(Distributed December 2004) One diet has been found to be especially helpful in fighting cancer, heart disease and atherosclerosis. Its effectiveness comes from food rich in phytochemicals, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy.

(Distributed December 2004) It is not uncommon for homeowners to look at a lawn problem and call someone for help. Before calling, though, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske recommends taking a closer look and making notes.

(Distributed December 2004) Winter weeds started germinating in October. Come late winter, retailers will be pushing weed and feed fertilizers to control them. Not an enthusiast for weed and feed, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske advises caution.

(Distributed December 2004) Our warm-season grasses don’t like low temperatures. In fact, some may show some off-color because of chilling stress that might start from 54 to 60 degrees F, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed December 2004) Millions of Americans follow the latest fad diets to lose weight. The problem is, most of these diets don’t provide lasting results, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed December 2004) Good test scores, quality workmanship, respectful students and employees - all of these have something in common. The link is ethical character, says LSU AgCenter state 4-H character education coordinator John Arceneaux.

(Distributed December 2004) Young children, who today spend most of their waking moments in child-care programs, need to have the knowledge and security of a reminder from home, says LSU AgCenter expert Cheri Gioe.

(Distributed December 2004) Giving money to charities is a holiday custom, but cash is not the only way to help out the less fortunate, says LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker. Charitable organizations gladly may accept other types of contributions.

(Distributed December 2004) Grandparents, mom and dad, brother and sister, aunts, uncles, cousins, teachers, friends…the gift list - and the cash register receipt - get longer every year. The holidays are a great time to discuss spending with the younger set, says LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed December 2004) Overly enthusiastic holiday spending can push a family into financial difficulty, according to LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker.