Here are the most popular baby names for 2025

The Louisiana Department of Health released the most popular baby names in the state for babies born in 2025, with Noah and Amelia taking the top spots.

Gifting new opportunities

Capital Area Corporate Recycling Council (CACRC) hosted its Computers for Christmas – Natchitoches event on Dec. 22, at the Natchitoches Events Center, providing laptops to children and families in need and helping bridge the digital divide in the local community.

NSU English professor lectures on research at Keats-Shelley House in Rome

Dr. Nicole Lobdell, assistant professor of English in the Louisiana Scholars’ College at Northwestern State University, was invited to discuss her research on the English writer Mary Shelley at the Keats-Shelley House in Rome, Italy, last month.

Northwestern State awards degrees to Summer, Fall 2025 graduates

Northwestern State University awarded 292 degrees to 290 Summer 2025 graduates and 607 degrees to 595 Fall 2025 graduates during commencement ceremonies Dec. 17-18. Summer graduates listed by hometown are followed by Fall graduates listed by hometown.

Honoring graduating seniors at Apple Pinning

Northwestern State University’s Gallaspy Family College of Education and Human Development and the School of Education honored seven graduating seniors during an Apple Pinning ceremony Dec. 8 to mark the end of their journey as undergraduates and the start of their careers as educators.

Domestic Violence has support group meetings

Natchitoches Parish Domestic Violence Outreach office hours are Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call Shaye at 318/6635961 to make an appointment.A Domestic Violence Support Group is held the first and third Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.Call the number above for more information.

Cane River Stitchers pay tribute to veterans with patriotic quilts

Six local veterans were recently honored at the Veterans Day Program in Natchitoches Veterans Park. The Cane River Stitchers presented six local veterans with handmade patriotic quilts to recognizing them for their valor and service.

Heart health tips for holidays

As the holiday season approaches, celebrations filled with food, travel and family traditions take center stage. While this time of year brings joy and connection, it can also challenge healthy routines, making heart health more important than ever.

Northwestern State grads share stories of victories, hurdles & challenges that led to diplomas

Cheered by friends, family and faculty, Fall and Summer 2025 graduates collected diplomas during commencement at Northwestern State University t earlier this month. From varied backgrounds and academic journeys, graduates reflected on their experiences at NSU and their plans for the future.

Cane River Chapter

The Cane River Chapter , Louisiana Society of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, hosted its annual Veterans Luncheon Nov. 10 at the Natchitoches Events Center. Some 135 people, including veterans and their guests attended.