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.
April 6, 2020
Police
Philly police lieutenant, 59, mourned after death from COVID-19
Philadelphia police Lt. James Walker, 59, died at Abington Memorial Hospital on April 5, 2020 after a battle with COVID-19. Walker was a veteran of the force, serving 33 years in the department. He is the first city employee to die of complications from the coronavirus.April 2, 2020
Illness
Rutgers launches COVID-19 saliva test that could rapidly screen thousands daily
Rutgers University researchers have developed a rapid COVID-19 test that analyzes a person's saliva sample for coronavirus RNA. The developers are seeking an FDA emergency use authorization to begin using the test, which could spare health workers from coronavirus exposure and handle thousands of test samples per day, according to its creators at RUCDR Infinite Biologics in Piscataway, New Jersey.April 2, 2020
Streaming
HBO to offer free streaming of 500 hours of TV shows, movies during COVID-19 pandemic
Starting April 3, HBO will remove its paywall for 500 hours of free streaming content during the coronavirus pandemic. The selection includes acclaimed series such as "The Sopranos" and "The Wire," as well as movies and documentaries.April 2, 2020
City Services
Philly's recycling collection shifts to new schedule during coronavirus pandemic
The Philadelphia Streets Department is operating a day behind schedule for trash and recycling collection as a result of staffing shortages during the coronavirus pandemic. Residents should expect delays and maintain normal curbside schedules as the department catches up.April 2, 2020
Prevention
Promising COVID-19 vaccine candidate from Pennsylvania researchers could be fast-tracked for clinical trials
A COVID-19 microneedle vaccine developed by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has been submitted to the FDA for approval to move forward with human clinical trials. The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine was created using past research on the SARS and MERS coronaviruses.April 1, 2020
Investigations
Man found dead in homicide at Jersey Shore home, prosecutors say
A 67-year-old Somers Point man was found dead at his Jersey Shore home on March 30, 2020. Atlantic County prosecutors are investigating the victim's death as a homicide.April 1, 2020
Business
Sheetz launches free meal program for kids during coronavirus pandemic
Sheetz's Kidz Meal Bagz, available at participating stores in six states, will include a turkey sandwich, a bag of chips and a drink. The Pennsylvania-based company will initially run the program for two weeks to help families in need during the coronavirus pandemic.April 1, 2020
Housing
Philly reiterates suspension on evictions, urges residents to complete 2020 Census
Philadelphia renters cannot be evicted through April 30, because Pennsylvania courts will remain closed except for essential functions. Mayor Jim Kenney also asked city residents to complete the 2020 Census either online or using the mailed questionnaire.April 1, 2020
Rentals
Pennsylvania plans to ban Airbnb rentals as COVID-19 cases rise in Poconos
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf will look to curb a rise in coronavirus cases in Monroe and Northampton counties, where short-term rental properties in the Poconos may be leading to an uptick in confirmed COVID-19 infections. The administration is developing guidance to remove Airbnb's and other properties from the state's list of life-sustaining businesses.March 31, 2020
Government
Mayor Kenney presses D.A. Krasner to 'vigorously' prosecute Philly's gun cases during coronavirus pandemic
Amid a spike in shootings during Philadelphia's coronavirus restrictions, Mayor Jim Kenney has urged District Attorney Larry Krasner to prosecute gun cases more strictly in the city.Just In
- Nordstrom Rack to open new stores in Exton and Media this fall
- Report: Phillies, Bo Bichette meeting went 'very well,' no more news yet
- Joel Embiid, VJ Edgecombe and Paul George probable for Sixers-Cavaliers on Wednesday
- Police search for suspects tied to fatal shooting at Chipotle near Temple University
- Philly woman sentenced to prison for role in Medicaid fraud scheme totaling $1.76 million
- Mount Moriah Cemetery seeks donations to beef up security after grave-robbing spree
Must Read
