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Soul Revival Brings Motown Magic to Bayou Jam Concert Series

The City of Slidell’s Bayou Jam Spring Concert Series continues on Sunday, April 13 with a performance by Soul Revival, starting at  5:00 p.m. at Heritage Park. Admission is free.

“Pack your lawn chairs and bring the whole family to Heritage Park for an unforgettable evening of music,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “Our Bayou Jam concerts have become a cherished tradition in Slidell, offering the perfect opportunity for our community to relax and enjoy great music in Heritage Park.”

For over two decades, Soul Revival has been electrifying audiences across Southeast Louisiana with their dynamic blend of classic hits and contemporary favorites. Led by the powerhouse vocals of sisters Fadra White and Zondra W. Jones, this versatile ensemble performs everything from Motown classics to contemporary R&B and Top 40 hits. Their magnetic stage presence and musicianship have made them one of the region’s favorite bands.

Upcoming Bayou Jam concerts incude:

  • April 27 – Lauren Murphy and the Psychedelics
  • May 4 – Big Al and the Heavyweights
  • May 18 – Some Enchanted Evening with the Northshore Community Orchestra
  • June 1 – Bayou Stampede
  • June 8 – Tease Me Band

All concerts will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Heritage Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced by noon on the day of the event through the city’s website and Facebook page.

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

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30th Annual Arts Evening Celebrates Music in Olde Towne on April 5

The streets of Olde Towne Slidell will come alive with music during the 30th Annual Arts Evening on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m. Musical performers will transform the historic district into an outdoor concert venue, offering free entertainment for all attendees.

“For three decades, Arts Evening has been one of Slidell’s premier art events,” said Mayor Bill Borchert. “I encourage everyone to come experience the magic of this special evening as we celebrate art, music, and community in Olde Towne. Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, you’ll discover why this event has become a Slidell tradition!”

Musical Lineup and Locations:

  • Acoustics Unlimited performing at Bistreaux 55
  • Audio Beach near Brass Monkey and Olde Towne Pizza Co.
  • Christy and the Rascals bringing swing music to Borchert Law
  • Lauren Murphy Duo near KY’s
  • Northshore Community Orchestra Jazz Ensemble at Green Oaks Apothecary
  • Overboard under Antique Umbrella Alley near Camellia City Pizza
  • Ozone Music Songwriters Showcase featuring local talents Greg Barnhill, Hannah Belle, Laine Bleu, Stephen and Madison McDonald, and Caroline Tebbs at Triangle Square
  • Sara, Jim and Jeff at Pontchartrain Investment Management
  • SteveA performing solo by the Olde Towne Slidell Main Street booth on First Street

The diverse musical offerings span genres from jazz and acoustic to contemporary and classical, ensuring an entertaining evening for music lovers of all tastes. This free, family-friendly event combines live music with visual arts, dining, and shopping throughout Olde Towne’s historic district.

Arts Evening showcases Slidell’s commitment to supporting the arts and fostering community engagement. For additional information about this event, please contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Updates and details about City of Slidell events can be found at MySlidell.com or by following the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

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Slidell Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Arts Evening on Saturday, April 5

The City of Slidell proudly announces the 30th Annual Arts Evening, taking place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m. in historic Olde Towne Slidell. This milestone celebration features over 50 artists displaying their works at more than 30 locations throughout the historic arts district. This family-friendly event offers free admission.

“For three decades, Arts Evening has been one of Slidell’s premier art events,” says Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “I encourage everyone to come experience the magic of this special evening as we celebrate art, music, and community in Olde Towne. Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, you’ll discover why this event has become a Slidell tradition!”

Visitors will experience a blend of visual arts, live entertainment, fine and casual dining, great drinks, and antique and boutique shopping, all throughout Olde Towne.

Live entertainment will fill the streets of Olde Towne during Arts Evening, with eight dynamic musical acts performing throughout the district. Acoustics Unlimited will perform at Bistreaux 55, while Audio Beach will rock out near the Brass Monkey and Olde Towne Pizza Co. Borchert Law welcomes the swingin’ sounds of Christy and the Rascals, and the Northshore Community Orchestra Jazz Ensemble will perform at Green Oaks Apothecary. Overboard will entertain under Antique Umbrella Alley near Camellia City Pizza, while the Ozone Music Songwriters Showcase presents local talent (Greg Barnhill, Hannah Belle, Laine Bleu, Stephen and Madison McDonald, Caroline Tebbs) on the stage at Triangle Square. Sara, Jim and Jeff will entertain at Pontchartrain Investment Management, and SteveA performs a solo set by the Olde Towne Slidell Main Street booth on First Street. These performances represent a diverse mix of musical styles, from jazz and acoustic to contemporary and classical, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.

