As the air grows crisp with the scent of turning leaves, there's no better time to explore the vibrant tapestry of life in Northwest Philadelphia. Our fall issue celebrates the rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty that make our Wissahickon region a truly special place to call home.

We begin by honoring Henry Howard Houston, whose visionary approach to architecture and development shaped the neighborhoods we cherish today. His legacy lives on in the tree-lined streets and distinctive homes that give our area its unique character. 

Next, we catch up with some present-day visionaries with a spotlight on Weavers Way, which has grown from a modest food co-op into a thriving enterprise that demonstrates the power of local cooperation as it fuels our regional economy. 

Our local spirit of adventure shines through in the story of Amar Mohamed, a YouTube sensation who honed his mountain biking skills on the challenging trails of the Wissahickon. We meet Vivian Lehrer Stadlin, whose delicate leaf sculptures blend art with environmental activism, reminding us of our intimate connection to the natural world. And the resilience of our local music scene finds voice in Turtle Ridge, a band whose fusion of folk, bluegrass, and punk embodies the eclectic spirit of Northwest Philadelphia.

We celebrate the transformative power of the arts with Alexander Burns, whose lifelong passion for theater has taken him from producing childhood plays in a Devon Street basement to creating what is now a thriving artistic institution in the heart of Mt. Airy, Quintessence Theatre Group. 

No exploration of our region would be complete without a culinary adventure. Join us as we savor the diverse flavors of Northwest Philadelphia's iconic sandwiches, starting with the classic Schmitter – a sandwich that has lasted almost as long as the century-old business that serves it. 

For those seeking to venture beyond our borders, we suggest a day trip to Havre de Grace, a charming coastal town that mirrors the warmth and character of our own community.

As you explore this issue, we hope you'll be reminded of the countless ways that living in the Wissahickon region can inspire, nurture, and surprise us all.

Carla Robinson

Editor

Wissahickon, a quarterly magazine published by the Chestnut Hill
Local newspapers, is available for $24.95 annually.
To subscribe, go to chestnuthilllocal.com or call 215-248-8813.