Olney Unveils Five-Panel Community Mural on North Broad Street, Featuring Whimsicle Co-Owner Salim Weldon
Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Olney Community Collaborative will dedicate a new five-panel mural, “Olney Is Where We Belong: Past, Present, Future,” on Friday, October 16, with a free neighborhood celebration from 3:30 to 6:15 p.m. at 5701 North Broad Street in Olney.
The mural was shaped by local families and longtime Olney business owners, including Mom Mom’s Kiddie College, Smooth Like Dat and Wilson’s Market. Organizers describe it as a story of a neighborhood telling its own history. Local entrepreneur Salim Weldon who is the co-owner and marketing director of Whimsicle is featured in the mural.
“Olney Is Where We Belong: Past, Present, Future” was designed by artists Priscilla Bell, Carolina Gomez and Raelis Vasquez. The five large panels along North Broad Street depict:
- Children blowing bubbles
- Neighbors over a chess game
- Students walking to school
- Olney rowhomes and gardens
- The message “We Are Strong, We Are One Community”
The project was funded by State Representative Darisha Parker and sponsored by Councilperson Anthony Phillips of District 9.
The public dedication includes a speaking program, free food, art activities, a DJ performance and a bouncy house.
- 3:30 p.m.: Speaking program
- 4:10 p.m.: Community activities begin
- 6:15 p.m.: Event ends
Weldon is a Philadelphia native and the co-owner and marketing director of Whimsicle Gourmet Fruit Pops. He blends fruit pops with music, fashion and art to promote healthier living, and he holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Bloomsburg University.
Weldon also uses his platform to support Philadelphia youth affected by gun violence, COVID-19 and untreated mental health, leading trauma-informed, hands-on activities in schools and across the commu
