💡ISSUE #081

Your Weekend Welcome

February 21, 2025

👋Good Morning, Upper Merion! 

Welcome to the weekend! We made it!

Season 9 Yes GIF by Friends

If you find yourself getting into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit, make sure to check out what the Conshohocken Parade Committee has in store over the next couple of weeks, especially their Irish Coffee event. You can read more about this in the community spotlight section.

Here’s what else we’re spotlighting:

💡SoftWash Platoon

💡Irish Coffee Contest: Final Day to Enter – Deadline Today, February 21

💡Elks Lodge & Borough of Bridgeport Blood Drive on March 5, 2025

💡Shake Shack Fundraiser To Support Upper Merion Underground Players

💡Veterans Expo | Calling All Veterans

💡You're Invited: Celebrate Irish Heritage at the Conshohocken St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 15, 2025

💡UMASD’s One District, One Cause Event Coming Up February 28th

Ciao for now!

Corey | Chief Spotlighter 💡

In This Issue of the Upper Merion Area Spotlight:

💼 Business Spotlight

👥 Community Spotlight

📅 Lifestyle and Local Happenings

🏘️ Real Estate and Housing Insights

📝 Community Services and Resources

☀️ Upper Merion Weather

Sponsored By:

💡BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT💡

SoftWash Platoon

SoftWash Platoon is revolutionizing exterior cleaning with its innovative soft washing process. In this Q&A, the owner reveals how their low-pressure technique sanitizes and protects delicate surfaces without the damage caused by traditional pressure washing. Discover their commitment to environmentally friendly practices, industry-leading certifications, and a five-year warranty on asphalt roof cleaning. Learn how SoftWash Platoon delivers long-lasting results and exceptional value, making it the smart choice for every homeowner seeking effective, sustainable cleaning solutions.

What is soft washing and how does it differ from traditional pressure washing?SoftWashing cleans and sanitizes at the same time using low water pressure.
How does SoftWash Platoon ensure that delicate surfaces are cleaned effectively without causing damage? A sanitizing solution is applied at 45 psi and rinsed at 90 psi. No damage from pressure washing which is normally 3,000 psi
What types of surfaces or materials can be safely cleaned using soft washing techniques? Any exterior surface can be cleaned with SoftWashing.
How does the company incorporate environmentally friendly practices into their cleaning process? All the soaps and solutions are completely biodegradable in 20 days.
What are the common issues, such as mold, mildew, and algae, that soft washing can help prevent or remove? Black algae growth on asphalt shingles will decompose the roof and promote moss and lichen growth.

BEFORE SOFTWASH PLATOON

AFTER SOFTWASH PLATOON


What is the recommended maintenance schedule for soft washing to keep a property looking its best? The real value in SoftWashing is that the cleaning will last four to six times longer because of the sanitizing and decontaminating cleaning process.
What kind of training, certifications, or experience does the SoftWash Platoon team bring to their work? SoftWash Platoon Roof and Exterior Cleaning training consists of a 50 hour certification course for lead technicians. We are an Authorized SoftWash Systems Company.
Does SoftWash Platoon offer any warranties or satisfaction guarantees on their services? SoftWash Platoon includes a 5 year spot-free warranty on all asphalt roof cleaning.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR UPPER MERION AREA SPOTLIGHT SUBSCRIBERS

 SoftWash Platoon roof and Exterior Cleaning will offer a 15% discount to Upper Merion Area Spotlight subscribers if they mention this article when booking a cleaning.

E-mail us at [email protected] for details about spotlighting your business.

Sponsored By:

Irish Coffee Contest: Final Day to Enter – Deadline Today, February 21

Don't miss your chance to participate in the Irish Coffee Contest hosted by the Montgomery County St. Patrick’s Parade Committee. Taking place on March 13 at 6:00 PM at the Swedeland Fire Company in King of Prussia, PA, this event invites local pubs, restaurants, and taverns to showcase their creativity with unique Irish Coffee recipes and themed table displays. With an entry fee of $100, which includes an ad in the sponsor book, this is a fantastic opportunity to engage with the community. Today is your final chance to enter, so act now and secure one of the limited spots!

