About the Annual Go Natchitoches Awards

This award honors a business that has been established within the past two years* and is already making a significant impact in the Natchitoches community. The recipient demonstrates innovation, strong potential for long-term success, and a commitment to customer service, community involvement, and excellence in their field. Whether through fresh ideas, bold leadership, or creative problem-solving, this business is paving the way for the next generation of local entrepreneurship.

*The two years before the ceremony/awards take place.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Buccaneer Bayou Mini Golf
• Jeter Therapy Group
  
• Tasty Boy LLC

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Natchitoches Picnic Company
• 2025 - Rolling Hills Ministries Thrift Store
• 2026 - Buccaneer Bayou Mini Golf

This award recognizes a business that stands out for its creative, consistent, and engaging digital presence. From websites to social media platforms, the recipient uses online tools effectively to connect with customers, promote their brand, and enhance their visibility in the community. This business demonstrates an understanding of how to use digital platforms not just for promotion, but for building relationships and driving meaningful engagement.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Cane River National Heritage Area
• Natchitoches Bed & Breakfast
• Natchitoches Parish School Board

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Brick & Row Merci Beaucoup
• 2025 - NSU Marketing
• 2026 - Cane River National Heritage Area

This award honors a nonprofit organization that goes above and beyond in service to the Natchitoches community. The recipient demonstrates exceptional dedication to their mission, effective use of resources, and a measurable impact on the individuals or causes they serve. Through leadership, collaboration, and compassion, this organization exemplifies what it means to drive positive change and uplift others.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• CASA of Central Louisiana
• FAUNA - Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals
• Women's Resource Center

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Natchitoches Parish Fair Board
• 2026 - Women's Resource Center

This award celebrates a local business in the food and beverage industry that delivers outstanding quality, service, and hospitality. Whether through innovative cuisine, a welcoming atmosphere, or a commitment to locally sourced ingredients, the recipient sets the standard for culinary excellence in Natchitoches. This business not only satisfies appetites but also contributes to the cultural and economic vitality of our community.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Cane River Commissary
• Natchitoches Picnic Company
• Trail Boss Steakhouse

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant
• 2025 - Sweetie's Bar-B-Q
• 2026 - Cane River Commissary

This award recognizes a retail business that provides an exceptional shopping experience, from quality products to customer service and store atmosphere. The recipient stands out through creativity, consistency, and a strong connection to the community. Whether through brick-and-mortar, online, or both, this business demonstrates excellence in meeting customer needs and enhancing the local shopping landscape.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Cane River Soap Company
• Maggio's Packaged Liquors
• Rolling Hills Ministries Thrift Shop

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Magnolia Spa & Wellness Boutique
• 2025 - Cane River Kitchenware
• 2026 - Cane River Soap Company

This award honors a business or organization that brings people together through exceptional entertainment experiences. Whether through live performances, events, nightlife, or creative attractions, the recipient contributes to the vibrancy and cultural life of Natchitoches. With a focus on quality, originality, and community engagement, this business plays a key role in making our city a fun and memorable place to live, work, and visit.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Flying Heart Brewing & Pub
• Natchitoches Jazz and R&B Festival
• Parkway Cinema

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Dark Woods Adventure Park
• 2025 - NSU Creative & Performing Arts
• 2026 - Flying Heart Brewing & Pub

This award recognizes a business in the industrial sector—such as manufacturing, oil and energy, construction, or other large-scale production—that demonstrates outstanding performance, innovation, and impact. The recipient excels in operational excellence, workplace safety, and contributions to the local economy. This business stands as a leader in its field, combining productivity with a commitment to quality, sustainability, and community development.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Alliance Compressors
• Pilgrim's
• RoyOMartin Plywood

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2025 - Lott Oil Company
• 2026 - RoyOMartin Plywood

This award honors a business in the financial sector—such as banking, accounting, insurance, or investment—that demonstrates integrity, expertise, and a strong commitment to customer service. The recipient goes beyond numbers, building trust and providing valuable guidance that supports the financial well-being of individuals, families, and businesses in Natchitoches. Through professionalism and community involvement, this business helps strengthen our local economy.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• BOM Bank
• City Bank & Trust Company
• Sabine State Bank

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Engage Federal Credit Union
• 2025 - First Federal Bank of Louisiana
• 2026 - BOM Bank

This award honors businesses that provide expert knowledge and advisory services. Typical examples include legal firms, real estate agencies, consulting firms, marketing and advertising agencies, IT service providers, and other licensed or certified professionals. These businesses exemplify professionalism, ethical standards, and exceptional client service while contributing meaningfully to the Natchitoches community.

