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Your Voice, Our Reach: Connecting East Brunswick Together

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At Eyes On EB, we are proud to have built a platform that connects East Brunswick residents with the stories, updates, and conversations that truly matter. Over the past year, our local Facebook page has grown into a trusted community hub, reaching thousands of people every week. This reach isn’t just a number to us — it’s an opportunity to bring our neighbors closer together, amplify important voices, and give local stories the attention they deserve.

A Platform Built for the Community

Eyes On EB was started with one goal: to keep East Brunswick informed and engaged while having a few laughs. From covering Board of Education updates to highlighting events, we’ve always believed that local news and conversations should be accessible to everyone. Along the way, we’ve seen just how powerful our audience is — when we share a post, it doesn’t just get seen, it gets talked about, shared, and acted on.

We believe that our platform is more than just ours; it belongs to the community. That’s why we want to extend our reach to you. Whether you have an important message, a story that deserves attention, or a cause that needs local support, Eyes On EB is here to help you share it.

Who Can We Help?

The beauty of East Brunswick lies in its diversity — of people, ideas, and passions. We know that not everyone has a loud voice online, and we want to help change that. Here are some ways we can partner with you:

  • Local Campaigns and Announcements – Are you running in a local election or campaign? Use our platform to introduce yourself, explain your ideas, and connect with voters in a meaningful way.

  • Small Business Owners – Want to showcase your products, share a grand opening, or let the town know about a promotion? We love supporting local businesses.

  • Nonprofits and Community Groups – Whether it’s a charity event, volunteer opportunity, or fundraiser, we want to highlight the good work being done in our town.

  • Local Politicians and Leaders – If you need to explain complex issues or clarify decisions, we can help bridge the gap between you and residents.

  • Special Events and Personal Stories – From school events to inspiring stories, there’s always room for something that connects neighbors on a personal level.

Let’s Do the Neighborly Thing

Eyes On EB has always been about more than just news — it’s about community. Sharing our reach with you is our way of saying thank you for being part of this town we all call home. If you have something worth sharing, don’t hesitate to reach out.

We’re here to be a voice for East Brunswick, and we would love to collaborate with anyone who has something positive, meaningful, or thought-provoking to bring to the table. Let’s continue to build this community together, one story at a time.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: “Fix the District” Slate This November!

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We’re excited to officially announce the “Fix the District” slate for this November’s East Brunswick Board of Education election!

Last year, the “East Brunswick Action” slate made waves and history by helping elect three candidates who ran on the promise to change the board, change the culture, and change the results. That message resonated deeply with residents who were tired of the status quo and demanded a more accountable, staff and student-centered Board of Education.

This year, we’re building on that momentum. But let’s be clear. Things are different now. The current board leadership has sent a message loud and clear: anyone who challenges the “old guard” or questions the status quo will not be welcomed with open arms.

That’s why, for strategic reasons, this year’s slate will consist of two strong, independent voices, with endorsements going to two additional candidates who align with our mission though they will not appear on the official slate to avoid retaliation from current board leadership.

There are FOUR SEATS up for grabs this November:

  • One 1-year unexpired term

  • Three full 3-year terms

And we intend to help reshape the board with leaders who are ready to listen, lead, and deliver results.

Meet the Fix the District Slate:

Jeff Winston – Candidate for the 1-Year Unexpired Term
Many of you already know Jeff. A former board member who resigned in March 2024, Jeff made his decision clear: he refused to be complicit in a culture of inaction perpetuated by a core group of five individuals more interested in politics than progress.

Since then, Jeff launched “East Brunswick Action”, an advocacy group that’s been a powerful voice for transparency and meaningful reform. Jeff’s return isn’t about unfinished business. It’s about finishing what he started with a renewed mandate from the people.

Neal Shah – Candidate for a 3-Year Term
Neal is a longtime East Brunswick resident, a community volunteer, and a dedicated youth coach. As Board Trustee of Fast Break Basketball and a proven leader in team and budget management, Neal brings the exact type of real-world experience and steady leadership the board desperately needs. He’s respected, trusted, and ready to serve.

What is “Fix the District?”

“Fix the District” is a grassroots initiative with one clear purpose: to restore excellence, transparency, and accountability in East Brunswick schools. We’re not here to play politics. We’re here to solve problems, stand up for students and staff, and work collaboratively with the Board of Education to move our district forward.

