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‘Katrina Then and Now’ exhibit opens Friday, Aug. 29

The anniversary date of Hurricane Katrina always brings with it a storm of emotions. While many people state they would rather forget it happened, it remains a defining moment in our city’s and our state’s history. Slidell was the Louisiana city hardest-hit by Katrina, with a direct hit that left 40% of the city underwater, plus 95% of homes and businesses damaged or destroyed.
To commemorate the milestone 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Northshore Cultural Economy Coalition presents “Katrina, Then and Now: a 20-Year Community Commemorative Exhibition,” to be hosted by the City of Slidell in the George Dunbar Gallery in City Hall, with an opening reception on Friday, August 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission is free.
Gallery Hours:
  • Exhibition opening night Friday, Aug. 29, 6 to 8 p.m.
  • Special hours Saturday Aug. 30, 2 to 4 p.m.
  • Monday – Thursday, 10 am to 2 pm by appointment – call (985) 646-4375
  • Closing date Friday, Sept 26, 3 to 6 p.m.
“Katrina, Then and Now” is much more than an art exhibition. It’s an opportunity for the community to share their photos and stories, to be archived in the Slidell for future generations.
The exhibition will include artistic photos of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina (then,) plus new shots from the present day showing those same locations in present time (now.) The event is designed to acknowledge how far the community has come from what seemed like an insurmountable natural disaster, while also being respectful and mindful that Katrina still has lasting impact on those who experienced the wrath of the storm and the aftermath, many of whom lost everything.
Members of the community and those who visited are invited to submit their own photos. This includes, but is not limited to, “then and now” images for inclusion in a video montage of past and present to be presented during the exhibition.
The public is also encouraged to share their Katrina photos and stories on the “Discussion” tab of this event Facebook page to help create a digital archive of the storm.
The event also provides an opportunity for those who experienced Katrina and its aftermath, including how they were personally impacted. Also included in the exhibition will be artifacts documenting recovery efforts, uplifting stories and media coverage. We are hopeful that those who share the stories, and those who read them, will find a bit of catharsis in the process.
“Katrina: Then and Now” will complement the Spirit of Louisiana Katrina 20th commemorative events to be held on Saturday, August 30, presented by the Krewe of Black & Gold, Northshore CEC and the City of Slidell. The gallery will be open from 2 to 4 p.m., and commemorative events will begin at 4 p.m. with a community gathering in the Slidell Municipal Auditorium.
Founded in 2009, the mission of the Northshore Cultural Economy Coalition is to facilitate growth, development and increased awareness of the cultural economy and its impact by focusing on coalition building, public policy, business support, outreach, advocacy and arts education. To learn more about the CEC and this event, visit https://northshorecec.org.
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Slidell Announces Progress on Tammany Trace Extension to Heritage Park

Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert is excited to announce a final step toward completing the Tammany Trace into Heritage Park. 

Progress on connecting the Tammany Trace to Heritage Park had previously been delayed due to a notice of abandonment to the City of Slidell. The proposed action by Norfolk Southern Railway Company to abandon its railroad lines (from Milepost NN 35.31+/- to Milepost NN 36.66+/- and from Milepost 35.25 NA+/- to Milepost 38.00 NA+/-) is fully consistent with existing land use and infrastructure plans of the city. Mayor Borchert confirmed that these plans are included in the Slidell 2040 Comprehensive Plan (completed in 2022) and the Bicycle Master Plan (amended in 2023).

The abandonment fully encompasses what the City of Slidell has designated as the Tammany Trace Extension; this portion of the Tammany Trace is a critical link in the city’s planned bicycle network, as detailed in the Bicycle Master Plan. The extension provides the necessary connective link to the rest of St. Tammany Parish, Slidell’s Heritage Park along Bayou Bonfouca, and future access routes for cyclists across Slidell.

As detailed in the Slidell 2040 Comprehensive Plan, this action would directly support multiple Transportation Goals for the City of Slidell, including:

  • Goal T-1 – Improve walk-ability and bike-ability on major arterials through coordination with Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD) and th New Orleans Regional Planning Commission (NORPC).
  • Goal T-3 – Ensure streets in Slidell are planned, designed, and operated for the safety and mobility of all users, including motorists, transit riders, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Goal T-4 – Enhance access from residences to parks, schools, and nearby commercial areas via an expanded sidewalk network and bikeways.
  • Goal T-5 – Plan and implement a connected network of bicycle and walking facilities using the city’s parks, green spaces, bayous, and trails.

