(Distributed 05/22/03) Louisiana farmers moved one step closer to having a chance at official certification as Master Farmers this week.Louisiana Senate passed HB 1827 Monday (May 19) provides for official state certification of those who complete the LSU AgCenter’s Master Farmer educational program.

(Distributed 01/17/03) The LSU AgCenter recognized three individuals and one team for outstanding contributions to its diversity initiatives during a reception Friday afternoon (Jan. 17).

(Distributed 10/24/2003) Figs are one of the earliest fruits cultivated in the United States. They are nutrient-dense, versatile and very easy to pack and transport, says LSU AgCenter nutrition expert Catrinel Stanciu.

(Distributed December 2003) Loquat, sometimes called Japanese plum or Japanese Medlar, is an attractive small tree or shrub that is frequently planted in landscapes as an ornamental in Louisiana. The nice thing about loquat is that it can be used as an edible landscape plant, says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. John Pyzner.

(Distributed 11/23/2003) Chain saws are popular homeowner tools – especially in the South where we have lots of trees and lots of storms. Homeowners have many options in chain saws, and the first decision is between an electric or gasoline model, according to Dr. Dick Parish, an engineer with the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station.

(Distributed December 2003) Chain saws are popular tools for both homeowners and professionals since they have so many uses. "But, they’re potentially dangerous and must be used carefully to avoid serious injury, says Dr. Dick Parish, an engineer at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station.

(Distributed 11/23/2003) With the onset of winter comes cooler weather and special environmental conditions that can challenge the performance of even the newest cars, according to LSU AgCenter engineer Dr. Dan Martin. With some forethought and advance maintenance, many of these obstacles can be overcome and prevented.

(Distributed 11/23/2003) 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, according to LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 11/24/2003) Grandparents, mom and dad, brother and sister, aunts, uncles, cousins, teacher, 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 2003) LSU AgCenter family life professor Dr. Diane D. Sasser offers a way to cope with holiday stress. "It may not be a cure, but it can sure help! And it just takes 10 minutes a day."