For more information, or to enter the contest, CLICK HERE!

Elks Lodge & Borough of Bridgeport Blood Drive on March 5, 2025

Flyer courtesy of the Bridgeport Borough FB page

Give hope this spring by donating blood at the Elks Lodge No. 714 and Borough of Bridgeport Blood Drive. Join us on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, from 2:00pm to 7:00pm at Borough of Bridgeport, 63 West 4th Street. Your donation can help save lives and support the American Red Cross in meeting critical needs in our community. Schedule your appointment today at RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Help ensure a healthy spring for everyone, donate blood!

Shake Shack Fundraiser To Support Upper Merion Underground Players

Flyer courtesty of UM Underground Players FB page

Love theater, burgers, and shakes? Then don’t miss this delicious way to give back! Dine at Shake Shack on Wednesday, February 26, and a portion of your purchase will support the Upper Merion Underground Players. Whether you grab a burger, fries, or a classic shake, you’ll be helping young performers shine on stage.

📍 Where: Shake Shack
📅 When: Wednesday, February 26

Enjoy great food while making a difference—spread the word and bring your friends.

Veterans Expo: Calling All Veterans

Join the Veterans Expo on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9 AM - 1 PM at LULU Country Club (1600 Limekiln Pike, Glenside, PA). This event is open to all veterans, young and old, providing resources, connections, and support for those who have served.

Come meet fellow veterans, learn about available services, and engage with organizations dedicated to supporting you.

📌 Mark your calendar and spread the word, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

You're Invited: Celebrate Irish Heritage at the Conshohocken St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 15, 2025

Get ready to immerse yourself in one of the region’s most exciting celebrations of Irish heritage at the Montgomery County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Conshohocken, PA. On Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM, you will join a procession featuring traditional Irish music, lively marching bands, creative floats, and spirited performances. With Grand Marshal Jackie Rittenhouse leading, you’ll enjoy delicious Irish fare and vibrant community spirit. Mark your calendar and join the fun today!

UMASD’s ONE DISTRICT, ONE CAUSE EVENT COMING UP FEBRUARY 28TH

KEY EVENT DETAILS

  • Friday, February 28th

  • Doors Open at 4:30pm, Games will begin around 5:15pm, Schedule with game times will be released the week of the event.  The entire event should conclude by 8pm

  • 13 Teams of UM Faculty and Staff … PLUS a bonus team this year representing our PTC organizations!

  • Admission is $5 per person plus amazing raffles and concessions available at additional cost.

  • Cash and Venmo will be accepted

  • This is NOT a drop-off event.  Parents must remain with, and directly supervise, their kids.

  • All proceeds benefit the Upper Merion Family Assistance Fund which supports district students and families through our UM social workers.  Our goal is to raise $10,000 this year!

HOW CAN UM FAMILIES HELP RIGHT NOW?

Community Cupboard Donation Drive - Each UM School is competing to see which school can gather the largest donation to the UM Community Cupboard during the month of February.  The following items have been assigned to each school and the school with the largest quantity of donated items will win a trophy at this year’s ODOC event! Please gather these items and send them to school this month with your students!

  • UM High School - Toilet Paper

  • UM Middle School - Bar Soap and Hand Soap

  • Bridgeport - Soups and Stews

  • Caley - Paper Towels

  • Candlebrook - Baby Wipes

  • Gulph - Toothpaste

  • Roberts - Shampoo and Conditioner 

Long-Term Sinkhole Remediation on U.S. 202

PennDOT’s ongoing sinkhole remediation project on U.S. 202 (Dekalb Pike) in Upper Merion Township aims to provide a permanent fix to recurring road stability issues.

🔹 Starting Monday, February 24, northbound U.S. 202 will close 24/7 between Henderson Rd. and Saulin Blvd./Prince Frederick Blvd. through early June.
🔹 Once completed, southbound lanes will undergo similar closures.
🔹 These improvements will ensure a safer, more reliable corridor for commuters, businesses, and residents.

