👋 Good Morning, Lower 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, we 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!

💡Frank Kolbmann aka Francis 2Good

💡Pre-Parade Fun: Join the Irish Coffee Challenge

💡Experience the Magic of "Unwritten: A Libraria Tale"

💡Experience Live Music with Kill Bill, the Ultimate Rock Cover Band

💡Gullifty’s Quizzo with Johnny Cheesesteaks Moves to Saturday Nights

💡Enjoy Sunday Funday with Balloon Art at Garrett Hill Ale House

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

The Lower Merion Spotlight Crew

In this issue of the Lower Merion Spotlight

💼 Business Spotlight

👥 Community Spotlight

📅 Lifestyle and Local Happenings

🏘️ Real Estate and Housing Insights

📝 Community Services and Resources

☀️ Lower Merion Weather

📃2025 Summer Camp Guide

🔗 Lower Merion and Narberth Job Board

💡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

If you’d like to see your business in the spotlight, e-mail us at [email protected] for details.

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! 🏆☕

Experience the Magic of "Unwritten: A Libraria Tale"

Join Venice Island Performing Arts Recreation Center for this year's enchanting Children's Theater Production, "Unwritten: A Libraria Tale!" Set in a magical, musical world, this play celebrates friendship, courage, and unity. Perfect for families, children under 5 attend for free. Don't miss this delightful experience at 7 Lock Street, Philadelphia, PA. Tickets are available now! Secure yours at tinyurl.com/UnwrittenTickets. Bring the kids and enjoy a memorable theatrical adventure!

Experience Live Music with Kill Bill, the Ultimate Rock Cover Band

Head over to The Great American Pub in Narberth, PA, for an electrifying night with Kill Bill, the ultimate rock cover band, on Friday, March 7th! Enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere at 101 North Narberth Avenue. Gather your friends for an unforgettable evening of rock hits and great vibes. Don't miss out on this exciting musical experience!

Gullifty’s Quizzo with Johnny Cheesesteaks Moves to Saturday Nights

Attention Gullifty’s Quizzo Fans! Starting this week, join us for Quizzo with Johnny Cheesesteaks on Saturday nights at 9 PM. Enjoy the same fantastic food and drink specials, along with exciting prizes. Gather your friends for a fun-filled evening of trivia and entertainment. Don’t miss out on the chance to test your knowledge and win great rewards. See you there for a night of laughter and competition!

Enjoy Sunday Funday with Balloon Art at Garrett Hill Ale House

Join the fun at Garrett Hill Ale House for Sunday Funday, featuring a talented balloon artist! Bring the kids for an afternoon of delightful entertainment starting at noon. This special time slot is dedicated to providing exciting activities for children, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family. Enjoy great food and a lively atmosphere while the kids are entertained with creative balloon art. Don’t miss out on this fantastic family-friendly event!

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! It’s your newsletter after all 🙂

💡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

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade
  📍 Conshohocken | 📅 March 15th | 🕒 2:00 PM procession starts

• Outdoors Online: Composting 101
  📍 Virtual Event | 📅 March 18th | 🕒 7 - 8:00 PM | Register HERE

• Grin and Tonic Comedy Show
  📍 Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant | 📅 March 20th | 🕒 Show starts at 8 PM

• Riverbend Barn Dance
  📍 Riverbend | 📅 March 21st | 🕒 6:30 PM | 🔗 Register HERE

• Belmont Hills Library Bingo Night Fundraiser
  📍 BH Fire Company Hall | 📅 May 3rd | 🕒 7 - 10 PM

RECURRING ACTIVITIES and CLASSES

• Main Line Art Center

  • Adult and Youth classes start soon

  • March Date night classes | Click HERE

    🔍 Search catalog

• Playin’ Time Productions
  📍Kelly Music Center | 🔍 Search classes

• Art Exhibition | The Cut-Up Club

  📍Main Line Art Center | 🕒 Gallery Hours

• Kaiserman JCC

  • Full Event Calendar | 🔍Search offerings

• Wolf Performing Arts Center

  • Auditions | 🔍Search offerings

  • Classes | 🔍 Search offerings

LOOKING FOR A BIGGER ADVENTURE?

CLICK BELOW to have your event, activity, deal, or restaurant added 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 Lower Merion?

LOWER MERION LIBRARY SYSTEM

Friday, March 7, 2025

Ludington: In-Person Chair Yoga
📍 Ludington Library, Large Meeting Room | 🕒 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
📚 Categories: Health Literacy
👥 Audience: Adults, Older Adults

LUDINGTON: First Friday with Mr. Laurent
📍 Ludington Library, Large Auditorium | 🕒 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📚 Categories: Storytimes
👥 Audience: Babies & Toddlers

Gladwyne - Sit N' Stitch
📍 Gladwyne Library, Gladwyne Meeting Room | 🕒 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
📚 Categories: Arts & Crafts, STEM/STEAM
👥 Audience: Adults, Older Adults

BELMONT: Fun Friday
📍 Belmont Hills Library | 🕒 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📚 Categories: Arts & Crafts
👥 Audience: All Ages

Saturday, March 8, 2025

BELMONT: Messy Me with Mr. E!
📍 Belmont Hills Library | 🕒 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📚 Categories: Arts & Crafts
👥 Audience: Kids, Families, Tweens

Gladwyne - Teens Teach Tech: Canva Lesson
📍 Gladwyne Library, Gladwyne Meeting Room | 🕒 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📚 Categories: Computers, Information Literacy
👥 Audience: Adults, Older Adults

ARDMORE - Container and Window Gardening
📍 Ardmore Library, ARD Program Room | 🕒 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📚 Categories: Arts & Crafts
👥 Audience: Teens, Kids, Families, Tweens

Monday, March 10, 2025

BALA CYNWYD: Story Time
📍 Bala Cynwyd Library, Junior Room | 🕒 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
📚 Categories: Storytimes
👥 Audience: Kids, Families, Babies & Toddlers

Gladwyne - Musical Story Time with Miss Jill
📍 Gladwyne Library, Gladwyne Meeting Room | 🕒 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
📚 Categories: Music, Storytimes
👥 Audience: Babies & Toddlers

BALA CYNWYD: Crafter's Corner
📍 Bala Cynwyd Library | 🕒 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
📚 Categories: Arts & Crafts
👥 Audience: Kids

Penn Wynne: Teen Time (Grades 6-12) OREO MARCH MADNESS
📍 Penn Wynne Library, PW Meeting Room | 🕒 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
👥 Audience: Teens

Gladwyne - Book Discussion
📍 Gladwyne Library, Gladwyne Meeting Room | 🕒 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📚 Categories: Book Discussion, Civic and Social Literacy
👥 Audience: Adults, Older Adults

💡Check the full calendar of events by clicking here.💡

PARKS AND RECREATION

PARK AND REC NEWS

• All activities calendar

• Spring Registration now open HERE

MUNICIPAL RESOURCES

LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP

Click HERE for township events and meetings.

Click HERE for community resources

NARBERTH BOROUGH

Click HERE for borough events and meetings

Click HERE for community resources

Weekly Weather Forecast For Lower Merion Township

• Friday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 49°F | Low: 37°F

• Saturday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 45°F | Low: 28°F

• Sunday: ☀️ Sunny | High: 49°F | Low: 36°F

• Monday: ☀️ Sunny | High: 58°F | Low: 38°F

• Tuesday: ⛅ Partly Cloudy | High: 65°F | Low: 47°F

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

• Thursday: 🌧️ Rain Showers | High: 61°F | Low: 44°F