Our team is committed to a detailed 20-point platform that addresses everything from academic standards and fiscal responsibility to student wellness, teacher support, and community engagement.

This isn’t just another election. This is a turning point. This is about reclaiming the high standards and strong results East Brunswick was once known for.

As we’ve said before—nobody ever moved to East Brunswick to be closer to Route 18. People move here for the schools. Let’s give them a reason to keep believing in that promise.

Let’s Talk

In the coming months, Jeff and Neal will be out in the community, knocking on doors, attending events, and listening to your concerns. They believe, as you do, that every voice matters, and the Board of Education should reflect the people it serves.

This is your district. This is your future. Let’s fix the District…together.

Election Day: November 4, 2025
Your voice. Your vote. Your kids’ future.

Support the Fix the District slate.
Support Jeff Winston and Neal Shah.
Let’s bring excellence back.

Platform and Priorities

  1. Form a BOE think tank with neighboring districts to explore shared services and cost reduction.

  2. Require a public list of Superintendent priorities, deliverables, deadlines, and updates.

  3. Publicly respond to all questions asked in good faith at meetings or on the BOE website.

  4. Conduct quarterly pulse surveys of district employees, rotating departments each cycle.

  5. Evaluate the role of the Business Administrator in collaboration with the Superintendent.

  6. Establish measurable goals for the Superintendent with clear accountability.

  7. Address budget expectations with a focus on cost savings and increased efficiency.

  8. Ensure all district emails receive responses within a reasonable time frame.

  9. End any hostile work environment by encouraging safe, open dialogue for educators. Empower educators to teach without the Administration drama.

  10. Present a viable plan for High School renovation or replacement and Churchill trailers with a public referendum within 12 months.

  11. Launch a redistricting process based on data, equity, and future growth.

  12. Promote orderly debate, compromise, and consensus at all Board meetings.

  13. Enforce strict criteria for closed session discussions to protect transparency.

  14. Review and reform policies that unnecessarily protect elected officials.

  15. Build a strong alliance with township officials to explore shared services and cooperation.

  16. Evaluate the effectiveness and measurable outcomes of all administrative roles.

  17. Ensure every initiative answers the question: “Who does this benefit?”

  18. Engage local experts and community members for insight and committee involvement.

  19. Create a PTA liaison committee to bring forward ideas, concerns, and feedback from every school.

  20. Review key curricula to ensure students and teachers have access to the highest-quality education.

East Brunswick Ice Arena Takes Shape Along Route 18

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East Brunswick Ice Arena

Eyes On EB Sky Spy recently captured footage of a redevelopment project currently underway along Route 18 – the East Brunswick Ice Arena. The 84,000-square-foot facility will feature twin rinks, multiple viewing platforms, and a large event-friendly lobby. The arena is part of a broader vision to revitalize this busy but often underutilized corridor.

A Key Piece of Redevelopment

DMR’s planners have been focused on breathing new life into Route 18, and the Ice Arena is a major component of that effort. According to the redevelopment plan, the arena will serve as both a sports destination and a potential revenue source for the town. League rentals, tournaments, and events are expected to bring activity and business to the area.

The project has backing from the developer of the adjacent Legacy Place, who is providing some of the infrastructure needed for the facility. This partnership suggests that the arena is being built with a larger strategy in mind for the Route 18 corridor.

What’s Being Built

The architectural design by DMR includes features intended to enhance the experience for both athletes and spectators. In addition to the two rinks, the facility will offer a variety of viewing options – bleachers, a balcony, and a raised platform – designed to accommodate everything from local games to larger tournaments.

The expansive lobby will be built to host more than just skating or hockey events, creating flexibility for future uses. Whether it becomes a centerpiece for community activity or remains focused on ice sports, the scale of the project alone will make it a prominent addition to East Brunswick.

Looking Ahead

With construction now moving forward, the East Brunswick Ice Arena represents a significant investment in the town’s redevelopment goals. Its success will ultimately depend on how it integrates into the community and the level of activity it attracts in the coming years.

Check out our Eyes On EB Sky Spy video for an exclusive look at the construction progress along Route 18.

 

Another Issue Raised at the July 17 BOE Meeting: A Call for Action on Bias and Antisemitism

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We have the video set to start right when she begins speaking. Click play and it will take you directly to that moment.

