The Philadelphia 76ers delivered a resilient, high-energy performance Friday night, powered by Tyrese Maxey’s 22 points, to secure a 115–103 victory over the Brooklyn Nets in an NBA Cup showdown at Barclays Center. In a game where depth was tested and momentum swung wildly, the Sixers found the answers they needed, snapping a two-game skid with a statement win that highlighted both their young talent and their ability to adapt under pressure.
Philadelphia entered the night without Joel Embiid, sidelined due to right knee management, and VJ Edgecombe, who was held out with calf tightness. Their situation grew even more challenging when Andre Drummond went down in the second quarter with what appeared to be a significant right knee sprain. Drummond collapsed awkwardly after contesting Tyrese Martin’s floater and immediately grabbed for his knee, leaving the Sixers with limited options in the frontcourt.
Despite the adversity, Philadelphia’s offense found its rhythm early and often. Maxey once again played the role of offensive catalyst, pushing the tempo and creating mismatches that kept Brooklyn on its heels. Rookie guard Jared McCain was outstanding off the bench, pouring in 20 points with confident shooting and poise well beyond his years. Quentin Grimes added 19 efficient points, and Paul George chipped in 14, helping Philadelphia maintain control every time Brooklyn threatened to make a run.
The Nets, who continue to search for answers on their home floor, leaned heavily on Egor Demin, who delivered a career-high 23 points. Tyrese Martin added 16 in a strong outing for the former Allen High School standout, but Brooklyn’s struggles in closing out quarters once again proved costly. The loss dropped the Nets to 0–9 at home this season—a stunning drought for a franchise that last celebrated a home win on April 8.
Brooklyn showed sparks of life midway through the third quarter, rattling off an 11–2 run capped by Demin’s three-pointer that trimmed Philadelphia’s lead to nine. Each time the Nets inched closer, however, the Sixers responded with execution and timely shot-making. McCain, Grimes, and Maxey combined to keep the momentum in Philadelphia’s favor, refusing to let the home team seize control.
Down the stretch, the Nets made one more push as Demin’s late layup cut the deficit to 112–103 with just over a minute left. But Grimes quickly found Adem Bona in the corner, and the rookie forward calmly drilled a decisive three-pointer that sealed the win and quieted the arena.
The matchup added another compelling chapter to an early-season NBA Cup slate that has already delivered some unpredictable moments, and it also offered another layer of intrigue for fans following regional and national sports trends. Readers looking to stay plugged into the latest developments across basketball and beyond can find more coverage in our expanded section on sports.
Philadelphia and Brooklyn both sit at 1–3 in NBA Cup play as they head into the next stretch of group-stage games. The Sixers will return home to take on the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday night, while the Nets travel to Milwaukee for a challenging Saturday matchup as they continue searching for elusive stability—and their first home win of the season.
The global luxury resale market just got a transformative upgrade as Trenbe, the Seoul-based resale powerhouse, officially unveiled cluebe, an AI-driven authentication service now accessible in 44 countries and 14 languages. After an impressive beta run that drew early adopters from around the world, the company has moved the platform into full release—positioning itself as one of the first to make high-precision, AI-powered luxury verification this widely available.
At its core, cluebe operates on an elegantly simple promise: upload a photo of your designer item, and the system’s advanced AI will analyze and verify its authenticity within minutes. What once required in-person evaluations, week-long wait times, and costly third-party experts can now be completed from a phone or laptop, giving luxury buyers and sellers unprecedented convenience and confidence.
Industry observers have long predicted that artificial intelligence would become central to the resale ecosystem, and Trenbe’s expansion underscores how quickly the technology is maturing. Luxury authentication demands the highest level of scrutiny—materials, stitching patterns, micro-logo variations, production-year details, and countless subtle cues that human eyes often miss. cluebe’s model is trained on millions of data points and item images across dozens of top brands, allowing it to flag inconsistencies with remarkable precision.
