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.
June 20, 2022
Investigations
Family mourns attorney from Philippines shot on way to Philly airport
John Albert Laylo, a government attorney in the Philippines who was killed in Philadelphia while vacationing with his mother in the United States, police said. Laylo and his mother were riding in an Uber to the airport early Saturday morning when a gunman opened fire on the vehicle. Laylo was struck in the head, police said. No arrests have been made.June 20, 2022
Business
Would a federal gas tax holiday help drivers? A decision may come soon
The White House is considering the idea of a federal gas tax holiday that would temporarily lift the 18.4 cents per gallon tax in order to relieve U.S. consumers hurt by inflation. Gas prices averaged nearly $5 across the nation on Monday, prompting the Biden administration to weigh different options to reduce economic pressure on American families. How much would a federal gas tax holiday help consumers? Are state gas holidays more effective?June 17, 2022
Lifestyle
For those grieving on Father's Day, N.J. woman's online boutique and podcast offer healing tools
All the Skies, a new online boutique for grieving, is the creation of 32-year-old Longport, New Jersey woman Gianna DeMedio. Five years ago, DeMedio's father died suddenly from a heart attack. She hit a low point soon after, but has been on a journey ever since to heal and commemorate her father's life. Ahead of Father's Day, she launched the new online shop with a selection of books, apparel, greeting cards and jewelry. DeMedio also has grief podcast, "So Sorry for Your Loss," that covers a range of topics with different guests.June 17, 2022
Development
Residential tower replaces Virgin Hotel in proposal for South Broad Street development
A development proposal at the corner of South Broad and Lombard streets now calls for a 43-story tower with 463 units next to the historic District Health Center One building in Center City. A previous plan discussed at the site had included a Virgin Hotel tower and a second tower, along with a theater and restaurant. New documents from the Philadelphia Historical Commission discuss plans for the restoration of the health center and the construction of the residential tower instead of a hotel.June 17, 2022
Prevention
West Nile virus found in Philly region; Here are some tips to prevent mosquito bites
Philadelphia public health officials have reported this year's first mosquitoes that are carrying the West Nile virus, an infectious disease that can be transmitted to people through mosquito bites. Officials are recommending a number of tips to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and to help people avoid bites this summer. Serious cases of the virus are relatively rare, but older individuals are at higher risk of developing severe symptoms.June 16, 2022
Arts & Culture
Franklin Institute unveils plans for new space exploration exhibit focused on future trips to moon, Mars
The Franklin Institute will create a new exhibit about the future of space exploration using a $3 million gift from Boeing. The two-story immersive exhibit will include displays about missions to Mars and the moon, and how space technology can be used to improve life on Earth. SPACE is expected to open at the Philadelphia museum in the fall of 2023.June 16, 2022
Celebrities
Chad Ochocinco Johnson leaves server $1,000 tip at Green Eggs Café in Center City
Chad Ochocinco Johnson left a $1,000 tip for a server at Green Eggs Cafe in Center City, the latest example of his generous tipping at restaurants. The former NFL star is spending his summer in Philadelphia and has been spotted around town in recent weeks. He's shared updates on his activities in the city on social media. Johnson, an accomplished wide receiver, spent most of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals.June 16, 2022
Investigations
Eight city employees charged with fraud in alleged theft of pandemic unemployment assistance
Eight employees of the city of Philadelphia were charged Thursday with allegedly providing false information to obtain more than $300,000 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits. The defendants were still employed by the city and receiving paychecks at the time they filed. The defendants will be fired from their jobs, a city spokesperson said.June 16, 2022
Food & Drink
Kevin Hart to open plant-based fast-food restaurant Hart House
Kevin Hart will open a new plant-based fast food restaurant called Hart House, beginning this summer with locations in Los Angeles and Hollywood. The comedian, actor and Philly native started eating a plant-based diet in recent years. For the new restaurant, called Hart House, he tapped former Burger King Chef Michael Salem to develop the menu, which will include a range of 100% plant-based burgers, sandwiches, nuggets, milkshakes and other items.June 14, 2022
Investigations
Woman alleges Airbnb she rented in Philadelphia had hidden cameras, but police investigation found none
Philadelphia police and Airbnb investigated a woman's claim that a property she rented in the city contained hidden cameras in the property's ceilings and sprinklers. The investigation found there were no hidden or undisclosed cameras inside the home. The woman had shared her story Sunday night on Twitter, but did not disclose the location of the rental. Airbnb has suspended the account of the property's host amid an ongoing investigation into the incident. The company said it will still provide the woman with a refund.Just In
- 'Long Bright River' author is working on her next novel, but don't ask her about it
- New Jersey residents with criminal convictions now can serve as jurors
- These local movie theaters are giving out free popcorn on Jan. 19
- City hopes 2026 will be turning point for LOVE Park's vacant 'flying saucer'
- Game ball, three stars, and snap count analysis: Wild Card Round, Eagles vs. 49ers
- Joel Embiid, Paul George questionable for Sixers-Raptors on Monday after missing front end of back-to-back
Must Read
