Dec 23, 2011

Marketplace for Friday, December 23, 2011

Congress passed the payroll tax cut extension. What does this mean for backers of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac? The "war on cancer" celebrates its 40th anniversary. Doula training programs are sprouting all over the country. Commentator Kat Ahn talks about what it's like to have her parents move in. If you're looking for frankincense this Christmas, the tree resin may be a little harder to find. And we look into why the NBA has become a Christmas tradition.

Segments From this episode

Mortgage lenders foot bill for payroll cut extension

by John Dimsdale

Dec 23, 2011

Mortgage lenders will pay higher fees to Fannie and Freddie to guarantee their loans. That pays for the extension of the payroll tax cut.

The war on cancer -- a healthy metaphor?

by Gregory Warner

Dec 23, 2011

President Richard Nixon used the phrase "war on cancer" in signing the National Cancer Act of 1971. Forty years later, scientists say our understanding of cancer has outgrown a military analogy.

The birth of a new career

by Gigi Douban

Dec 23, 2011

New programs help low-income women train to become doulas and birthing assistants.

Small Talk

Small talk: Burger King, counting pigeons and product placement

by Marketplace Contributor

Dec 23, 2011

The news that didn't quite make the headlines. This week: Burger King loses its crown, pigeons may be able to do math and the shows with the most product placement.

Frankincense drying up

by Eve Troeh

Dec 23, 2011

Drought, over-harvesting and pests threaten the aromatic resin.

Commentary

Help, my parents are my roommates

by Kat Ahn

Dec 23, 2011

We've heard of adult children moving back in with their parents. What happens when your parents move in with you?

A true holiday tradition: The NBA on Christmas

by Sally Herships

Dec 23, 2011

The NFL has its Thanksgiving tradition, and the NBA has Christmas. Ever wonder why?

Weekly Wrap: The payroll tax cut deal

by Bob Moon

Dec 23, 2011

Reviewing the week's headlines on Wall Street. This week: The details of the payroll tax cut extension just passed by Congress.

Congress passed the payroll tax cut extension. What does this mean for backers of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac? The “war on cancer” celebrates its 40th anniversary. Doula training programs are sprouting all over the country. Commentator Kat Ahn talks about what it’s like to have her parents move in. If you’re looking for frankincense this Christmas, the tree resin may be a little harder to find. And we look into why the NBA has become a Christmas tradition.