Friday Night, Our Region ROCKS!

If you're an indecisive person like me, this Friday night is going to frustrate the heck out of you. Or maybe it won't...

Whether you decide to celebrate Lansdale by boppin' around at First Friday, soaking in the beauty of the formal gardens at Byer's Choice, taking a short roadtrip to Bryn Athyn for a great family show, or simply seeking solace in central air conditioning and exploring the ever-changing Montgomery Mall, you are guaranteed a rockin' good time. Here's the lowdown:

First Friday in downtown Lansdale runs from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Musicians include students from Rock and Roll After School on the main stage, playing both original and cover songs and Rick and MC performing outside the new Molly Maguire's pub. This month's theme is "Back to School" and a North Penn bus will be parked in the Kids Zone! While you are there, you can drop off any donations for the United Way's Stuff the Bus campaign. The need in the North Penn region is even higher than normal this year at about 1,300 stuffed backpacks.

Byers' Choice, Chalfont-based manufacturer of fine collectibles, is hosting a month-long outdoor family concert series set in their breathtaking gardens. Pack a picnic dinner and dine to the sweet sounds of The Community Conservatory of Music performing Blues and Jazz selections. The show runs from 6:30pm to 8:00pm.

Billy Jonas, a favorite of the young and not-so-young in our family, will be in our area this weekend. No, Billy Jonas is not one of the Jonas Brothers. Let's get that out of the way right now. To say that Billy Jonas is "a top-notch performer who expertly involves the audience and performs music that pulls you to your feet" would be an understatement. Our appreciation for him began about four years ago when we won his "Everybody's in the Band" DVD in a contest and we've been stompin' our feet and clappin' our hands ("'cuz everybody's in the band!") ever since. There are a lot of children's musicians out there. If only more of them could be like Billy... There is no doubt that his Bryn Athyn show this Friday night at 6:30 will be well worth the short drive and suggested $10 donation per family.

But, if live acoustic rock, back-to-school shopping, and air conditioning is what you seek, check out the talented duo, The Cozmophonix, performing as part of the Rhythm and Arts series at Montgomery Mall. The show begins at 7:00pm in Macy's court.

Further details including maps and directions can be found on the North Penn Under Ten calendar. Until next time, rock on North Penn!