Top 6 stories of the week in Northwest Philadelphia

Here are several stories that you may have missed this week in Northwest Philadelphia:

 

1. Congressman Fitzpatrick calls for criminal investigation of Philly VA office

Spurred by a whistleblowing testimony in Congress Monday, U.S. Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick of Bucks County has called for a federal investigation into the Germantown-based Philadelphia Veterans Affairs office. An employee of the office said veterans’ benefits claims were being tampered with for them to keep their jobs. Read Carolyn Beeler’s coverage of the development.

2. Prosecutors oppose moving Pa. Sen. Washington’s trial on corruption charges to Philly

State Sen. LeAnna Washington, who is facing corruption charges, is trying to have her trial moved from Montgomery County to Philadelphia, something the prosecution is staunchly against. The potential jury in a Philadelphia trial may be more favorable to Washington’s case, an independent expert said. Aaron Moselle explains the situation further.

3. Neighbors, developer discuss $5M Germantown Avenue project at community meeting

Apartments, a non-residential program and a café are to be developed from a currently vacant warehouse in Germantown, developer Ken Weinstein said. However, residents have voiced concerns with the $5 million rehab project that is set to be complete by the end of the summer. Read Aaron Moselle’s coverage of the project.

4. 33 new computers coming to Emlen Elementary thanks to Mt. Airy Schools Coalition campaign

A collection of local organizations, including Mt. Airy USA, raised nearly $48,000 over the last four months to get Emlen Elementary School 33 badly-needed new computers. The school’s technology teacher likened the successful initiative to winning the lottery. Read Marcus McCarthy’s story for more.

5. Northwest Free Library tour shows innovations as well as needs

In an effort to reach out to a younger demographic, two branches of the Free Library of Philadelphia in the northwest part of the city have modified programs and appearance. One of four citywide tours was held last week to show off the changes. Check out Pamela Forsythe’s in-depth reporting on the library’s new efforts.

6. Shooting returns attention to Vernon Park-loitering nuisance

After a woman was shot in the face two weeks ago in Vernon Park, local residents’ attention has refocused on the deli that abuts the park. The Friends of Vernon Park have formed a committee seeking to close the deli, claiming it has caused a loitering issue and general nuisance for the area. Aaron Moselle further explains the situation and details the deli owners’ response.