Top 7 Stories of the week in NW Philly

Here at NewsWorks, we know busy schedules sometimes get in the way of staying up to date on the latest neighborhood news in Northwest Philadelphia. So, we decided to start a new Saturday series which sums up the top five stories of the week for this section of the city. Feel free to weigh in on any of the stories in the comment section below or suggest a follow up story for our reporters to tackle.

1. OARC’s Jack Kitchen explains West Oak Lane Jazz and Arts Festival cancellation, impact

After eight years, the annual summer festival is over. Check out Brian Hickey’s interview with the event’s organizer to learn why the state-backed fete won’t be back on Ogontz Avenue in 2012.

2. For three recent weeks, Northwest Philly was the deadliest section of the city

The Germantown and West Oak Lane sections of the city witnessed an unsettling number of murders during a recent winter stretch. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story for the details and what explanations local police had to offer.

3. Goat-hollow tavern to re-open in Mt. Airy under new management

After a number of years, a new duo of owners is reviving the former neighborhood staple with a side of updates. Check out Jana Shea’s story to learn what diners can expect.

4. William Barnes: ‘My greatest fear was dying while I was still in prison’

“The East Germantown Cowboy” left his Graterford Prison cell a free man this week after serving nearly two years of a murder sentence handed down despite being found not guilty by a jury. Check out Brian Hickey’s story to learn what the 75-year-old had to say about his release in his first public interview.

5. Parents voice concerns with plans to save Levering School

The School District of Philadelphia recommended in November that Levering Elementary in Roxborough close next year. Now, two parents have introduced their own proposal to try and keep students at the Ridge Avenue building. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story to learn about the plan and how parents reacted this week.

6. Manayunk co-op proposal takes off on Facebook; community schedules public meeting for April

The Manayunk Development Corporation is looking into establishing a food co-op in the neighborhood. Check out Matthew Grady’s story to learn about the details of this exploratory effort.

7. Video: Saul students create Hawaiian ‘Canoe Garden’ for Philadelphia Flower Show

The Philadelphia International Flower Show wraps up this weekend. Check out Kimberly Paynter’s video to see what went into creating W.B. Saul High School’s display this year.