*If a business fits better in another category, please nominate it there to ensure accurate placement and avoid confusion.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Better Homes and Gardens Realty - Rhodes Realty
• BOM Financial Services
• The Harrington Law Firm

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Good Hope Veterinary Clinic
• 2025 - Archie's Paint & Body Shop
• 2026 - The Harrington Law Firm

This award recognizes a government agency, public utility, or nonprofit organization that provides essential services to the Natchitoches community. The recipient demonstrates dedication, efficiency, and a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for residents. Through outstanding leadership, innovation, and community engagement, this honoree exemplifies the spirit of public service and civic responsibility.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• City of Natchitoches Fire Department
• Natchitoches Christmas Festival
• Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Natchitoches Parish Schools
• 2025 - The Natchitoches Parish Library
• 2026 - City of Natchitoches Fire Department

This award honors a healthcare provider or medical facility that delivers exceptional care, compassion, and innovation to the Natchitoches community. Whether through patient services, community health initiatives, or advancements in medical practice, the recipient demonstrates a strong commitment to improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of individuals and families. This business or organization exemplifies professionalism, expertise, and dedication to health.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Dean Dermatology & Wellness
• Family Doctors of Natchitoches Inc.
• NRMC Cancer Center

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Lang Orthodontics
• 2025 - Natchitoches Regional Medical Center
• 2026 - NRMC Cancer Center

This award recognizes businesses and organizations dedicated to promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being in the Natchitoches community. Eligible nominees include fitness centers, gyms, yoga studios, mental health counselors, therapists, wellness coaches, and similar services. The recipient demonstrates a strong commitment to helping individuals lead healthier, more balanced lives through compassionate care, education, and community engagement.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Guidroz Physical Therapy
• Magnolia Spa Wellness & Boutique
• Moreau Physical Therapy

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Women's Resource Center
• 2025 - Trinity Integrated Health & Wellness
• 2026 - Guidroz Physical Therapy

This award honors a lodging establishment—such as hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, or inns—that provides exceptional hospitality, comfort, and service to visitors of Natchitoches. The recipient creates memorable guest experiences through attention to detail, cleanliness, and community connection, helping to make our city a preferred destination for travelers.

The 2025-26 Category Finalists:

• Church Street Inn
• Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast
• The Nakatosh House

The following winners from the past three years are ineligible to advance to voting in the 2027 Awards:

• 2024 - Violet Hill Bed & Breakfast
• 2025 - Andrew Morris House
• 2026 - Queen Anne Bed & Breakfast

This prestigious award honors an individual who has dedicated many years to making a lasting, positive impact on the Natchitoches community. Through leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment, the recipient has significantly contributed to the growth, culture, and well-being of our region. This recognition celebrates a legacy of service, excellence, and inspiration that will resonate for generations to come.

• 2024 - Janice Bolton
• 2025 - Dr. Otis Barnum
• 2026 - Dr. Steve Horton

This special award honors an individual, group, or business that exemplifies the “Go Natchitoches” mindset, demonstrating leadership, community spirit, and a commitment to making Natchitoches a better place to live, work, and grow. The recipient goes above and beyond to inspire positive change, foster connection, and champion the values that drive our community forward.

• 2025 - Henry & Debbie Taylor
• 2026 - NSU for the "Proud to Be Purple" campaign

This award recognizes four outstanding young professionals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions to the Natchitoches community through leadership, innovation, and community involvement. These individuals exemplify ambition, dedication, and a passion for cultivating growth in their professions and the region. The NYP 4 Under 40 honors emerging leaders who are shaping the future of Natchitoches.

2026 NYP 4 Under 40:

• Crit Williams
• Dr. Dylan Solice
• Dr. Jasmine Wise
• Dr. Mary-Katherine Horton Maggio

The full list of past honorees can be found at GoNatchitoches.com/NYP.