Top 4 stories to watch for in NW Philly

Here’s a look at what’s to come on NewsWorks this week: 

1. On Wednesday, Germantown High School’s final group of seniors will graduate. After 99 years, the public school is closing for good as part of the Philadelphia School District’s right-sizing efforts. Friday is the last day for all students. We’ll have a full recap of graduation and be there for the last day in the school’s history. Several other Northwest Philadelphia schools will also graduate their seniors, including Roxborough High School, where the district’s budget woes have spurred a change in leadership.

2. The West Oak Lane Jazz Festival won’t be back on Ogontz Avenue this summer, but music, food vendors and people will still converge on the commercial corridor. On Thursday, the West Oak Lane Night Market will make its debut on the commercial corridor. NewsWorks will have a table set up at the event. Stop by and say hello as you enjoy small bites from a variety of gourmet food trucks.

3. Allan Zakland truly believes in the power of Tai Chi. The Mt. Airy resident has been facilitating classes for AIDS patients at William Way Center in Center City. Now he’ll also be providing lessons in the neighborhood to help residents with aging and injuries. Check back next week for our story on Zakland and his efforts. 

4. The Chestnut Hill Community Association’s concert series in Pastorius Park kicks off on Wednesday with singer-songwriter Suzie Brown. We’ll be on hand to cover the annual music event. The rest of this year’s lineup includes artists who play the blues, Celtic folk and ethno-jazz.