Top 6 stories of the week in NW Philly

Here’s a look at what you may have missed on NewsWorks missed:

1. Wissahickon treetop adventure course proposal put on hold

The city’s efforts to bring an outward-bound-style course to a section of the Wissahickon in Roxborough have stalled – for now. A group of Northwest Philadelphia residents voiced its opposition since the project was presented to the public and it appears the city was listening. Check out Alaina Mabaso’s story to learn more.

2. Germantown Avenue businesses worry about impact of GHS closure

The recommendation and subsequent vote to close the near-century old school sent shock waves through the community. Residents, including those involved with a nearby after-school program, are worried about the future of education in the neighborhood. Business owners share that concern, but they’re also eyeing the possibility of less foot-traffic. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story to learn more about the potential economic impact of the closure. For more on what the loss may mean for some Germantown students, check out Parissa Zecher and Thomas Zamonski’s story.  

3. Demolition to begin at 8200 Germantown Ave. to make way for new development

Zoning approval for the five-story, mixed-use project in Chestnut Hill was secured months ago. Now, it appears, construction is finally slated to start. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story for more details. 

4. Magnificent magnolia in Germantown embraces neighbors, graces spring

Trees can be much more than just a collection of leaves and branches. Some become so rooted in our lives that they’re considered a friend. Check out Kimberly Paynter’s story to learn more about a special tree in Germantown. It’s the first to appear on our brand new blog, View Finders.

5. A NW Philly barber is witness to changing times over his 60 years at the chair

Don Murphy is as close to an institution as an individual can get. For more than six decades, he’s manned a small, vintage barbershop in Mt. Airy, doling out jokes and advice in between scissor snips. Check out Karl Biemuller’s story to learn more.

6. A son’s wish will bring Wingstops to Mt. Airy, Roxborough and other locales

Advice from Richard Johnson’s son prompted the former McDonald’s franchisee to switch from burgers to chicken. And he’s thinking big. The Mt. Airy resident has plans for several locations, two of which will be in Northwest Philadelphia. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story for more details.