EachWednesday, L’Observateur recognizes individuals and businesses in the River Parishes that have gone “above and beyond” in their efforts to make this a better place to live, work and play.

We believe 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 residents of St. John the Baptist Parish who have gathered over the past weeks at Tirzah Mentor Program for a vigil to stop the violence in the community. The group is trying to organize a march against violence at some point this year.

• West St. John High School, for being recognized as a Louisiana GEAR UP Exemplary School for 2010-2011. The Edgard high school is one of five in the state to gain the designation, which is based on school performance scores and professional development among students.

• Members of the River Region Chamber of Commerce, who helped developed the region’s first annual Reverse Trade Show. The event helped smaller River Parishes businesses connect with larger industries in an effort to forge future working partnerships.

• Students at East St. John Elementary, who participated in the school’s annual collection of care baskets to be distributed to residents at Twin Oaks Nursing Home and Maison Oaks Assisted Living Center. The students recently delivered the baskets and spent time with residents at the home.