The global rollout also signals the growing role of tech innovation within the resale and fashion industries. Consumers have become increasingly tech-savvy, and resale platforms must compete not only on supply and pricing but also on trust. Bringing AI verification to such a large international audience helps close the gap between digital convenience and security, making international peer-to-peer transactions more viable than ever. For New Jersey’s tech-forward audience—and for readers following developments across the state’s growing innovation corridor—this surge in authentication technology aligns with ongoing trends documented in our coverage of technology and tech.
Trenbe’s timing is strategic. Global demand for authenticated resale continues rising, fueled by sustainability-minded shoppers and a younger generation deeply comfortable with buying and selling pre-owned luxury goods. By marrying AI with accessibility, cluebe introduces a standard that many believe will soon be expected across the industry. With no physical limitations, no geographic barriers, and instantaneous results, the service could quickly become a cornerstone tool for collectors, resellers, and first-time shoppers navigating high-value purchases.
What makes this launch especially notable is its positioning within a rapidly evolving landscape. The intersection of artificial intelligence and fashion isn’t new—but scalable, consumer-friendly applications like this are still rare. By opening cluebe to an expansive, multilingual global audience, Trenbe is not only showcasing its technological capabilities but also accelerating the shift toward a more transparent, confidently authenticated resale marketplace.
As AI continues to reshape the way we interact with luxury goods, services like cluebe highlight how digital innovation can remove friction from the buying and selling process. For the millions who engage in luxury resale every year, this development represents a meaningful step toward safer transactions and smarter technology—one that will likely inspire a wave of similar advancements throughout the tech and fashion sectors.
The company, originally founded in Seoul, South Korea, operates satellite offices in Seoul, London, and New Jersey, and employs more than 100 people across its locations. This New Jersey office serves as a base of operations to support the company’s US rollout and services, including potential future local consignment drop-off points for customers in the region.
The latest episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast brings listeners an extraordinary conversation with Chief Warrant Officer 5 Phillip Brashear, son of Navy legend Master Chief Carl Brashear. Carl Brashear’s trailblazing career as the first Black U.S. Navy Master Diver became the subject of the 2000 film Men of Honor, and his son Phillip continues the family tradition of service with a distinguished military journey of his own.
Hosted by Marshall Spevak, CEO of the Battleship New Jersey Museum, Episode 22 dives into Phillip Brashear’s personal story, from his early years in the Navy to his transition into the Army, where he became a helicopter pilot. Over his deployments to Bosnia and Iraq, Brashear logged more than 2,600 flight hours, showcasing both skill and dedication. He reflects candidly on the challenges and triumphs of growing up as the son of an American icon, sharing unique insights into how his father’s perseverance shaped his approach to life and service.
Phillip also celebrates the 25th anniversary of Men of Honor and discusses his recent honor as an Honorary Chief Petty Officer, awarded by the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON). Beyond his personal accomplishments, Brashear is deeply committed to the Battleship New Jersey’s Chief Petty Officer Heritage Academy, now in its 18th year, which has become the largest CPO Heritage Academy for the Naval Reserve in the nation. His work ensures that the ship’s legacy of leadership, honor, and resilience continues to inspire the next generation of Naval leaders.
WETSU, the podcast’s namesake, originated as a rallying cry aboard the Battleship New Jersey. Instilled by the ship’s 19th and final commander, RADM Ronald Tucker (USN, Ret.), WETSU stands for “We Eat This Stuff Up,” embodying the spirit of resilience, determination, and camaraderie that defined the ship’s crew. The motto was emblazoned on the final Battle Flag as the ship departed its pier for the first time in nearly 25 years, and today it serves as a symbol for the podcast and a celebration of the ship’s storied history.
Listeners can join the WETSU community by subscribing on their preferred podcast platform or tuning into the Battleship New Jersey’s YouTube channel. Episodes are released every other Wednesday, offering interviews, historical context, and personal stories from the men and women connected to this legendary vessel. In addition, fans can carry the WETSU legacy through collectible merchandise, including replica battle flags and challenge coins that honor the ship’s history and values.
For those interested in exploring New Jersey’s rich cultural and historical offerings, including engaging programming like the WETSU podcast, the art and culture section of Explore New Jersey offers extensive coverage of museums, historical sites, and creative initiatives across the state.