And speaking of taste, during Arts Evening, visitors can enjoy many different dining and drinking establishments throughout Olde Towne. The district’s vibrant culinary and cocktail scene includes Bistreaux 55, Brass Monkey, Camellia City Pizza, The Golden Goat, Heidelberg’s Bar, KY’s, Luna Tequila Whiskey and Ashe, Olde Town Soda Shop, Olde Towne Pizza, Olde Towne Tavern, Roots Plants + Coffee, Tacos & Beer, and Triangle Square. These establishments will be offering their regular menus along with special Arts Evening offerings, providing everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences, craft cocktails to specialty coffees.

Participating businesses and artists include:

  • American Legion Post 374 – Artist Michele Maiarot
  • Antiques & Art on First – Artist Shana Marshall
  • Arcade on Carey – St. Tammany Fire District 1 Autism Awareness Vehicle
  • Bistreaux 55 – Music by Acoustic Unlimited. Artist Bonnie Bourgeois
  • Borchert Law – Music by Christy and the Rascals. Artists John Paul Duet, Kylah Odle, Michael Reed, Joshua Wichterich
  • Brass Monkey – Music by Audio Beach
  • Bridge Street Ink
  • Camellia City Pizza – Music by Overboard
  • Christina’s Therapeutic Touch – Artist Vivian Hava
  • The Earthly Elephant – Delicate Decomposition
  • Expo Signs – Artists Linda Bickel, Connie Born, Larisa Clevinger, Matt Litchliter
  • The Golden Goat
  • Green Oaks Apothecary – Music by Northshore Community Orchestra. Artists Jasmyne Alexander, Jill Anderson, Jackie Begue, Stephanie Carrana, Amanda Douglas, Amy Exsterstein, Whitney Ferguson, David Guastella, Jessica Moody, Lyla Normand, Jena Smith Pendarvis, Lauren Penton-Taylor, Brittnie Perkins, Makayla Perkins, Ernest Robert, Aeva Santini, Lauren Swift, Terie Trenchard, Venitas Valentine
  • Heidelberg’s
  • Hingle Boys TCG & Hobby
  • KY’s – Music by Lauren Murphy Duo
  • Lowry-Dunham, Case & Vivien – Artists Elsa Baker, John Case, Lizzie Shelby D’Aquin, Oksana Fogg, Charlotte Lowry-Collins, CJ Sherrif-Rosen, Dustin Young
  • Luna Tequila
  • Northlake Outfitters – Artist Charles Gudaitis
  • Old Town Soda Shop
  • Olde Towne Book Shop – Artists Suzie Hunt, Cher Levis, Dustin Young
  • Olde Towne Pizza
  • Olde Towne Slidell Main Street at Crippin Cottage – Music by SteveA. Artists Lori Anselmo, Aaliyah Atamanyuk, Katie Esposito, Hannah Morris, Joe Young
  • Olde Towne Tavern
  • Pontchartrain Investment Management – Music by Sara, Jim and Jeff. Artists John Berry, Mary Rich
  • Roots Plants + Coffee – Duffy Austin, Swamp Sprouts Art
  • Slidell Museum – Artist T. Martin
  • Tacos & Beer
  • Triangle Square – Music by Ozone Music Foundation (including Greg Barnhill, Laine Bleu, Audrey St. Cyr, Brandon Hogue, Paul Dominigue). Artist Cindy Strecker
  • Whiskey and Ashe

This year’s Arts Evening Poster Artist, Cindy Strecker, will be selling signed event posters at Triangle Square. Strecker has developed a masterful command of multiple mediums including watercolor, acrylics, oils, colored pencil, and pen and ink. Her versatile portfolio spans both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork, featuring subjects ranging from pet portraits to nature and coastal wildlife. As a self-taught artist, Strecker’s natural talent and dedication to her craft have shaped her artistic vision. She shares her passion for art through private art classes, nurturing creativity in others. for kopre information about Strecker, visit www.flyingfishart.com.

