Top 5 stories of the week in NW Philly

Here’s a look at what you may have missed this week:

1. Repair work continues after Bakers Center flooded with 13m gallons of water [updated]

On Saturday morning, a 48-inch water main burst beneath the new shopping center’s vast parking lot. The millions of gallons of water that escaped cause million-dollar damages. Repairing it all may take some time. Check out Brian Hickey’s story for more details.

2. Rep. Dwight Evans calls for referendum on Pennsylvania education funding

The veteran Northwest Philadelphia lawmaker wants the state to spend more money on public education. And he wants voters to have the chance to tell Harrisburg how that should be achieved. To that end, Evans introduced a resolution that, if passed, would do just that. Check out Kevin McCorry’s story for more details.

3. Lack of access to quality, affordable day care for low-income families

There’s no question. Early childhood education is an important part of a child’s development. In Germantown, though, top-notch options aren’t easy to come by despite the sea of centers in the neighborhoods. Check out Mike McLeod and Patrick Moyer’s story to learn more.

4. Wissahickon Valley Park receives more than $1 million in grants

The Friends of the Wissahickon recently received a quartet of grants aimed at bolstering the group’s stewardship efforts in leafy Northwest Philadelphia. The funds will be used for significant trail-based efforts and signage, among other things. Check out Christine Fisher’s story for more details.

5. Homeless as a child, Philly attorney shares story of perseverance with Germantown youths

Nikki Johnson-Huston hasn’t had an easy life. As a child, her family struggled to make ends meet. For a time, they were homeless. Johnson-Huston, though, always remained positive; knowing that one-day it would all work out. Check out Amanda Staller’s story to learn more.