The Senate has extended tax credits for first-time home buyers, due to expire November 30, as part of plan to combat high rates of unemployment. Current homeowners would also be eligible for a $6,500 credit when buying a new residence. The bill also extends jobless benefits, particularly in states where unemployment exceeds 8.5%. The House expects to vote on the measure today.

In tonight’s SoCal Connected, correspondent Judy Muller investigates why some Los Angeles-area homeowners are suddenly forced to pay expensive, mandatory flood insurance—or lose their homes. Larry talks with Judy Muller about why some residents who live far from any flood source may be required to pay more for insurance than their next store neighbors.

Larry talks with Gustavo Arellano, OC Weekly staff writer and OC journalist William Lobdell about the latest news events and developments in Orange County.

“The Men Who Stare at Goats,” is about a reporter in Iraq and a military unit that uses paranormal powers to fight the war. Directed by Grant Heslov, the absurdist, anti-war satire stars George Clooney, Jeff Bridges, Ewan McGregor and Kevin Spacey. With a lineup like that, who needs goats? Larry talks with director Grant Heslov about the new film, which opens November 6.

In an effort to limit the spread of H1N1, a senior House Dem introduced a bill that would require employers to pay for up to five days’ sick leave for workers sent home for contracting a contagious virus. This measure, which would expire in two years, is the third effort pending in Congress to mandate employer-paid sick leave. Would this temporary measure help? And is it an employer’s job to cover your sick days?

How’s that four dollar Double Mocha Mint Frappuccino and what does it say about you? These are the types of questions Historian Bryant Simon explores in his new book, “Everything but the Coffee: Learning about America from Starbucks.” Simon talks with Larry about Starbucks’ success and recent downturn and what it all reveals about us consumers.