Russia - Day of Conception

Did you see the article in today's paper or on the internet about the Day of Conception being sponsored by the Russian region Zulyanovik? With a low birthrate and a high death rate, the population of Russia has been shrinking for the last 15 years or so, so this region has had a contest each year for the last three years. Couples are being given time off work on September 12 to procreate! In exactly nine months, on June 12, 2008, there will be a celebration for all the couples who "gave birth to a patriot" as a result of the Day of Conception. Prizes will be awarded -- money, cars, refrigerators, etc.

Since this campaign began in 2005, the birthrate in the region has risen steadily and is up 4.5 percent so far this year over the same period in 2006.

I just wanted to be sure you were informed! It is true that inquiring minds want to know.