Top 7 stories of the week in NW Philly

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

1. No human remains found at Potter’s Field site, final PHA decision pending

For the past month, archaeologists have been searching for human remains at Queen Lane Apartments, a shuttered public-housing high rise in Germantown that PHA wants to demolish for new development. On Wednesday, the results of that dig were revealed during a morning tour of the site. Check out Amy Z. Quinn’s story to learn what this all means for PHA’s plans.

2. Pastorius Elementary charter-school operator finalists to be announced Friday

On Monday, members of the school community met to begin a month-long discussion about the future of the struggling East Germantown elementary school. The small group, known as a School Advisory Council, is tasked with recommending which charter school operator they’d like to run the school come September. Check Aaron Moselle’s story to learn more about the process and the parents involved.

3. SPCA, police continue investigation into possible E. Germantown dog-fighting ring [updated]

Police responding to a domestic disturbance call on Tuesday got a little more than they bargained for when they arrived on scene. Investigators with the Pennsylvania SPCA are now trying to determine if the property was used as part of an illegal dog-fighting operation. Blood stains on the wall were among the observations that launched the case. Check out Meg Frankowski’s story for more details about the discovery.

4. Stress over assessments at Chestnut Hill AVI meeting

In early March, the city kicked off a series of public meetings aimed at helping residents better understand its new property tax assessment initiative. Last Saturday, the discussion came to Chestnut Hill, where many neighbors feared they’d be paying more than in the past. Check out Lauren Carroll’s story for more details about the event that drew more than 100 residents.

5. Behind the scenes at the SPCA: Investigating animal cruelty

Last summer two dogs were found badly burned in Northwest Philadelphia. One of them died as a result. This week, police stumbled upon a possible dog-fighting ring in Germantown. It’s all part of the Pennsylvania SPCA’s work. Check out Meg Frankowski’s story to learn more about the organization and how it investigates animal cruelty cases.

6. Roxborough High’s Stephen Brandt receives Lindback Award

Since arriving at Roxborough High in March 2009, Brandt has worked tirelessly to transform the school into a neighborhood institution of which students and the community could be proud. His efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Brandt was recently named one of the city’s top educators. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story to learn more about the Roxborough alum’s award.

7. Fashion incubator program shows Phila U. grad the thrills, skills and realities of launching a career in design

It’s been quite a year for former Philadelphia University student Kaitlyn Doherty. Last March, the aspiring fashion designer was chosen to be one of four participants in the Macy’s Philadelphia Fashion Incubator. Check out Alaina Mabaso’s story to learn more about program and the lessons Doherty is carrying with her as she now tries to carve out a niche for her work.