New Jersey absolutely, positively re-branded

The US city of New Jersey, trying to overcome its reputation for corruption, traffic and toxic waste dumps, has rejected dozens of sardonic and sarcastic entries in a contest for a new tourist slogan.

A list of five possible slogans released yesterday leaves out "New Jersey: We can always use another relative on the payroll," and "Come to New Jersey: It's not as bad as it smells."

Voters get to pick the winner in the competition launched after Gov. Richard Codey nixed "New Jersey: We'll Win You Over," created by a consultant who was paid $260,000.

"It makes me think of when I was young and single and asked a girl out," Codey said in a statement. "She turned me down. I said, 'Give me a chance, I'll win you over.'"

Nearly 7,800 entries were submitted to promote a state not widely known for its pristine countryside and sun-soaked beaches.

The five finalists are: "New Jersey: Expect the Unexpected," "New Jersey: Love at First Sight," "New Jersey: Come See for Yourself," "New Jersey: The Real Deal" and "New Jersey: The Best Kept Secret."

Voters in the Garden State have until January 1 to make their selection.

- REUTERS