STEVE INSKEEP, HOST:
And now this - we have news this morning of an effort to spread a little cheer in a tough world.
AUDIE CORNISH, HOST:
Think of it as a follow-up to yesterday's news. We told you on this program that everyday stress, like getting angry while driving, may shorten some people's lives.
INSKEEP: Newark, New Jersey is fighting back. The city plans to post happy street signs.
CORNISH: They look like no parking signs, except each sign has an upbeat message. For example, honk less, love more.
INSKEEP: And less drugs, more hugs.
CORNISH: Or follow dreams, not crowds.
INSKEEP: Artist Killy Kilford, who is based in New York City, made these signs with local students.
KILLY KILFORD: It developed over the course of the last nine months, which has included a number of workshops in high schools around Newark, which I've been delivering to curate an environment where young people can express positive messages that will inspire people towards a community of well-being.
CORNISH: This is more controversial than you might think. Last year, Mr. Kilford installed happy signs in New York, but the outgoing Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, had them taken down.
KILFORD: I have to say it was the first time I've ever broken the law. I'm generally a good boy.
CORNISH: New York City drivers apparently did not want to be told to hug somebody.
INSKEEP: You talking to me?
CORNISH: But Newark supports this project. The first sign goes up there in October. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.
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