On New Jerseyans and 'voting with their feet'

Not so long ago, the Asbury Park Press printed an editorial wherein editor Randy Bergmann wrote about how state voters are casting their ballot with their feet, departing for destinations outside of the Garden State.

The editorial was something of a hit. On my trip, I decided to ask around a little bit and see if there was any truth to it.

So, during a conversation with Mooresville business owner, Mike Wilhelm, who owns Old World Art, I said, "Yeah, there's a lot of talk about how New Jerseyians are moving out." To which Mike finished, "Yeah, and they're coming here."

There has been a vast expansion of housing in the area during recent years. It is generally believed that this is a result of Charlotte's expansion. But, more and more, former residents from New Jersey, New York and even Ohio are starting to call the area home -- for the good and the bad of it, in some cases.