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Pulitzer Prize-Winning Photojournalist Ted Jackson is the Guest Speaker at 13th Annual Mayor’s Community Prayer Breakfast

Purchase Tickets Here

Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer invites the community to the 13th annual Mayor’s Community Prayer Breakfast, presented by Community Christian Concern, on Friday, January 31, 2025. The event will be held at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium, located at 2056 Second Street. Doors open at 7 a.m., and the program will begin promptly at 7:30 a.m.

This year’s guest speaker is Ted Jackson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist, renowned storyteller, and author of the acclaimed memoir You Ought to Do a Story About Me. With nearly 34 years of experience at The Times-Picayune, Jackson’s work has inspired countless readers and highlighted compelling human stories, making him a perfect choice to address the themes of this event.

Jackson’s career is distinguished by his ability to capture the humanity within everyday moments. During his time with The Times-Picayune, he documented some of the most pivotal events in New Orleans history, including Hurricane Katrina’s devastation and the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his role in The Times-Picayune’s coverage of Katrina and its aftermath, a series that depicted the struggles and resilience of the affected communities.

In his memoir, You Ought to Do a Story About Me, Jackson reminisces about his decades-long journey as a journalist and his life-changing encounter with Jackie Wallace, a former NFL player whose struggles with homelessness and addiction became the focus of one of Jackson’s most impactful stories. Today, Jackson continues to engage audiences with his inspirational speaking engagements, focusing on themes of compassion, faith, and storytelling.

Tickets to the community breakfast are available for $20 and can be purchased online at www.eventbrite.com. Sponsorship opportunities are available for $150, which include eight tickets and acknowledgment during the event. For more details about sponsorships, please contact Community Christian Concern at (985) 646-0357.

The annual Mayor’s Community Prayer Breakfast brings together citizens from all walks of life and backgrounds to hear inspirational messages and unite as one community. For the latest updates and information, visit MySlidell.com or follow the City of Slidell’s Facebook page.

Purchase Tickets Here

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Section of Bayou Lane Closed for Slidell’s Bayou Christmas

In preparation for the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular featuring Vince Vance and the Valiants and Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, a portion of Bayou Lane, from Pennsylvania Avenue to the Heritage Park Boat Launch, will be closed from 4:00 p.m. on Friday, December 13, to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 14.

Attendees should park at the Heritage Park Parking Lot, located at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Bayou Lane. The Heritage Park Boat Launch will remain accessible but will close early at 4:00 p.m. on both December 13 and December 14.

Kick off the holiday weekend with the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular on Friday night. Vince Vance and the Valiants will deliver a lively performance of classic hits and holiday favorites. The concert begins at 6:00 p.m. in Heritage Park and promises an evening of unforgettable music and festive cheer. Free admission

Also happening this weekend at Heritage park, Slidell’s Bayou Christmas transforms Heritage Park into a magical holiday wonderland. Visitors can enjoy animated light displays, free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus (from 6:30 to 9 p.m.) Slidell’s Nativity created by Lori Anselmo, delicious food, kiddie rides, and even ice skating rink. Admission is free.

The City of Slidell invites everyone to join these cherished community events and thanks the public for their cooperation during this festive weekend.

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Celebrate the 11th Annual Slidell’s Bayou Christmas at Heritage Park

The City of Slidell is excited to invite residents and visitors to the 11th Annual Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, a magical holiday event held at Heritage Park on December 13–14 and 20–23. This free event will take place from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and offers a festive lineup of activities, entertainment, and holiday fun for the entire family.

“Slidell’s Bayou Christmas is a community tradition that brings families together to celebrate the holiday season,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “We owe a special thanks to Tommy Benasco and all of the Bayou Christmas volunteers for their dedication and years of service in making this event such a success. Their hard work and holiday spirit continue to make this a magical experience for everyone.”

The event kicks off on Friday, Dec. 13, with the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular, featuring the King of Christmas, Vince Vance and the Valiants starting at 6:00 p.m. On Saturday, December 14, the holiday fun continues with Community Caroling hosted by the Slidell Women’s Civic Club at 6:30 p.m., followed by a special Slidell Movie Nights screening of the Christmas movie classic Elf at 7:30 p.m.

