👋Good Morning, Upper Merion! 

Happy Friday! We made it to the weekend! Even though it’s technically going to be an hour shorter (turn those clocks FORWARD)…there is still plenty of reason to celebrate.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate too. But before sharing them all, I need to make sure and thank our sponsors: The Main Line Guide - Foam Boss - Carolyn Kaufmann with Keller Williams Main Line - Main Line Jobs .com - and of course our amazing travel planners, the Magic Travel Pros!

Today’s sponsor spotlight is on The Main Line Guide. The Main Line Guide is the ultimate companion for locals eager to stay informed about town events, classes, and community activities. This intuitive web app highlights everything happening around town while also showcasing local businesses, making it essential for residents and entrepreneurs alike. Whether you're planning your weekend or seeking new experiences, you'll always be in the know. Visit themainlineguide.com and connect with your community like never before! New events, activities, restaurants, and businesses are added every day!

OK…..let’s get to today’s happenings!

Here’s what else we’re spotlighting:

💡Local Artist | Frank Kolbmann - AKA Francis 2Good

💡Slip into Comfort and Charity at Bob Kelly's Pajama Bash

💡Pre-Parade Fun: Join the Irish Coffee Challenge

💡Join the Fun: Bridgeport Founders' Day and Chili Cook-Off

💡Spring into Action: Donate Blood and Get Free A1C Testing

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

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

🔗 Upper Merion Area Job Board

📃 Summer Camp Guide

💡BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT💡

Frank Kolbmann aka Francis 2Good

Meet Frank Kolbmann, a passionate part-time artist whose journey began with comic books and cartoons, evolving into a love for drawing and painting. Despite balancing a full-time job, Frank finds solace and expression in his art, often inspired by music and personal experiences. Join us as we delve into his creative world, exploring his inspirations, challenges, and aspirations in this candid Q&A session.

How did you first get into drawing and mural work—what sparked that creative fire for you?

What originally sparked my interest in art were comic books and Saturday morning cartoons, then later shows like The Simpsons. I originally wanted to be an animator. My major at the University of the Arts was animation, but that was short-lived. At that age, I wasn’t the most dedicated student.

What’s your favorite piece you’ve ever created, and what’s the story behind it?

There are a few that come to mind, but if I had to choose one, my current favorite is a piece I painted last year called “The Bocce Boys.” It’s a painting of the old Italian men I used to watch as a kid play Bocce Ball behind the Palombaro Club in Ardmore.

You mentioned it’s a hobby—how do you balance your art with the rest of your life?

I’ve been working full-time since I was a teenager. I used to be a night owl and worked on most of my art in the wee hours. In a local article written about me years ago, I was referred to as “The Midnight Artist.”

What’s the most unexpected place or surface you’ve ever done a drawing or mural on?

I wouldn’t describe these places as unexpected, but some of the coolest places I’ve painted live with bands and theater actors were World Cafe Live, Ortlieb’s, and most recently, the Ruba Club.

When you’re sketching or painting, what’s going through your mind—do you have a process or just let it flow?

It depends on what the subject matter is. Sometimes I like to draw from old-timey photographs that I enjoy bringing back to life. Other times I could be doing a portrait, a landscape, or even painting skateboard decks. Sometimes I illustrate a song. Whatever piece I’m working on, I like to listen to a piece of music that has some kind of connection to what I’m drawing or painting. That allows me to get into a groove and go with the flow. I basically zone out and get lost in a piece for hours.

You’ve sold a few pieces—how does it feel when someone buys your work?

It feels great knowing someone appreciates my work enough to spend the money to own it. It’s fulfilling to know that, but at the same time, it’s bittersweet to let an original piece go. I don’t have children, but my paintings are a piece of me that sometimes I’m not so eager to let go.

You said you’d love to make real money as an artist—what does ‘success’ look like for you in that dream?

My idea of being a successful artist is to be able to make a living doing what I love. I’ve worked tirelessly for 30 years for others. I’m in my mid-40s, and I’d love to see that change. Also, just to be recognized as a serious artist by others in the art world would be cool.

Who or what inspires you most when you’re creating—any artists, places, or experiences?

What inspires me the most is to prove any doubters or naysayers of mine wrong. Besides that, the two artists who have inspired me the most are Vincent Van Gogh and Andy Warhol. Nowadays, more so comic book cover artists like Alex Ross and Mark Spears. All throughout my life, music has had a big impact. Whether it was the great bands or hip-hop artists of the late 20th century or the local acts I enjoyed seeing out, I always drew inspiration from them.

What’s one challenge you’ve faced as an artist that you didn’t expect when you started?

I was never good at marketing myself, so my audience has never really grown to where I’d like it. I’m confident I have the skills and the body of work to make a decent living in this field, I just always felt stuck and not knowing how to really get my name and work out to the masses.

If someone reading this wants to check out your work or even buy something, where can they find you—and what’s one piece you’d love them to see?

