Still Life with Robin: Name That Snowplow!

by Peggy Robin

Happy November 1st! Now that we're done with trick-or-treating, it's time to start thinking about what's coming next: Thanksgiving, and then the winter holidays....and quite likely, snow!

The DC Department of Public Works is thinking ahead. They're already working on their snow plowing strategies for winter and they want our help. What are they asking of us? We get to help them name their new snowplows. There are eight of them, one for each ward.

I would like to be sure that Cleveland Park Listserv readers step up to meet the assignment. It's something anyone can do, regardless of age or physical condition. All you need is a spark of creativity.

Here are the rules and the place to submit your best name ideas: https://tinyurl.com/DPW-Name-That-Plow 

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. DPW says: "Please keep it short and family-friendly. No harsh language, brands, or political references." And they add:
2. "Shorter is better. The chosen name will be painted on the snowplow.... 20 characters or fewer fits best on the truck."
3. It looks to me as if the entry form is set up so that you can submit a name for the truck from your own ward only. 
4. You are encouraged to create a name that reflects something special about your ward.
5. No Snowy McSnowface. Joke's a decade old and has worn out its welcome. [The first 4 points are DPW's guidelines. #5 is all mine]

While anyone who lives in DC can enter, the end result is not being put to the popular vote. DPW's Director will select the winning name for each of the eight wards.

Finally, if you enter a name, by all means, share your suggestions with the CP Listserv! If your snowplow name is chosen, we'll do a follow-up column ballyhooing your vehicular naming skill! (And we promise not to blame you when the snowplow you've named leaves a giant barricade of packed snow and ice blocking pedestrian access to every crosswalk on Connecticut Avenue!)

---------------

Still Life with Robin is published on the Cleveland Park Listserv and on All Life Is Local on Saturdays.