For some people the first puff of smoke they tried felt repulsive while for others those puffs came with a rush of pleasure. Researchers have identified a gene variant that may help explain why some smokers get addicted from their first cigarette while others seem immune to the addictive properties of tobacco. The paper published online in the journal Addiction reports an association between a variant in the nicotine receptor gene CHRNA5, initial smoking experiences and current smoking patterns. This gene is far more common among smokers than in those who have the occasional cigarette.

A convicted murderer is on the loose after a corrections officer helped her escape prison Monday. Sara Pender, 29, was serving a 110-year sentence for the 2000 murders of two roommates. But she befriended correction officer Scott A. Spitler, 41, and according to Indiana's Wish TV 8, Spitler has admitted to conspiring with Pender on her escape, having sexual relations with her, and hiding her in a prison vehicle and smuggling her out of the medium-security prison.

Tickles, an 8-year-old python, was reportedly stolen from the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo Saturday afternoon. Local Mounties and zoo officials are requesting the public help look for the reptile. Described by zoo officials as a gentle creature, the public is still forewarned to take caution if they encounter the animal.

Two cabinet officials announced in this farming town Friday that Ottawa is giving more than $300 million to Ontario's tobacco farmers to help them switch to another crop. Immigration and Citizenship Minister Diane Finley said the amount represents the funding of the government's Tobacco Transition Program "to help producers exit the industry, transition to other crops or find new opportunities outside agriculture," according to CBC. ca. The program is a federal strategy to fight smoking and the dangers it pose to health.

"Drugs and Sex For Sale, 24/7. " That's what the large orange sign says in bold black letters that hangs outside one angry landlord's building. The small print underneath says, "Please help us, call Cincinnati City Council. "Fed up with blatant drug dealing and prostitution in his neighborhood, apartment building owner John Wallen put up the $400 sign in an effort to get authorities to crack down on the criminal activity on Churchill Street in Cincinnati, where his building of six units is down to one tenant. He told the Cincinnati Enquirer that the heavy crime at night is driving his tenants away.