Top 6 stories of the week in NW Philly

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

1. Blighted property in Mt. Airy to be rehabilitated by community conservator

Vacant properties are a common sight in Philadelphia. In Mt. Airy, a community development corporation hopes to reduce the neighborhood’s total through a new initiative that’s kicking off with a property on Phil Ellena Street, just off Germantown Avenue. Check out Neema Roshania’s story for more details.

2. Influx of students and fewer teachers cause overcrowding at W.B. Saul High School

Nearly a third of Saul’s classrooms are overcrowded as a result of the Philadelphia School District’s ongoing budget crisis. The math means has made hands-on learning at the Roxborough-based agriculture school more challenging, among other things. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story for more details.

3. Thanks to a kickstart, made-for-TV movie about Germantown’s Sonia Sanchez closer to reality

Much has been written and produced about the life and work of Philadelphia’s poet laureate Sonia Sanchez, but her story has never appeared on television. That’s no longer true thanks to a trio of filmmakers and their decision to use a popular crowdfunding platform. Check out Alaina Mabaso’s story to learn more.

4. Plans to reopen Germantown bar after owner’s shooting death broached at community meeting

The former home of the Welton Wayne Sports Bar and Restaurant is getting new life after its owner was gunned down in West Oak Lane. Neighbors say the immediate area has been quieter since it closed and hope the new business will help keep it that way. Check out Matthew Grady’s story for more details.

5. Former Germantown industrial site to house community preservation initiative

The Max Levy Autograph Company on Roberts Avenue is one of three Philadelphia buildings that a new historic preservation project is using to examine and explore the future of the field. Check out Alan Jaffe’s story for more details.

6. Police, DHS called in after 4-year-old brings eight bags of crack cocaine to East Falls elementary school [updated]

Students and staff weren’t the only ones at Thomas Mifflin Elementary on Tuesday morning after a pre-schooler showed a classmate the drugs and cash in his pockets. Check out Matthew Grady’s story to learn more.