Stroller parking

This evening, as my roommate and I were rambling along towards the greater reaches of the neighborhood of Rockridge, we were witness to some strange goings-ons. Someone had posted on the side of a building right on College Avenue one of those fake public signs that informatively stated, "Stroller Parking". It was very much along the lines of those "Baby on Board" suction cup signs for rear car windows that were so popular in 1987 thereabouts.

Anyway, what was most disturbing about this public signage was that although it looked liked it had been there for quite some time it was in pristine condition: no wads of gum on it, no explicit scribblings detesting the idea of stroller parking, not even a scuff mark. To be frank, if I'd had a permanent Sharpie marker on hand at that moment, I would have assuredly gone to work on that sign - perhaps communicating a message like those below:

Explicity NO
(Stroller Parking)
Ever Allowed

or this:

(Stroller Parking)
Prohibited. Social Services
Will Be Notified

or maybe:

(Stroller Parking) Will

Result in Fines, Public Beatings,
and Confiscated Children

I could go on and on. Anyway, it soon became apparent to me that this neighborhood LIVES for the idea of stroller parking. Strollers are actually more tolerated in Rockridge than anywhere else I guess. You can probably figure out by now that I don't like strollers. I like kids somewhat, but strollers are a whole other story. I have no trouble with pushchairs - those very simple models that are essentially a cloth bucket seat with some wheels. But the strollers of present day have become all too large and complicated and they simply aren't designed for narrow sidewalks. Modern strollers have evolved at the same proportions as the SUV. They should be banned and parents should start carrying their children around in their arms like the rest of the world does - either that or leave them at home.

We also saw some cool things - the Diesel Bookstore, some nice diners, etc.