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City of Slidell Announces Call for Student Artists for Salad Days Exhibition

Download the Salad Days 2025 prospectus here

The City of Slidell and its Commission on the Arts are excited to announce a call for student artists for the annual Salad Days, a juried exhibition showcasing St. Tammany’s talented student artists. Students ages 5 to 19, in grades kindergarten through 12th grade and living in St. Tammany Parish are invited to submit their artwork for this unique opportunity to have their work displayed in a professional gallery setting.

This year’s juror, Charlotte Collins, is a lifelong artist and educator whose passion for creative expression, education, and community enrichment has defined her career. With a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts from Memphis College of Art, Collins has combined her talents as an artist, professor, and advocate for the arts. Her professional achievements include internationally published articles, presentations on art history and education, and teaching abroad. A dedicated member of the Slidell community, Collins has served as Director of Non-Credit Programs at Southeastern Louisiana University, bringing educational opportunities to learners of all ages. As Director of the Olde Towne Arts Center and founder of the Krewe of Mona Lisa and MoonPie, she has fostered a deep appreciation for the arts and local culture.

The Salad Days exhibition is open to K-12 students who reside in or attend school in St. Tammany Parish. Submissions will be judged in four age groups: 5 to 8, 9 to 11, 12 to 14, and 15 to 19. Each student may submit up to three pieces of original artwork. First-place winners in each category will receive a $50 prize, and all selected participants will be awarded a certificate of recognition from the City of Slidell.

Artists should submit high-resolution JPEG images of their work (maximum 300 dpi). Submissions can be emailed to culturalaffairs@cityofslidell.org or mailed on a USB flash drive to: Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall, P.O. Box 828, Slidell, LA 70459. Alternatively, digital entries may be delivered in person to the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at 250 Bouscaren, Suite 304, in the Slidell Technology and Cultural Arts Center. The submission deadline is Monday, March 10, 2025, by 4 p.m. Late entries will not be accepted.

Artists will be notified of their status by Thursday, March 13, 2025. If no notification is received by Friday, March 14, 2025, please contact (985) 646-4375. Artists whose work is selected must deliver their pieces to the Slidell Cultural Center at 2055 Second Street on Monday, March 17, from 1 to 6 p.m. or Tuesday, March 18, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For questions or additional details, please refer to the Salad Days 2025 prospectus or contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.

Download the Salad Days 2025 prospectus here

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Bill Borchert to Take Oath of Office as Mayor of the City of Slidell on January 20

On Monday, January 20, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., Slidell Councilman-at-Large Bill Borchert will officially take the oath of office to serve as Mayor of the City of Slidell. The ceremony will take place at Slidell City Hall and is open to the public.

This transition follows the resignation of Mayor Greg Cromer, who accepted a new position with Gov. Landry and the State of Louisiana earlier this month as a Legislative Affairs Officer at the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). Cromer had nearly a year and a half left to complete his term as mayor.

Bill Borchert

In accordance with the city’s home rule charter, Borchert, who received the most votes for council-at-large in the last election, will assume the role of mayor until a special election is held in October 2025 to fill the remainder of Mayor Cromer’s term. Borchert’s official start date is January 21, 2025.

“I want to thank Mayor Cromer for his years of service and dedication to our community and wish him the best of luck in his new role,” said Borchert. “I am excited about continuing the great things that Mayor Cromer has accomplished for the City of Slidell over the last six and a half years. It has been an honor to serve the people of Slidell as a councilman for the last 16 years, and I look forward to continuing to serve the great citizens of Slidell as mayor.”

Borchert is a dedicated public servant and active member of the Slidell community for over five decades. He was elected to the Slidell City Council in 2007. Originally from West Virginia, he moved to Slidell in 1971 and quickly made Slidell his home. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Borchert has applied his analytical skills and problem-solving expertise to address the needs of the Slidell community. He is married to Laura Borchert, an accomplished attorney practicing in Slidell.

For the past six years and a half years, Borchert has regularly served as acting mayor when Mayor Cromer was out of office for more than five business days, as specified by the city charter. His experience in this capacity has prepared him to take on the responsibilities of serving as mayor.

