My letter is in response to the recent debate over New Jersey's worth to society. I love New Jersey. It's got a little of everything and as diverse a population as you can find. I'll add that I don't have much against Pennsylvania; in fact, I owe a lot to this state since coming here.

I've been exposed to things I've never seen at home, such as the massive array of pickup trucks, hunting clothes, seeing my first wild bear and people who actually watch NASCAR.

As far as Pennsylvania's sports teams, many players live and practice in my wasteland. That's right, their precious Flyers live in Voorhees, N.J., in some of the nicest neighborhoods in the country. What else can Jersey be proud of? N.J. ranks third in the United States in household income, according to the U.S. Census. Pennsylvania can be found way down there at 24th.

Sure, those "ghetto" areas in Newark and Jersey City aren't that great. But I'd have to wonder how far their standards of living are from some places located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Having seen some of those places on my way to school, I'd guess not far. My neighbors would definitely complain if there were a rusty truck carcass in my front yard.

It's not that I don't like Pennsylvania; every state can appreciated for something, and it just happens that N.J. isn't known for bear hunting and off roading. It might take some effort, but if you look hard enough, I'm sure you'll find it.