Episode 22 of WETSU is more than just a podcast; it’s an opportunity to connect with an extraordinary American story, celebrate naval tradition, and witness how the legacy of Carl Brashear continues to shape and inspire the next generation of service members. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a military aficionado, or simply seeking inspiration, Phillip Brashear’s story is a compelling testament to courage, commitment, and family legacy.
New Jersey politics remains focused on the transition of Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, whose recent resignation from Congress has set in motion a series of developments with statewide implications. Sherrill, set to be inaugurated as New Jersey’s 57th governor on January 20, 2026, officially vacated her U.S. House seat on November 20, 2025, creating a highly competitive special election in the state’s 11th Congressional District.
The resignation has triggered a crowded primary race, with at least a dozen candidates vying for the Democratic nomination, including former Congressman Tom Malinowski and Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way. Governor Phil Murphy has scheduled the special primary election for February 5, 2026, and the general election for April 16, 2026. Candidates must submit nomination petitions by December 1, 2025, making the coming weeks a critical period for campaign organizing and voter outreach.
Sherrill is simultaneously focused on shaping her incoming administration and engaging the public directly. A recent statewide survey seeks input from New Jersey residents on priorities such as affordability, energy policy, and other pressing issues facing households. Her remarks regarding Virginia’s data centers “sucking all the power” have sparked discussion, highlighting a tension between her goal of reducing energy costs for residents and expanding the state’s energy supply. Former Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm is among the notable figures advising Sherrill, co-leading a transition action team dedicated to making energy more affordable and resilient.
In addition to the gubernatorial transition, state legislative and regulatory activity continues to make headlines. A new report calls for stricter safety rules and greater transparency for trains carrying hazardous materials, almost 13 years after a toxic derailment in Paulsboro. Millions of New Jersey residents live within a mile of freight lines at risk of potential toxic spills or fires, underscoring the urgency of these recommendations. Meanwhile, a proposed bill seeks to limit the powers of the State Commission of Investigation, the independent agency responsible for probing corruption and organized crime, sparking debate over accountability and oversight in state government. The Assembly’s health committee also advanced legislation to legalize psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms,” for adults over 21 to be used in mental health treatment, reflecting a broader trend toward progressive healthcare reforms.
Attorney General Matthew Platkin has been particularly active this week, pursuing legal actions that affect both federal and state policy. He filed a lawsuit challenging what he described as “unlawful” federal guidance on SNAP (food stamp) eligibility, joined a bipartisan coalition urging Congress not to preempt state limits on AI use, and sued the Department of Housing and Urban Development over changes he contends could destabilize housing for vulnerable residents. These efforts demonstrate New Jersey’s proactive approach to safeguarding state autonomy and protecting residents’ access to essential services.
Sherrill’s transition also includes receiving guidance from former cabinet members and state commissioners, who are preparing bipartisan recommendations to inform her incoming administration. Their counsel aims to provide continuity while ensuring that the new leadership can navigate the complex policy challenges facing New Jersey, from energy affordability to public safety and economic growth. The State Senate’s current lame duck session is expected to address S4924, further shaping the legislative landscape as the administration prepares to take office.
As New Jerseyers follow these developments, those interested in detailed political coverage and analysis can explore resources like New Jersey politics, which provide comprehensive updates on elections, legislation, and policy debates across the state.
With the inauguration approaching, Mikie Sherrill’s focus on engaging residents, defining policy priorities, and managing a high-profile transition underscores a pivotal moment for New Jersey. The interplay between her gubernatorial plans, the competitive congressional race, and ongoing legislative initiatives ensures that state politics will remain dynamic and closely watched through the end of 2025 and into the new administration.
As the NHL season heats up, the New Jersey Devils (15-7-1) travel to KeyBank Center in Buffalo today to take on the Sabres (9-10-4) at 4:00 p.m. ET, in what promises to be a crucial matchup for maintaining their position atop the Eastern Conference. Fans can catch the action on MSG and MSG-B, with the game serving as an opportunity for the Devils to extend their two-game winning streak after consecutive tight victories over the Detroit Red Wings and St. Louis Blues.
