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#FlakeNews: Snowplow naming contest kicks off in Arlington

From “Snowy-Wan Kenobi” to “#FlakeNews,” Arlington is seeking suggestions on whimsical names for this year’s fleet of snowplows.

Members of the public have until Monday, Oct. 21 to submit “the most clever and pun-filled (yet appropriate) names” for the plows that will clear the county’s streets in the event of at least two inches of snowfall.

“Inspiration for names can come from the winter season, song/book/film/television titles, art, sports or any witty take on life in Arlington,” a county webpage says.

Some additional examples from the county: “Sleetwood Mac,” “The Plowminator,” “Another One Brines the Dust” and “David Blowie.”

Names for the snowplows will appear online on the county’s snow and ice map, which goes live when Arlington receives two or more inches of snow.

“Please keep your names fun and respectful!” the county said. “Avoid any suggestions that could be considered offensive, political or inappropriate.”

The “Name that Plow!” contest is also offering a new snow shovel to up to two winners who correctly guess the date of the first snowfall.

While the D.C. area received no measurable snow in 2023, wintry weather blanketed Arlington in January of this year — causing a snow day at Arlington Public Schools and bringing some hazardous driving conditions, despite snowplow drivers’ best efforts.

Members of the public can submit up to five names in this year’s contest, and county staff will select the winners.

About the Author

  • Dan Egitto is an editor and reporter at ARLnow. Originally from Central Florida, he graduated from Duke University and previously reported at the Palatka Daily News in Florida and the Vallejo Times-Herald in California. Dan joined ARLnow in January 2024.