The negativity may be spreading because individuals are tired of staying home and want to get out, she said.
The sign initiative began when Thome and another Enon resident, Heather Stewart, were talking about the negativity that has been spreading and thought a sign to remind individuals to be kind would be the perfect fix.
The “Be Kind” signs were inspired by the signs in Yellow Springs that say “Be Kind” with a yellow mask that has a red heart on it, Thome said.
Thome’s $10 “Be Kind” signs come in two different styles. The first style says “Be Kind” with a tie dye background and the others says “In a world where you can be anything, Be Kind” with a peace sign and a black background. The most recent batch of signs incorporates both styles on each side of the sign.
Part of the sign profits will be donated to the Village of Enon to improve the Christmas lights at Settlers Park or to help with the Shop with a Cop program, Thome said. Village of Enon’s council will choose where the donation is used.
Thome said she has sold 135 signs and has a new batch of 25 signs that are expected to arrive today. She said she does have plans to order more.
“I would love to spread it out more than just the Enon area and Mad River Township area, just because I think it’s a good message," Thome said.
The signs are “just to remind people to be kind and to think of others,” she added.
Village of Enon’s Mayor Timothy Howard said, “You don’t know what other people are going through right now. You don’t know what their anxiety level is. You don’t know how often they can see their family members. We are experiencing it and we know what it’s doing to us. So, just be kind to folks. Do something nice. Even if you just say, “hey, is there anything I can help you with?" - just make that offer."
The “Be Kind” signs can be purchased 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Enon Government Center, 363 E. Main St. in Enon.
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