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:

• ST. JOHN PARISH GOVERNMENT and OFFICIALS, who made opening a new animal shelter in the parish a priority. The shelter finally held its grand opening ceremonies last week after many weather-related delays. The new facility can house 65 animals. Free microchipping was available at the event.

• THE ST. JOHN REGISTRAR OF VOTERS OFFICE, which recently held a program at East St. John High School to register students to vote and impress upon the parish’s youth the importance of doing their civic duty. During the visit 150 student registered to vote.

• ARCELLORMITTAL, which partnered with Emily C. Watkins Elementary School. The business, formerly known as Bayou Steel, has since donated bicycle racks and contributed to many of the school’s safety measures. On Watkins’ contract-signing night, the company presented Principal Tony Robinet with a check for $10,000.

• THE ST. JOHN PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, which has taken proactive measures to protect the district’s students from the threat of the H1N1 virus. By investing not only in cleaning and disinfecting supplies but also educational materials, it has made an investment in both the health an education of the district’s youth.