Jackie Syrop:

I’m a freelance writer/editor, living in Central New Jersey–but I’m not really a Jersey girl, because I grew up in Yonkers, New York… making fun of New Jersey. But I admit it: I surprise myself with my love of the Garden State, despite the many things wrong with it. So it’s fine with me if everyone from outside of New Jersey believes it’s like the turnpike corridor. That way, they won’t come here and crowd my beautiful beaches or Delaware River bike path. When the kids are grown and on their own, and we can retire, I hope you’ll find us living the dream in a shack Down the Shore, sleeping on the beach, riding the waves, and eating at Surf Taco.