2010 was a year many may wish to forget as the optimism that began 2009 faded into the realization that things may not in fact be getting better.

Economic woes remained at the forefront of many people’s minds as the unemployment rate remained rather steady throughout the year. Louisiana, which had remained relatively sheltered from the effects of the recession, saw its unemployment rate increase, a fact aggravated by the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Chief among those wishing to forget the year that was may be President Barack Obama, who saw his popularity plummet and many of his initiative receive stern resistance in 2010.

In the fall, America once again voted for change as Democrats took a beating at the polls.

Despite the bad taste in the mouths of many, 2010 did hold its fair share of promise and celebration in the River Parishes.

Although not strictly a River Parishes event, the New Orleans Saints Super Bowl championship will no doubt stand out as a highlight of 2010 long after the recession has faded.

The town of Reserve celebrated itself for the entire latter half of the year, and one of the final celebrations included the burial of a time capsule that will bring 2010 back for local citizens 50 years hence.

Earlier in the year, St. John the Baptist Parish took its own steps along the path of change by electing Natalie Robottom as parish president. Robottom is the first African-American woman to hold the position, and if her near-constant presence at parish functions is any indication, she plans on doing things a little differently than her predecessor.

So despite ongoing troubles, much good came out the past year. A people are most often remembered for their triumphs and accomplishments rather than their failures, so 2011 could be a banner year for the River Parishes if its citizens choose to strive for progress and not wallow in their problems.