(Distributed 12/12/06) Gaining weight during the holidays is a fear most people face this time of year, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 12/12/06) Every year thousands of Americans go into debt over the holidays because Santa and his elves went a little over budget. With holiday shopping, rising gas prices and hosting holiday parties, it is no wonder we have trouble staying out of debt.

(Distributed 12/11/06) The holidays can be a tough time to try to manage or lose weight, but you can keep it on track, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Annrose Guarino.

(Distributed 12/08/06) Overly enthusiastic holiday spending can push a family into financial difficulty. The challenge of managing holiday spending is to enjoy the spirit of the season without paying for it months or even years later, says LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 12/08/06) Poinsettias are one of the most popular holiday plants in the United States. Colored leaves called bracts are the main attraction of poinsettias, and an ever increasing range of colors are available – from the traditional red, to white, pink, peach, yellow, marbled and speckled.

(Distributed 12/08/06) Many New Year’s resolutions are long forgotten by the first of February. However, resolving to take control of your family finances can have a positive effect on your financial position in the coming months and on your long-term goals, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 12/08/06) During the holidays we often indulge in rich foods we might not normally eat at other times of the year. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy says there are ways to enjoy these bountiful foods during this season and still maintain a healthy lifestyle.

(Distributed 12/08/06) Problems occasionally occur with items purchased as holiday gifts, but being prepared to handle those problems can go a long way in making the season more festive for you, says LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 12/07/06) Online shopping in the United States rises approximately 30 percent each holiday season, because it can save time, money and effort. But sizing up your finds on the Internet is a little different from checking out items at a mall or shop, says LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 12/07/06) The hustle and bustle of the holidays may make even the most responsible of pet owners neglectful of certain dangers to cats and dogs among the food, events and decorations, says Dr. Christine Navarre, LSU AgCenter veterinarian.