said:
“I hate surprises. Don’t give me a surprise party. I want to know things ahead of time. This has been an ongoing issue — we shouldn’t be learning about presentations or proposals on Facebook the next day.”
She recalled discovering a major facilities presentation only after community members contacted her. “That’s not good. That’s inappropriate,” she said simply.
Her words distilled what parents, teachers, and even some administrators have expressed privately: that governance by surprise undermines trust.
Dr. Tanious: “Equal Authority Means Shared Information”
As the conversation circled back to Dr. Tanious, she doubled down on the principle of equality among board members.
“We are a board of nine, and we have equal authority,” she said. “If you’re getting so many emails from so many board members, that should be a very telling sign that there is a communication failure somewhere.”
She rejected the notion that her persistence was bothersome.
“I like to make informed decisions. When I rephrase questions, it’s because I didn’t get an answer. That’s not pestering — that’s governing.”
Her composure through the exchange drew quiet support from residents who later praised her for “speaking the frustration many of us feel when information is withheld.”
An Uncomfortable but Honest Vote
After nearly an hour of discussion, the board’s attorney reminded members that a vote of no confidence carries no legal consequence; it is a public expression of sentiment.
When the roll call came, seven voted “yes,” one abstained, and President Guas voted “no.” The motion passed 7-1-1.
There was no applause, no visible celebration — only a subdued silence that conveyed how difficult the decision had been.
Even Dr. Pan, who had earlier considered a follow-up motion, clarified that his comments were “not meant for entertainment” but for the sake of “moving the district forward.”
The Communication Deficit
This meeting laid those grievances bare, with nearly every board member acknowledging that something fundamental had gone wrong in how information travels inside the district.
Tim Cummings called it a “deficit”—a gap that leaves the board rowing in different directions. “We can’t move anywhere without a plan,” he said. “Everybody’s confused, everybody’s frustrated, and that doesn’t work.”
Dr. Anna Braun called the breakdown “inappropriate,” saying board members shouldn’t be blindsided by events or find out about district matters through Facebook. “I hate surprises,” she said flatly. “I want to know things ahead of time.”
Dr. Jaime Falco described the situation as “a pattern” of limited transparency that erodes the equality of the board. “Equal standing means equal information,” she said. “If we’re learning about decisions as parents instead of as board members, something is broken.”
Dr. Wilbur Pan compared it to “a blank wall of information.” “During the superintendent search, communication was highly successful,” he said. “Afterward, that pattern went away. Even a simple, ‘things are in process’ would have gone a long way.”
Dr. Marianne Tanious called it “a failure somewhere along the line.” She noted that a high volume of board emails should signal a systemic issue, not an inconvenience. “If you’re getting that many messages, that tells you there’s a problem with the process, not with the people asking questions.”
Laurie Herrick spoke to the emotional toll of that vacuum, saying the disconnect “creates fractions and silos.” She said, “We shouldn’t have to find out that other people know more than we do. It makes us feel like we’re working in the dark. We all want to be at the same table.” Herrick urged the board to adopt a clearer communication plan and more frequent meetings: “Meeting once a month isn’t setting us up for success.”
Dr. Louis Figueroa—who ultimately voted yes on the motion—kept his remarks brief but echoed the theme of imbalance, saying that leadership works only when “everyone feels informed and respected.”
Even President Heather Guas acknowledged the strain. She described her inbox as “197 pages of emails” and admitted, “It’s a tricky path. This has been both an excellent and a rough experience.”
Liwu Hong called the situation “a misunderstanding that turned into mistrust.” He said, “I NEVER LIE. MY INTENTION WAS TO HELP, NOT TO HURT.” Hong explained that his actions were meant to strengthen relationships within the community, not to cause confusion. “I ALWAYS TRY TO HELP THE COMMUNITY,” he said. “IF PEOPLE THINK I MADE A MISTAKE, I’LL TAKE THE BLOW.” His comments added a personal dimension to a broader discussion about communication and accountability.
A Community That Still Values Transparency
If there was any silver lining, it was that this conversation happened in the open. No closed session. No back-room debate. Just an uncomfortable but necessary airing of concerns in front of the public that elected them.
Residents have been asking for precisely that — honesty, even when it’s messy.
“You can’t fix what you won’t talk about,” one parent said afterward. “At least now they’re talking about it.”
In a township where political temperatures have run high, moments like this suggest a deeper civic maturity: disagreement without abandonment of civility, critique without contempt.
Looking Ahead
With the election weeks away and a new superintendent preparing to take office, the board’s ability to rebuild trust will shape East Brunswick’s next chapter.
Dr. Falco summarized that challenge best:
“This isn’t meant to embarrass anyone. It’s about ensuring that Dr. Mamman is set up for success.”
Cummings agreed:
“Our number-one priority is the students. For them to thrive, we need clear communication and unified direction.”
In the end, that is what the community wants — a board that models the transparency it expects from others.
For now, residents can only hope that for the good of the cause was more than just a meeting segment — that it marked the start of a genuine commitment to clarity, collaboration, and trust.
