(Distributed November 2005) Hurricanes Katrina and Rita were not kind to Louisiana’s pecan crop. The projected harvest before the hurricanes was already 40 percent below average, and it’s estimated the hurricanes destroyed half of that amount.

(For Release On Or After 11/18/05) Few gardeners can resist the visual beauty and delightful sound that water brings to the landscape, and as a result aquatic gardens have become quite popular with Louisiana gardeners. Chilly weather and light freezes already have encouraged dormancy in some aquatic plants and the growing season for aquatic gardens is winding down, but those gardens still will need some of your attention in late fall and winter.

(For Release On Or After 11/18/05) Few gardeners can resist the visual beauty and delightful sound that water brings to the landscape, and as a result aquatic gardens have become quite popular with Louisiana gardeners. Chilly weather and light freezes already have encouraged dormancy in some aquatic plants and the growing season for aquatic gardens is winding down, but those gardens still will need some of your attention in late fall and winter.

(For Release On Or After 11/25/05) There are few flowering bulbs that can surpass the stately beauty of the amaryllis. Typically blooming in April, this popular bulb is a star performer in the spring garden, but dormant bulbs are readily available now, and with proper care, they can become a long-lasting part of your landscape.

(For Release On Or After 11/11/05) The high winds of hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused the loss of many trees around the state. If you are considering replacing trees that were lost, you actually can begin planting right away.

(For Release On Or After 11/04/05) Hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused extensive damage in South Louisiana, but their effects weren’t limited to that area. Throughout the state, high winds caused damage as the storms moved northward. Properly dealing with the resulting tree damage is important.

(Distributed 11/05/05) Almost a year after Dr. Ray Schneider discovered the country’s first known occurrence of Asian soybean rust, LSU AgCenter researchers identified the disease again in nearly the same place.

(Distributed 11/15/05) The LSU AgCenter is giving Louisiana photographers a chance to show off their work in its 2007 Get It Growing lawn and garden calendar. Approximately 40 nature photos will be selected for the calendar, and entries are welcomed from anyone who is interested.

(Distributed 11/11/05) The LSU AgCenter is presenting a series of workshops in southeastern Louisiana designed to help hurricane victims with cleanup and a variety of other topics. The workshops range in scope from chainsaw safety to financial management.

(Distributed 11/21/05) Ten 4-H’ers represented Louisiana at the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference in Louisville, Ky., last week, and one of them was among the national champions selected.

(Distributed 11/30/05) The winners of this year’s Louisiana 4-H educational trip to New Orleans had to make a few adjustments to their plans, but they still had a good time, according to organizers at the LSU AgCenter. The usual trip just wasn’t possible this year because of the damage to the Superdome and other parts of the city from hurricanes Katrina and Rita, so LSU AgCenter officials planned a similar trip to Baton Rouge for the winners.

(Distributed 11/22/05) The LSU AgCenter’s 2006 Get It Growing calendar provides a variety of special features for Louisiana gardeners, and it’s available for holiday gift-giving. Now in the second year of publication, the Get It Growing calendar is packed with gardening hints and tips specifically written for Louisiana’s growing conditions and climate.

(Distributed 11/10/05) The 2005 Deep South Fruit and Vegetable Growers Conference and Trade Show is slated for Dec. 7-8 at the Riverview Plaza Hotel in Mobile, Ala.

(Distributed 11/30/05) Stories are hitting the media saying bleach doesn’t work in mold cleanup and prevention. An LSU AgCenter expert says there are reasons for some of the confusion but that bleach is effective at killing mold.

(Distributed 11/15/05) Nominations for the 2006 Louisiana Farmer of the Year are now being accepted. The award is given to recognize those individuals who have made outstanding contributions in the field of agriculture.

(Distributed 11/22/05) Overly enthusiastic holiday spending can push a family into financial problems – particularly if they’re already facing extra expenses or loss of income following hurricanes Katrina and Rita.On the other hand, realistic holiday expectations and wise management of your time, money, energy, talent and skills can help you have happy holidays and avoid overspending, according to LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 11/29/05) Louisiana soybean farmers set a new yield record this year despite entering the season worrying about a potential struggle with Asian soybean rust.