A Discussion on Job Descriptions at the July 17 BOE Meeting

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The July 17 Board of Education meeting featured a detailed discussion on supervisor job descriptions, with board members raising concerns about clarity and scope. Wilbur Pan led the conversation, pointing out that certain language had been removed rather than updated, which could create confusion for applicants and staff. The exchange prompted further dialogue among board members and administrators about the need for precise wording to reflect the combined responsibilities of these roles.

Pan began by seeking clarification on the review process for job descriptions, asking whether specific regulations require only one reading. Once confirmed, he turned to the language used in the documents, noting that previous descriptions were more specific. “It appears that the areas these positions would be covering have been deleted as opposed to being updated,” Pan said, referencing the supervisor role for Language Arts, now expanded to include Social Studies. His concern was that without clear guardrails, candidates might assume the position entails duties beyond its intended scope.

Liwu Hong interjected to direct everyone to page eight of the agenda, after which Pan continued to stress the need for precise language. “If we’re combining this position so that we have language arts and social studies, then that language should be updated to reflect both areas,” Pan said, using the budget responsibilities section as an example of where clarity is currently lacking.

Dr. Boley, explained that the changes stem from budget adjustments. “We had eliminated four supervisor positions and combined some responsibilities,” Boley said. “One individual will be overseeing language arts and social studies K-6, and another will oversee grades 7 through 12.”

Assistant Superintendent Bernardo Giuliani supported Pan’s concerns. “Why not add ‘and social studies’ instead of striking language arts entirely?” Giuliani asked. He suggested updating the language throughout the job descriptions, a proposal that was met with agreement.

Hong raised an additional point, questioning whether separating responsibilities by grade level rather than subject might diminish the depth of expertise supervisors bring to their roles. He recommended the policy committee revisit these descriptions in the future, referencing practices in other districts.

Board member Marianne Tanious brought a real-world example into the discussion, citing the district’s EnVision math program. She questioned whether curriculum conversations were happening with the right people if subject-matter expertise was not prioritized. Dr. Valeski and Dr. Boley responded by emphasizing that teachers and supervisors were both involved in the rollout of such programs and that ongoing support is being provided to help supervisors adapt to their expanded responsibilities.

Boley reassured the board and the public that supervisors are not left to navigate these changes on their own. “I meet with each supervisor regularly as a check-in,” she said. “They are listening and learning as they build relationships with the teachers in those departments.”

The exchange concluded with general agreement on the need for greater clarity and a plan to update the job descriptions to reflect the combined roles accurately.

Questions We Should Be Asking Our Board Members

  1. Why weren’t these job description concerns addressed before they were brought up during the meeting?

  2. How will the district ensure that combining subject areas under one supervisor won’t compromise the quality of education?

  3. What steps will be taken to involve curriculum experts and teachers earlier in these discussions?

  4. Are there plans to revisit these job descriptions and compare them with successful models from other districts?

  5. How will the board monitor and evaluate whether these changes are working for both staff and students?

 

The Town That Loves You… But Warns You About Everyone Else

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East Brunswick is one of those towns where people will go out of their way to tell you who to watch out for. It’s almost a local sport — conversations that begin with, “Oh, you don’t want to talk to that person.” But if you actually took every piece of advice to heart, you’d have nobody left to talk to. The town would feel like a stand-off, with everyone quietly avoiding one another at Stop & Shop.

Why Not Just Talk?

Here’s the thing — most of us aren’t planning to date or marry every person we meet. We’re just trying to live, grab a coffee, and have a good conversation. Maybe that person is into local politics, or maybe they’re into bird watching, or maybe they just know which place makes the best cup of coffee in town. Why not sit down and find a little common ground?

Boundaries Make All the Difference

The funny thing is, when you have clear boundaries, you don’t need to stress about who you’re talking to or what someone else might think. Boundaries keep things simple. When people don’t have them, every interaction feels personal, and suddenly they believe someone “betrayed” them just for chatting with the wrong person. But if you know where you stand and what you expect, none of that matters — you can enjoy a conversation without turning it into a loyalty test.

The Best Stories Are Everywhere

The people we’re warned about often have the best stories, the sharpest perspectives, or the kind of humor that makes you laugh when you least expect it. You don’t have to agree on everything — and you definitely don’t have to be best friends — but having a conversation never hurt anyone.

Closing Thought

In East Brunswick, if you avoid everyone you’re “supposed to avoid,” you’ll miss the best conversations. And honestly, that’s half the fun of living here.

