A new law goes into effect November 1st, 2000 that will essentially make it a misdemeanor to paint rocks. Even more severe, if you are caught hiding “painted rocks” in public spaces you can be charged with a felony and face hefty fines or even jail time.
Olivia Painbrusch, a spokesman for the Washington Public Health Organization states, “Painting and hiding rocks in and around the country is becoming an epidemic. At first it is just once or twice a week. Before you know it, you are skipping meals, forgetting to feed your cats and staying awake until early in the morning.” missing work and wearing pajamas all day.
A former “rocker”, who wishes to remain anonymous, told reporters that for her it started out as a “…fun family activity. After only a few weeks, I was forgetting to feed my kids, clean the house and do the laundry or dishes. I couldn’t sleep. And when I did finally fall asleep, I went to sleep thinking about rocks that I wanted to paint. I became completely obsessed.”
Also be on the look out for a a crazy rocker named Ruth aka Navy mom aka rock lady as known in her neighborhood.
State health officials urges OR residents to contact their local law enforcement immediately or call 800-ROCKHLP if they know someone who has lost control because of this new craze and especially if there are children involved.