Strange News: Valentine’s edition

The following came to us from a public relations firm working for The Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, N.J., land of many malls.

More men choosing liposuction and breast reduction

Over the past two years, increasing numbers of men have elected to have aesthetic surgery to improve their appearance and self-image, the most common procedures being liposuction, gynecomastia (male breast reduction), facelifts and eye surgery. According to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, the latest statistics show that since 1997, liposuction surgeries have increased 87 percent, treatment of gynecomastia 47 percent, and facelifts and eyelid surgery 15 percent.The following is an excerpt from a release sent to us by New Jersey Christian Singles (800-869-2500).

Apparently, morals still matter to Americans

When they first started out 11 years ago with a mission of lowering the divorce rate in our nation, the Christian Singles Information-exchange was the laughing stock of the singles industry, due mostly to their Christian-based eligibility requirements.

To be eligible to join, one must be a person who:
1.Is a marriage-minded single,
2.Is at least 16 years old (no upper age limit),
3.Is considered eligible for marriage in his or her own church and by civil laws,
4.Believes in basic Christian principles concerning marriage and family,
5.Believes in a lifelong commitment to marriage,
6.Believes in no sex outside of marriage,
7.Shares a respect for all human beings from conception to natural death, and
8.Agrees to treat all other members in a courteous manner.
The item that got the heartiest laugh was item six. “You won’t have anybody left who can join!” was a typical comment.

But now the laughing has stopped…and rather abruptly so!

The Christian Singles Info-exchange has become the largest and most successful Christian singles organization in the entire United States, with between 3,000 and 4,000 members (rural and city).

The following comes from a press release sent to us by Weight Watchers of New Jersey (800-430-4330).

Losing weight can improve more than physical appearance for couples this Valentine’s Day

Remember the old adage “those that play together, stay together?” …This Valentine’s Day is a perfect time for couples in New Jersey to spark a little romance and commit to living healthy, active lifestyles. In fact, several recent studies have found that teaming up with your sweetheart is a great way to build both a sound body and sound relationship.

…[Also], by simply improving the way you look and feel, you can enhance the quality of your love life. During physical activity, the body releases endorphins (hormones) that boost energy and stamina. …[And] a workout can provide a level of intimacy, encouraging opportunities for couples to talk about relationship issues and explore mutual interests.

The following comes to us from an author promoting a book called “Biological Unhappiness.”

New epidemic: Grandparents becoming parents again

Over 5.5 million American children are now being raised by their grandparents. Dr. Leland Heller says “misinformation and unawareness is causing much needless heartache.” ….Biological problems, genetics, and unresolved family problems ranging from death, illness, substance abuse to “personality disorders” are making it virtually impossible for some parents to raise their own kids. As a result, they are turning to their own parents for help.

“There are common neurological causes behind most of these problems,” explains Dr. Heller. “Almost all of these problems are treatable with medication and counseling.”

“Our grandparents have already done their service,” says Dr. Heller. “It’s time for them to rest, relax, and enjoy life. They don’t need to be parents all over again.”

“Strange News” features highlights from the press material that gets passed across our desks.

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