Despite strong home success, the Devils have struggled on the road this season, posting a 6-7-0 record. The team will have to contend with several key absences. Forward Evgenii Dadonov will miss an extended period due to an undisclosed injury sustained earlier this week, marking his second significant setback of the season after a previous hand fracture sidelined him for 17 games. Center Jack Hughes remains out as well, following finger surgery in early November, with an expected eight-week recovery. The Devils will lean on leaders like Nico Hischier and Timo Meier to step up offensively; both have been producing consistently in Hughes’ absence, continuing multi-point and multi-goal streaks that have kept New Jersey competitive.
Defenseman Simon Nemec has been instrumental in recent wins, including scoring the overtime winner against St. Louis, demonstrating the depth and resilience of the Devils’ roster. The team has also maintained a strong commitment to community engagement, highlighted by participation in the league-wide Hockey Fights Cancer initiative. In one touching moment, the Devils honored a seven-year-old cancer survivor with a one-day contract, including him in practice, a precursor to their official Hockey Fights Cancer Night scheduled for November 29.
Off-ice challenges continue to spark debate regarding player performance and contracts. Ondrej Palat, a veteran winger, has struggled significantly this season. His five-year, $30 million deal, signed in July 2022, has come under scrutiny as his production has declined sharply. After posting just 23 points in a season marred by injuries and declining output in subsequent years, Palat’s performance through the first 23 games of 2025-26 is particularly concerning, with only two points recorded. Analysts and fans alike argue that his spot in the lineup may be limiting opportunities for younger or more productive players, raising questions about team strategy as the Devils push for playoff positioning.
The Devils’ matchup against the Sabres is a test of resilience, depth, and adaptability. Philadelphia and New Jersey may not be directly involved today, but monitoring the performance of key roster players and managing injuries will play a critical role in sustaining momentum. With the Eastern Conference tightly contested, every road win counts, and the Devils will need a balanced effort from forwards, defensemen, and special teams to secure a victory in Buffalo.
For fans wanting comprehensive coverage of the Devils’ season, player updates, and game analysis, Explore New Jersey’s New Jersey Devils section provides up-to-date news, statistics, and insights into one of the NHL’s most compelling teams.
The Devils face a pivotal afternoon in Buffalo, balancing the challenge of an inconsistent road record, ongoing injuries, and the pressure to maintain their Eastern Conference lead. Success today will depend on timely scoring, disciplined defense, and the ability of both emerging stars and veterans to contribute at a high level, ensuring that New Jersey remains a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses.
SOUTH NEW JERSEY — The NFL’s Black Friday tradition continues to evolve, blending sport, commerce, and holiday spectacle, and today’s matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Chicago Bears at Lincoln Financial Field epitomizes the league’s growing influence on the holiday weekend. Kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m. ET, and fans nationwide can stream the contest on Amazon Prime Video, with select local broadcasts available on FOX affiliates. The game features two NFC heavyweights, both sitting at 8-3, making this Week 13 clash a critical milestone in the playoff race.
Amazon, in partnership with the NFL, developed the Black Friday game to capitalize on the day’s massive viewership while expanding its streaming platform. By offering the game to both Prime members and non-members, the tech giant introduces millions to its live sports coverage, driving potential subscriptions and engagement. The platform also benefits from enhanced advertising opportunities, including interactive “shoppable” ads, creating a unique intersection of football and retail during one of the busiest shopping days of the year. For the NFL, the game adds another high-value broadcast slot, expands fan engagement, and, for the first time in 2025, delivers global streaming access, allowing fans around the world to tune in without restriction.
On the field, the Eagles have called for fans to embrace the holiday theme, donning black to support the team in their all-black uniforms. Philadelphia enters the game seeking redemption after a heartbreaking 21-point blown lead against Dallas on Sunday, while the Bears arrive with momentum under first-year head coach Ben Johnson and second-year quarterback Caleb Williams. Chicago has impressed with a 7-1 record over its last eight games, demonstrating a high-powered offense averaging over 26 points per contest, driven by Williams’ mobility, precise passing, and growing chemistry with his receivers.
