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When Comments Are Turned Off, So Is Conversation

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A Familiar Pattern in East Brunswick

Something happened this week that’s become all too familiar in East Brunswick — a national story with local ties was posted, and just as fast as the reactions started rolling in, the ability to discuss it was shut down.

The post in question was shared by a well-known local media outlet, covering the federal trespassing charges involving Newark’s mayor and potential repercussions for several members of Congress. Controversial? Sure. Worth talking about? Definitely. But instead of opening the floor to conversation, the comments were limited. Not hidden. Not moderated. Just blocked.

And people noticed.

The Community Reaction

On a local transparency-focused group, residents immediately picked up on it. One commenter called it “yikes,” while another asked the natural question: who decides who gets to comment, and why? There was frustration — not just over the story itself, but over being denied a public square to respond to it.

Others mentioned that they were able to comment on some stories, but not others — which only added to the confusion. It doesn’t take much to see how easily this kind of selective engagement can feel like editorial bias, even if it’s not intended that way.

The Township’s Trend Toward Limiting Discussion

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen something like this. It’s becoming increasingly common — not just from media pages, but from official township sources too. Posts that could spark important, necessary debate are being locked down before they even have the chance to breathe.

To be fair, moderating comment sections isn’t easy. The internet isn’t always kind, and nobody wants to host a flame war. But there’s a difference between protecting civil discourse and preventing it altogether.

Why Open Comments Matter

In this case, the story involves elected officials. The type of story where people should be able to express concerns, ask questions, or even just say how they feel — because these are the people shaping the communities we live in.

Turning off the comments might reduce headaches in the short term, but long term, it erodes trust. It sends a message — intended or not — that only certain voices matter, or that public reaction isn’t welcome unless it follows a certain script.

Journalism Requires Conversation

Independent journalism exists to foster transparency and accountability. And that requires conversation. Even uncomfortable ones.

If our local news and public institutions truly want to serve the public, they need to be willing to listen to it — not just talk at it.

Dr. Valeski Announces Retirement: Proof That When We Push Together, Big Things Can Happen

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A Community With a Common Goal

In East Brunswick, something big just happened. Dr. Victor Valeski, Superintendent of Schools, has officially announced his retirement. And while that might sound like just another administrative update, for many, it represents something more. A turning point. A shift. A reminder of what is possible when people decide to take action and stay consistent.

This was never about one person or one opinion. It was about a shared commitment to better schools, more transparency, and a district that listens to the needs of its students, teachers, taxpayers, and families.

You Do Not Have to Agree to Make Progress

We do not have to see eye to eye. We do not have to attend the same events or share the same politics. We do not even have to get along all the time. What matters is that when enough people care about a goal and keep showing up, change becomes real.

Jeff Winston and the Birth of East Brunswick Action

None of this reflection would be complete without recognizing Jeff Winston. Jeff has been a steady, determined voice for fairness and accountability in East Brunswick. He is the founder of East Brunswick Action, a group that has grown quickly over the past year and helped unify residents around the idea that local voices matter.

East Brunswick Action maintains the basic theory of power in numbers. They welcome new members who seek a forum to initiate township-impacting conversations with other members and develop actionable ideas to create change. They are non-partisan and proudly work together with all people.

Without Jeff’s leadership and the effort of East Brunswick Action, it is very unlikely this moment would be happening right now.

Credit to Everyone Who Showed Up

While Jeff may have been the spark, this effort was never about one person. It took parents who asked hard questions, students who paid attention, and taxpayers who refused to be ignored. Whether through social media, public comment, quiet support, or behind-the-scenes organizing, you played a part.

You mattered. And this moment is yours too.

Wishing Dr. Valeski the Best

As for Dr. Valeski, we wish him well. Whether retirement brings him peace, a consulting role, or another opportunity, we hope the next chapter brings him purpose and fulfillment. We believe in moving forward with respect, and we genuinely hope he finds happiness in whatever comes next.

The Work Is Not Over

This chapter may be ending, but the story of East Brunswick is still being written. Let this be a reminder. We do not need to be best friends to get things done. We just need to care. We just need to keep showing up. We just need to stay consistent.

Big things are possible when we all care enough to try.

