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.

This week we salute:

• LaPlace resident Rodney Nicholas, who was sworn in as the newest member of the St. John the Baptist Parish School Board Thursday. Nicholas is the only new member to be added to the school board following elections last fall.

• St. James Parish Registrar of Voters Annie Gravois who recently retired from service after 36 years at her post. Parish President Dale Hymel and the St. James Council paid tribute to Gravois at a council meeting in Convent earlier this month. Chief Deputy Registrar Lisa Granier-Medine will take over in her place.

• Author Daniel Rasmussen for writing a compelling novel to mark the 200th anniversary of a rarely mentioned slave revolt that took place in the River Parishes. The German Coast slave rebellion is often referred to as the largest slave revolt in American History.

• Edgard native and former LSU football star Quinn Johnson of the Green Bay Packers for helping his team to the NFC Championship game in the NFL Playoffs. Johnson, who plays fullback, and the Packers knocked off the Atlanta Falcons Saturday in the divisional round.