📌 More info: Project Webpage

Your Guide to Summer Camp is Here

Planning for summer? We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to local summer camps, making it easy to find the best options for your kids! Whether you're looking for sports, arts, STEM, outdoor adventures, or general fun, this resource has you covered.

Check out the guide and start planning for an unforgettable summer! Click HERE to get started.

You can always find our guide above in the table of contents.

Have a community story or event to share? Email us at [email protected] to get featured in our Community Spotlight!

Sponsored By:

THIS WEEKEND’S TOP PICK

Step into a Retro 60s/70s-inspired night of theatrical rock at The Water Tower in Oaks, featuring the bold and captivating sounds of Jon Smith’s Voyages! Fans have described the band as if David Bowie and Freddie Mercury had a love child, blending Queen-like showmanship, Bowie-esque storytelling, and Broadway-level drama into a one-of-a-kind performance.

Led by Jon Paul Smith, this genre-defying act combines piano-driven compositions, an incredible vocal range, and multi-movement songs that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Whether performing solo or with a full band, Smith’s charismatic energy and theatrical stage presence make for an unforgettable live experience.

📌 Don’t miss your chance to witness Jon Smith’s Voyages in action and get ready for a night of music, drama, and rock ‘n’ roll magic!

MORE SPECIAL EVENTS

Friday 2/21

Saturday 2/22

Sunday 2/23

Monday 2/24

  • Beginner Chess Club (5:00 PM) – Chess club for kids learning the basics of the game.

  • Game Show Night (6:00 PM) – Watch and play game show favorites with prizes and drinks.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Winter Sneak Peak
    📍 Chanticleer Garden | 📅 March 1, 5, 8 | 🕒 11 - 4 PM

  • Blood Drive
    📍 Bridgeport Borough Hall | 📅 March 5th | 🕒 2-7 PM

  • Irish Coffee Contest
    📍 Swedeland Fire Company | 📅 March 13th | 🕒 6 PM

  • Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
    📍 Conshohocken | 📅 March 15th | 🕒 2 PM

  • Designer Bag Bingo | KOPSC
    📍 Spring Mill Ballroom, Conshy | 📅 March 22nd | 🔗 Register HERE

  • 19th Annual Revolutionary Run
    📍 Valley Forge National Historic Park | 📅 April 13th | 🕛 8:30 AM

CLICK BELOW to see more upcoming events in the area!

👇👇👇👇👇

RECURRING ACTIVITIES AND CLASSES

  • Upper Merion Camera Club
    📍Upper Merion Baptist Church (Room 25) | 📅 Wednesdays | 🕒 7 PM

  • ONLINE cooking class: Italian Winter Favorites
    📍 Sur La Table | 📅 View Available Classes

  • ADULT Climbing and Fitness
    📍 Reach Climbing and Fitness | 📅 View Calendar

  • Classroom Instruction
    📍 Kings Shooters Supply | 📅 View Classes

  • Range Instruction
    📍 Kings Shooters Supply | 📅 View Classes

  • In Store Cooking Classes
    📍 Sur La Table | 📅 View Available Classes

  • Berwyn Farmer’s Market
    📍2nd and 4th Sundays through April 2025 | 🕒 10-1 PM | Click HERE for details.

  • Art Exhibitions

    📍Jenkins Arboretum | 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

    📍 Upper Merion Community Center | Business hours

  • KID Climbing and Fitness
    📍 Reach Climbing and Fitness | 📅 View Calendar

CLICK BELOW to see more available activities in the area!

👇👇👇👇👇

LOOKING FOR A BIGGER ADVENTURE?

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Don't miss this chance to turn your vacation dreams into reality. Offer valid February 1–28, 2025.

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✉️ [email protected]

Hurry, these deals won’t last long!