Another Rabid Cat in East Brunswick: How Many More Warnings Do We Need?

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This is not alarmist. This is a fact: a rabid cat has just been found in East Brunswick near Riva Avenue and Ved Mandir Drive. It’s the second confirmed rabid animal in Middlesex County this year—and the first confirmed case in our town for 2025.

What makes this alarming isn’t just the public health risk—it’s the inaction from our township. East Brunswick is still operating under outdated ordinances that make TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) illegal. And that’s not just bad policy. It’s dangerous.

We now have a TNR Reimbursement Program—but that’s not the same as a legal ordinance. And make no mistake: without a TNR ordinance, this community will continue to be exposed to avoidable public health threats.

Rabies Is a Wake-Up Call

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services has been clear: rabies is a serious, highly transmissible virus. Cats, dogs, skunks, raccoons, and bats are the most common carriers. But only TNR ensures that outdoor cats are trapped, neutered, vaccinated, and returned—safe and sterile.

TNR includes rabies vaccinations. TNR reduces the outdoor cat population. TNR protects both animals and people. So why is our township still dragging its feet?

This Isn’t Just About Cats. It’s About Us.

By not legalizing TNR, the township sends a message: public health is not a priority. Humane practices are not a priority. Residents who volunteer time and money to control the cat population are not a priority.

And this silence is growing louder with every advisory. Every rabid animal found. Every opportunity missed.

This administration has had time. They’ve had data. They’ve had community support. And still—no TNR ordinance.

It’s Time to Act

The longer East Brunswick delays, the greater the risk to our pets, our children, and our community. Let this be the last advisory that ends in silence.

Email your town officials. Demand that they update the municipal code. Ask them why they are still opposing the only humane, scientifically proven way to manage community cats and prevent rabies outbreaks.

TNR is not a fringe idea. It’s practiced across New Jersey. It’s supported by veterinarians, rescue groups, and health experts.

We don’t need another advisory. We need action.

Imagine East Brunswick: A Second Chance for Everyone

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Imagine unblocking everyone.
Not just online — but in your heart.

Imagine waking up tomorrow and deciding that the old grudge doesn’t get to run the show anymore. That the argument you had in a Facebook comment section in 2016 doesn’t have to define your relationship with someone forever. That maybe — just maybe — the people you once called “crazy,” “selfish,” or “stupid” were just people having a bad day. Or a bad decade.

Imagine if we all took a breath.
If we all stopped assuming the worst.
If we all stopped trying to “own” each other online.

Now pause and really think: What if we all unblocked each other? Not just on socials, but in real life. Gave people space to say: “Yeah, I was wrong then. But I’ve learned. Can we try again?”

Wouldn’t that be something?

What if, instead of seeing every disagreement as a war to be won, we saw it as a bridge to be built? What if that one neighbor you can’t stand actually had something to teach you? What if your old coworker, the one who voted differently, donated to the same GoFundMe you did — and just never told you?

What if the people who once pissed you off…
…turned out to be more like you than you thought?

The last 10 years have been loud. Heated.
Families torn apart by politics.
Friendships dissolved by elections.
Block buttons hit like fly swatters.

But maybe the next 10 years don’t have to be.

Imagine an East Brunswick where people say:
“I don’t agree with you, but I’ll sit with you.”
“We see things differently, but I still see you as human.”
“I’m not here to win — I’m here to understand.”

Maybe it won’t be perfect. Maybe some people won’t want to come to the table. But maybe others will surprise you. And maybe one olive branch, one unblocked number, one cup of coffee could start something way bigger than either side expected.

No hashtags.
No speeches.
Just quiet reconnection.

Because healing doesn’t go viral.
But it might go local.

And it starts with you.

An East Brunswick Mom, A South Brunswick Parking Lot, and a Close Call

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A Frightening Encounter Shared by an East Brunswick Mom

Awareness post: A local East Brunswick mother recently shared one of the most terrifying moments of her life. While driving back from Princeton with her baby and mother in the car, she pulled into a well-lit shopping center off Route 1 in South Brunswick—just for a quick stop to tend to her crying child. What she thought was a safe, routine moment turned into a scene that felt like a setup.