A highlight of Slidell’s Bayou Christmas is the nightly appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be available from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. to take free photos with children. Families can also enjoy animated light displays, a skating rink, kiddie rides, and Slidell’s Nativity created by local artist Lori Anselmo. Art and craft vendors, as well as food and drink stands, will offer festive treats and unique holiday shopping opportunities.

On Dec. 20, guests can enjoy performances by Royal Legacy Dance, Lakeside Christian, Carolyn Park, St. Margaret Mary Dance, St. Margaret Mary Cheer, and Just Dance, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The entertainment continues on Dec. 21 with Bayou Gems, Wonder Made Dance, Bayou Woods, and Lake Castle, also starting at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 22 features performances by Slidell Jr. High, Bonnie Ecole Starlettes, Bonnie Ecole Twinkle Toes, Royal Diamond Diva, and Rick Weems. The final night, December 23, includes performances by Slidell Boys & Girls Club at 6:30 p.m. and The Dance Project at 7:00 p.m.

Heritage Park is located at 1701 Bayou Lane in Slidell. Guests are encouraged to park in the shell lot located at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Bayou Lane for convenient access to the event.

For more information about Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, visit the “Slidell’s Bayou Christmas” Facebook page or contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.

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Celebrate the Holidays with Mayor Cromer and the Northshore Community Orchestra on Dec. 19

Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer invites you to a festive evening of music with the Northshore Community Orchestra on Thursday, December 19, at 7:00 p.m. at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. This cherished holiday tradition is free to the public and promises to fill the season with the sounds of joy and celebration.

The Northshore Community Orchestra, the only symphony orchestra in St. Tammany Parish, is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of music for both youth and adults. Established in 1987, the orchestra has continuously brought together musicians of all ages and backgrounds to perform a diverse repertoire, including classical, jazz, pop, folk, ethnic, traditional, movie themes, and Broadway hits. The orchestra regularly participates in community events, such as Some Enchanted Evening and Slidell’s annual Christmas concerts.

Musicians hail from Slidell, St. Tammany Parish, and surrounding areas across the Greater New Orleans region and south Mississippi. The orchestra’s members reflect a wide range of backgrounds, from students and educators to medical professionals, engineers, scientists, homemakers, and retirees. The ensemble’s diverse age range includes its youngest member at just 9 years old and its oldest in his 80s. Many families share the joy of music together, with parents, children, siblings, and spouses performing side by side.

The orchestra has been conducted by Slidell native Mrs. Susan Messina since 2006. With over 30 years of experience as a music educator and a master’s degree in music from Southeastern Louisiana University, Mrs. Messina brings her passion and expertise to the ensemble. A seasoned band director and private music instructor, she continues to inspire musicians of all ages through her leadership.

The concert will take place at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium, located at 2056 Second Street in Olde Towne Slidell. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information about this event, please call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. For the latest information about City of Slidell news and events, visit MySlidell.com or follow the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

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Slidell Celebrates the Holiday Season with Festive Events

The City of Slidell is lighting up the holiday season with exciting family events that promise to bring cheer and joy to the community. From light displays and live performances to family-friendly activities, Slidell is the place to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. All events offer free admission.

“The Christmas season is a time for our community to come together and celebrate,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “Christmas is my favorite time of year, where we get to spend cherished time with family and friends. I invite everyone to join us for these Christmas events and experience the joy of the holiday season in Slidell.”

Christmas Under the Stars

  • When: Dec. 6 – Jan. 2, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Where: Griffith Park (333 Erlanger Street)
    A treasured Slidell tradition, featuring Big Santa, the life-size Christmas Cottages by Lori Anselmo, Santa’s Magical Mailbox, Christmas Playhouses by the Rosies, and the new Community Christmas Tree.
  • Special Event: Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus on Dec. 6 and Dec. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Christmas on Front

  • When: Dec. 6 – Jan. 2
  • Where: Front Street
    A drive-through animated light display for the whole family.

Parade of Trees

  • When: Dec. 6 – Jan. 2
  • Where: Carey Street Park (corner of Carey and Robert streets in Olde Towne)
    Christmas trees decorated by local schools, churches, and community organizations will be on display for all to enjoy.

