Each Saturday, 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:

• JOE WILLIAMS, HARVARD OLLAR and ALL VETERANS at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home, who were presented a total of 130 medals by Gov. Bobby Jindal for their service to our country as members of the military. From sorming Omaha Beach during D-Day to Korea and everything in-between, these veterans have helped keep our country free. We would suggest an occasional visit to the home, just to say “thanks.”

• BAT FOR A CURE participants, who helped raise funds for the fight against cancer. The tournament, held in memory of Colby Boudreax, who died of brain cancer in 2001 at age 8, was held at Reserve Bantam.named LaQuinta Inns and Suites’ national Salesperson of the Year for 2008.

• SEN. MARY LANDRIEU, who brought the debate on health care to Reserve with a Town Hall meeting. There are many places where citizens never have the opportunity to come face-to-face with their national representatives … but the River Parish Region has been fortunate that both senators were here within a two-week span.

• CAPITAL AREA UNITED WAY, on its DAY OF CARING in St. James Parish. The Baton Rouge-based organization adopted 10 volunteer projects, with the local effort sponsored by MOSAIC. More than 75 volunteers participated in the effort.