Top 5 stories to watch in NW Philly

Here’s a look at what’s to come:

1. Last season, Imhotep Institute Charter High School’s football team fell one game short of playing for a state championship. This Saturday, the Panthers hope to rewrite the past when they take on top-ranked Berks Catholic, an undefeated squad from Reading. Check back next week for a full recap.

2. For the better part of a decade, a group of neighbors in East Mt. Airy worked to put a private plot of forestland into city hands. Earlier this fall, the six-acre swath officially became public parkland. On Saturday, residents began cleaning up the area for the first time since. Check back next week to learn more.

3. Last fall, the  two largest police districts in Northwest Philadelphia got new captains. In the 14th District, Capt. John Fleming became the area’s top cop. In the 39th District, it was Capt. Michael Craighead, who was previously part of the police department’s Internal Affairs Bureau. Check back next week to learn more about Craighead’s first year on the job.

4. Pennsylvania state Rep. Dwight Evans has led the 203rd Legislative District for more than three decades. For 20 years, he directed millions of dollars to Philadelphia while chairing the House Appropriations Committee. He also led the push to bring charter schools to the state and ran for mayor — twice. Now, he’s written a book about it all. Check back next week for more details.

5. Foodie University in East Falls offers residents the chance to casually learn about the world of cooking. Inside a building on Midvale Avenue, a restaurant-tested chef dedicates each two hour class to one dish. Right now, cupcakes are on the menu. Check back next week to learn more about the effort.