All residents are invited to attend the Oath of Office ceremony on January 20, 2025, to show their support for Mayor Bill Borchert as he begins this new chapter of leadership for the City of Slidell.

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Greg Cromer Resigns as Mayor of Slidell; Accepts New Position with the State of Louisiana

‘It has truly been one of the most difficult decisions of my life’

Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer has announced that he will resign as the Mayor of the City of Slidell to accept a new role with the State of Louisiana as a Legislative Affairs Officer at the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). His final day in office will be Monday, January 20, 2025.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce that I am stepping down as your Mayor. It has truly been one of the most difficult decisions of my life,” said Cromer. “Serving the citizens of Slidell has been the best and most rewarding job of my career. I am proud to say that the City of Slidell is in better shape now than it was when I took office six years ago, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such dedicated city employees who have played a vital role in our success. Together, Team Slidell has achieved great things for our community, and I am confident that Slidell’s future remains bright.”

During his time as mayor, Cromer’s administration spearheaded numerous infrastructure improvement projects throughout the city and made significant investments in recreational facilities, including the complete renovation of the Henry J. Calamari Tennis Courts on Second Street, and new pickleball courts and a state-of-the-art skatepark at John Slidell Park. These accomplishments reflect Mayor Cromer’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Slidell residents.

Looking ahead to his new role, Mayor Cromer expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to continue to serve the Slidell community.

“I want to thank the citizens of Slidell for their trust and support throughout my time as mayor. I look forward to continuing to serve you by advocating for the needs of our region and the needs of those throughout the state in my new position with the DOTD.”

In accordance with the city’s home rule charter, Slidell City Councilman-at-Large Bill Borchert will assume the role of interim mayor. Borchert, who received the most votes for his position in the last election, will take office on January 21, 2025.

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City Offices Closed Dec. 24, 25, 31, and Jan. 1 for Holidays

Mayor Greg Cromer hopes that everyone has a joyous holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the City of Slidell!
In observation of the Christmas and New Year holidays, city offices will be closed on:
  • Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024
  • Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024
  • Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024
  • Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025
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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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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City Kicks-Off Slidell’s Bayou Christmas with Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular featuring Vince Vance and the Valiants on Friday, Dec. 13

The City of Slidell is thrilled to announce the return of the King of Christmas, Vince Vance and the Valiants, to Heritage Park for the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular on Friday, Dec. 13. The concert will kick-off Slidell’s Bayou Christmas and the festivities begin at 6 p.m., and admission is free.

“Vince Vance and the Valiants and Slidell’s Bayou Christmas are  both beloved in our community and they are the perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season in Slidell,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “Their energy and holiday spirit bring joy to all ages, and this event is a wonderful way for families to come together and celebrate the magic of the season.”

Hailing from New Orleans, Vince Vance and the Valiants are known for their high-energy performances that blend country, pop, and rock ’n’ roll with costume changes, comic skits, and vaudeville flair. Their iconic holiday single, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” has charted on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart six times and was named the No. 6 Merriest Video of All Time by Country Music Television.

In addition to their holiday hits, Vince Vance and the Valiants are celebrated for songs like “I am New Orleans,” a heartfelt anthem written after Hurricane Katrina. Vance was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2010.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs, blankets, ice chests, picnic baskets, sweaters, and jackets to enjoy the concert under the stars. Concessions will be available on-site for a nominal charge.

Slidell’s Bayou Christmas will transform Heritage Park into a winter wonderland from Dec. 13-14 and 20-23, featuring thousands of twinkling lights, live entertainment, art and craft vendors, delicious food, skating rink, kiddie rides, and free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Admission is free.

For more information about the Bayou Jam Christmas Spectacular, please contact the City of Slidell Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Stay informed about all city news and events by visiting MySlidell.com and follow the City of Slidell Facebook page for the latest updates.

In the event of inclement weather, updates or cancellation announcements will be made by 1 p.m. on the day of the event. Please check the city’s website or Facebook page for the latest information.

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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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