EachWednesday, L’Observateur recognizes individuals and businesses in the River Parishes that have gone “above and beyond” in their efforts to make this a better place to live, work and play.

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:

• St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s deputy Amanda Roh, for her actions to save the life of a newborn baby struggling to breathe. The mother had given birth inside her home, and Roh arrived ahead of the ambulance and jumped into action to get the child breathing.

• William Boles, who was recently selected East St. John High Teacher of the Year for the 2011-12 school year. Boles has been teaching for 14 years and currently teaches world geography and journey to careers.

• LaPlace resident and Frostop head cook Betty Davis, who was recently honored as a “Restaurant Legend” by the Louisiana Restaurant Association.

The award is given to employees of the food service industry with more than 20 years of continuous service at one establishment. Davis has been with Frostop in LaPlace for 26 years.

• All 22 prep football players from River Parishes Schools who signed letters of intent to play college ball. All eight schools in the region were represented on National Signing Day last Wednesday.