(Distributed 11/23/05) As the temperatures fall and holiday shoppers head for the malls, many people’s thoughts turn to decorating their homes for the holidays. Many Louisiana families will turn to natural trees as part of those decorations, and LSU AgCenter forestry specialist Dr. Don Reed offers tips on picking out the perfect tree, as well as keeping it looking perfect all season long.

(Distributed 11/21/05) While people have been slow to return to New Orleans, one population inhabiting the city in large numbers is the pesky phorid fly, according to an expert with the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 11/30/05) The LSU AgCenter is part of a team recognized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the fight against childhood obesity.

(Distributed 11/04/05) Moving to a new home is stressful under the best of circumstances, but many Gulf Coast families have made one or more moves this year because of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Such events can take an emotional toll on families and particularly on children, says LSU AgCenter family life specialist Dr. Diane Sasser.

(Distributed 11/04/05) Students at the Ouachita Parish Alternative Center are learning where food comes from and getting lessons in life at the same time with help from LSU AgCenter agents and Master Gardeners.

(Distributed 11/18/05) Many families across the state and across the nation face the stressful situation of houseguests who still can’t go home because of devastation from thisi summer's hurricanes. All of them need to make sure they appropriately deal with the stress brought on by such situations, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 11/10/05) Federal Emergency Management Agency officials came to an LSU AgCenter educational site Wednesday (Nov. 9) to stress that rebuilding "stronger, safer and smarter" is the way to go for those affected by this summer’s hurricanes. Such construction is a major theme behind the LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana House Home and Landscape Resource Center.

(Distributed November 2005) Grass clippings are a constant in yard maintenance, but fall introduces leaves into the mix. This year the nuisance is worse because hurricanes and storms have defoliated more trees.

(Distributed November 2005) A national survey of high school students reveals high levels of cheating, theft and cynicism, but those same students considered themselves ethical. "The lying, cheating and stealing are troubling, but the fact youth believe in good moral character offers a foundation to build on," said LSU AgCenter 4-H and character education expert John Arceneaux.

(Distributed November 2005) Hurricane victims will be faced with the question this Thanksgiving, "What are you thankful for?" and some will find this question difficult to answer. The holiday will be a reminder of what’s been lost in floods and devastating winds.

(Distributed November 2005) It’s hunting season, and with Louisiana being a "Sportsman’s Paradise," many people will take to the woods. LSU AgCenter hunter safety expert Dr. Don Reed cautions everyone to keep safety in mind when hunting or even when preparing to hunt.

(Distributed November 2005) Keeping the family operating smoothly, particularly during these trying times following hurricanes Katrina and Rita, requires a lot of effort. Each of us, though, can contribute to keep the family strong.

(Distributed November 2005) Obese and inactive men in their 40s and 50s often have a condition called metabolic syndrome, which is a set of six symptoms that occur together. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy lists the symptoms.

(Distributed November 2005) Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have shown how strong Louisiana families can be. Parents and children faced with strains on time, money and emotions found ways to remain strong, healthy and happy.

(Distributed November 2005) A new bankruptcy law went into effect on October 17, making it more difficult for consumers to prove they should be allowed to clear their debts through Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.

(Distributed November 2005) LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames offers detailed advice to make sure your Thanksgiving feast is delicious and safe. "Follow these food safety guidelines for a worry-free and tasty Thanksgiving meal," the nutritionist says.

(Distributed November 2005) Trying times, like these after hurricanes Katrina and Rita, can test family and community resiliency. Having our families and communities around us for support can go a long way in helping recover from disaster, emotionally as well as physically.

(Distributed November 2005) Middle-age adults who are now at a healthy weight need to be careful about maintaining energy balance to avoid gaining weight. This is the cautionary note of LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed November 2005) Even though Louisiana falls are usually dry, rain eventually comes. After long, extended wet periods, a sinister looking fungus or slime may appear, attacking lawns in the cooler season ahead.

(Distributed November 2005) November is American Diabetes Month. This year the American Diabetes Association together with the American College of Cardiology are working to increase awareness of the link between diabetes and heart disease.

(Distributed November 2005) Family involvement has been a strong tradition in 4-H, and it appears the family volunteer spirit has gained popularity among the public as well. National Family Volunteer Day, November 19, is designed to showcase the benefits of families working together, to introduce community service and encourage those who haven't yet made the commitment to volunteer as a family.