A car parked suspiciously close. A woman emerged from a white Mercedes and approached her driver-side window in distress, demanding help—but something felt off. Then a tall man began walking toward the car. That’s when the mom’s instincts kicked in. She drove off immediately. Within seconds, the suspicious individuals were gone. No approach to businesses. No asking anyone else for help. Just a quiet vanishing act.

High-End Vehicles May Be a Factor

The mother later confirmed she was driving a high-end car—and others in the community quickly pointed out the unfortunate trend: luxury vehicles like BMWs, Audis, and Mercedes are being tracked and targeted. Some are even being followed home, while others find hidden AirTags used to track their locations.

“These cars aren’t safe even at home,” one commenter warned. “They’re stealing them left and right.”

The Community Came Together Quickly

The Facebook thread lit up with concerned responses, support, and similar stories. One user wrote, “So glad you trusted your mama instinct and got out.” Another added, “This is the scariest story I’ve heard in years.” Multiple users stressed the importance of checking for trackers and reporting anything suspicious to the police.

Others shared their own experiences—parking lot setups, fake distress calls, and people acting just a little too calculated.

It Didn’t Happen in EB—But It Could Have

This took place in South Brunswick, but the message is clear: it could’ve easily happened in East Brunswick, or anywhere else. Criminals don’t care about town lines.

We share this post not to cause fear—but to raise awareness. This was real. It happened to a fellow EB resident. And she did everything right.

Stay Safe, Stay Sharp

  • Always lock your doors, even during short stops.

  • Don’t let compassion override your gut.

  • Keep your windows up until you’re sure of the situation.

  • Check your car regularly for hidden tracking devices.

  • Report all suspicious incidents—no matter how small—to the police.

We’re grateful this mom and her family are okay. Her courage to share her experience might prevent the next one.

Eyes On EB will always publish what matters—even if you’re not in the Facebook group to see it.

East Brunswick Weekly Sports Recap (April 28 – May 3, 2025)

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⚾ Baseball

✅ W East Brunswick 9, Monroe 3

Date: Mon, April 28
Behind Andrew Melcer’s 3 hits and Jared MacWithey’s 3 RBIs, EB exploded for 4 runs in the 4th and cruised past Monroe. Connor Glynn pitched a complete game for the win with 4 Ks.

❌ L South Plainfield 16, East Brunswick 3

Date: Tue, April 29
A rough outing for EB as SP scored in 5 of 7 innings. Joe Spinello had 2 hits and 2 RBIs. Jared MacWithey struck out 3 in relief.

✅ W East Brunswick 6, South Plainfield 5

Date: Thu, May 1
Redemption! EB edged South Plainfield in a tense matchup. Spinello crushed a triple and drove in 2. Hayden Dziubeck threw 6 innings for the W.

❌ L St. Thomas Aquinas 13, East Brunswick 11

Date: Fri, May 2
Despite a wild 5-run rally in the 5th and 6th, EB couldn’t hold off STA’s offense. Satterthwaite knocked in 3. Pitching faltered late.

? Softball

✅ W East Brunswick 2, Woodbridge 1

Date: Tue, April 29
Anabella Stagliano dominated on the mound with 6 Ks, while Lauren Walsh drove in the game-winning run.

❌ L South Brunswick 5, East Brunswick 4 (10 innings)

Date: Thu, May 1
A heartbreaker. EB rallied in the 7th but fell in extras. Makenna Gay had 3 hits. Stagliano struck out 9.

✅ WALK-OFF! East Brunswick 5, Spotswood 4

Date: Sat, May 3
Christina Lee led the way with 2 hits and 2 runs as EB walked off Spotswood in a thriller. Stagliano fanned 10.

⛳ Golf

✅ W East Brunswick 181, Wardlaw-Hartridge 180

Girls | Date: Tue, April 29
Dasha Patel (41) and Isabella Loufek (44) led EB to a nail-biting win.

✅ W East Brunswick 160, St. Joe’s 163

Boys | Date: Tue, April 29
Solid performances from the entire lineup kept EB rolling.

✅ W East Brunswick 161, South Brunswick 228

Girls | Date: Wed, April 30
Tasneem Basrai (39) and Loufek (40) dominated on the green.

