Jeff Keith, who runs a nonprofit, claimed he was behind some of the googly eyes that mysteriously appeared on public art in Bend, Ore. By Simon J. Levien Last month, googly eyes appeared on pieces of ...

Typically, all eyes are on the MBTA for the many problems its riders encounter. A stopped train here, an engine fire there, irritating delays at nearly every turn. Not exactly cause for celebration.

Late last month, the city of Bend, Oregon, went viral after someone began sticking googly eyes onto public sculptures around town. Many residents saw the googly eyes as a funny diversion, but city ...