Keller @ Large: Our New Tourism Slogan?
BOSTON (CBS) - "It's all here in Massachusetts!"
That's been the best-foot-forward slogan and strategy for Massachusetts tourism for several years now. And in the wake of last week's public trashing of Rhode Island's new tourism campaign ("Cooler and Warmer," believe it or not), we wondered: can't we do better than "It's all here"?
"I like it," says Gov. Charlie Baker. "I always have. [It] makes the point."
There's no accounting for taste. And judging from the response to our call for new slogan ideas, many of you agree with me, not the governor.
Some suggestions focused on our tax burden, not as bad as it used to be but still top of mind for many.
Josh S. Offers: "Massachusetts: If you make it, we'll tax it."
From Henley B: "We have it all and it's all taxed."
And Lynda S. offers: "Massachusetts: The prettiest state you can't afford to live in."
Weather was an inspiration for some, like Jacqueline L., who looked out the window and suggested: "Massachusetts: All four seasons in five days"
And Jeff M., anticipating coming attractions, suggested: "Massachusetts: You'll just love our potholes."
New Hampshire's "Live Free or Die" slogan seemed to resonate with our respondents, who submitted several variations on that theme. David B. offered "Live Free and Sleep In."
And my favorite, from Jerald N: "Live Free From Traffic Rules Or Die."
But the most common theme was bad attitude. As Sean F. put it: "Massachusetts: We Don't Care and it Shows."
Or as Keith L. explains: "Welcome to Massachusetts, We're Not Happy Until You're Not Happy."
Don't get us wrong. We want visitors to come here and spend all their money. And then, as Henley B. put it: "Get in your Lexus and Drive Back to Texas."