, , ,

Seward Johnson Sculpture Now On Display in Olde Towne as Part of Parish-Wide “Art Imitates Life” Exhibition

The City of Slidell is proud to announce the arrival of its newest “residents” at Carey Street Park. As part of the Art Imitates Life public art exhibition, the city is now hosting “Time for Fun,” a life-sized painted bronze sculpture by world-renowned American artist Seward Johnson.

“Time for Fun” by Seward Johnson

The sculpture, which depicts a turn-of-the-century couple sharing a dance, will be on display in Olde Towne Slidell from April 2026 through April 2027. On loan from the Seward Johnson Atelier, the piece is celebrated for its remarkable realism, capturing a familiar, everyday moment that invites passersby to step into the scene and become part of the art.

“We are honored to host such a world-class piece of art right here in Olde Towne Slidell,” said Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal. “Please join me in welcoming our new ‘residents’ and extending a big thank you to the Covington Public Art Fund and Lisa Condrey for their vision in bringing this parish-wide public art project to life. I’d also like to thank the generous sponsors who made this project possible. This is a great example of how our Northshore communities can work together for the betterment of all our citizens and visitors.”

The Art Imitates Life exhibition is a collaborative effort between the Covington Public Art Fund and the communities of Abita Springs, Mandeville, Madisonville, and Slidell. The year-long event features 15 of Johnson’s iconic sculptures placed strategically throughout St. Tammany Parish to enhance the cultural landscape and encourage residents and visitors to discover the artwork while exploring the Northshore’s charming downtown districts and gathering spaces.

The Covington Public Art Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the community’s cultural landscape by raising funds to support the installation and display of public art throughout the parish.

The exhibition is made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, including Arena Collective, Aimee and Michael Bell, CJ Ladner Insurance Agency, David Fennelly, Red River Bank, Norma and Todd Richard, Carlos Sanchez, Southern Hotel, and Visit the Northshore.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the sculpture at Carey Street Park, located at 2302 Carey Street. When sharing photos of the sculpture on social media, please use the hashtags #ArtImitatesLife, #OldeTowneSlidell, #CovingtonPublicArtFund, and #VisitTheNorthshore.

For more information about the artist, please visit www.sewardjohnsonatelier.org.

/by
, , ,

Country Club Estates Neighborhood Park Temporarily Closed for Playground Upgrades

The City of Slidell is announcing that the neighborhood park in Country Club Estates is now temporarily closed to the public as crews begin work to remove aging infrastructure and install new playground equipment.

“This investment in Country Club Estates Park is part of the city’s ongoing commitment to upgrading our parks and recreation facilities for our citizens,” said Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal. “Over the next several years, we will be upgrading all of our neighborhood parks. We want families to have access to safe places to play. These improvements are not just about new equipment, they are about quality of life and making sure today’s kids have even better parks than the ones we grew up with.”

Recent recreational infrastructure upgrades include new tennis courts at the Henry J. Calamari Tennis Complex on Sgt. Alfred Drive, the Slidell Pickleball Courts and Slidell Skatepark at John Slidell Park, and the Rue Rochelle neighborhood park.

The closure is expected to last for several months during construction and installation. In the meantime, citizens are encouraged to visit other nearby parks and recreational facilities in Slidell.

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

/by
, , ,

Stirring Up the Beat – Southern Roux Brings the Flavor to Bayou Jam

The City of Slidell’s popular Bayou Jam Concert Series continues on Sunday, Sept. 21 with a performance by Southern Roux Band.

“The City of Slidell has been hosting Bayou Jam concerts for over 20 years, and they are a great way for our citizens and visitors to come together and celebrate as a community,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “I invite you to join me in Heritage Park on Sundays this fall and enjoy these free concerts.”

Save the dates for these upcoming Bayou Jam concerts:
• Sept. 28 – OZONE Music Foundation showcase
• Oct. 5 – Audio Beach
• Oct. 26 – Monster Crawfish
• Nov. 9 – Veterans Day Concert with the Northshore Community Orchestra
• Dec. 7 – Vince Vance and the Valiants

All concerts will be held on Sundays from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced by 1 p.m. 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 Facebook and Instagram.

/by
, , ,

Fat City Swing Band Jazzes Up Bayou Jam

The City of Slidell’s popular Bayou Jam Concert Series continues on Sunday, Sept. 14 with a performance by Fat City Swing.

“The City of Slidell has been hosting Bayou Jam concerts for over 20 years, and they are a great way for our citizens and visitors to come together and celebrate as a community,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert. “I invite you to join me in Heritage Park on Sundays this fall and enjoy these free concerts.”

Fat City Swing is comprised of some of the best jazz musicians in the New Orleans area. Jon and Wesley Mannino founded the band to keep their family’s musical legacy alive. This 16 piece big band plays all your favorite jazz and swing tunes. For more information about the band, visit their website at FatCitySwingBand.com and view some of their past musical performances on YouTube.