✅ W East Brunswick 144, South Brunswick 156

Boys | Date: Wed, April 30
Hsieh Fong-Yang went off with a 31. Statement win.

✅ W East Brunswick 170, South Plainfield 180

Boys | Date: Thu, May 1
Wong and Mikulka sealed the deal with consistent rounds.

✅ W East Brunswick 170, Edison 179

Boys | Date: Thu, May 1
Fong-Yang and Wong came up big again. Team chemistry clicking.

✅ W East Brunswick 150, Metuchen 164

Boys | Date: Fri, May 2
Another big W—defense and discipline from tee to green.

? Boys Lacrosse

✅ W East Brunswick 16, Edison 3

Date: Tue, April 29
Absolute beatdown. Matthew Kurczeski was unstoppable with 5 goals and 3 assists.

❌ L Hopewell Valley 14, East Brunswick 1

Date: Thu, May 1
Rough night. Hopewell dominated early. Chace Baver had EB’s lone goal.

? Girls Lacrosse

❌ L Manasquan 17, East Brunswick 3

Date: Thu, May 1
Tough outing. Erika Riggio scored twice, but Manasquan was too much to handle.

? Boys Volleyball

❌ L Monroe 2, East Brunswick 0

Date: Tue, April 29
Colin Hou had 6 kills and Kevin Lu 10 assists, but Monroe took control early.

❌ L St. Joe’s 2, East Brunswick 0

Date: Thu, May 1
Carrick Wong had 7 kills. Lu dished out 15 assists. Competitive effort but not enough.

Three Strikes, You’re In: Rob W Banned from East Brunswick School Community

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Jen Marie T is the Common Denominator — Coincidence? We Think Not.

At this point, it’s starting to feel less like moderation and more like a personal vendetta.

Rob W — the guy who has done more to keep East Brunswick informed, laughing, and paying attention than any town newsletter ever could — has now been banned from a third local Facebook group:
East Brunswick School Community.

And who just happens to be the admin or moderator in all three groups Rob’s been banned from?
That’s right… Jen Marie T.
Coincidence? Nah. This is a trilogy — and she’s clearly the main character.

“I heard she doesn’t even live in the town,” said Rob W. “I can’t confirm that, but multiple people have told me. Which, in East Brunswick, is basically the same as confirmed.”

Ban the News Guy, Because Logic

Here’s what makes this one special — Rob W has been one of the loudest and most consistent voices when it comes to what’s really going on in East Brunswick schools.

You’d think the East Brunswick School Community group would want that kind of energy.
You’d think they’d appreciate someone actually paying attention to budgets, BOE meetings, staff cuts, program losses, and secret coffee maker purges.

But nope.
Jen Marie T said no.
And that’s all it took.

“The fact that Jen Marie T doesn’t like what I’m doing just tells me I’m on the right path,” Rob said. “If she thought I was harmless, she’d ignore me. Honestly, I didn’t even know I was removed from the Group until somebody told me they saw my blog post in there.”

Let’s be honest — this isn’t about rules.
This is about control.
When someone starts saying too much, asking too many questions, and getting too many people to pay attention, the easiest move is the ol’ block-and-ban.

But all it really does is prove the point.

Where to Go Now? Easy.

If you want the real conversations, the real debates, and the real updates…
Don’t waste your time in the echo chambers.

Join East Brunswick Action.
That’s where the actual action is.
No gatekeeping and no drama (okay, some drama — but the entertaining kind).

So go ahead, Jen Marie. Keep banning.
Keep moderating like you’re running a top-secret intelligence agency.

All you’re doing is making Eyes on EB stronger.
The people are watching — and laughing.

The Weaponization of the NJDOE

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*According to a highly reliable source inside the East Brunswick administration building, this information comes directly from within the district’s leadership offices.”

Silencing Dr. Lou Figueroa: A Blow to Voter Trust

In East Brunswick, we are witnessing a dangerous erosion of democracy in real time. Dr. Lou Figueroa — elected by 7,755 voters to the East Brunswick Board of Education — is now being systematically silenced. Not by the people who chose him, but by a coordinated effort involving Superintendent Victor Valeski, Business Administrator Bernardo Giuliana, and the New Jersey Department of Education.

