Top 4 stories to watch in NW Philly

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

1. The debate over gay marriage has been re-ignited recently as the Supreme Court prepares to hear oral arguments on the Defense of Marriage Act, the congressional law that defines marriage, for government-related purposes, as being between one man and one woman. With that backdrop, NewsWorks asked Northwest Philadelphia residents for their thoughts on the subject as part of our latest installment of Street Level Conversations. Check back this week to hear how your neighbors feel about the controversial subject.

2. For several years now, Vernon Park in Germantown has been more of a place to walk through or walk by than a place to relax. A group of neighbors, however, want to change that and are in the midst of organizing a 330th birthday party event to get the ball rolling in a positive direction. The celebration is scheduled for Oct. 6. Check back this week for an update on what’s to come.

3. Springside Chestnut Hill Academy hosted Philly’s only FIRST – For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology – robotics competition over the weekend. The private school, which has an extensive robotics program, has fared well in past competitions. Check back this week to learn more about this year’s contest and its outcome.

4. The East Falls Community Council held its annual Chili Cook Off on Friday at Thomas Mifflin Elementary School. This year’s edition had more than double the amount of vendors that typically show. Check back early this week for photos and a story from the event.