Top 7 stories of the week in NW Philly

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

1. Revamped Germantown Special Services District scheduled to launch July 1

Funding for the public-private program dried up in December 2011, leaving the neighborhood without its highly-valued street cleaning service, among other things. After several months of planning, however, the initiative is expected to return this summer. It’ll first need approval from City Council. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story for more details.

2. Manayunk man guilty of involuntary manslaughter in wife’s fatal shooting

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Nearly two years after the fatal shooting on Markle Street, Gregory Mitros appeared in court Friday to learn his fate following the death of his longtime wife, Lynda. The tragic event could send the 54-year-old to prison for up to five years. Check out Brian Hickey’s story to learn about the somber conclusion to Mitros’ trial.

3. Roxborough community petitions against proposed Wendy’s at former Bunting House site

To the dismay of many residents, the historic property on Ridge Avenue was recently leveled to make way for new development. Details about what might occupy the five-parcel plot had been scant since the owners announced their demolition interests. In the past week or so, however, their plans have come into focus and neighbors aren’t happy. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story to learn more.

4. Teachers join school-closings ‘Walk in My Shoes’ protest at Fulton Elementary

In mid-December, the Philadelphia School District announced that it wanted to close 44 schools by the end of this academic year. While that total was recently reduced, Robert Fulton Elementary in Germantown is still poised for a shutdown. To bring attention to the impact the possible closure would have on the community, teachers gathered at the school this week for a unique protest. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story for more details.

5. Possible designs revealed for West Mt. Pleasant train trestle mural

Possible designs revealed for West Mt. Pleasant train trestle mural – See more at: http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/component/flexicontent/item/51507-possible-designs-revealed-for-west-mt-pleasant-train-trestle-mural#sthash.NwP5c8Ca.dpuf

Northwest Philadelphia will soon be adding a new mural to its growing collection. Artists with the city’s Mural Arts Program recently met with residents to discuss the design of the new piece of outdoor artwork set to grace a train trestle not far from Lincoln Drive and Mt. Pleasant Avenue. Check out Karl Biemuller’s story to learn more.

6. Property crimes in the 14th drop thanks to new strategies, cold weather

Officers with the Northwest Philadelphia-based police district shared some encouraging news about property crimes during a recent community meeting. That news was coupled with some less stellar news about vandalism. Check out Matthew Grady’s story for more details.

7. Philly pastor, gangster rapper making a joyful noise unto the Lord

Cassidy, a gangster rapper with West Oak Lane roots, is teaming up with a North Philadelphia pastor to write and record songs with more uplifting messages than his previous offerings. It’s all part of a personal mission to produce more music that’s gritty, but positive. Check out Peter Crimmins’ story to learn more.

 

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