Michael Tanenbaum

Michael Tanenbaum is a senior staff writer for PhillyVoice.com, with interests ranging from technology and behavioral health to local community initiatives and cultural life. Michael has written for the Argentina Independent and Bespoke Magazine and previously served as a news editor for Xfinity.com before joining PhillyVoice. He received his B.A. in The Writing Seminars at Johns Hopkins University.

tanenbaum@phillyvoice.com

July 7, 2026

Investigations

Bucknell strength coach charged in death of football player who collapsed during workout in 2024

by Michael Tanenbaum

Former Bucknell University football strength and conditioning coach Mark Kulbis faces charges of aggravated hazing, involuntary manslaughter and related offenses in the death of Calvin 'CJ' Dickey Jr. in July 2024.

July 7, 2026

Music

Patti LaBelle and Boyz II Men to perform at MLB All-Star Game

by Michael Tanenbaum

Patti LaBelle will sing the national anthem in front of her hometown Philly crowd at the MLB All-Star Game on July 14 at Citizens Bank Park. Philly natives Boyz II Men will perform during a break after the fifth inning.

July 3, 2026

Investigations

Second teen surrenders to police to face charges in killing of Penn State student

by Michael Tanenbaum

Kaiseem Smith, 16, of Wilmington, surrendered to police for his alleged role in the robbery and shooting of Penn State University student Billy Schmidt, 22, in South Philadelphia on June 6. Smith's alleged accomplice, Azzubair Outen-Fleming, 16, was arrested Wednesday in Colorado.

July 3, 2026

Health News

'Big Boy' train arrives in Philly after more than 100 onlookers were treated for heat-related illnesses near Reading

by Michael Tanenbaum

More than 100 people were treated for heat-related illnesses on Thursday at the Reading Railroad Outer Station in Muhlenberg during an event for the tour of Union Pacific's Big Boy steam locomotive, authorities said. The historic train engine arrived in Philadelphia Friday as temperatures soared ahead of its display at the Navy Yard on Saturday and Sunday.

July 3, 2026

History

Pope Leo XIV says United States' 250th anniversary is an opportunity for country to recommit to its ideals

by Michael Tanenbaum

Pope Leo XIV was honored with the Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center on Friday and gave an address live from the Vatican discussing the global impact of America's founding principles.

July 2, 2026

Investigations

Police fatally shoot armed man outside St. Christopher's Hospital in North Philly

by Michael Tanenbaum

A Philadelphia police officer shot and killed an armed man Thursday morning outside St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in North Philadelphia, authorities said. The circumstances of the shooting are under investigation.

July 2, 2026

HBO's 'Task' to film in Manayunk next week for second season

by Michael Tanenbaum

HBO crews will be in Manayunk on July 8-9 to film scenes for Season 2 of Brad Ingelsby's hit crime drama 'Task.' Several neighborhood streets will be shut down during the production.

July 2, 2026

Streaming

How to watch Pope Leo's Liberty Medal address on Friday

by Michael Tanenbaum

Pope Leo XIV will receive the Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center on Friday morning, giving an address from the Vatican that will be livestreamed at 10:45 a.m.

July 1, 2026

Investigations

U.S. Marshals offer $5,000 rewards to find teens charged with killing Penn State student

by Michael Tanenbaum

Two teenagers accused of fatally shooting Penn State University student Billy Schmidt, 22, in South Philadelphia on June 6 are being sought by authorities. Kaiseem Smith and Azzubair Outen-Fleming, both 16, remain at large. U.S. Marshals are offering $5,000 rewards for information leading to their arrests.

June 30, 2026

Investigations

Freight train derails in Bensalem near Neshaminy Falls station

by Michael Tanenbaum

A freight train derailed in Bensalem on Tuesday afternoon, prompting authorities to advise nearby residents to shelter in place during an investigation of the overturned railcars. There's no threat to the public, officials said.