Cruz hates NY’s values? What would he think of these NJ values?

Social media is buzzing over #NewYorkValues, thanks to Thursday night's debate exchange between Ted Cruz and Donald Trump.

If the podiums were slightly turned, we would have loved to see Chris Christie help explain New Jersey values. Politics aside, there's no questioning what most Jersey folks hold dear:

Family: Jersey roots run very deep.  Despite sky-high taxes, the idea of moving away from kids, grandkids, parents, other relatives or 'honorary' cousins is too much for many to bear.

And while New Jersey has a reputation for having some "big mouths," it should be noted our hearts may be the biggest collective thing about us.  Just look at the response when asked to help out other families in-need this past holiday season.

Good food: Maybe it starts with the pride in having superior bagels and pizza.

We love eating it, sharing it and bragging about our Jersey favorites, which these days, include plenty of gourmet food trucks. Those can be a family affair, too, as rising star the Empanada Guy can attest to.  The company has grown to a fleet of trucks and a restaurant in Freehold.

That Jersey 'tude: Not taking crap, and respecting others for standing their ground.  Also known as swagger, moxy or conviction. It's why NFL fans in all corners of New Jersey have tipped their hats to now ex-Giants coach, Tom Coughlin.

Resiliency: New Jersey residents are masters at finding inner strength after tragedy or disaster.  Even when it takes a long time.

Restore the Shore is an ongoing effort by Townsquare Media of New Jersey to assist local residents still recovering from Hurricane Sandy.

Loyalty: It's why hockey icon Marty Brodeur is getting four days of fanfare in February, as the Devils goalie sees his number retired.  Spend 20 seasons with New Jersey's only 'official' pro team, and you can expect a statue, too.

Erin Vogt is a lifelong Jersey Girl, whose first reporting gig involved her Fisher Price tape recorder. As a wife and momma of two kiddies, she firmly believes that life’s too short to drink bad coffee.  A fan of the beach, Dave Grohl and karma, in no particular order.