Mining California

As Congress takes up changes to the federal law governing mining operations, the Environmental Working Group released a report this week showing an explosion of claims to mine gold and other metals -- claims they say could threaten parks and wilderness areas like Yosemite and Joshua Tree National Forest. Host Scott Shafer talked to two people on opposite sides of the mining issue, Dusty Horwitt, a public lands analyst for the Environmental Working Group and Carol Raulston of the National Mining Association, about how big a threat to the environment these mining claims really are.Reporter: Scott Shafer

• More: Environmental Working Group's mining analysis
• More: National Mining Association

Geothermal Energy

So how do you go about extracting something valuable from the ground without sacrificing the environment? That same tradeoff can be applied to a renewable source of energy found two miles deep below the ground, right here in California. Geothermal energy doesn't get as much hype as say, solar power does. But maybe it should.Reporter: Amy Standen

Race and Comedy in L.A.

Any fan of The Colbert Report or late night talk show monologues knows that comedy is a great window into politics. In the 1960s and '70s, comedians like Dick Gregory and Richard Pryor offered a funny take on changing race relations. Now, a new generation of black comics is using comedy clubs in the southland to make fun of the changing demographics in Los Angeles. Reporter: Adolfo Guzman-Lopez

Book Review: "Songs Without Words" by Ann Packer

If you've ever stayed in touch with a childhood friend you might know how easy it is to take these old buddies for granted. Most friendships can withstand a little neglect, but in her new book, "Songs Without Words," author Ann Packer takes a look at what happens when they can't. Reporter: Jordan Rosenfeld

Dining in the Dark

You might call it a twist on the idea of a blind date. It's called "dining in the dark," and it entails eating your meal with no light whatsoever. It's also an experience that might be coming to restaurant near you. Reporter: Brooke Binkowski