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Thursday, June 25 2026
Chestnut Hill | Germantown | Mt. Airy | Springfield Twp

Good afternoon. With July 4th quickly approaching, our top story today focuses on a “historical documenter” in Erdenheim who wants to shed light on local historic sites associated with soldiers who served our nation. Also, take a look at Woodmere’s new exhibit, which explores how Philadelphia artists grapple with America’s history.

If you have any interesting tidbits of news happening in our neighborhood, respond to this email and let me know.

  • Maggie Dougherty (margaret@chestnuthilllocal.com)

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Erdenheim ‘documenter’ seeks recognition for Black vets



Ed McLaughlin has spent decades working to highlight the historic significance of Philadelphia National Cemetery and Camp William Penn. “I am trying to get information out to the public on Black soldiers because they deserve the recognition,” McLaughlin said.



Woodmere’s ‘Arc of Promise’ celebrates 250th



Woodmere’s newest exhibition simultaneously acknowledges the country’s painful histories and affirms the nation’s capacity for renewal.


Mt. Airy athlete honors donor who saved him



At the age of 3, Rafiah Cheeks received a lifesaving liver transplant through the Gift of Life Donor Program. Now, he honors his donor by participating in the Transplant Games of America, an athletic competition for organ transplant recipients and donors.

No more pots and pans for Mt. Airy caterer



Herb Scott started at the bottom in the food business before working his way up to build Herb Scott Catering, one of the area’s top catering firms. After decades in the business, he’s hanging up his utensils, pots, and pans.



In Other News...

  • The Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) has removed metered parking in parts of the Mt. Airy and Germantown commercial corridors.

 

  • ArtPhilly is bringing its “What Now: 2026” festival to the Northwest, with several performances and events happening this week. Check out more details here.

 

  • Picks of the Week, a feature from Local Foodie, highlights specials from three local businesses. This week, Tony’s Pizza City, Haraz Coffee House, and Cosimo’s Pizza Cafe have tempting offers to satisfy your foodie cravings. Click here for this week's specials.



Things to do in Northwest Philadelphia

Thursday, June 25:

  • Creatures of the Night: 7 p.m., Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave., Chestnut Hill

    • In this program, explore the natural history of fireflies, ways of observing and telling them apart, and what we can do to make our gardens more “glowing.” Then, representatives from the Penn Vet Wildlife Futures Program will talk about the work they do to help our state’s wild species thrive.

      • morrisarboretum.org

Saturday, June 27:

  • Saturday Stewardship with Gay for Good: 9 a.m., Monastery Stables, 1000 Kitchens Ln., Wissahickon Valley Park

    • Volunteer with the Friends of the Wissahickon and Gay for Good Philadelphia in stewarding the land around Monastery Stables. Gay for Good mobilizes LGBTQ+ and ally volunteers to promote diversity, foster inclusion, and strengthen ties to the broader community. All are welcome and no experience is necessary.

      • fow.org

Sunday, June 28:

  • Music in the Parlor: 12-4 p.m., Cliveden, 6401 Germantown Ave., Germantown

    • Hear the Ministers of Apollo — New Jersey-based historical musicians — perform music of the Revolutionary era featuring the harpsichord in Cliveden’s parlor.

      • cliveden.org

Looking for more local events and activities? Check out the Explore page here.


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