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Slidell’s Henry J. Calamari Memorial Tennis Center Wins National USTA Award

The City of Slidell is proud to announce that the Henry J. Calamari Memorial Tennis Center has been recognized with the 2025 Outstanding Tennis Facility Award by the United States Tennis Association (USTA). As the national governing body for the sport and the recognized leader in promoting and developing tennis growth at every level throughout the United States, the USTA’s award highlights excellence in facility design, amenities, and community impact.

The Calamari Memorial Tennis Center underwent a $2.4 million renovation in 2023, and the state-of-the-art tennis facility now includes eight tennis courts, a small pavilion, and new walkways that provide easy access to restroom facilities and Veterans Memorial Park. The courts were designed by Kyle Associates, LLC, and constructed by Cobalt Construction, Inc.

“The tennis facility is a beautiful addition to our community, and they are used daily by members of the Slidell Tennis Association, tennis pros and residents who are just starting to play,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “It’s great to see the new courts receive recognition for what we already know – that Slidell has an outstanding tennis facility that our citizens truly love!”

The Henry J. Calamari Memorial Tennis Center is located at 2600 Second Street in Olde Towne Slidell. The courts are open to the public from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, and admission is free. For more information about the facility, please call Slidell Parks & Recreation at (985) 646-4371.

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Slidell Honored with Government Finance Award for 35th Consecutive Year

The City of Slidell and Mayor Bill Borchert are proud to announce that the Slidell Finance Department, led by Blair Ellinwood, has once again received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. This honor was awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for Slidell’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.

This marks the 35th consecutive year that the City of Slidell has earned this prestigious award, which is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. The Certificate of Achievement reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to financial transparency, accountability, and sound fiscal management.

“We are honored to once again be recognized by the GFOA for the city’s record of financial excellence,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “This award highlights the outstanding work of Finance Director Blair Ellinwood and our Finance Department and their commitment and dedication to serving the citizens of Slidell.”

The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting is presented to governments that produce comprehensive annual financial reports that meet the highest national standards.

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

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July 21, 2025 – Good News in Slidell

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Celebrate Summer in Style at Slidell’s 8th Annual White Linen and Lagniappe

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
  • Antique Umbrella Alley
    Lagniappe: Kid’s Market
  • Arcade on Carey
  • 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
  • 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.
  • Christina’s Therapeutic Touch
    Artists/Vendors: Vivian Hava
  • Comfort & Joy Florals
  • Crippin Residence – Olde Towne Residents’ Block Party
    Artists/Vendors: Wild Dancer Ranch, Joy Rancatore, Lori Anselmo Art
    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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City of Slidell Opens Temporary Sandbag Location Ahead of Tropical Disturbance

In preparation for the upcoming tropical disturbance, the City of Slidell will open a temporary sandbag distribution site today near Heritage Park. The site is located at the parking lot on the corner of Bayou Lane and Pennsylvania Avenue.

The sandbag location will be open today from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this resource to help protect their property from potential flooding and severe weather.

For additional information and continued updates, please visit the City of Slidell’s official website at MySlidell.com or follow the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

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Blood Drive to Benefit 18 year old Topher Coggin

Please join us at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium on Monday, July 14th for a blood and platelet drive to benefit 18 year Topher Coggin of Slidell!

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Calling All Artists! White Linen and Lagniappe Forms Are Now Available

Calling all artists!

The City of Slidell, Louisiana is looking for artists to participate in the 8th annual White Linen and Lagniappe Night on Saturday, August 9, 2025. It is free for artists to participate.

Artists who wish to participate can download the White Linen and Lagniappe Artist Registration Form from the city’s website, www.myslidell.com. Artists will also have to opportunity to submit digital images for consideration of having their work featured in Arts Evening publicity. Submissions should be sent to culturalaffairs@cityofslidell.org.

Deadline for forms and art submissions is Thursday, July 28, 2025.

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Slidell Welcomes Dr. John Fitzmorris as the Acting Curator for the Slidell Museum

Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert is pleased to announce that Dr. John Fitzmorris will serve as the acting curator at the Slidell Museum this summer. Dr. Fitzmorris will oversee operations and continue the museum’s mission of collecting, researching, preserving, and sharing Slidell’s history.

“I am honored to serve as the acting curator of the Slidell Museum this summer,” said Dr. Fitzmorris. “Greg Scott, the past curator, did an outstanding job with the museum, and I look forward to working with Greg to continue making the Slidell Museum a great place for both residents and visitors to explore.”

A native of New Orleans, Dr. Fitzmorris brings a wealth of historical expertise to the Slidell Museum. He is a full-time Instructor of History at the University of New Orleans. He holds a B.A. from Louisiana State University (L.S.U.), an M.A. in Religious Studies from Loyola University New Orleans, an M.A. in History from the University of New Orleans, and a Ph.D. in History from the University of Southern Mississippi. His dissertation, “Bearing the Double Burden: Chaplains and the Problem of Combat in Vietnam,” is slated for future publication.

Dr. Fitzmorris is a recipient of the George F. Windell Prize for Outstanding Thesis. He currently teaches a diverse range of subjects, including U.S. History, Louisiana History, Irish History, the History of the Vietnam War, and The Civil War and Reconstruction. He also serves as moderator for the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society at UNO and conducts oral interviews with war veterans for the Library of Congress Veterans Oral History Program.

Summer hours are Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum will have limited hours during the weeks of July 13 and July 20, open only on Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.

The Slidell Museum is located at 2020 First Street in Olde Towne Slidell. Groups are welcome but are encouraged to schedule a tour in advance. For more information about the Slidell Museum, please call (985) 646-4380 or contact via email at museum@cityofslidell.org. While admission is free, the Slidell Museum gratefully accepts donations and community support to continue providing these vital cultural services.

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