The Great East Brunswick Ice Cream Cake Debate

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There was a time in the 70s and 80s when Carvel ruled every birthday, graduation, and backyard barbecue. If you didn’t have a Carvel cake on the table — with Fudgy the Whale or Cookie Puss smiling up at you — was it even a party? Those cakes were the definition of celebration. The crunchies, the layers of vanilla and chocolate, the magic that happened when the frosting melted just enough to blend into the ice cream — it was perfection.

But times have changed, and apparently, East Brunswick has decided Carvel is no longer king.

The Question That Started It All

It all began with J.M.’s innocent question on “Helping Each Other”: “If you were to get an ice cream cake that wasn’t Carvel, where would you go?”

The replies exploded. Dozens of locals jumped in with suggestions — Baskin Robbins, Cold Stone, Magnifico’s, Thomas Sweet, and Jersey Freeze. But one name popped up so many times, it felt like East Brunswick had collectively picked a new champion.

Scoop to My Lou Takes Over

Scoop to My Lou wasn’t just mentioned — it was worshipped. People shared photos of cakes so beautiful they could make Cookie Puss cry. The flavors, the custom designs, the layers that looked like they belonged in a dessert magazine — it’s no wonder Scoop to My Lou crushed the competition.

The Legacy of Ice Cream Cakes

There’s something about an ice cream cake that hits different. It’s not just dessert; it’s a nostalgic bite of happiness. We all remember being kids, waiting for that first slice where the knife cuts through the crunchy middle. Whether it’s the old classics like Fudgy or the new legends from Scoop to My Lou, there’s just something magical about that mix of cake and ice cream.

A New Era, but the Same Sweet Joy

Carvel will always have a place in East Brunswick history, but it seems a new era has arrived. From the way this thread blew up, it’s clear that ice cream cakes are still very much alive — and still causing friendly arguments over which place makes the best one.

Tension and Tenacity at the July 17 Board of Education Meeting

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By Robert Wilson

The East Brunswick Board of Education meeting on July 17 was marked by a mix of public frustration and pointed questioning, particularly during a moment when Allegra Seidler of South Woodland Avenue addressed the board about a key personnel vote.

Seidler began by referencing an email she sent earlier that day, reiterating her concern over the approval of the language arts and social studies K–6 supervisor position. “Ignoring the history with this individual is not to the benefit of the students and certainly not to the benefit of the reputation of the board,” she said. “Please use [your power] to the benefit of students and not the feelings of adults.”

She further criticized what she described as a lack of transparency regarding the Integrated Language Arts curriculum, recalling issues stemming from the February 13 meeting. “Anyone can rubber stamp an agenda,” Seidler told the board. “You were essentially lied to by omission that night. Now you are being asked to reward this individual and cement their position within our district, further entrusting them with the education of our students despite all of this.”

Seidler concluded with a plea for the board to vote against the personnel action: “Please, for the sake of all of our students, but especially the youngest, I am pleading with you to not approve the personnel action for the language arts and social studies, K through six supervisor position.”

Marianne Tanious Brings the Questions Parents Have Been Asking

While Seidler’s remarks stood out during public comment, it was board member Marianne who turned heads on the dais. In one of her first major appearances, Marianne’s line of questioning with Dr. Boley was as direct as it was necessary.

Marianne repeatedly pushed for clarity on both the curriculum and the personnel recommendation, cutting through vague responses. “I want to understand how we got here,” she asked. “Who made the call to move forward with this recommendation despite the concerns raised in February? Were all board members made fully aware of the curriculum concerns before this was placed on tonight’s agenda?”

When Dr. Boley attempted to steer the conversation toward general curriculum goals, Marianne pressed harder. “With all due respect, I’m not asking about general goals. I’m asking who made this decision, and why parents feel they weren’t given the full story. If there are gaps in transparency, we need to address them now — not after we vote.”

At one point, Marianne questioned the timing of the vote altogether, noting that the regulations tied to the supervisor position were up for revision that same evening. “Why are we approving a role when the guidelines for that role aren’t even finalized? That feels backwards,” she said.

Observers noted that Dr. Boley appeared increasingly flustered during the exchange. “Marianne had Dr. Boley digging herself quite the hole,” one parent remarked afterward. “She really exemplified the conversations we have been denied with the board this far. We would not be in the position we are now if every member had her focus and tenacity.”

