Winter is coming, and Chicago is bracing for it with a sprinkle of creativity and community spirit. In a move that's warming hearts despite the frosty forecast, Chicago's Department of Streets and Sanitation is inviting residents to put their stamp on the city's winter warriors by naming a fleet of snowplows. According to CBS News, the second annual "You Name A Snowplow" contest is already plowing ahead, with submissions being accepted through January 12.
The city's quirky contest limits name submissions to 50 characters and is adamant that only one submission per person is allowed. As the cold weather looms, imaginative Chicagoans have the chance to see their winning entries emblazoned on one of the six snowplows patrolling the streets. Once submissions wrap up, 50 finalists will be chosen and subjected to the court of public opinion starting January 22, with voting running until February 2.
Not to be outdone, the suburban enclave of Park Ridge is playing its own name game. Residents here have until October 25 to flex their creative muscles and name 14 snow plows, as reported by Chicago Tribune. Those vying for the cool honor must adhere to a 30-character limit and ensure their entries are free of profanity or inappropriateness. Thirty finalists will be chosen by city staff before the residents cast their votes for the coolest, most creative, and wittiest names.
This flurry of public participation isn't just about having a bit of seasonal fun; it's about engendering a sense of community around a shared challenge—keeping the city's roadways clear and safe. The victors of Chicago's contest will not only get the chance to snap a photo with their named plow but will also walk away with some "city swag." And as for Park Ridge, well, the swift and the creative will see their names sweeping across streets this winter, a small but charming testament to the town's spirit in the face of Mother Nature's snowy onslaught.
Chicagoans can also engage with the campaign in a uniquely digital way—the city's plow tracker will allow residents to see the named snowplows in action as they clear the churned-up streets. Last year's contest gave us gems like "Mrs. O'Leary's Plow" and "Jean Baptiste Point du Shovel," proving that when it comes to braving the brisk winds and icy roads, Chicago doesn't just lead with strength; it leads with a wry smile too. So get those thinking caps on, Chicago—it's time to get creative and coat the city's muscular snow-clearing brigade with a splash of local flavor.
