Top 7 stories of the week in NW Philly

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

1. Six weeks before classes would start, Camelot Schools officials make their GHS pitch

The for-profit company wants to lease the former home of Germantown High to house three of its alternative education programs in the city. The decision is ultimately in the hands of the Philadelphia School District and the School Reform Commission, but community input will certainly inform the outcome. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story to learn more.

2. Proposed Stenton Avenue Subway sandwich shop put off indefinitely

Nearby neighbors immediately voiced opposition to the national chain opening up at the corner of Stenton and E. Mt. Airy avenues. The city’s Zoning Board of Adjustment appears to have heard them loud and clear. Check out Jana Shea’s story for more details. 

3. After emotional hearing, alleged E. Germantown serial rapist ‘absolutely asserts his innocence’

Antuane Brown was arrested in early June for allegedly raping three young girls in the Northwest Philadelphia neighborhood. On Tuesday, the 23-year-old sat across from each victim as they recounted their experiences for a Philadelphia judge. Check out Matthew Grady’s story for more details.

4. Controversial Catholic priest comes to Chestnut Hill College despite Philadelphia Archdiocese ban

Rev. Helmut Schuller isn’t shy about his interest in sweeping reforms to the Catholic Church. As part of a 15-city speaking tour, he recently stopped by the Catholic college to talk specifics. It was the speech that wasn’t delivered inside a Protestant church or secular venue. Check out Jana Shea’s story for more details.

5. Wissahickon’s Neighbors Park gets a facelift

Neighbors Park, located in the city’s Wissahickon neighborhood, has needed some serious TLC for some time. Thanks to the vision of one resident and the neighborhood’s City Councilman, Curtis Jones, Jr., it recently got just that. The neighborhood celebrated the upgrades over the weekend. Check out Carrie Hagen’s story to learn more.

6. Roxborough residents consider proposals for new remapping plan

Central Roxborough has seen a flurry of development recently. Some projects, not surprisingly, haven’t been welcomed by all. In an effort to further protect the historic neighborhood, residents sat down this week to talk zoning with the city’s planning commission. Check out Matthew Grady’s to learn more.

7. Despite heat wave, locals celebrate at first annual ‘Northwest NiceUp’

The summer sun’s beating didn’t stop residents from heading to a stretch of Germantown Avenue for a bite to eat and some entertainment. The first-time event raised money for The Food Trust. Check out Karrisa Olsen’s story and photos to learn more.