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts emphasized the need for focus in the short week. “Everything demands more,” Hurts said. “We all have to take that next step, raise our level of play, raise our level of focus.” Philadelphia’s offense has been efficient, but inconsistent, averaging just over 23 points per game. The team will rely on its strong front seven, including defensive standouts Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, and recent addition Jaelan Phillips, to disrupt Chicago’s quick-game attack.
The Bears’ defense, while statistically average, has been opportunistic in tight games, posting a 5-1 record in one-score contests this season. Chicago’s resurgence has been fueled by strategic play-calling, Williams’ leadership under center, and an offensive line that has stabilized in recent weeks. The matchup in Philadelphia sets up compelling contrasts, from the Bears’ dynamic quarterback play to the Eagles’ star receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, who will look to exploit gaps in Chicago’s front. Running back Saquon Barkley is also expected to play a critical role, using his power and agility to challenge the Bears’ defensive interior.
Injury reports have shaped the strategies for both squads. The Eagles will be without WR Xavier Gipson, T Myles Hinton, and T Lane Johnson, while Chicago will be missing key contributors including LB T.J. Edwards, LB Ruben Hyppolite II, OL Luke Newman, DL Dominique Robinson, LB Noah Sewell, and DB Tyrique Stevenson, with DBs Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon listed as questionable. These absences may force adjustments, particularly in depth and rotational strategies on both sides of the ball.
Special teams may play a pivotal role in today’s chilly, windy conditions, with Eagles kicker Jake Elliott providing a long-range advantage in critical moments. Historical trends favor Philadelphia; the Bears have not defeated the Eagles since 2011, and the Birds have won six consecutive meetings, including a narrow 25-20 victory at Soldier Field three years ago.
Analysts entering the game have given position-by-position pregame grades, highlighting advantages for the Eagles in key areas such as tight ends, wide receivers, the defensive line, and linebackers, while Chicago’s strengths lie in the versatility and resilience of their offensive schemes. Betting lines favor Philadelphia by 6.5 points with a 45.5 over/under and a money line of Eagles -300, Bears +250.
With the Black Friday matchup now an established part of the NFL calendar, today’s game is more than a holiday spectacle—it represents strategic growth for the league, a showcase for emerging talent, and an opportunity for fans to experience top-tier football while enjoying one of the year’s busiest weekends. For fans seeking additional coverage, insights, and updates about football events across New Jersey, Explore New Jersey’s football section offers comprehensive resources for staying connected to the sport.
From the resurgent Bears to the high-powered Eagles, today’s contest promises excitement, tactical battles, and a holiday showdown that continues to reshape how fans engage with the NFL during one of the nation’s most watched weekends.
Tim Easton Brings Americana Magic to Jersey Shore Arts Center This December
December 6
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Tim Easton.
Singer-songwriter Tim Easton is set to captivate audiences at the Jersey Shore Arts Center in Ocean Grove on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 8:00 p.m., as part of his ongoing world tour supporting his latest album, Find Your Way. Opening the night will be fellow musician Quincy Mumford, promising an evening of immersive storytelling and richly textured Americana music.
Tim Easton has long been celebrated for his unique blend of folk, blues, and rock & roll—a musical style often described as Americana. His songs carry the weight of confessional storytelling, painting vivid portraits of ordinary lives and the landscapes he has traversed. Critics and fans alike praise his “workingman’s folk” style, marked by deeply personal lyrics, melodic intricacy, and an authenticity that reflects decades of experience on the road.
Born in upstate New York and raised in diverse locales including Tokyo, Japan, and Akron, Ohio, Easton’s formative years set the stage for a career defined by curiosity and wanderlust. He spent seven years traveling across Europe, busking in cities like Paris, London, Dublin, Prague, and Madrid, before returning to the United States to pursue his professional music career. This early exposure to international audiences shaped the breadth of his sound and his approach to storytelling through song.