The Real Reason Behind the Targeting

The NJDOE recently ruled that Dr. Lou Figueroa cannot vote on any matters involving Victor Valeski. Meanwhile, Bernardo Giuliana has successfully pushed the NJDOE to further restrict Dr. Figueroa from participating in any discussions or votes related to Giuliana’s contracts or the efficiency of the departments he oversees.

According to information provided to Eyes on EB, this aggressive effort stems largely from Dr. Figueroa’s work in proposing an alternative budget — a budget that only a select few Board of Education members have seen firsthand.

Additionally, Dr. Figueroa has been an open critic of Valeski’s leadership during his campaign for the Board of Education, but notably remained silent on these issues while he was still employed by the district. In his complaint, Victor Valeski misleadingly suggested that Dr. Figueroa made critical remarks while still an employee, but the record shows otherwise. Dr. Figueroa never publicly criticized the administration while working for the district — even when hundreds of residents showed up at Board meetings to advocate on his behalf. His only public criticisms came much later, during his campaign, after his employment had been terminated.

This Is Not Governance — It’s Retaliation

This isn’t just political maneuvering. This is the weaponization of government power to crush dissent.

And it’s a slap in the face to the 8,000+ residents who entrusted Dr. Lou Figueroa to represent them and promote a cultural shift in our district. 

If those in power can silence an elected official simply because they dislike what he has to say — or because he proposes necessary but uncomfortable changes — then local democracy in East Brunswick is no longer functioning. It has become a show, a charade, a hollow performance. Worse, it sets a dangerous precedent: that criticism of leadership will be punished, not debated.

The superintendent works for the Board of Education, not the other way around. For this action to be sanctioned by Board President Heather Guas and Vice President Liwu Hong speaks volumes about their character — and their ability, or inability, to maintain accountability among those they are tasked with overseeing.

It is the Board’s responsibility to ensure the district operates fairly and lawfully. Yet not a single member has stepped up. They allowed their employee, Victor Valeski, to take control in a way that no superintendent should ever be permitted to do. And in doing so, they have failed the very people they were elected to serve.

Where Is the Outrage?

The residents of East Brunswick should be outraged. Democracy is not about protecting entrenched power at all costs. It’s about giving voters a voice — even when that voice is inconvenient for those currently in charge.

We also sincerely hope that Mayor Brad Cohen, who has spoken passionately on his personal social media about the importance of due process and protecting democracy nationwide, will recognize the seriousness of what is happening right here in his own backyard. Speaking up for democracy cannot just be about what happens in Washington, D.C. It must start at home — especially when it’s so blatantly under attack.

Eyes on EB Will Keep Watching

What is happening to Dr. Lou Figueroa is wrong. It is unjust. And it is un-American.

 East Brunswick voters deserve better.

Eyes on EB will continue to watch, to report, and to stand up for the voices that others are so desperately trying to silence.

This article reflects the opinion of Eyes on EB, based on public information and insights from a reliable source within the East Brunswick administration.

 

 

New Resident Asks About East Brunswick Schools, Sparks Honest Feedback in Local Group

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Rob W banned

Recently, a prospective East Brunswick resident posted in the East Brunswick NJ Community Facebook group asking about the quality of elementary schools and the general community vibe. What followed was a revealing and, at times, brutally honest thread that paints a clear picture of the current state of both East Brunswick Public Schools (EBPS) and the town itself.

The original poster asked because online platforms like Zillow offer mixed reviews about local schools. Within hours, dozens of longtime residents, alumni, parents, and even a current Board of Education member weighed in, offering perspectives that ranged from deeply positive to strongly critical.

A Town of Pride — But Not Without Concern

Many residents echoed a consistent theme: East Brunswick remains a desirable, welcoming town with a strong sense of community. Several longtime residents shared that they raised their children here successfully and built lifelong friendships. Stories of wonderful teachers, inclusive programs, and a community that rallies for its students were shared generously.

However, deeper into the conversation, a more complex reality emerged.

