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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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Olde Towne Street Closures for Arts Evening on April 5

In preparation for Arts Evening on Saturday, April 5, 2025, the City of Slidell is announcing that several streets in Olde Towne Slidell will be closed to traffic during this event.

Streets will be closed on April 5 from 2:00 to 10:00 p.m. Streets affected include areas of First Street, Erlanger Avenue, Bouscaren Street, Cousin Street, Carey Street and Robert Street.

Mayor Bill Borchert invites citizens to come view the works of over 50 artists that will be on display at over 30 locations throughout Olde Towne during Arts Evening, plus live entertainment from 9 different bands, antique and boutique shopping, and casual and fine dining at participating locations.

Citizens should not park within the Arts Evening street closure area on Saturday, April 5 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 10 p.m. when the bollards are removed.

For more information about Arts Evening, 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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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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City of Slidell Celebrates Fair Housing Month

The City of Slidell proudly recognizes April as Fair Housing Month, commemorating the landmark Fair Housing Act of 1968. Mayor Bill Borchert has issued a proclamation reaffirming Slidell’s commitment to ensuring equal housing opportunities for all residents.

“Fair housing is essential to building a strong, inclusive community,” said Mayor Borchert. “Every Slidell resident deserves access to safe, affordable housing free from discrimination.”

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Good News in Slidell – March 31, 2025

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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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Arts Evening 2025

Join us on Saturday, April 5, in Olde Towne Slidell for the 30th anniversary of Arts Evening and enjoy a night of art, music, unique shopping and culinary delights!

Stay tuned to hear about participating artists, businesses and entertainment.

For more info: https://myslidell.com/…/cindy-strecker-selected-as…/

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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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Section of Front Street Closed March 27-28 for Construction

The City of Slidell announces that a section of Front Street (between Jacob Street and Highway 11) will be closed to through traffic for construction work. The closure will begin Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. and continue until Friday, March 28, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes during this period. The City of Slidell appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during these necessary infrastructure improvements.

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