Each Wednesday, L’Observateur recognizes 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 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 RIVERSIDE ACADEMY REBELS, who earned their first class 2A state championship Saturday. The Rebels rolled over most of their opponents throughout the regular season and the playoffs. Coach Timmy Byrd and his crew have hopefully brought another winning tradition to St. John Parish.

• IAN VILLAFANA, who recently came out with his first album of original songs. The LaPlace guitarist said his CD’s popularity has been gaining steadily and is looking to put together a band so he can perform around the area.

• THE ST. JOHN SHERIFF’S OFFICE, which recently reported an across-the-board drop in crime in the parish. Sheriff Wayne Jones attributes increased police presence as well as cooperation with the District Attorney’s office for the drop.

• DILLON TAUZIN, who is currently appearing onstage at Le Petit Theatre in the French Quarter in New Orleans. The Luling resident has been acting for years now, but the production of “13” is by far the biggest he has yet been involved with.