The American flag was lowered at Fort Monmouth for the final time yesterday, signaling the closure of the U.S. Army Communications Electronics Command (CECOM). “This is a sad day for Monmouth County and the thousands of veterans and civilian contractors who lived or worked at Fort Monmouth over the years,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, a member of the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority.

With the new budget being put into place, there has been much debate on how educational programs will be affected. I can’t speak for all the programs, however one after-school organization that received state aid is excited about the new development.

In a controversial move, Brick Memorial High School migrated to a block scheduling program for the new school year. And several weeks into the semester, students are beginning to speak out. With the new schedule, class options have altered and students have to become increasingly selective with their course choices.