Arts Evening showcases Slidell’s commitment to supporting the arts and fostering community engagement. For additional information about this event, please contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Updates and details about City of Slidell events can be found at MySlidell.com or by following the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

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‘Salad Days’ Student Art Exhibit Now on Display at Slidell City Hall

On Friday, March 21, 2025, student artists from around St. Tammany Parish were joined by family and friends in the George Dunbar Gallery in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall for the opening reception and award ceremony for the 34th annual Salad Days Juried Exhibition of Student Art.

“As I walked through the George Dunbar Gallery viewing the artwork, I was impressed by the quality and creativity on display,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “Slidell and St. Tammany Parish have some amazingly talented artists, and these students have demonstrated artistic abilities well beyond their years. This exhibit not only showcases their talent but also reflects the strong arts education programs in our schools.”

Mayor Borchert with Lily Claire Hatt

This year’s juror is Charlotte Collins, 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, Charlotte 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, Charlotte 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 exhibition features works from a diverse group of talented young artists including Jane Alphonse, Aaliyah Atamanyuk, Nolee Autin, Taylor Bordelon, Hanna Bradley, Parker Brennan, Tyson Bright, Laura Chin, Brynn Fontana, David Goleman, Harper Hakin, Lilly Claire Hatt, Shannon Hoitenga, Sydney Hough, Chloe Landry, Dylan Landry, Olivia Loomis, Ashley Mannino, RJ Mora, Emerald O’Toole, Catherine Owen, Ruby Paganuzzi, Christian Pastoret, Henry Patience, Edyn Qualls, Morgan Roberts, Salma Shahid, Adah Singleton, Ella Steele, Autumn Turner, Hattie Wells, and Olivia Yi. Each artist brings their unique perspective and creative vision to this remarkable showcase of student artists. Salad Days entries are divided into four age categories. First, second, third and honorable mentions were awarded in each category.

Ashley Mannino

Category A (Ages 5–8)

  • 1st Place: Lilly Claire Hatt, “Ballet in Color”
  • 2nd Place: Emerald O’Toole, “Birds of a Feather”
  • 3rd Place: Tyson Bright, “Christmas Tree”

Honorable Mentions:

  • Tyson Bright, “Pumpkin”
  • Lilly Claire Hatt, “Golden Wings”

Category B (Ages 9–11)

  • 1st Place: Christian Pastoret, “Duckcano”
  • 2nd Place: Autumn Turner, “Jenna Ortega”
  • 3rd Place: Autumn Turner, “On the Look Out!”

Honorable Mentions:

  • Ruby Paganuzzi, “Black and White Dog”
  • Dylan Landry, “Magnolia”
  • Nolee Autin, “Sunset on Alligator Lane”

Category C (Ages 12–14)

  • 1st Place: Aaliyah Atamanyuk, “Fred”
  • 2nd Place: Ashley Mannino, “Dig In”
  • 3rd Place: Aaliyah Atamanyuk, “Sound of Movement”

Christian Pastoret

Honorable Mentions:

  • Ashley Mannino, “Selfie Time”
  • Olivia Yi, “Blue Winged Fairy”
  • Harper Hakin, “Baby Opossum”
  • Aaliyah Atamanyuk, “Light My Fire”

Category D (Ages 15–19)

  • 1st Place: Hanna Bradley, “They are dying to get in here”
  • 2nd Place: Ella Steele, “The Cleansing”
  • 3rd Place: Jane Alphonse, “The Beauty of Hummingbirds”

Honorable Mentions:

  • Brynn Fontana, “Entombed”
  • RJ Mora, “Stalkers”
  • Catherine Owen, “Limes”
  • Sydney Hough, “Vulpecula”
  • Jane Alphonse, “Flower Field”

The Slidell Cultural Center is located at 2055 Second Street inside Slidell City Hall. Gallery hours are by appointment only, Monday–Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.. Admission is free, and same-day appointments are available. Please call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375 to schedule your tour.

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Slidell’s High Schools Take the Spotlight at Bayou Jam on March 30

Following last weekend’s amazing performance by Witness, the spring concert series continues this Sunday, March 30, with the Bayou Jam High School Band & Choir Showcase from 5 to 7 p.m. This free concert features Slidell’s talented student musicians and vocalists from the Northshore High School Jazz Band, Slidell High School Choir, Slidell High School Jazz Band, plus special guest band Audrie & The Saints.

“I invite everyone to come out to Heritage Park this Sunday for a special Bayou Jam concert,” says Mayor Bill Borchert. “After such an incredible turnout last weekend, we’re excited to showcase the remarkable musical talent being developed in our local high schools. These young musicians represent the very bright future of Slidell.”

