Top 8 stories of the week in Northwest Philly

 Less than three weeks after teachers packed up and moved out of Germantown High School, talks are underway for a new tenant. (Bas Slabbers/for NewsWorks)

Less than three weeks after teachers packed up and moved out of Germantown High School, talks are underway for a new tenant. (Bas Slabbers/for NewsWorks)

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

1. Private-education company hopes to lease Germantown High School property

Three weeks after the 99-year-old school closed for good, the Philadelphia School District entered discussions with Camelot Schools, a long-time partner. District officials say the private company wants to lease the hulking, four-story building to house three of its programs in the city. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story to learn more.

2. Is 13-year-old James ‘Too Sharp’ Barnett the city’s next boxing legend?

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James Barnett wants to be the best. Those who watch him spar inside an unremarkable gym in East Germantown say he’s certainly got the right tools. Swift feet, a level-head, and a tireless work ethic could punch the teen’s ticket to boxing glory down the line. Check out Brian Hickey’s story for more details.

3. Tech company moves into East Falls’ Mason Building

A software engineering firm has left its suburban digs for an historic Northwest Philadelphia building steps away from the Schuylkill River. The move was spurred by the city’s blossoming tech bent and convenience. Check out Matthew Grady’s story to learn more.

4. Rep. Kinsey: First session in Harrisburg was ‘an experience like no other’

For four years, state Rep. Stephen Kinsey served as chief-of-staff to former state Rep. John Myers, always knowing that when his boss decided to step down, he would run for his seat. The experience, while invaluable, did not completely prepare the freshman lawmaker for the intensity of Harrisburg, especially the budget process. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story to learn more.

5. The tireless 89 year old behind Roxborough’s literacy programs and archival treasures

It’s hard to talk about the Roxborough branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia without mentioning Sylvia Myers. For years, the octogenarian has been a familiar face around the building, reading stories to tots or helping residents learn more about the neighborhood’s history. Her love of reading and the community hasn’t gone unnoticed. Check out Ilana Levinson’s story for more details.

6. Lovett Library literacy program guarantees kids won’t go hungry during summer break

Summer vacation is typically a joyous time for students. For some, however, it is a time of struggle as they can no longer take advantage of the district’s free and discounted meal programs. Luckily, a citywide effort has stepped in to help bridge the gap. The program is now in Mt. Airy thanks to a pair of residents. Check out Brianna Michelle Bosak and Elizabeth Diane Sim’s story for more details.

7. Teaching kids healthy habits at North Light summer camp

School may be out for summer, but learning hasn’t screeched to a halt inside the Manayunk-based community center. This season’s summer camp will teach enrollees to think about what they’re eating and how to make healthy choices. Activities will include trips to farms and arboretum. Check out Maanvi Singh’s story to learn more.

8. Breast cancer survivors, patients pose for vintage-style pin-up calendar

Photographer Tracy Birdsell wants to help younger survivors get their “sexy back” by creating a classy calendar of former patients. Birdsell, a survivor herself, hopes the project will boost self-confidence and give women a sense of support. A photo shoot for the calendar recently took place inside the Mt. Airy Art Garage. Check out Elle Pfeffer’s story to learn more.

 

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