For 9 years, I worked at the Apple Store in the Willowbrook Mall, where I interacted with many thousands of people from every corner of New Jersey, and the world. I helped nuns, convicted felons, celebrities, pro athletes, and even a Real Housewife of NJ or two. And I can say, without any hesitation, that my favorite customers were Black customers from Newark. Funny, friendly, and chill.

Newark has, as you point out, so much going for it. And contrary to what so many people inside and outside of NJ think, Newark’s people are the top asset.