The concert will feature music ensembles under the direction of three of St. Tammany’s finest music educators. The Slidell High School Jazz Band (under the direction of Landon Blocker) and the Northshore High School Jazz Band (directed by Jess Lambert) will showcase their impressive musical talents. The Slidell High School Choir (led by Melanie St. Cyr) rounds out this impressive lineup of student entertainers.

A special highlight of the evening will be Audrie & The Saints, a dynamic ensemble composed entirely of former Slidell High School talented music students. Formed in late 2024 for the St. Margaret Mary Slidell Food n’ Fun Fest, this remarkable group of musicians has been captivating audiences ever since. Led by the talented Audrie Saint, the band features Ronnie Williams on guitar, Chloe Canulette on keyboard, Aurora Knock on bass and acoustic, Connor Lasalla on bongos, and Aiden Sweetland on drums. The group’s impressive vocal harmonies are brought to life by background vocalists Abbey Caruso, Annie Schneideu, Julia Bay, and Hayley Bauer. These close-knit friends share an infectious passion for live performance, delivering an exciting repertoire that spans from classic 70’s disco to today’s contemporary hits. Their enthusiasm and musical prowess promise to make this year’s Bayou Jam an unforgettable experience.

All concerts will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. in Heritage Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced by noon on the day of the event through the city’s website and Facebook page.

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

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T-Mobile Awards Olde Towne Slidell Main Street $50,000 Hometown Grant to Transform Carey Street Park

The City of Slidell and Olde Towne Slidell Main Street have been selected as a recipient of T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant Program, receiving $50,000 to renovate Carey Street Park in Olde Towne. The official check presentation ceremony will take place during the Bayou Jam Concert with Witness on Sunday, March 23. The check will be presented at 4:45 followed by the free concert at 5 p.m.

“We appreciate our corporate citizens like T-Mobile, especially when they choose to reinvest in our community,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “Like T-Mobile, the City of Slidell is about connecting people to our community. This T-Mobile Hometown Grant will enable the City of Slidell, and our Main Street program, to expand and enhance Carey Street Park, creating a welcoming area in Olde Towne Slidell to help connect neighbors with each other and our local businesses. Thank you T-Mobile for reinvesting in Slidell.”

T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant Program is a five-year initiative to support small towns and rural communities across America. The program provides up to $50,000 in funding for community development projects, with grant applications reviewed based on detail, community impact, feasibility, and other considerations. T-Mobile has awarded over $16 million in Hometown Grants to 375 communities across 48 states and Puerto Rico.

The Carey Street Park renovation project will transform an underutilized green space into a vibrant community gathering place. The project aligns with T-Mobile’s partnership with Main Street America to advance shared prosperity and improve quality of life through place-based economic development.

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Slidell’s Bayou Jam Concerts Return on Sunday, March 23

Louisiana Music Hall of Fame Inductees Witness to Open Spring Season

The City of Slidell announces the return of its popular Bayou Jam concert series with an expanded spring lineup, featuring Louisiana Music Hall of Fame inductees Witness for the opening concert on Sunday, March 23, starting at 5 p.m. in Heritage Park.

“We’re excited to move the Bayou Jam concerts back to Sunday evenings and expand our lineup to provide even more opportunities for our community to enjoy great music in Slidell,” said Mayor Bill Borchert. “These free concerts have become a Slidell tradition, and we invite everyone to join us at Heritage Park for what promises to be a great concert season.”

The spring concert series features eight performances, running from March through June:

  • March 23 – Witness
  • March 30 – High School Band and Choir Concert
  • April 13 – Soul Revival
  • April 27 – Lauren Murphy and the Psychedelics
  • May 4 – Big Al and the Heavyweights
  • May 18 – Some Enchanted Evening with the Northshore Community Orchestra
  • June 1 – Bayou Stampede
  • June 8 – Tease Me Band

Witness, a local band who jumped into Slidell’s music scene in 1991, began as a side project between drummer Joey Spinosa and his vocalist wife Missi, alongside guitarist Raymond Ybos. Their first paid performance at the opening of Southside Café marked the beginning of what would become a three decade journey of musical excellence.

The band’s impressive career reached a new milestone in October 2024 when they were inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. Known for their versatile setlist of memorable cover songs and original music, Witness’ dedication to live entertainment, coupled with Missi Spinosa’s dynamic stage presence (which earned her the 2019 St. Tammany Parish President’s Arts Award for Musician of the Year), has cemented their status as one of the region’s most enduring and beloved musical acts.