(Distributed November 2005) Do you know how much money you need to save for retirement? According to the 2005 Retirement Confidence Survey (RCS), only about four in 10 workers surveyed have tried to determine how much they will need to save for a comfortable retirement.

(Distributed November 2005) Under healthy conditions, skeletal muscles oxidize fat. In type 2 diabetes and obesity, as well as after significant weight loss, however, that ability drops. A high-fat diet exacerbates the condition and results in a positive fat balance.

(Distributed November 2005) Not much new happens in vegetable gardens during November in Louisiana. Mostly it’s a time for harvesting and cleaning up. A few crops still can be planted, however, particularly in south Louisiana, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed November 2005) Fried turkey is a tradition for many people at Thanksgiving. Although this cooking method may produce a great tasting bird, LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames says to be cautious.

(Distributed November 2005) Rising energy prices, low personal savings and the higher cost of borrowing are prompting unwanted mail for many consumers: Your bill is overdue!

(Distributed November 2005) When Louisiana temperatures take a dip, many people start thinking about building a roaring fire in their fireplaces. What they don’t dream of, however, are the insects that too often come inside with the firewood, says LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet.

(Distributed November 2005) Many family memories revolve around rituals. Rituals help us identify who we are as a family and individuals.

(Radio News For 11/21/05) Cooks should follow several guidelines to ensure the turkey is served up safely on Thanksgiving. LSU AgCenter nutritionist and food safety expert Dr. Beth Reames says the first step is thawing.

(Radio News For 11/21/05) Fried turkey is a tradition in many homes for Thanksgiving. But frying a turkey could be dangerous if not done correctly. LSU AgCenter nutritionist and food safety expert Dr. Beth Reames has tips for cooking a delicious and nutritious fried turkey.

(Radio News For 11/14/05) November is American Diabetes month, and this year the American Diabetes Association is working with the American College of Cardiology to educate the public about the link between diabetes and heart disease. An LSU AgCenter nutritionist talks about this link.

(Radio News For 11/14/05) Much of the state’s seafood industry was affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. It won’t be a good year for those in the industry or consumers, says LSU AgCenter seafood technology professor Dr. Jon Bell.

(TV News For 11/28/05) Landscapes damaged by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita can be revitalized. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill talks about what can be done to repair the damage.

(Radio News For 11/14/05) Homeowners in disaster areas may be left with a home in shambles but a mortgage intact. LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker says most mortgage companies are giving hurricane victims a break.

(Radio News For 11/14/05) A vast majority of adults are at risk of becoming overweight or obese, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Radio News For 11/21/05) Citizens searching for information on hurricane recovery can access it through a toll-free phone system. The LSU AgCenter established the hotline for those affected by the recent storms, says LSU AgCenter agent Mark Schexnayder.

(Radio News For 11/28/05) Neighbors nicknamed Warren Lawrence’s home in Plaquemines Parish Fort St. Lawrence. Lawrence added special features to his home such as walls constructed of insulated concrete form. His home is outside of levee protection and vulnerable to storms.

(TV News For 11/21/05) Added safety measures can make a difference on a home when a storm threatens. The proof stands on a corner lot in a development in Plaquemines Parish.

(Radio News For 11/21/05) Individuals who lost work due to recent hurricanes may qualify for disaster unemployment assistance, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Audio for 12/5/05) Cutting down your own Christmas tree is a fun way to get a fresh, live tree. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill talks about how to find tree farms around Louisiana.

(Audio 12/5/05) With our mild winters, there usually is something we can do in our gardens all year. When planting, pruning and routine chores slow down in the winter, there are other chores gardeners can do.

(Audio for 12/5/05) Poinsettias come in many different shapes and sizes. Proper care will assure a beautiful plant into the New Year.

(Distributed 11/30/05) Falling leaves are a sign of the season, but if you leave those leaves on your lawn, they can cause damage. Dan talks about ways to remove leaves from your lawn.

(Audio 12/5/05) If you haven't put in your cool-season bedding plants, now is the time. Just be sure not to put them out right before a hard freeze.

(Audio for 12/5/05) Despite the cold, there are a number of vegetables you can plant this time of the year. Just be sure to protect them from potential hard freezes.