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:

• Residents of Reserve public housing and members of New Wine Christian Fellowship, who recently took time out to clean up trash and cut grass in the housing development while encouraging community camaraderie in the wake of a spate of violence in the neighborhood.

• Central Union Missionary Baptist Church in Garyville for organizing a back to school rally at Garyville/Mt. Airy Math and Science Magnet, which attracted Acting State Superintendent of Education Ollie Tyler. Students and parents were treated to inspirational talks from various school and parish leaders.

• Twin Oaks Nursing Home in LaPlace, which recently presented it’s annual “This is Your Life” program to celebrate residents who have reached the age of 90 and above. Six residents of the home were honored at the ceremony, which included life stories from various family members.

• St. John Parish resident Chuck Wisher, who recently earned five gold medals and one silver during the Greater New Orleans Senior Olympics Fitness Challenge. The challenge is a compilation of six events that tested strength, balance and endurance. Wisher was the oldest participant and received the most gold medals of any participant.