Top 7 stories of the week in Northwest Philly

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

1. A glimmer of hope for Roxborough’s Bunting house, as owners say they’ll hold off on demolition

A collection of civic groups and neighbors want the historic home to stay put on Ridge Avenue. Developers have agreed to, at least temporarily, heed that wish as they work with the community to find a solution that suits everyone. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story to learn more.

2. A night of conflict, improv and laughter at Manayunk Fringe Festival event

An interactive, conflict-resolution themed show unfolded inside a small Manayunk art gallery this week. Part of the annual art festival, “Change ≠ Chance” forced guests to tackle a “real-world-inspired dilemma” as they assumed a host of classic community roles. Check out Alaina Mabaso’s story for more details.

3. Crumbling wall on Midvale Ave. continues to worry residents

After more than six months, the East Falls structure, part of an elementary school property, is still a real concern for neighbors. It’s not clear when or if the wall will ever be fixed. NewsWorks correspondent Meg Frankowski went searching for answers. Check out her story to learn more.

4. Developer asked to fix apartments before renovating them

A host of code violations are connected to the West Mt. Airy complex. Tenants there have filed a fair housing complaint in an effort to get the property’s new owner to address them. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story for more details.

5. Northwest Philadelphia community reacts to second round of school closure talks

The cash-strapped School District of Philadelphia may close between 30 and 60 schools in the coming years. Officials recently shared the news with a number of residents in Germantown, who were less than enthused about the prospect. Check out Kiera Smalls’ story for more details about the right-sizing plan.

6. A ‘selfless, genuinely caring person’ helps the homeless and needy in Germantown

Flora Carmichael has been helping the homeless in her Northwest Philadelphia neighborhood for years. Through a program at Seventh Day Adventist Church, Carmichael helps offer up meals, clothing and religious literature. NewsWorks recently caught up with her. Check out Yasmein James’ story to learn more. 

7. Germantown’s Potter’s Field controversy goes before the Zoning Board

The historic, African-American cemetery was discovered late last year beneath the grounds of a soon-to-be-demolished public-housing high-rise. It’s unclear what exactly remains at the site, and residents don’t want any construction work to begin until the results of a historical review and ground survey come back with a definitive answer on the exact size and contents of the site. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story to learn more about what unfolded at this week’s zoning hearing with Philadelphia Housing Authority officials.