Study: Smoking Ban Cuts Heart Attacks

Do smoking bans really prevent people from smoking as much? The evidence isn't conclusive, but it's certainly pointing in that direction. 

In Olmsted County, Minnosota, heart attack rates were cut by one-third over an 8 year review which spanned from 18 months before the first smoking law to 18 months after the latest ordinance. The figures show that the annual heart attack rate dropped from 151 incidents per 100,000 people to just 100 incidents per 100,000 people. It is likely that other health risks that arise from smoking have seen reduced numbers as well. Efforts to restrict and reduce smoking and second-hand inhalation can significantly impact medical expenses and the healthiness of people. These measures represent positive moves to prevent disease and ill-health. 

Seppa, Nathan. "Smoking laws lower heart attacks." Science News. December 1, 2012: 18. Print.

Brilliant Talk and Animate on Changing Public Education

This video was presented in my college English class. Quite a fantastic talk on the public education paradigm- what has led to the formation of this model, what determines it, it's downfalls, and why it needs to be significantly modified. Although it does not delve deep into the complexities of the system, Sir Robinson expertly weaves together an overview of the paradigm (with a video to match it, credit to the RSA!). The speaker, Sir Ken Robinson, "is an internationally recognized leader in the development of education, creativity and innovation.  He is also one of the world’s leading speakers with a profound impact on audiences everywhere." Robinson has delivered speeches, worked with governments and organizations, taught at esteemed universities, and received numerous awards. You can see more of Sir Ken Robinson and his work on his website.
The video is about public education but the messages that are sent go far beyond the single topic. Conformity, economics, individuality, mindsets, and more!