Easton’s career highlights include signing with EMI Publishing in 1999 and New West Records shortly after. His 2001 album, The Truth About Us, featured three-fourths of the acclaimed band Wilco as his backing ensemble. Over the years, he has toured extensively alongside musical mentors such as Lucinda Williams and John Hiatt, further refining his signature sound. With over a dozen solo studio albums to his name, including 2024’s Find Your Way, Easton continues to demonstrate both prolific output and artistic evolution. Beyond music, he is a published poet, essayist, and songwriting teacher, providing insight and guidance to aspiring musicians around the world.
Now based in Nashville, Tennessee, Easton maintains a robust online presence and engages directly with fans through platforms like Patreon, where he releases a new song each month. His Ocean Grove performance offers New Jersey audiences an intimate chance to experience his signature blend of Americana storytelling live, connecting lyrics, guitar, and life experience in ways that resonate long after the final note.
For music enthusiasts looking to explore more of Tim Easton’s body of work or discover other artists in the Americana and folk scene, Explore New Jersey’s guide to music provides a comprehensive collection of events, concerts, and artist spotlights throughout the state.
The Jersey Shore Arts Center show promises an evening rich with narrative, emotion, and the timeless allure of Easton’s music. Fans of folk, blues, rock, and authentic songwriting will not want to miss this chance to witness a true troubadour in his element, delivering a performance that blends global experience, heartfelt lyricism, and the soulful rhythms that have defined his enduring career.
Satyadhar Joshi, a New Jersey-based technology leader, has earned the prestigious Silver Globee® Award in recognition of his groundbreaking contributions to artificial intelligence and national workforce development. This accolade highlights his innovative research, which has been formally indexed by the U.S. Department of Education, underscoring both the national impact and educational relevance of his work.
Joshi’s achievements reflect a rare combination of technical expertise and visionary leadership. His research in artificial intelligence focuses on practical applications that enhance workplace efficiency, support employee skill development, and create scalable solutions for workforce management. By integrating AI into educational and professional training programs, Joshi has helped bridge the gap between emerging technologies and workforce readiness, preparing employees to thrive in the modern economy.
The Silver Globee® Award, known for honoring global excellence in business and technology, recognizes innovators who demonstrate measurable impact, leadership, and forward-thinking solutions. Joshi’s work stands out for its ability to merge sophisticated AI tools with human-centered workforce strategies. His research provides frameworks for how technology can enhance, rather than replace, human labor, emphasizing reskilling, career advancement, and equitable access to high-demand skill sets.
In addition to his technical contributions, Joshi is noted for his advocacy in education and workforce policy. His research has informed federal initiatives, providing insights that shape curriculum design, job training programs, and industry standards. By aligning AI innovation with educational objectives, he ensures that technology benefits both employers and employees, creating sustainable solutions for workforce growth across sectors.
Joshi’s recognition also draws attention to New Jersey’s role as a hub for technological innovation and applied research. Professionals and students alike can find inspiration in his work, which demonstrates the intersection of artificial intelligence, workforce development, and educational policy. Those interested in the latest breakthroughs in technology and workforce solutions can explore more cutting-edge developments through resources like technology and tech, where New Jersey innovators and thought leaders are regularly featured.
By earning the Silver Globee® Award, Satyadhar Joshi not only solidifies his standing as a pioneer in AI but also highlights the transformative potential of technology in workforce development. His efforts serve as a blueprint for integrating advanced tools with human-centered strategies, positioning New Jersey at the forefront of innovation while shaping the future of national workforce education and professional growth.
This January, families across New Jersey have a perfect opportunity to combine creativity, learning, and community spirit at the METC Education Annex in Madison. On Monday, January 19, 2026, children and their guardians are invited to participate in the special School’s Out Craft: MLK Jr. Day event, running from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for an afternoon of hands-on artistic fun. With small admission fees of $5 per child or $10 per family, this family-friendly program encourages both imagination and togetherness while honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The event is designed for children of all ages, though attendees must be accompanied by an adult. Participants will explore a variety of crafts that highlight color, creativity, and positive community values. Activities include making sun catchers that capture light and energy, shaping vibrant pipe cleaner flowers, assembling pop-up rainbow creations, and several other imaginative projects. Each craft invites children to think creatively while learning about kindness, collaboration, and the importance of community—all themes closely tied to the spirit of MLK Jr. Day.
