China Scene: Central

Filial display brings smile to father's face

Lu Yibo became a minor celebrity after he published double-page advertisements in two local newspapers to celebrate his father's birthday in Zhengzhou, Henan province.

Lu, a businessman, started planning the special advertisements two months ago. His 50-year-old father remained unaware of the scheme until he opened the newspaper last Thursday morning.

Lu said he had wanted to find a special way to express his respect and love for his father.

However, not everyone found the advertisements so amusing.

While praising Lu's filial devotion, some people said Lu was just trying to show off.

(Henan Commercial News)

Teeth, black hair give old man a youthful glow

Wu Dechen, 97, became something of a medical marvel after two new teeth appeared in his mouth and his grey hair started turning black in Hengyang, Hunan province.

Wu, a retiree in the city's Dapu township, has been confined to an armchair since he suffered a stroke two years ago. He did not have a single tooth in his mouth at the time.

Zhang Chi, a senior doctor at Hunan provincial people's hospital, said Wu's recent growth spurt proves only that he is healthy and not that he is getting younger.

Wu's daughter said Wu climbed mountains up until the age of 80.

She said he stopped eating meat after his stroke and prefers pastries, cake, fruit and milk.

(www.rednet.com.cn)

(China Daily 03/20/2008 page6)