Unfortunately, I don’t have a working website or Etsy page to display and sell my work. Up until this point, it’s been social media and word of mouth. One painting I’d love them to see is one I call “Carpe Diem,” which is a reflection of society today, where the majority of human beings choose to document an event on their cellphones, rather than actually consciously being in the moment. I chose to paint the background figures using a monochromatic style in different shades of blue to symbolize the emptiness and lifelessness of what being on your phone all day can cause. Let me be the first to say that I AM STONE COLD GUILTY OF THIS. We all are. This is just a friendly reminder for everyone that there is a fascinating world out there just waiting for us to experience firsthand using our senses of sight, touch, taste, and smell. Try to take a break from the internet, along with all your electronic gadgets, and go do just that.

Discover the vibrant world of Frank Kolbmann, where art meets passion. Whether he’s drawing or painting, Frank's work is a testament to his creativity and dedication. Follow his journey and explore his latest creations on social media. Connect with him:

• Facebook at Artwork by Francis 2Good

• Instagram @francis_2good

• TikTok @francis.2good

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

Slip into Comfort and Charity at Bob Kelly's Pajama Bash

Join Bob Kelly's After Work Pajama Party on Friday, March 21st, from 5pm to 8pm at Peppers by Amedeo's in King of Prussia. Enjoy great food, raffles, and music by DJ Mark Shepperd. Wear a pair and bring a pair of pajamas to support children at St. Christopher’s Hospital. Don't miss this fun-filled evening for a great cause!

Pre-Parade Fun: Join the Irish Coffee Challenge

St. Patrick’s Parade of Montgomery County, Inc.
☕ Join us for a spirited competition celebrating Irish culture! ☘️
📅 Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025
📍 Location: Swedeland Fire Company, 609 A Street, King of Prussia, PA
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM
🎶 Live Irish Music provided by Ray McGroary starting at 6 PM!

We invite pubs, restaurants, and taverns to showcase their best Irish Coffee recipe! In addition to the taste test, tables will be judged on their creativity and adherence to the theme, "My Nation. My Heritage." Participants decorate their station with Irish pride!

🏆 Compete for the Grand Marshals’ Choice Trophy!
A custom trophy, inspired by the NHL Stanley Cup, will be awarded to the best Irish Coffee entry and will be passed down each year! 🏆☕

Join the Fun: Bridgeport Founders' Day and Chili Cook-Off

Join Bridgeport Borough for their third annual Founders' Day on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 12:00-4:00 PM at Bridgeport Borough Hall. Enjoy a day filled with activities for all ages, including a scavenger hunt, museum exhibits, and a vendor fair. Don’t miss the Chili Cook-Off Competition, where local chefs vie for the title of Bridgeport’s best chili. Support local businesses and grab some Bridgeport-themed swag. Rain date is March 30. You can follow them on Facebook for more updates!

Spring into Action: Donate Blood and Get Free A1C Testing

Join the Red Cross on Monday, March 10, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Upper Merion Township Building for the "Spring into Action" blood drive. Donate blood and receive free A1C testing to monitor your health. Plus, all donors in March receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Schedule your appointment at redcrossblood.org using sponsor code: upper merion, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Save lives and take charge of your health today!

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

Get ready for one of the most exciting celebrations of Irish heritage in the region! The Montgomery County St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns to Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM, promising a vibrant display of Irish pride, music, and community spirit.

What to Expect:
🍀 A festive procession starting at 11th Avenue and Fayette Street, marching down to Elm Street, and concluding in front of the Washington Fire Company
🎶 Traditional Irish music, lively marching bands, and energetic Irish dancers
🎉 Creative floats and spirited performances that captivate thousands of spectators

This year’s theme: “My Nation. My Heritage.”
Grand Marshal: Jackie Rittenhouse from Lower Providence Fire Company

More Than Just a Parade!
🍽️ Local restaurants and pubs will serve up delicious Irish fare, festive drinks, and unbeatable specials
🏠 House parties and gatherings bring friends and families together to celebrate
🤝 The entire community unites in a day filled with tradition, fun, and Irish pride

Why It Matters:
This beloved parade isn’t just about wearing green—it’s a celebration of Irish culture and one of Montgomery County’s biggest annual events. Whether you’re marching, spectating, or enjoying the festivities, the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day comes alive in Conshohocken!