Slidell’s Bayou Christmas

  • When: Dec. 13-14 & Dec. 20-23, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park (1701 Bayou Lane)
    This event features animated light displays, Slidell’s Nativity by Lori Anselmo, live entertainment, craft vendors, food and drinks, kiddie rides, and an ice skating rink.

Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular with Vince Vance and the Valiants

  • When: Friday, Dec. 13, 6:00 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park
    Kick off Slidell’s Bayou Christmas with a high-energy concert from Vince Vance and the Valiants.

Community Caroling with the Slidell Women’s Civic Club

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park
    Gather with the community to sing along to beloved Christmas carols.

Slidell Movie Nights presents “Elf”

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 PM
  • Where: Heritage Park
    Enjoy the holiday classic “Elf” under the stars with family and friends.

Holiday Concert with the Northshore Community Orchestra

  • When: Thursday, Dec. 19, 7:00 PM
  • Where: Slidell Auditorium (2056 Second Street)
    An evening of live holiday music performed by the Northshore Community Orchestra.

The City of Slidell would like to thank our media sponsors for supporting the arts in Slidell, including Edge of the Lake Magazine, Inside Northside, Lake 94.7, Plus Publications, The Slidell Independent, Slidell Savings Magazine, and Sophisticated Woman Magazine.

For more information about these events, please call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. For the latest information about City of Slidell news and events, visit MySlidell.com or follow the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

 

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City offices closed Nov. 28-29 for Thanksgiving

Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer and the members of the Slidell City Council would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

In observation of the Thanksgiving holiday, city offices will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 28 and Friday, Nov. 29, and will reopen during regular hours on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024.

Essential personnel will remain on duty. If Slidell residents experience problems with their water or sewer service, they should call the City Services 24-hour emergency hotline at (985) 643-6140.

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Road Closed – West Hall Ave from S Pine St to S Carnation St

The City of Slidell advises motorists that West Hall Ave from S Pine St to S Carnation St will be closed for construction from Monday, November 25th to Wednesday, November 27th.

The City apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the cooperation of the public during this time.

 

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City announces Olde Towne street closures for Slidell Christmas Golf Cart Parade on Nov. 30

Mayor Greg Cromer invites the community to join the City of Slidell for the annual Olde Towne Slidell Community Christmas Golf Cart Parade on Saturday, November 30, at 5 p.m.

This festive event kicks off the holiday season with a parade led by Slidell Synch Lawn Chair Brigade, known for their entertaining routines featuring holiday-themed lawn chairs. Following them will be a procession of elaborately decorated golf carts and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, riding in an antique fire truck.

“This year, the Christmas Parade coincides with Small Business Saturday,” said Mayor Cromer. “While you’re enjoying the festivities in Olde Towne, I encourage everyone to support the unique shops and fantastic restaurants that Olde Towne has to offer. It’s a great way to celebrate the season and support our local businesses.”

To ensure a safe and enjoyable event, street closures in Olde Towne Slidell will begin at 2:30 p.m. on the day of the parade. Please see the map for the street closures. Once the bollards are in place, vehicles within the No Parking Zone will not be able to exit until after 8 p.m., when the parade concludes and bollards are removed. Additionally, “Special Event No Parking” signs will be posted throughout Olde Towne. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid parking vehicles in the area after 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the parade or street closures, contact the City of Slidell’s Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.

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Road Closed- Cousin Street from 7th St. to 11th St.

The City of Slidell advises motorists that Cousin St., from 7th St. to 11th St, will be closed for
roadway construction on Wednesday, November 20th through Friday, November 22nd.

The City apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the cooperation
of the public during this time.

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City Offices Closed Nov. 11 in Observance of Veterans Day

Mayor Greg Cromer and the Slidell City Council extend their gratitude to all veterans who have honorably served our nation.

In observance of Veterans Day, city offices will be closed on Monday, November 11, 2024, and will reopen on Tuesday, November 12, during regular business hours.

Essential personnel will remain on duty to respond to any emergencies. Slidell residents experiencing issues with water or sewer services can reach the City Services 24-hour emergency hotline at (985) 643-6140.

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