All concerts will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced by noon on the day of the event through the city’s website and Facebook page.

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

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Acclaimed Conductor Paul Mauffray Presents Free Baroque Concert in Slidell on March 11

The City of Slidell will present an evening of Baroque masterpieces on Tuesday, March 11, at 7:00 p.m. at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. The free performance will be conducted by Paul Mauffray, who will lead talented musicians from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and acclaimed vocalists in a concert of concertos and solo cantatas.

“We are grateful to Maestro Mauffray and these outstanding musicians for bringing such an exceptional musical experience to Slidell,” said Mayor Bill Borchert. “This concert represents the caliber of cultural programming we strive to bring to our community. I would like to thank the musicians and vocalists for performing for our citizens.”

The program features an exceptional lineup of vocal soloists – Nicole Heinen, Michelle Lane, and Jacob Huffty – performing alongside distinguished musicians, including oboist Casey Kearney and trumpeter Alex Mayon. Michael Bauer will perform on a historic Flentrop organ from Holland and Mauffray will lead from a French double-manual harpsichord, a replica of a 1769 Parisian instrument.

The evening’s repertoire includes works by Baroque masters Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Corelli. The program opens with Handel’s Concerto Grosso in B-flat major and includes three of Bach’s most celebrated vocal works: “Bist du bei mir,” Cantata #51 “Jauchzet Gott,” and Cantata #82 “Ich habe genug.” Vivaldi’s Concerto “Alla Rustica” and Corelli’s “Christmas Concerto” complete the program.

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

The program is particularly suitable for high-school music students and adult audiences.

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Olde Towne Street Closures Announced for Parades on Saturday, Feb. 22

The City of Slidell announces temporary street closures in Olde Towne Slidell for the Krewe de Paws and Mona Lisa and MoonPie parades on Saturday, February 22. The closures will affect multiple streets beginning at 6:00 a.m.

The street closures will remain in effect throughout the day for both the Krewe de Paws parade, scheduled for 10:00 a.m., and the Krewe of Mona Lisa and MoonPie parade, set to roll at 7:00 p.m. Streets will reopen to normal traffic following the conclusion of the evening parade.

“We’re implementing these closures to ensure the safety of both parade participants and spectators,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert “We encourage residents to plan alternate routes and arrive early to enjoy these parades.”


 

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Cindy Strecker Selected as Arts Evening 2025 Poster Artist

Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert, the City of Slidell, and the members of the Slidell Commission on the Arts would like to congratulate Cindy Strecker for being selected as the Arts Evening 2025 Poster Artist. Her artwork, “Perched” will be featured on the Arts Evening poster and publicity materials.

“Cindy’s work beautifully captures the natural charm and artistic spirit of our community,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “Her art reflects the exceptional talent we have here in Slidell. I encourage everyone to join us on April 5 for a great evening of art, music, and community celebration in Olde Towne Slidell.”

Strecker, a versatile artist who was born in Southern California and raised in Louisiana, has cultivated a lifelong passion for creative expression. Working across multiple mediums including watercolor, acrylics, oils, colored pencil, and pen and ink, she seamlessly transitions between two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork, bringing her unique vision to life through each piece. Her portfolio showcases a diverse range of subjects, from coastal wildlife and pet portraits to architectural studies and captivating landscapes.

A self-taught artist, Strecker’s natural talent and commitment to her craft have shaped her unique artistic voice. She shares her love of art through private art classes, helping others discover their own creative potential. Her journey proves that authentic passion, combined with dedication to one’s craft, can lead to remarkable artistic achievements.

“I’m honored to be selected as the Arts Evening poster artist,” said Strecker. “As an artist who has displayed both my artwork and the works of my incredibly talented art students at Arts Evening, it’s very special to have my work selected to represent this year’s event.”

The 30th annual Arts Evening takes place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m. in Olde Towne Slidell. One of the largest cultural festivals on the Northshore, this family-friendly event features over 50 artists displaying their works at over 30 locations in Olde Towne. In addition to art, there will be live entertainment; antique, boutique and unique shopping; fine and casual dining and surprises on every corner of Olde Towne. Admission is free.

Strecker will be selling signed copies of the event poster during Arts Evening. For more information about the artist, visit her website at www.flyingfishart.com.

For more information about Arts Evening, 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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