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:

• MARK CHAPMAN, who represented LaPlace, the River Parishes and the State of Louisiana as one of eight umpires chosen to call the 2009 College World Series.

• Students at LaPLACE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, on raising almost $900 for “Jump Rope for Heart.” Of the total, Mrs. Miller’s first-grade class raised almost $400.

• DES ALLEMANDS, the “Catfish Capital of the Universe” as proclaimed by the Louisiana Legislature, on its hosting of the 35th annual Louisiana Catfish Festival this weekend. The festival got under way Friday and continues through 9 p.m. Sunday.