Kelley Weiss

Holiday sales projections are up about 2 percent from last year. But most unemployed people are scaling back on purchasing traditional holiday gifts. Instead, they're turning to handmade creations or offering to do something like cook a meal for loved ones and friends.

If passed, Proposition 19 would legalize the recreational use of marijuana. The state's NAACP has endorsed the measure, saying it's a civil rights issue. But a Sacramento preacher who is encouraging voters to reject Proposition 19 says drugs are tearing the black community apart.

As the medical marijuana industry booms in California, dispensaries are looking for what any normal business wants: coverage in case of a fire, theft or other property loss. But many insurers have stayed away because of ongoing legal battles.

The federal government has allocated more than $1 billion to help cash-strapped local health departments hire staff to distribute the H1N1 vaccine. The money has allowed some departments to rehire staff they had recently let go.

Amid the health care overhaul debate, one big question has been where to come up with the money to change the system. One idea that has been suggested is a tax on soda. Public health advocates say drinking soda is directly linked to obesity, which is partly responsible for skyrocketing health care costs.

For some Americans, insurance is what it's supposed to be: coverage when you need it. Dave Koenig, 49, has a job with good benefits. Still, he thinks some aspects of the insurance industry should be changed to protect patients from losing coverage.