The Education Annex provides a welcoming environment where kids, tweens, and even parents can engage in artistic expression together. By encouraging family participation, the program emphasizes hands-on learning and creative problem-solving. While the museum itself is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the scheduled craft session ensures that visitors have dedicated time to focus on projects while receiving guidance from knowledgeable instructors.
Located at 23 Main Street in Madison, the METC Education Annex is easily accessible for families throughout Northern New Jersey. Visitors can plan their day around the museum’s full range of exhibits and activities, which celebrate history, art, and culture. For those seeking additional art-centered experiences or cultural events across the state, Explore New Jersey’s guide to art and culture offers an extensive listing of programs, workshops, and exhibitions updated year-round.
Whether your child is a budding artist, a curious explorer, or simply looking for an engaging way to spend a school holiday, this MLK Jr. Day craft event offers a memorable, hands-on experience. Participants not only take home colorful, self-made creations but also leave with a stronger sense of community and an appreciation for creativity as a tool for learning and expression. With guided activities, a welcoming environment, and opportunities for family engagement, the METC Education Annex provides one of the most enriching ways for New Jersey families to honor the legacy of Dr. King while having fun. For tickets and more information about the event and venue, click here!
Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel has long been one of New Jersey’s most immersive windows into 19th-century rural life, offering visitors a close-up look at agriculture as it once was. Yet alongside its charm and authenticity, the farm also inspires an ongoing conversation about the ethics of using animals for work—a debate that stretches far beyond Holmdel and into larger national discussions about animal rights, welfare, and the modern role of livestock.
At the heart of the conversation is a fundamental question: is it ethical to use animals for human labor when their welfare is protected and their work reflects traditional roles? Supporters of working-animal programs argue that the answer is yes. They emphasize that many domesticated species have lived alongside people for centuries, forming cooperative partnerships built on care, routine, and shared purpose. Draft horses, mules, oxen, and other farm animals were historically bred to assist with specific tasks, and many continue to thrive when engaged in work that suits their natural movement and temperament. Advocates say that, when handled responsibly, this can foster physical health, mental stimulation, and a meaningful quality of life.
I say BS because unless they can communicate in horse or mule (Spoiler Alert that I can safely say that mules do not like carrying people up and down the Grand Canyon) language, there’s no science behind it. It’s the same as people who fish claiming they know what a fish likes or doesn’t mind when a hook pierces its mouth. Yeah, sure—I’m sure the horse wants to drag around dirt and humans all day just as much as the fish wants a hook tearing through its mouth. Did humans talk to fish in fish language to figure that out, or is it just a way to rationalize the action? Besides, the farm uses horses to carry kids around when they could just use a tractor. They are making money by using animals, which isn’t right.
In the setting of a living history museum, that relationship takes on even more significance. Longstreet Farm uses horses and other livestock to demonstrate plowing, transportation, and daily chores exactly as they were performed in the 1890s. For many visitors, especially children, seeing these animals perform traditional work provides an educational experience that no display case or written plaque could replicate. It helps explain how families survived, how communities functioned, and how dependent early farm life was on the strength and intelligence of horses and mules. This hands-on connection to the past is one of the farm’s defining features and a major attraction for guests exploring activities and fun throughout the state.
But critics of working-animal programs take a very different view. Animal rights advocates contend that any use of animals for human benefit—no matter how historically accurate or carefully managed—constitutes exploitation. They argue that animals cannot give consent, cannot negotiate the terms of their labor, and cannot receive compensation beyond basic food and shelter. For those who prioritize animal rights above all else, these realities make the practice inherently unethical, even in educational environments that prioritize humane treatment.
Opponents also raise concerns about physical stress, potential injury, and the long-term fate of working livestock. Even under attentive care, animals performing physical labor may face risks, and activists argue that in a world with tractors, machinery, and digital demonstrations, live animal labor is not necessary. Ethical frameworks differ widely, but many critics maintain that historical authenticity should not outweigh an animal’s intrinsic right to live free from human expectations.