This action helps fulfill the City’s Land Use Goal (LU-7) of facilitating development patterns that enable residents to walk and bike to schools, shops, and workplaces. The City’s Economic Development Goal ED-2 would also be supported, to help increase day trip and overnight tourism opportunities by promoting outdoor recreation, eco-tourism, and Slidell’s historic Olde Towne district.

The extension further supports the city’s Public Health and Safety Goals of providing opportunities for healthy living in neighborhoods by providing environments for physical activity and access to healthy foods (Goal PS-4), and promoting Slidell as a safe community with ample opportunities for a healthy, active lifestyle (Goal PS-5).

“We are looking forward to working with Norfolk Southern to complete this action, which will connect the existing 31 miles of the Tammany Trace, currently ending at Camp Salmen, to Heritage Park. This extension will expand recreational opportunities for our residents, businesses, and visitors,” said Mayor Borchert. 

In addition, funding from a Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant is planned to fund the design of the trailhead along Bayou Lane.

For more information about City of Slidell news and events, visit the city’s website at MySlidell.com and follow the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook and Instagram.

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UPDATE: Boil Water Advisory cancelled for parts of Westchester Estates

8/12/25, 12:15 PM UPDATE: The Boil Water Advisory has been lifted. All samples came back clear.

 

The City of Slidell has issued a Boil Water Advisory as a precaution due to a loss of water pressure during repairs to a water main. The following addresses in Westchester Estates are affected:

  • 110 Markham
  • 200 Markham
  • 3735 Myrtle
  • 3741 Myrtle
  • 3747 Myrtle
  • 3751 Myrtle
  • 3740 Myrtle
  • 3746 Myrtle
  • 3752 Myrtle
  • 3758 Myrtle

Notices have been posted at the affected addresses. The advisory will remain in effect until the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals analyzes water samples, which typically takes several days. Residents will be notified once the advisory has been lifted.

For guidance on what to do during a Boil Water Advisory, visit the CDC’s official resource: https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/drinking/drinking-water-advisories/boil-water-advisory.html

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Slidell History Stroll debuts at White Linen Night with Scavenger Hunt

The City of Slidell and the Slidell Museum, in collaboration with Girl Scout Sue Helen Ford, are excited to unveil the Slidell History Stroll – a thrilling new project that brings Slidell’s history to life!

The project officially launches on Saturday, August 9, with the Slidell History Stroll Scavenger Hunt, part of White Linen and Lagniappe. During the event, from 6:00 to 8:45 p.m., participants can visit the Slidell Museum at 2020 First Street in Olde Towne Slidell to pick up a scavenger hunt sheet. Follow the clues to selected locations, answer the questions, and return your completed sheet to the museum by 8:45 p.m. All entries with correct answers will be entered into a drawing to win lunch with Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. The winner will be announced on Thursday, August 14, during the Mayor’s weekly “Mayor Wants to Buy Me Lunch” video.

The Slidell History Stroll project celebrates the people, places, and events that have shaped Slidell’s rich history.

Phase I
QR codes have been placed at different locations in Olde Towne Slidell, including:
📍 The Arcade on Carey
📍 Create Dat
📍 The Golden Goat
📍 Griffith Park
📍 Heritage Park
📍 KY’s
📍 Old Town Soda Shop
📍 Roots Plants + Coffee
📍 Slidell Auditorium
📍 Slidell City Hall
📍 Slidell Museum
📍 Times Bar & Grill

Simply scan the QR code with the camera app on your smartphone to learn more about each location.

Additional locations and historic markers will be added in the coming months, so stay tuned for updates!

The Slidell History Stroll is the Girl Scout Gold Award project of Sue Helen Ford, inspired by a walking history tour her family experienced in Savannah, Georgia. Sue Helen’s passion for history, supported by her family, friends, and the Girl Scout community, made this vision a reality.

A special thanks to her 7th and 8th grade teachers at Slidell Jr. High, Mr. Treadaway and Mrs. Caldwell, for sparking her love of history.

The narratives featured on the Slidell History Stroll were researched and written by Greg Scott, former Curator of the Slidell Museum, and the author of the upcoming “Legend of Onionhead” to be released later this month.

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Guide to White Linen and Lagniappe 2025

Wear your coolest summer whites and join the fun at the 8th annual White Linen and Lagniappe on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in Olde Towne Slidell. This family-friendly evening features art, shopping, dining, live entertainment, and plenty of lagniappe—that little something extra!

