The spinning wheel game stole the spotlight at the Ohio Turnpike Commission’s Customer Appreciation Event on July 18. Held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Portage Service Plaza, the event offered food, giveaways, and a clear message about safe driving.
One of the biggest hits of the day was the prize wheel. Guests lined up to spin and win Ohio Turnpike merchandise, including $25 Sunoco gift cards. The game added excitement and gave attendees a fun way to engage with the event. Kona Ice and other vendors handed out free samples, keeping everyone refreshed.
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While the giveaways brought people in, the main focus was safety. The Commission used the event to promote smart driving habits. Their message—“Let’s Be Safe Together”—reminded everyone to buckle up, stay alert, drive sober, and follow speed limits.
A Modern Event on a Historic Roadway
This event took place on one of the most important travel routes in Ohio. The Ohio Turnpike is part of a long history of toll roads, dating back 2,700 years to the ancient Susa-Babylon Way. In the U.S., toll roads gained traction after the Revolutionary War, especially after General “Mad” Anthony Wayne’s victory at Fallen Timbers in 1794.
By 1802, Congress had already planned a National Road across the new state of Ohio. That road supported the westward expansion of the young republic. Early travelers paid two cents per 10 miles for horses and more for wagons, based on the wear they caused.
Ohio’s roads have evolved with time. Dirt trails and wooden bridges gave way to macadam, then asphalt, then concrete. After World War II, rising traffic and booming industries pushed the state to build the Ohio Turnpike. It offered a faster, safer way to move people and products across the region.
Making the Journey Memorable
The July 18 celebration showed how the Ohio Turnpike is more than just a road. It’s a vital connection between the state’s past and present. With attractions like the spinning wheel game and a strong focus on driver safety, the Commission created a memorable experience for all.
As summer travel continues, the message stays the same: safe journeys begin with smart choices—and sometimes a fun spin along the way.