CLICK BELOW to add your Event, Activity, Deal, or Restaurant to THE MAIN LINE GUIDE

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📈 Interest Rate Trends & Predictions – February 20, 2025

Brought to you by our sponsor, Carolyn Kaufmann, Realtor with Keller Williams Main Line

🔹 Current Trends:

✅ Declining Rates: The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has dropped for the fourth consecutive week, now at 6.87% (down from 6.89% last week). (Source: FreddieMac.com)

📉 Inflation Impact: Rising inflation may cause the Bank of England to hold interest rates steady, leading lenders to pull their lowest-priced deals. (Source: TheSun.co.uk)

📊 Predictions for 2025:

📌 Stable Rates: Analysts expect the 30-year fixed mortgage to remain in the mid-6% range through 2025 and 2026. (Source: Money.USNews.com)

📉 Potential Decline: Some forecasts predict rates could fall to between 5.5% and 6.0% by late 2025, depending on inflation and Federal Reserve policies. (Source: TheMortgageReports.com)

🔍 Key Considerations:

⚠️ Market Volatility: Mortgage rates are influenced by inflation, Federal Reserve policies, and economic conditions. While some expect a decline, others predict rates may stay elevated. (Source: HousingWire.com)

📍 Regional Variations: Rates differ by location and lender—consult with local mortgage professionals to explore options in your area.

🏡 What This Means for Buyers & Homeowners:

📌 If you're buying, consider locking in a rate before potential fluctuations.
📌 If you're refinancing, watch for dips and consult a lender to maximize savings.

📲 Need personalized mortgage advice? CLICK HERE to connect with our trusted realtor, Carolyn!

Are You:

  • 🤔 Curious about real-time market activity in your neighborhood?

  • 💰 Looking to find out your home’s value in minutes?

  • 📋 Interested in viewing all active and coming soon listings?

  • 🏠 Looking to help someone buy or sell a home in Upper Merion?

SPONSORED BY: Carolyn Kaufmann, Realtor

If you answered yes to any of the above, CLICK HERE to connect with Carolyn, your trusted local expert for all things Real Estate in Upper Merion!

Keller Williams Main Line

UPPER MERION TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

Saturday, February 22, 2025

Black History - Vendor Market
📍 Atrium | 🕒 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📚 Categories: Black History Celebration, Community Market

Saturday Storytime - Monkeys
📍 Little Theatre | 🕒 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
📚 Categories: Storytimes
👥 Audience: PreK

Black History - Historical Interpretation of Stagecoach Mary
📍 Freedom Hall | 🕒 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📚 Categories: Black History Celebration, Live Performance
👥 Audience: Families

Monday, February 24, 2025

Beginner Chess Club
📍 Henderson Room | 🕒 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📚 Categories: Chess & Strategy Games
👥 Audience: Elementary School Students (Ages 6–10)

Knit Nite
📍 Valley Forge Room | 🕒 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📚 Categories: Arts & Crafts
👥 Audience: Adults, Teens

Occupation Exploration
📍 Little Theatre | 🕒 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📚 Categories: Career Exploration
👥 Audience: Middle School Students (Grades 5–8)

For event details and a full look at the event calendar, click here.

PARKS AND RECREATION

MUNICIPAL RESOURCES

UPPER MERION TOWNSHIP

Click HERE for monthly calendar of events/meetings

Click HERE for community resources

BRIDGEPORT BOROUGH

Click HERE for monthy calendar of events/meetings

Click HERE for community resources

WEST CONSHOHOCKEN BOROUGH

Click HERE for monthly calendar of events/meetings

Click HERE for community resources 

🌤️ Upper Merion Weather Outlook: Your Week at a Glance

  • Friday: ☀️ Sunny | High: 33°F | Low: 19°F

  • Saturday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 39°F | Low: 27°F

  • Sunday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 43°F | Low: 28°F

  • Monday: ☁️ Mostly Cloudy | High: 46°F | Low: 35°F

  • Tuesday: 🌦️ Rain Showers | High: 51°F | Low: 35°F

  • Wednesday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 48°F | Low: 36°F

HOW DID WE DO?

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