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 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAMS OF THE RIVER PARISHES, which recently began post-season play. All eight teams in the region made it to the playoffs and six of those will be competing again this weekend in round two.

• THE ST. JAMES CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER, which recently held its annual Cajun/Creole Day in Lutcher. The event is designed to promote awareness of the unique culture of South Louisiana to area youth. The program was paid for with a grant through the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the Houma Regional Arts Council.

• CLARENCE “CHUCK” WISHER, who recently took home the award for Louisiana’s Senior Olympian of the Year. The LaPlace resident scored eight medals at this year’s games. He has participated in te games for 20 years. Wisher is 83.

• STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND STAFF OF EAST ST. JOHN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, who showed their support for the troops recently by donning red T-shirts in observance of “Red Shirt Friday.” Over 150 of the brightly colored gatments were worn in accordance with the nationwide show of support.