“White Linen and Lagniappe is one of Slidell’s biggest cultural events,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “Come experience an unforgettable night filled with all the unique fun that makes Olde Towne shine!”

Enjoy delicious food and signature White Linen and Lagniappe drinks as you explore the historic district’s shops, antique stores, boutiques, bars and restaurants. Live entertainment will be on every corner; from Antique Umbrella Alley to Carey Street Park, there is plenty of fun to be found all throughout Olde Towne!

Participating Businesses:

  • American Legion Post 374
    Artists /Vendors: Michelle Maiaroto
  • Antiques & Art on First
     Entertainment: Two Peace Mild, 6-9 p.m.
  • Antique Umbrella Alley
    Lagniappe: Kid’s Market
  • Arcade on Carey
    Entertainment: Audio Beach, 6-9 p.m.
  • Bistreaux 55
    Artists/Vendors: Wess Foreman, Al Hamauei, STARC Art
    Entertainment: Fat City Swing, 6-9 p.m.
  • Blanc & Brick
    Lagniappe: Cake Walk to benefit Slidell High basketball team
  • Borchert Law at Notting Hill
    Artist/Vendors: John Paul Duet Photography, Michael Reed, Joshua Wichterich
    Lagniappe: Poster Artist Joshua Wichterich will be selling signed evebnt posters
  • The Brass Monkey
    Entertainment: Bayou Stampede, 6-9 p.m.
  • Bridge Street Ink
    Artists/Vendors: Kaiden McKleroy
    Lagniappe: Free White Linen t-shirt with any purchase of $40 or more
  • Camellia City Pizza
    Entertainment: Overboard, 6-9 p.m.
  • Camellia Well Being
    Artists/Vendors: Ava Palermo, Krew Sunglasses & The Bread Co.
  • Carey Street Park
    Lagniappe: Olde Towne Slidell Main Street hosts the Carey Street Park Grand Reopening.
  • Christina’s Therapeutic Touch
    Artists/Vendors: Vivian Hava
  • Comfort & Joy Florals
  • Crippin Residence – Olde Towne Residents’ Block Party
    Artists/Vendors: Lilac Magnolias, Youth Artist Section, Damsel N Distress, Wicked Bayou Brewery, Roux Studio, KL Fine Art, Michelle Nazar/Oyster Art, The Happy Photo Booth, Southern Sneaux Balls, Camellia City Church, Slidell Fire Department, Shanna’s Kitchen, Mama & Her Boys, Creations Desserts, Sweeties Creamy Pralines, Lori Anselmo
    Entertainment: SteveA Sings, 6-9 p.m.
  • The Earthly Elephant
  • Engel & Völkers
    Artists/Vendors: Connor Carollo, Hannah Marks
    Lagniappe: Outdoor games for kids, light refreshments, giveaways, photo ops
  • Expo Signs
    Artists/Vendors: Charlotte Collins, Linda Bickel, Larisa Clevenger, Matt Litchliter, Keith Delaune, Ernest Robert, Patrick Lera, Connie Born
  • The Golden GOAT
  • Green Oaks Apothecary
    Artists/Vendors: Aeva Santini, Amanda Douglas, Jessica Little, Tristen Rolling, Vanitas Valentine, Lauren Penton-Taylor, Tiffany Alexander-Bubbletina, Lauren Swift, Joseph Paul, Miranda Risher, Krystal Shemack, Marlee Bowman, Alva Johnson, Sachea Coombs, Theresa Boldo, Ada Martin, Robert Earhart, Jessica McDaniel, Artist Burnett, Dominick Williams, Breanna Sebring, Mia Simmons, John Berry, Rebecca Mulhearn, Tracy Conway, Connect Northshore, Alyssa Ussery, Skylar Brewer, Jen Blanchard, Jena Pendarvis-Smith, Omega Johnson, Whitney Ferguson, Lisa B. Benson, Janelle Glass, Jill Anderson, Jessica Moody, Kayla Greco, Rebecca Autin, Sara White, Luna Sphere David Guastella
    Entertainment: Northshore Community Orchestra, 6-9 p.m.
  • Heidelbergs
  • Hingle Boys TCG & Hobby
  • KY’s
  • Lowry-Dunham, Case & Vivien
    Artist/Vendors: Elsa Baker, Kevin Cagle, John Case, Charlotte Collins, Lizzie Shelby, CJ Rosel, Lyba Murphy
    Lagniappe: King and Queen of Mona Lisa & Moonpie Parade will be announced at 6 p.m.
  • Luna Tequila
    Artists/Vendors: Caitlin Rae Permanent Jewelry
  • Northlake Outfitters
    Artist/Vendors: Simone Chiasson, Jennifer Caspolich
    Lagniappe: Special White Linen Sales
  • Olde Towne Book Store:
    Artists/Vendors: Artist Madison Woolfolk, Author Cher Levis and Illustrator Paula Windham
    Lagniappe: Sale on books by local authors. Sale on products by local artists.
  • Old Town Soda Shop
  • Olde Towne Tavern
  • Pablo’s A South American Taste
    Lagniappe: Complimentary mixed drink with purchase of any meal
  • Pontchartrain Investment Management
    Artists/Vendors: Phil Galatas, Mary Rich, Jennifer Bolio
    Lagniappe: light food and drinks
  • Roots Plants + Coffee
    Artists/Vendors: Swamp Sprouts Art
    Lagniappe: Latte specials, affogatos and pastries. Sidewalk Plant Sale + Swap
  • Slidell Museum
    Artists/Vendors: Jessica Williams
    Lagniappe: Slidell History Stroll Scavenger Hunt Sign-up – complete the scavenger hunt turn in the form with the correct answers and you could win lunch with Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert
  • St. August Maison
    Artists/Vendors: Artist Dustin Young, Nola Cigars and B&B Tea Company
    Entertainment: DJ Noizebox, 6-9 p.m.
  • Tacos & Beer
  • Tres Co. Formal
  • Triangle Square Cocktail Lounge
    Artists/Vendors: Wild Lily Designs Jewelry, Hannah Brown
    Entertainment: Missi & Ray (from Witness), 6-9 p.m.
  • The Venue
    Artists/Vendors: Luxe Permanent Jewelry Bar, Wild Desire Boutique, Slinging Rock Lapidary
  • Whiskey & Ashe
    Lagniappe: Drink Specials – White Whisper Mojito, White Linen Sour

