Top 5 stories to watch for in Northwest Philly

Here’s a look at what’s we’ll be covering this upcoming week:

1. It may not feel like it, but Philly Spring Cleanup Day is just around the corner on April 5. A number of projects, including an event at Germantown Town Hall, will be in Northwest Philadelphia. Check back next week to learn more.

2. Germantown resident Al Vernacchio has dedicated much of his life to teaching others about sex and sexuality. That’s included a number of lessons on HIV/AIDS. On April 5, Vernacchio, a teacher at the Friends’ Central School, will receive the AIDS Fund “Founders’ Award” for that work. Check back next week for more details.

3. Emmanuel Habimana nearly died before he turned 10. His father, mother and four siblings were killed in 1994 during the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda, a 100-day stretch during which a million people died. Habimana, now a filmmaker and activist, survived by hiding and pretending to be Hutu. On Wednesday, he’ll be at Chestnut Hill College to tell his story. Check back next week to learn more.

4. Pennsylvania state Rep. Pam DeLissio is seeking a third term in office. If she wins in November, she’ll continue to represent Roxborough and Manayunk residents. But first, she’ll have to survive a complaint challenging her residency. Local lawmakers must reside in the district they represent. Check back next week for more details on a judge’s potential decision in the case.

5. Germantown artist Nathaniel Lee is one of five artists selected to help install a new set of murals this spring. The Mural Arts Program project will add outdoor artwork to seven locations along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor – between 30th Street and North Philadelphia. Check back next week to learn more.