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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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Slidell’s 2025 Parade Schedule

Dear Citizens,

As we enter Mardi Gras season, I would like to invite you, your family, and your friends to come experience Mardi Gras in Slidell. Grab your lawn chairs, ice chests, and king cakes, and head out to the parade route to enjoy all the parades rolling through Slidell:

Friday, Feb. 14 • 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Titans

Saturday, Feb. 15 • 12:00 p.m.
Krewe of Bilge (Eden Isles)

Saturday, Feb. 15 • 6:00 p.m.
Krewe of Poseidon

Sunday, Feb. 16 • 1:00 p.m.
Krewe of Antheia

Saturday, Feb. 22 • 10:00 a.m.
Krewe de Paws (Olde Towne)

Saturday, Feb. 22 • 7:00 p.m.
Mona Lisa and MoonPie (Olde Towne)

Sunday, Feb. 23 • 1:00 p.m.
Krewe of Dionysus

Friday, Feb. 28 • 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Selene

Tuesday, March 4 • 10:00 a.m.
Krewe of Kidz (Olde Towne)

Sunday, March 9 • 1:00 p.m.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Olde Towne)

I am proud that many families choose to celebrate Mardi Gras here in Slidell. It’s wonderful to see so many smiling faces along the parade route. I ask that everyone be respectful and help us maintain the fun, family-friendly environment that people enjoy in Slidell.

Come enjoy the best that Slidell has to offer during Mardi Gras season.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Mayor Bill Borchert

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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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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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