HARROD, Ohio — Staying positive during the coronavirus pandemic can be a challenge, but, with the help of some googly-eyed hoodlums, one Ohio town is making the most of the situation.
“They’re really cool,” said Carlee Anderson, while referencing the googly eyes.
- There are more than 150 "Healthy Harrod Hoodlums" all across the community
- Many of the hoodlums have their own names
- Kits in bags that contain a set of eyeballs and mask are available for pick-up
What You Need To Know
Chad Hughes is the man behind the googly-eyed hoodlums popping up around Harrod, a village of a little more than 400 people in northwest Ohio.
“I had saw a post out in California where somebody had done it and I was like, that’s such a great idea. It will get kids out of their houses families, walking around town. They can experience some of our parks and exhibits that we have uptown,” said Hughes.
He’s calling the googly-eyes and mask combo the "Healthy Harrod Hoodlums,” many of which even have their own names.
And what started as a display in front of just his own house has quickly taken over the community.
“I noticed it one day when I was walking my dog with my son and we noticed it on the train and the railroad down the road,” said Harrod Resident Hope Duran.
It’s a simple idea that she says has been a positive addition to the town.
“It’s just something that’s uplifting in this time right now that just makes people laugh and enjoy life and what’s going on,” said Duran.
And, as the trend continues to grow, Hughes is making sure everyone can get their hands on their own set of googly eyes.
“We put the kits in bags and they have a set and eyeballs and a mask and then they can pick them up and, you know, tape them on whatever they want to and tie their mask to a tree or a bush,” said Hughes.
And what started as a simple display of positivity has now grown into more than 150 Healthy Harrod Hoodlums all across the community that serve as a reminder — we’re all in this together Ohio.
Anderson says they make her feel happy, while Hughes believes it gives his community something fun and safe to do during this time.