Buckeye Reporter

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1 has announced the winners of its annual Paint-the-Plow program. Carey High School in Wyandot County and Fort Jennings High School in Putnam County emerged as top winners.

Carey High School's plow, featuring K9 Nigel and the safety message "Paws and Follow the Laws," won the People's Choice Award with 888 likes, shares, and comments on Facebook. Nigel is a facility dog working with Deputy Ryan McKinnon and the Wyandot County Sheriff's Office. Canine Companions provided Nigel at no cost, making a significant impact since May 2024.

Fort Jennings' patriotic eagle design was favored by ODOT District 1 employees, earning the ODOT Choice award. It also placed second in the People's Choice contest with 521 votes. Mohawk Preschool took third place with 501 votes for their drawings and handprints.

In the ODOT's Choice category, Ada High School in Hancock County and Fairview High School in Defiance County tied for second place.

"This year's Paint the Plow designs are outstanding, with creative safety messages and bright designs that will shine through the winter gloom," said Chris Hughes, ODOT District 1 Deputy Director.

Since 2014, ODOT District 1 has hosted this contest to foster community engagement and school spirit. This year saw participation from 23 schools across eight counties in District 1.

The top picks from each county were Lima Central Catholic High School (Allen), Central Local School - Fairview High School (Defiance), Cory Rawson & McComb High Schools (Hancock), Ada High School (Hardin), Wayne Trace High School (Paulding), Jennings High School (Putnam), Crestview FFA Chapter & Art Club (Van Wert), and Carey High School (Wyandot).

All entries can be viewed on ODOT District 1's Facebook page. The district services eight counties in northwest Ohio: Allen, Defiance, Hancock, Hardin, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert, and Wyandot.

Information from this article can be found here.