(Distributed 10/10/08) As our country endures economic crisis, consumers are worried about the safety and security of their jobs, homes, retirement and financial futures. The current stock market plunge has triggered a dramatic chapter in Wall Street’s history.

(Distributed 09/07/08) You probably can’t avoid the stress coming in the wake of Hurricane Gustav, but you can manage it, says LSU AgCenter family and consumer sciences specialist Becky White.

Wind is the most common and most costly cause of damage to homes and other “light frame structures” in the United States. The 75-mile-per-hour-plus winds experienced in hurricanes put tremendous pressure on the roof, walls and foundation, and windblown debris can significantly increase the damage.

The 2008 hurricane season is approaching very quickly here are some relatively easy steps you can take to protect your home from hurricane damage.

Now that food costs more and fuel prices are higher than ever, cost-cutting strategies are important to households across most income levels. Here are ways to save money when heading to the grocery store.

Free Seminar for Homeowners - Learn about…· Improving wind and rain resistance of roof, roof deck, felt and shingles· Protecting window and door openings, including garage doors· Anchoring walls when they’re open (inside or out) for repair· Bracing columns for overhangs (porches, carports, patios)· Adding structural sheathing (inside or out) when repairing walls· Protecting exterior walls from wind and rain when replacing siding

Food, decorations and rituals that make the holidays festive for people can be hazardous to pets. This is what pet owners need to do to keep the season safe for their animals.

Grilled cauliflower recipe, history and nutritional value information.

The holidays are time to enjoy special desserts you may only make once a year. To prevent getting foodborne illness, refrigerate pies containing eggs and milk, such as pumpkin, custard and cream pies.

When Louisiana cooks shop for their Thanksgiving meal, they’ll find the cost of the basic dinner items will average $36.31 for 10 people, according to an LSU AgCenter survey of Baton Rouge-area prices. That’s down by $3.50 from last year’s average of $39.81 – a 9 percent drop.