Bowling Green, KY, July 29, 2025
News Summary
Bowling Green Public Works has initiated a community-driven contest titled ‘Name That Leaf Legend’ for their leaf pickup trucks. The contest invites residents to suggest names, with five winners having their choices displayed on trucks during the upcoming leaf pickup season from November 17 to December 19. This effort aims to engage the community in a fun manner while optimizing leaf collection efficiency. Participants can submit names until August 15, with finalists selected for a public vote.
Bowling Green Public Works is launching a unique naming contest for their leaf pickup trucks, encouraging community involvement in a fun and engaging way. The initiative will allow five winners to have their chosen name displayed on one of the trucks for the entire leaf pickup season, which runs from November 17 to December 19.
This year’s leaf pickup season starts later than usual, an adjustment made to optimize efficiency. Public Information Officer Deborah West indicated that the delayed start is a direct response to last year’s prolonged summer, which left more leaves on trees at the beginning of the pickup season. Recognizing this change, the city aims to improve the leaf collection process by waiting for a more substantial amount of leaves to fall.
The contest, cleverly dubbed “Name That Leaf Legend.” marks the first time Bowling Green’s five leaf collection trucks have been given names. The city has kicked off the campaign with a social media push across platforms like Facebook and Instagram, making it accessible and engaging for residents.
Austin “Rub” Jones, a Public Works employee, is serving as the official spokesmodel for the contest, appearing in promotional content to encourage participation. The city invites participants to submit name ideas that can range from silly and pun-filled to heartfelt, provided they remain family-friendly. Examples of suggested names so far include “Hot Rod Sweet Sweeper” and “The Vette City McSuck Truck.”
Residents interested in entering the contest must send their name suggestions via email to Public Works Director Andy Souza before the deadline of 4 p.m. on August 15. After collecting submissions, the staff will review entries and select 15 finalists, which will then be opened up for a public vote. The top five most popular names will be revealed at an exciting event, and winners will also receive a sign featuring their chosen name.
As part of the leaf pickup initiative, residents will be informed about their specific pickup zones and schedules through postcards mailed to homes. Furthermore, any additional updates regarding the schedule and services will be communicated through the city’s social media channels.
The city of Bowling Green hopes that through this interactive naming contest, residents will feel a sense of ownership and pride in their community services, making leaf collection not just a necessary task, but a fun shared activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Name That Leaf Legend” contest?
It is a naming contest organized by Bowling Green Public Works where residents can submit names for the leaf pickup trucks. Five selected names will be featured on the trucks for the season.
When does the leaf pickup season start?
The leaf pickup season begins on November 17 and ends on December 19.
How can I submit a name for the leaf pickup trucks?
Names should be submitted via email to Public Works Director Andy Souza by the deadline of 4 p.m. on August 15.
Are there any restrictions on name submissions?
Yes, all name suggestions must be family-friendly. Silly, pun-filled, or sentimental names are encouraged.
What happens after name submissions are collected?
The staff will review all submissions, select 15 finalists, and then conduct a public vote to determine the top five names which will be revealed at a special event.
Key Features of the Contest
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contest Name | Name That Leaf Legend |
| Number of Trucks | Five |
| Submission Deadline | August 15, 4 p.m. |
| Contest Duration | November 17 – December 19 |
| Public Vote for Finalist Names | Yes, 15 finalists will be voted on by the public |
| Communication Channels | Postcards, social media updates |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WBKO: Name Bowling Green Public Works Leaf Pickup Truck Season
- WNKY: City Invites Residents to Name Leaf Trucks
- WTOL: 67-Year-Old Dead After Wood County Crash
- Wikipedia: Bowling Green
- Google Search: Bowling Green Leaf Pickup News