Mark your calendars and join the fun on March 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM!
🍀🎉🥳🍻

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

💡SPOTLIGHT EVENT💡

Winterfest Weekend at Elmwood Park Zoo

Get ready to frolic in the frost at Elmwood Park Zoo’s Winterfest Weekend! We’re embracing the chilly weather with winter-themed entertainment and fun activities! Slide into excitement on a twenty foot ice slide crafted by the talented Ice Concepts. Meet our adorable animal ambassadors, dance to live music, take a spin on the carousel, and warm up by the fire while crafting a delicious s’more. Plus, for our guests 21 and older, indulge in drink specials at ZooBrew to add a spirited touch to the winter festivities. *Slide is weather permitting. Additional fees may be required for on-site activities. Registration is required for non-members. Our Policy: No refunds or rescheduling. Winterfest is a rain or shine event. Elmwood Park Zoo has the right to cancel, change, or postpone any program/event. In the event that the zoo cancels the program/event, ticket holders will be contacted directly. During Winterfest, free zoo admission tickets, reciprocal discounts, Community Partner Passes, Corporate Partner Passes, and other coupons will not be accepted. All Winterfest tickets must be timed and dated for the event. Get your tickets HERE.

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR RADAR

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

• Lenten Dinners
  📍 Swedesburg Fire Co. Social Room | 📅 Fridays during Lent | 🕒 5 - 8 PM

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

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

• High School Musical
  📍 Upper Merion Middle School | 📅 March 21st - 23rd | BUY TIX

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

• Chicago: TEEN EDITION
  📍 Upper Merion High School | 📅 April 3rd - 6th | BUY TIX

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

CLICK BELOW to see more upcoming events in the area!

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RECURRING ACTIVITIES AND CLASSES

• Public Speaking Class
  📍The Hallwayz, 840 1st Ave, Suite 400 | 📅 April 21 - July 7th (2nd and 4th Mondays) | 🕒 7 - 8:30 PM | For details Email [email protected]

• 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!

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LOOKING FOR A BIGGER ADVENTURE?

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

👇👇👇👇👇

Homeowner Tips for March 🌷

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

As we transition into March, it's the perfect time to start preparing your home and garden for the warmer months ahead. Here are some essential homeowner tips to help you get ready for spring:

1. Prepare for Spring Maintenance

   • Inspect Your Roof: Look for damage from winter storms, such as missing shingles or leaks. 🏠

   • Clean Gutters: Ensure gutters are clear to prevent water buildup and potential leaks. 🧹

   • Service Your HVAC System: Schedule a spring inspection and change air filters for optimal performance. ❄️🔥

2. Spring Clean Your Home

   • Declutter: Go through your home to clear out unnecessary items. Donate or sell what you no longer use. A decluttered home can improve both your living space and its market value. Need help? I have great resources! 🧺

3. Garden and Yard Prep

   • Lawn Care: Prep your yard by raking dead grass, removing debris, and considering aeration for better water absorption. 🌿

   • Planting: Start planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs that thrive in spring. Check the local planting schedule or begin purchasing your plants. 🌼🌱

Looking forward to warmer and longer days ahead! 🌞

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?

UPPER MERION TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

Friday, March 7, 2025

March Grab & Go Bag for Adults
📍 Library | 🕒 All Day Event
📚 Categories: DIY, Crafts
👥 Audience: Adults

Parent/Child Workshop: Sign Language
📍 Freedom Hall | 🕒 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM
📚 Categories: Family, Learning
👥 Audience: PreK

Saturday, March 8, 2025

March Grab & Go Bag for Adults
📍 Library | 🕒 All Day Event
📚 Categories: DIY, Crafts
👥 Audience: Adults

Saturday Storytime - Pete the Cat
📍 Little Theatre | 🕒 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
📚 Categories: Storytime
👥 Audience: PreK
Status: Waitlist Open

Monday, March 10, 2025

March Grab & Go Bag for Adults
📍 Library | 🕒 All Day Event
📚 Categories: DIY, Crafts
👥 Audience: Adults

Beginner Chess Club
📍 Henderson Room | 🕒 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📚 Categories: Chess, Learning
👥 Audience: Elementary School (Ages 6-10)

Monthly Board Game Explorers: Wingspan
📍 Valley Forge Room | 🕒 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📚 Categories: Board Games
👥 Audience: Family

Pajama Storytime - Dragons
📍 Little Theatre | 🕒 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📚 Categories: Storytime
👥 Audience: PreK
Status: Waitlist Open

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

PARKS AND RECREATION

• Programming for Seniors
  📍Upper Merion Senior Center | 🔗 Visit Website | 📅 View Calendar
  📍Trivia | 📅 Fridays | 🕧 1-2:30 PM

• Group Exercise
  📍Upper Merion Community Center | 📅 Today’s classes

• Open Gym
  📍Upper Merion Community Center | 🕒 Today’s Open Gym Times

• Winter/Spring Programming Guide

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: 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | High: 48°F | Low: 36°F

• Saturday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 45°F | Low: 27°F

• Sunday: 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | High: 49°F | Low: 35°F

• Monday: ☀️ Sunny | High: 58°F | Low: 36°F

• Tuesday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 65°F | Low: 46°F

• Wednesday: ☁️ Mostly Cloudy | High: 70°F | Low: 51°F

• Thursday: 🌧️ Rain Showers | High: 61°F | Low: 43°F

HOW DID WE DO?