Oregon Man Takes Responsibility for Viral Googly Eyes Prank in Bend

Oregon Man Takes Responsibility for Viral Googly Eyes Prank in Bend

A lighthearted prank in Bend, Oregon, has captured the attention of local residents and social media users alike, sparking both laughter and curiosity. The prank involved adorning various sculptures around the city with googly eyes, creating an amusing spectacle for passersby.

The Prank Unveiled

The controversy began when residents of Bend noticed googly eyes appearing on several artistic installations throughout the community. In response, city officials issued a statement on Facebook, urging the prankster to consider the impact of their actions.

“We love our roundabout art in Bend, so let’s do our part to take care of it. While the googly eyes might give you a chuckle, removing them costs money and requires careful handling to avoid damaging the art,” the post stated.

Meet the Prankster: Jeff Keith

The man behind this whimsical act is Jeff Keith, a resident of Bend and founder of the non-profit organization Guardian Group, which works against human trafficking. In an interview with the Associated Press (AP), Keith shared his motivation for the prank.

“I think the biggest thing for me is just to get a laugh. When I come up on these roundabouts and see families laughing hysterically, it creates a good atmosphere,” Keith explained. He confessed to using duct tape to attach the googly eyes to the sculptures.

Public Reaction to the Prank

Responses to the prank have been varied, with many locals taking to the city’s Facebook page to share their thoughts. Some residents expressed concern over the city’s focus on the prank instead of other pressing issues.

“Is this Bend’s biggest concern?” one commenter questioned. Another chimed in, saying, “Adhesive ain’t gonna hurt metal.” Many residents embraced the giggles the prank inspired.

One user humorously declared, “I’m pro-googly eye,” while another remarked on the city’s playful stance, saying, “I really love the pro-googly eye stance Bend is taking.” A third user urged, “Worry about potholes instead.” This shows a mix of humor and priorities among the community members.

The Financial Impact

As per the AP report, eight sculptures received the amusing treatment, and the estimated cost to remove the googly eyes will be around $1,500. Keith assured that he is willing to cover any costs associated with cleaning up the prank.

A Lighthearted Perspective

While the City of Bend has yet to provide an official response to the ongoing situation, the jovial nature of the prank has sparked discussions about art, community engagement, and humor. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, laughter can outweigh the inconveniences of minor mischief.

In a world filled with serious issues, this quirky event highlights the importance of lighthearted moments. Jeff Keith’s antics have brought joy to many families, contributing to the sense of community through shared laughter. As the residents of Bend navigate this peculiar episode, many are likely to fondly recall the day googly eyes adorned their cherished sculptures.

Reflections on Community Spirit

In the end, this playful prank has reignited conversations around art and public spaces, proving that sometimes, laughter and creativity can transcend more serious local matters. Whether you see it as harmless fun or a minor nuisance, the googly eyes prank has undoubtedly left its mark on Bend.