WE ARE NEW JERSEY

[PMZ908]

Dear America,

We are the REAL New Jersey. We are NOT the cast of MTV's Jersey Shore or Jerseylicious or the "Real Housewives" of New Jersey. We are hard-working people who happen to live in a beautiful state that is often the butt of biased comedians' jokes. But that is because they don't know us; they only know the stereotyped Jerseyite.

We are educated. We are resilient. We take great pride in our state. Our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents were immigrants who worked in refineries, docks and train stations. We are the sons and daughters of blue collar workers that allowed (by hard work , sacrifice, and sweat) New York City's economic development to occur. We are the grandchildren and children of police officers, teachers, railroad workers and firefighters.

We also take amazing pride in our homes. Why? Because we have worked many jobs to afford them in a state that is very expensive to live in due to our resources. You see, others save up to visit here; we have to work that much harder to live here. Yet, we relish our mountains, we enjoy being near forests and streams, and our New Jersey Coastline is the most amazing natural site. Though a cliché, our backyards are the vacation spots for other people. From Keansburg Amusement Park to Atlantic City, we offer a plethora of experiences enhanced by the majestic and natural beauty of our beaches and the friendly demeanor of our people.

And when our backs are up against the wall, we will come together and work toward a common goal. So pray for us, assist us if you feel inclined to with donations….and then WATCH US as we get through this difficult challenge victoriously, We will be ready to serve frozen custard, funnel cake and salt water taffy with the sounds of: the Seaside Park Roller Coaster, Atlantic City Casino's, Bon Jovi playing at Asbury Park, screams from Runaway Rapids in Keansburg, horse and buggy rides in Cape May, the yelling kids on the Himalaya at Point Pleasant or the sound of Jetskis roaring off the water in Sandy Hook and Belmar in the background.

We are New Jersey…and we will get through this with our diligence and the Grace of God.

[Nancy5]

I live in PA and have spent many many vacations in Jersey.  I also have several  friends who live in that beautiful state.  I am shocked and sadden as I watch the damage Sandy did to your beautiful beaches.  I know the people of Jersey will come together, rebuild a better Jersey and will be welcoming visitors once again next summer.  Our hearts are with you guys.

[ejholt]

You are right to be proud of your wonderful state.  I live in Tennessee and proud of it too.  I lived in New Jersey back in the 50's when my Father worked in NYC.  We lived in Bayonne and Moonachie and we were there 4 years.  I like it so much.  I pray you all will recover and rebuild you beautiful state.  I feel so sorry for everyone that Sandy destroyed.  Hope you have a wonderful Sunday and may God bless you and keep you safe.

[bigfoot951]

We all get a view of certain parts of the US from limited reasons and sources and therefore generally get an innaccurate view.  I have spent very little time in jersey but I have one story to some up my experience.  In Lakewood, NJ I bought a slice of pizze from an Amish guy working at a Chinese restaraunt.  Pretty funny I think.