Save the dates for these upcoming Bayou Jam concerts:
• Sept. 14 – Fat City Swing
• Sept. 21 – Southern Roux Band
• Sept. 28 – OZONE Music Foundation showcase
• Oct. 5 – Audio Beach
• Oct. 26 – Monster Crawfish
• Nov. 9 – Veterans Day Concert with the Northshore Community Orchestra
• Dec. 7 – Vince Vance and the Valiants

All concerts will be held on Sundays from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced by 1 p.m. 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 Facebook and Instagram.

/by
, , , ,

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.

/by
, ,

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.

/by
,

Lionel J. Washington Community Pool Opens Memorial Day

Beat the heat this summer at the Lionel J. Washington Community Pool, which opens on Monday, May 26, 2025. Admission is just $1 per person. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the pool, located at Possum Hollow Park, Tuesday through Saturday from 12 to 6 p.m. Please note that once school restarts later in the year, the pool will only be open on Saturdays until Labor Day.

/by
, , , ,

Enjoy an ‘Enchanted Evening’ of Music at Heritage Park on Sunday, March 18

It’s the perfect recipe for an enchanting evening. Enjoy a picnic with family and friends, sprinkle in some great music by the Northshore Community Orchestra, add a beautiful sunset over scenic Bayou Bonfouca, and voilà! You have Some Enchanted Evening!

Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert, the Slidell City Council, and the Slidell Commission on the Arts are pleased to present the 23rd annual Some Enchanted Evening concert on Sunday, May 18 in Heritage Park. The concert begins at 5 p.m. Admission is free.

Some Enchanted Evening is the perfect family event for both the young and young at heart. A celebration of family, friends and fellowship, this event encourages the community to come together to enjoy timeless music from the Northshore Community Orchestra.

The Northshore Community Orchestra is the only symphony orchestra in St. Tammany Parish where both youths and adults can make learning and performing music a lifelong endeavor. The orchestra was established in 1987, and has operated continuously ever since. The orchestra performs several full orchestra concerts as well as some smaller group ensembles throughout the year, with genres including classical, jazz, pop, folk, ethnic, traditional, movie themes, and Broadway hits. Each year, the orchestra typically performs for Slidell’s Patriot Day ceremony and Christmas and spring concerts.

The members of the orchestra come from Slidell, St. Tammany Parish and from surrounding parishes in the Greater New Orleans area and south Mississippi. The members represent a diverse assortment of backgrounds such as students, medical professionals, engineers, skilled tradesmen, scientists, homemakers, members of the military, educators, and retirees. Though our student members typically begin with us around late middle school or junior high age, currently our youngest member is just 9 years old, and our oldest is in his 80s. Some of the orchestra’s musicians are family members who play together – spouses, parents, children, and siblings.

The orchestra’s conductor since 2006 has been Mrs. Susan Messina, a Slidell native who has a master’s degree in music from Southeastern Louisiana University, and over 30 years experience as a music educator. She has served as a band director at several area schools, and currently teaches private lessons on a wide variety of instruments at Christy Music in Slidell.

Guests are encouraged to bring their ice chests, picnic baskets, blankets, and chairs to enjoy a picnic in the park. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase.

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.

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

/by
, , , ,

Big Al Brings the Blues to Bayou Jam on May 4

The City of Slidell’s Bayou Jam Spring Concert Series continues on Sunday, May 4 with a performance by Big Al and the Heavyweights, 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.”

Big Al and the Heavyweights deliver a powerful blend of New Orleans funk, blues, and zydeco that’s been moving audiences since 1996. Originally formed as the Unknown Blues Band with Warren Haynes (Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule) and Rick Gergen, the band has evolved under founder “Big Al” Lauro’s leadership to feature an outstanding lineup including Marcel Anton (guitar/vocals), Dennis “the Menace” Cedeno, and “Dangerous” Dale Robinson (harmonica/vocals). Their impressive career includes multiple New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival appearances, performances alongside legends like Dr. John and B.B. King, six acclaimed albums, and a 2023 induction into the Alabama Blues Music Hall of Fame.

The band’s family-friendly live performances are renowned for their high energy and infectious fun, delivering authentic Louisiana music with a contemporary edge. Their shows blend original compositions with creative interpretations of New Orleans classics, creating an unforgettable musical experience that continues to captivate audiences across the country.

Upcoming concerts incude:

  • 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.

/by
, , ,

Lauren Murphy and the Psychedelics perform at Bayou Jam April 27

The City of Slidell’s Bayou Jam Spring Concert Series continues on Sunday, April 27 with a performance by Lauren Murphy and the Psychedelics, 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.”

Lauren Murphy is a resilient and accomplished songwriter and vocalist deeply rooted in Louisiana’s musical landscape, making her home in a historic 125-year-old house in the marshes of Madisonville, one of Louisiana’s oldest settlements. Over the past two decades, she has built an impressive career collaborating with some of the nation’s premier musicians from California to New Orleans. Murphy’s musical journey has been shaped by profound personal experiences and loss. In 2022, she returned to South Louisiana, finding renewal in the region’s rich culture and musical heritage. Currently, Murphy is actively touring with her band, The Psychedelics all around the country. For more information, please visit LaurenMurphyMusic.com.

Upcoming Bayou Jam concerts incude:

  • 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.

/by