It is a brand-new year, and it is a perfect time for making commitments and re-commitments.

New Year’s resolutions are an old tradition, and we at L’Observateur have a few of our own.

The new publisher, Ellen Ishmael, is excited about taking this newspaper to a renewed position of leadership and service in the River Parishes and she welcomes your input.

In less than three weeks, L’Observateur will mark its 90th birthday, since its first issue of Jan. 19, 1913, out of a little room in Reserve, established by Wallace Lasseigne.

In his introductory editorial, Lasseigne set forth the newspaper’s mission statement:

“In presenting L’Observateur to the public, we present an up-to-date, clean, free and independent newspaper, a newspaper which will not be controlled by any clique or ring, but will defend the interest of the people within its power. We hope that the public in general will answer to our call and encourage our great and progressive enterprise – the publication of this newspaper.”

Even 90 years ago, L’Observateur recognized its vital role in the community but acknowledged its need to be a partner with its readership to maintain its quality.

“We appeal to all alike,” Lasseigne continued, “You want to know what is going on around you. You want somebody who will dig out the facts and give them to you, who will express an honest opinion on all matters that most people are interested in knowing about.”

He continued, “It does not make much difference to us who holds the political jobs, but our duty is to keep the people informed of what is being done with their money and how their affairs are being run.”

Our need, therefore, is to serve you, to provide you with the facts so you can form honest and informed opinions and make educated judgements and to provide you with a champion for what is right for the community as a whole.

We take seriously our role in the River Parishes community, and we ask you to keep in touch with us. Our telephone number is (985) 652-9545. Our e-mail address is lobnews@bellsouth.net.

We can only do this with your help and we ask you to help us make 2003 a great year for local news coverage and content.

L’Observateur