Each Wednesday, L’Observateur will recognize individuals and businesses in the River Parishes who have gone “above and beyond” in their efforts to make this a better place to live, work, play and raise a family.

We believe that an integral part of a community’s wellbeing is an attitude and arena where people who do good things … who work to improve life for others … who try to make a difference … are recognized and saluted.

Because this is a salute to members of the community of the entire River Parishes, we solicit your recommendations for groups or individuals to be considered for inclusion.

This week we salute:

• THE ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST SCHOOL SYSTEM, which, as part of its 100th day of school celebrations, asked students to bring in 100 pennies. The plan was to send the pennies collected to the relief efforts in Haiti. Other schools in the system took the opportunity to raise money for other causes, as well. LaPlace Elementary School asked students to bring in quarters, and after the coins were divided into sets of 100, the money was donated to “Kids for Kops,” a program that raises money for bulletproof vests for police officers.

• KWADERNICA RHEA, CHEYENNE ORTIZ AND GABRIELLA VILLAVICENCIO, who were recently selected as St. John the Baptist Parish students of the year for 12th grade, eighth grade and fifth grade, respectively. The scholars will represent the district in the statewide competition.

• FRANK MONICA, the football coach at St. Charles Catholic High School, who recently snagged Coach of the Year honors in L’Observateur’s annual contest. Monica led his Comets team to the semifinal round of the state playoffs.

• MEMBERS OF THE EAST ST. JOHN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISCOVERING CHARACTER CLUB, who hosted a Christmas party for the schools youngest students. Besides treating the youngsters to snacks, presents, a movie and a visit from Santa Claus, the club members also donated gifts that were distributed to the party guests.