Michaela Althouse

Michaela Althouse is a staff writer for PhillyVoice with interests in climate, technology, education and politics. She’s previously written for Technical.ly, Washingtonian Magazine, Philadelphia Magazine, New Project Media and Metro Eireann. She is a Bucks County native who enjoys gardening, exploring Philly and finding the city’s best coffee.

michaela@phillyvoice.com

February 13, 2026

Music

Jill Scott pays homage to North Philly on new album 'To Whom This May Concern'

by Michaela Althouse

Jill Scott's first album in a decade includes a track honoring North Philly. 'Norf Side,' in collaboration with fellow Philadelphian Tierra Whack, includes multiple shoutouts to the neighborhood.

February 12, 2026

Government

Philly's proposal to ban unlicensed dog breeding sparks debate at City Council

by Michaela Althouse

A proposed moratorium on unlicensed dog breeding and sales is sparking debate in Philadelphia. Supporters say it would reduce overcrowding at the city's animal shelters. Opponents say it lumps responsible and irresponsible breeders together.

February 11, 2026

Nature

Longwood Gardens' new nighttime display bathes its indoor plants in multicolored lights

by Michaela Althouse

'Garden Glow,' a new nighttime display at Longwood Gardens, illuminates the plants within its two conservatories in multicolored lights. It is open from 5-10 p.m. Fridays to Sundays through March 8. Adult tickets cost $45.

February 11, 2026

Celebrities

Travis Kelce recalls the way Kylie Kelce made his brother Jason lovestruck

by Michaela Althouse

On Wednesday's episode of 'New Heights,' Travis Kelce shared his first impressions of his sister-in-law, Kylie Kelce, saying he could tell she was a 'sweetheart' that had an 'underlying toughness.'

February 10, 2026

Courts

Philly's collar counties are backing the city's legal fight to restore the Presidents House exhibit

by Michaela Althouse

Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties are calling on the federal government to restore the Presidents House exhibit at Independence National Historical Park. Philly filed a lawsuit claiming the National Park Service illegally removed panels describing the lives of the nine slaves George Washington kept in Philly during his presidency.

February 10, 2026

Government

City explores establishing Child Welfare Commission to advise on family policies and inform public of resources

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia City Council is considering legislation to form the Child Welfare Commission, a 15-person advisory body on family policies and systems. If approved, the measure would create a ballot question for the November elections.

February 9, 2026

Weather

Philly just received 15,000 tons of road salt, but environmentalists warn about the lingering effects of overuse

by Michaela Althouse

About 15,000 tons of road salt was delivered to the city Thursday, the Philadelphia Streets Department said. While the de-icing method keeps streets safe, environmentalists warn it can be harmful to plants, animals and water sources.

February 9, 2026

Nature

King of Prussia Mall display offers glimpse of Philadelphia Flower Show

by Michaela Althouse

The King of Prussia Mall is displaying a floral installation that previews the Philadelphia Flower Show, which is coming to the Pennsylvania Convention Center from Feb. 28 to March 8. The KOP Mall display can be found in the luxury wing.

February 9, 2026

Senior Health

A brain game may cut risk of Alzheimer's disease by 25%, study finds

by Michaela Althouse

Some older adults who complete specific cognitive exercises, called speed training, may lower their risk of developing dementia by 25%, new research shows. It's the first 'clear documentation' that cognitive training may lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease, one expert says.

February 6, 2026

Food & Drink

Geno's Steaks continues expansion outside Philly with new shop opening next month in Baltimore

by Michaela Althouse

Geno's Steaks will continue its expansion outside Philly and open a new shop in Baltimore on March 5. The move to Maryland comes months after the cheesesteak restaurant opened a location in Hampton, Virginia.