The meeting highlighted a growing demand for accountability and transparency within the district. For those who haven’t watched it yet, the full video is worth seeing — especially Marianne’s pointed questions, which echoed what many parents have been asking privately for months.

 

We’re Looking for Two Local Businesses to Spotlight—Next Could Be Yours

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We’re Looking for Two Local Businesses to Spotlight—Next Could Be Yours

If you run a business in East Brunswick or one of our surrounding towns, this is for you.

Our recent Business Spotlights brought in a combined 66,000 views—and those weren’t just clicks. They were real people in and around your community learning about what makes these businesses stand out.

And now, we’re looking for two more businesses to feature.

Here’s what you get:
✅ A custom Eyes on EB blog post written about your business
✅ A professional video reel crafted and edited at your location
✅ Content you can use on your social media and website
✅ Exposure to thousands of local viewers

All you have to do is answer a few questions. We’ll handle the rest. We’re only taking on two more businesses right now—and this opportunity won’t last forever. If you want in, don’t wait. Drop your name and business info in the comments or message us directly.

If you’d like to be considered, just drop your name and business info in the comments or message us directly.

Scroll down to check out some sample spotlight videos we’ve done so far—you’ll get a feel for how we tell stories that connect with the East Brunswick community.

Let’s put your business in the spotlight.

— Eyes on EB

Blog Samples

European Homemade Provisions

Pasquale Brick Oven Pizza

Results Performance

Video Samples



When Public Meetings Cross the Line: A Plea for Civility in East Brunswick

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By Robert Wilson

At the July 14, 2025 East Brunswick Town Council meeting, longtime resident and community advocate Fran Snowise delivered a message that many in attendance described as powerful and timely. Speaking during the public comment portion, Snowise called on the council and residents alike to distinguish between free speech and hate speech, and to reaffirm East Brunswick’s commitment to inclusion, respect, and local unity.

Her remarks came after weeks of growing tension in public forums, with some residents using council meetings to voice opinions on international conflicts in ways that others have found deeply offensive. Snowise asked the council to take a closer look at how these meetings are conducted and to consider changes that would preserve public discourse without allowing it to devolve into hostility.

“Free speech allows for the open exchange of ideas, including dissent and debate, as long as it does not incite violence or discrimination,” Snowise said. “Hate speech targets individuals or groups based on identity, using language intended to vilify, humiliate, or incite hatred and violence. This is not just offensive. It is dangerous, and it is eroding our community fabric.”

She continued by calling for specific reforms. Among them was the suggestion that public comment be limited to township business, a proposal aimed at keeping conversations grounded in the real issues East Brunswick residents face. Topics like traffic, zoning, education, and local safety, she argued, deserve attention without being overshadowed by unrelated global conflicts.

“I cannot change the conversation at someone’s dinner table,” she said. “But we can change how we handle discourse in public settings. We need to focus on the business of our township.”

Snowise also addressed the town’s long-standing sister city relationship with Yavne, Israel. She emphasized that the partnership is cultural and educational in nature and does not involve local tax dollars. The goal, she said, is to build understanding and create opportunities for dialogue, not division.

Her comments were passionate but measured. She spoke about the importance of setting community standards, training public officials and school leaders in civil discourse, and empowering residents to report and respond to hate speech with factual, empathetic counter speech.

As she reached the final portion of her remarks, Council President Kevin McEvoy interrupted to indicate her time had expired. Snowise stepped away from the podium but not before referencing a previous meeting where a resident had been allowed additional time. Moments later, McEvoy reconsidered.

“I find it only fair,” McEvoy said, inviting her back up. “And therefore complete in allowing you to finish.”

Snowise returned to the microphone to conclude her remarks with two more suggestions: make it easier for residents to report hate speech and encourage counter speech rooted in facts and compassion.

“I came here because we stand for diversity, inclusion, compassion, and civic engagement,” she said. “Let us be vigilant in defending free speech, but equally committed to rejecting hate speech in all its forms. Let us dedicate ourselves to building bridges across backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences so that our community can remain strong, welcoming, and united for all.”

Her words were not aimed at any specific individual. They were not about partisanship. They were about responsibility and leadership. As Snowise reminded everyone in the room, this town is at its best when people listen, learn, and come together, especially when it is hard to do so.

Click play and it’ll bring you right to the segment. 

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