Several contributors pointed out ongoing concerns about the declining reputation of the school district, citing the loss of “Blue Ribbon” designations (with the last awarded in 2014), the perceived weakening of academic rigor, and frustrations with current Board of Education leadership and the Superintendent. One former resident even mentioned that the district “teaches only for college,” without broader preparation for students with different post-high school paths.

Others highlighted more structural issues. Comments touched on rising taxes, overcrowding, increased high-density housing, and fears that the town’s once-prized suburban charm is slowly slipping away. Residents also discussed recent budget challenges, including attempts to cut music and world language programs at the elementary and middle school levels — initiatives that were only saved through strong public outcry and advocacy.

Balanced Insights

To be fair, defenders of the district pointed to measurable successes: EBPS still ranks 43rd out of 243 New Jersey districts and 4th in Middlesex County, according to Niche.com, earning an overall grade of “A.” The high school maintains a 95% graduation rate and solid college readiness scores, with average SATs around 1320 and ACTs around 30.

Moreover, multiple families stressed that all elementary schools follow a unified curriculum across the district. Popular elementary schools mentioned in a positive light included Frost, Irwin, Central, Memorial, Lawrence Brook, and Warnsdorfer. Even critics of the broader system generally praised the day-to-day dedication of teachers and the value of East Brunswick’s diversity and community programming.

One important logistical note surfaced: regardless of where a child attends K-4 elementary school, all students eventually attend Hammarskjold Upper Elementary School (grades 5-6) before moving on to Churchill Junior High (7-9) and East Brunswick High School (10-12).

Key Takeaways for New Families

If you are considering a move to East Brunswick:

  • Elementary schools remain strong, but the district has ongoing challenges, especially at the leadership and budgeting level.

  • Community engagement is high, and public pressure has successfully preserved important educational programs.

  • Housing development and taxes are growing concerns for longtime residents.

  • Research beyond online ratings: Attend Board of Education meetings (available on YouTube), speak to current parents directly, and visit neighborhoods in person.

  • Remember the big picture: No district is perfect. East Brunswick still offers a strong educational foundation, particularly for families invested in being active participants in their children’s education.

As one long-time teacher and parent noted, no place is without flaws — but in East Brunswick, there are still many who are proud to call it home.

For ongoing updates on East Brunswick schools, governance, and community life, stay connected with Eyes on EB.

Banned Again: Rob W Kicked Out of East Brunswick NJ Community

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? When Speaking the Truth Is Too Much for Some to Handle

It’s happened again.
Rob W, founder of Eyes on EB, has been banned from another East Brunswick group — this time, East Brunswick NJ Community.

At first glance, you might think it’s just another case of someone stirring the pot.
But dig a little deeper, and you’ll realize — it’s not about jokes.
It’s about the truth.

Because let’s be honest: In today’s East Brunswick, telling the truth — pointing out inconvenient realities, asking questions people don’t want to answer — is enough to make certain people very uncomfortable.

Maybe too uncomfortable.

“It’s all good,” Rob W said. “But if you think a ban is going to silence me, you clearly don’t know me very well. Jenna M. t. has another thing coming!”

Is It Just a Ban — or Something Bigger?

There’s a saying: if you’re catching heat, you’re over the target.

And now, after seeing two bans in a matter of days, it’s hard not to wonder —
is this pressure coming from somewhere higher up?
Is the call to silence Rob W coming from the very top of the local food chain?

Because what exactly is so dangerous about a guy posting facts, calling out double standards, and asking the questions most people are too afraid to raise?

“What are they so scared of?” Rob asked. “A guy with a laptop and a few backdoor screenshots?”

You can block accounts. You can remove posts.
But you can’t erase the truth.
And you definitely can’t erase the back door.
The information always finds a way.

Always.

You Can’t Cancel What’s Real

This isn’t about one person.
It’s about a mindset — a growing fear of honest discussion.
A discomfort with anything that doesn’t fit neatly into a curated image of the town.

But here’s the thing:
East Brunswick deserves better than curated illusions.

It deserves real conversations.
It deserves people willing to say what needs to be said — not just what’s convenient.

Rob W may be banned from a few Facebook groups, but Eyes on EB is only getting louder, clearer, and sharper.
And if recent events are any indication, it’s because the truth is exactly what they’re trying hardest to hide.

Stay tuned.
The real story is just getting started.