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 OLDIES BUT GOODIES DANCE AND SOCIAL CLUB, which has been building a steady following since its inception in 2006. The club provides social and community service projects for the River Region’s senior community.

• LSU QUARTERBACK JORDAN JEFFERSON, a former Destrehan standout who has carried his winning ways to the Baton Rouge university. Following a heartbreaking loss to Florida on Saturday, the sophomore’s record as a starting quarterback now stands at 27-2.

• 2009 MISS ANDOUILLE QUEEN KRISTINA COLLETA AND THE REST OF THE PAGEANT WINNERS, who were crowned recently at the event at St. John Theatre. Besides being a major part of this weekend’s Andouille Fest, Colleta will represent St. John Parish at the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Queens Pageant, which will be held in February 2010.

• OMNI BANK, which recently presented a check to the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve. According to a bank representative, the purpose of the donation was to fulfill the wishes or needs of the home’s residents.