Yes, we live in New York (CITY)'s shadow. Yes, we had a closeted gay governor. Yes, we have Newark. and Camden.
But at least we're not Pennsylvania.
People are constantly saying that New Jersey smells weird. That it's the armpit of America. That New Jersey has nothing to offer people. That the list of positives about the state are just a list of things (that everyone loves) that they don't want to hear about anymore.
But let's face it: Jersey is the birthing place of such memorable people as Bruce Springsteen, Jon Stewart, Frank Sinatra, and Jon Bon Jovi.
Okay, you're tired of hearing that.
New Jersey is the true home of the New York Giants and the New York Jets (even though I like to forget about that). The Statue of Liberty is ACTUALLY IN New Jersey.
Alright, fine. You don't want to hear any of that anymore.
But really? That's a lot to offer people. Just because we live in the shadow of New York City (not even in the shadow of the entirety of New York state--- because come one... the rest of the state has to be referred to as Upstate. At least Jersey can be called Jersey and you know what you're talking about), doesn't mean that as a state we aren't awesome. In fact, it's difficult to say that Jersey is living in the shadow of the city. It provides suburbs for the not-very-homey city with all the access to the exciting offerings of NYC.
And we have the Jersey Shore. Please notice that the (possibly) number one reason people hate on the Jersey Shore actually comes from New York state: guidos. Yes, yes, there are plenty of guidos and guidettes living in NJ, but really, they spawned from those who descended from NY. And everyone else hates them and New York for bringing them here.
Also, let's clear one thing up: When was the last time you went to the Jersey shore? OH really? NEVER? Then how do you know that it's not clean? In the past few years especially, the entire shoreline has been cleaned up and the beaches are really nice now. Yes, we border the Atlantic Ocean and don't have the beautiful blue waters that California and Pacific Ocean beaches can offer, but you don't see that in R.I and other shores along the Northeast.
We have non-reservation gambling location. Okay, Atlantic City as a city is a little sketchy once you leave the boardwalk area, but who can't say the same for off the strip in Las Vegas? Actually, I've been to Las Vegas. Who can say that the entirety of Vegas isn't sketchy? The amounts of pornographic business cards that were shoved in my pockets when I was 15 says no one. With the boardwalk with games and rides, one (read: I) can say that A.C. is more family friendly, and all around fun. There are so many concerts and shows to see, and the number of various casinos makes this gambling location superior to those offered by many other states.
I'm sorry if you're reading this and wondering, "why is this 20-year-old thinks New Jersey is ANYTHING classy." I really and truly am sorry because you're closing yourself off to an amazing place with plenty to offer.
But I understand.
You need something to hate. You need to feel superior. But to those paying higher taxes in NY, and those of you who can't drive in Pennsylvania (it's okay, I know you'll fight on that one. Accept it. You cannot drive.), and those of you who only know that everyone else hates NJ so you should too:
Welcome to New Jersey, bitch. We are superior and don't need your approval.