This year’s White Linen and Lagniappe event poster was created by local artist Joshua Wichterich. His artwork, “Stars, Sweet Tea, and a Slidell Soiree,” is featured on event posters and promotional materials. Wichterich will be signing posters at Borchert Law during the event.

White Linen and Lagniappe is presented by the City of Slidell, Olde Towne Merchants’ Association, Olde Towne Slidell Main Street, and the Slidell Antique Association. For more information about this event, call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. For the latest updates on City of Slidell news and events, visit MySlidell.com or follow “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

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Street Closures in Olde Towne on August 9 for White Linen and Lagniappe

In preparation for White Linen and Lagniappe on Saturday, August 9, 2025, the City of Slidell is announcing that several streets in Olde Towne Slidell will be closed to traffic for this event.

On August 9, several Olde Towne streets will begin closing  at 2 p.m. so that artists, businesses and bands can start setting up for the event. Signs will be posted throughout Olde Towne Slidell. Streets affected include areas of Carey Street, First Street, Second Street, Erlanger Avenue, Bouscaren Street, Cousin Street and Robert Street. Access to the U.S. Post Office in Olde Towne will not be obstructed.

Citizens should not park within the White Linen and Lagniappe street closure area on Saturday, August 9, from 2 to 10 p.m. For public safety, bollards will be placed throughout Olde Towne and any vehicles left inside the bollards will not be able to leave Olde Towne until the bollards are removed by 10 p.m.

Many Olde Towne business will be open for business on Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening for White Linen and Lagniappe. Citizens should be prepared to park and walk to get to their favorite business.

Mayor Bill Borchert invites citizens to come view the works of over 100 artists, vendors, and arts organizations that will be on display at over 40 locations throughout Olde Towne during White Linen and Lagniappe, plus live entertainment, hot food and cold drinks, antique and boutique shopping, and lots of lagniappe.

For more information about White Linen and Lagniappe, please visit the city’s website at MySlidell.com or call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.

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Section of 11th Street Closed August 1st-8th for Construction

The City of Slidell advises motorists that 11th Street, from Michigan Avenue to Florida Avenue, will be closed to through traffic for construction from Friday, August 1st through Friday, August 8th, between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.
The City apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the cooperation of the public during this time.

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