LaGrange Daily News salutes people, places and things that made recent news:

Another feather in his cap

Still a very young man, Troup native Elijah Kelley has already seen his name in lights alongside globally famous stars, including John Travolta and Queen Latifah in “Hairspray” and Antonio Banderos in “Take the Lead.” Now, the homegrown performer has taken another big step forward, landing a role in “Red Tails,” a new film about the famed Tuskegee airmen being produced by George Lucas of Star Wars fame.

Kelley is currently in Europe, where the movie is in production. Already acknowledged as a gifted singer and dancer, Kelley now has an opportunity to showcase his dramatic acting skills.

A big salute to Elijah Kelley, whose affection for his hometown rivals his remarkable talents.

Pass it on

The LaGrange/Troup County Chamber of Commerce introduced a bright idea last week, worth saluting - and emulating.

Instead of the traditional gifts to speakers at its monthly breakfast meetings, the organization will, from now on, make a donation to the local United Way of West Georgia campaign in the speaker’s honor.

What a smart idea. Speakers’ gifts are more an expression of appreciation than remuneration anyhow, so directing the gift to a worthy cause, instead of buying a trinket or knickknack, is certainly appropriate. In fact, this suggestion might be a good one for other local groups.

The United Way concept - individually no donor can do much, but together we can do great things - is a good model in this regard, too. On its own, the Chamber’s monthly gifts won’t add up to much, but if other groups followed suit, it could make a real difference. A little bit of altruism can go a long way.

And each time the gift is mentioned, we all get another reminder of the need to “Live United.”

Thanks to the chamber for leading by serving.

Spectacular spring

Perhaps the biggest salute of this beautiful month goes to Mother Nature herself. LaGrange and Troup County couldn’t be more lovely. The colors of spring are everywhere apparent - from wild wisteria dripping purple blooms across the landscape to brilliant hues of azaleas brightening lawns and gardens on almost every street and highway.

The dogwoods and other flowering trees have given LaGrange a fairy tale appearance.

And abundant rainfall has given a lush green look to even ordinary shrubs and grasses.

Enjoy and celebrate the season and all the fresh, good things that it brings.