Longstreet Farm acknowledges these differing viewpoints while emphasizing its commitment to responsible, welfare-focused animal management. Although the farm recreates the lifestyle of the 1890s, its animals receive modern veterinary care, routine health monitoring, and attentive daily oversight. Each horse, mule, and livestock animal has a year-round home on the property, with a specialized diet designed to maintain their well-being. Visitors are reminded not to feed the animals, as even small dietary changes can disrupt their health.
The farm is transparent about its working-farm model. Horses and mules are viewed as livestock performing traditional roles—not pets—and their tasks are designed to replicate the labor that once sustained rural communities. When an animal can no longer participate in educational programming, the farm works with regional farmers and partner institutions to place them. This process, though historically accurate, has sparked controversy in the past, particularly when animals are sent to auction. Protesters have voiced concerns about the possibility of livestock being processed for meat once they leave the farm’s care.
These discussions reflect a broader cultural shift. Many visitors now view animals through a pet-centric lens, while Longstreet Farm operates through the lens of agricultural history. The result is a thoughtful, sometimes emotional conversation about how society balances education, authenticity, and animal welfare in the modern era.
For New Jersey residents interested in heritage sites, ethical questions in agriculture, or unique family outings, Longstreet Farm remains one of the state’s most compelling destinations. It invites the public not only to observe the past, but also to consider how those traditions intersect with today’s values—and how living history can ignite meaningful dialogue about the roles animals play in our world now and in the generations to come.
The irony is that Historic Longstreet Farm invites visitors to create their own Victorian dolls this January, an activity that has nothing to do with using animals for human entertainment or as a free workforce. Horses should be free to run and live naturally rather than being controlled by humans, and even setting that aside, there are plenty of ways to generate income while operating a farm. I understand that the farm is designed as a throwback to the 1890s, but there is a reason progress exists. We’ve advanced to machinery that is far more efficient than relying on horses for labor.
Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel is opening its doors this winter for a hands-on creative experience that blends local history with a charming crafting tradition. On Sunday, January 11, 2026, visitors of all ages are invited to take part in a make-and-take workshop focused on two classic Victorian-era doll styles: traditional corn husk dolls and soft, hand-stitched rag dolls. The program is free to the public and offered at various times throughout the day, allowing families and history enthusiasts to drop in whenever it fits their schedule.
Longstreet Farm is one of Monmouth County’s most celebrated living history sites, and events like this highlight the quieter, everyday pastimes that once shaped home life in rural New Jersey. Participants will learn how simple materials found around the farm or the household were transformed into toys that children treasured a century ago. Staff will demonstrate the techniques used to shape, tie, wrap, and dress these dolls, offering a window into the creativity and resourcefulness of early farm families. Visitors are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and craft their own keepsake, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind these deceptively simple toys.
The make-and-take workshop is designed to be fully family-friendly. All ages are welcome, and no prior crafting experience is necessary. The farm’s knowledgeable team brings the history to life while making the process approachable and fun for children, parents, and anyone curious about heritage crafts. Because the event is free, it serves as a perfect winter weekend outing for residents looking to explore engaging activities close to home.
Historic Longstreet Farm is located at 44 Longstreet Road in Holmdel, a picturesque setting where the ambiance of the 1890s is carefully preserved. Animals, period structures, staff interpreters, and ongoing demonstrations help visitors experience the rhythms and traditions of farm life as it once was. For those seeking additional seasonal outings, hands-on programs, or family events around the state, Explore New Jersey’s directory of activities and fun offers a broad collection of experiences updated throughout the year.
The event also underscores the farm’s role as a community hub where education, entertainment, and history converge. Whether you’re an avid crafter, a parent searching for a memorable weekend event, or a curious visitor wanting to see New Jersey’s agricultural heritage up close, this workshop provides a rare chance to step into the past and bring a piece of it home.
For more information, visitors can contact the farm directly at 732-946-3758. Admission is free, and no tickets are required, making it one of the most accessible and enriching offerings on the winter calendar for New Jersey families.
