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

May 7, 2026

Politics

City Council could ban sale of foie gras at Philly stores and restaurants

by Michaela Althouse

City Councilmember Cindy Bass introduced a bill Thursday calling for a ban of foie gras at restaurants and stores in Philadelphia. Similar legislation was introduced in 2006 and 2008 but never came to fruition.

May 6, 2026

Investigations

Three more people charged in deadly Lincoln University homecoming shooting

by Michaela Althouse

William Sells, 20, Karon Rollins, 17, and Makaveli Valera, 19 have been charged with second-degree murder and related charges for their alleged roles in last year's deadly Lincoln University homecoming shooting. A fourth person, Zecqueous Morgan-Thompson, previously was charged.

May 6, 2026

Investigations

Four plead guilty to stealing Treasury checks that totaled $84 million in mail fraud scheme

by Michaela Althouse

Four people pled guilty Tuesday in a scheme to steal envelopes from the U.S. Treasury marked 'Return to Sender' from a USPS distribution facility and resell them online via Telegram.

May 5, 2026

Environment

State grant to fund planting of 500 new trees along Meadow Lake in FDR Park

by Michaela Althouse

The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and the Fairmount Park Conservancy will plant 500 trees along Meadow Lake in FDR Park. The move comes as the park undergoes a $250 million renovation project.

May 5, 2026

Music

Low Cut Connie's new single urges listeners to 'protest during the day and party at night'

by Michaela Althouse

Philly band Low Cut Connie has released a new single, 'Can't Be Wrong,' and announced tour dates. The Philly band has a protest album, 'Living in the USA' due out July 3.

May 4, 2026

Food & Drink

Wawa is selling a Gritty-themed smoothie to celebrate the Flyers' playoff run

by Michaela Althouse

Wawa is selling a Gritty-themed smoothie combines mango, pineapple and tar cherry. The drink is topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips.

May 1, 2026

Transportation

Spirit Airlines, one of three carriers at Atlantic City's airport, is preparing to shut down

by Michaela Althouse

Spirit Airlines, which operates out of both the Atlantic City and Philadelphia airports, is reportedly set to cease operations. The company failed to secure a funding deal as it moved through bankruptcy court.

May 1, 2026

Food & Drink

Dogfish Head releases hazy IPA inspired by 50th season of 'Survivor'

by Michaela Althouse

Dogfish Head has released Coconut Etiquette, a limited-edition hazy IPA that is inspired by the longevity of the CBS reality series 'Survivor.' Four-packs are packaged in a wooden crate that also contains a pint glass, stick and buff.

May 1, 2026

History

Massive collection of Ben Franklin items to hit the auction block — after being displayed in Philly this week

by Michaela Althouse

A broad collection of Benjamin Franklin items, including books, broadsides, letters and manuscripts printed by the Founding Father, are being auctioned off by Sotheby's on June 24. A portion of the collection is on display at the Library Company of Philadelphia from Tuesday, May 5, through Thursday, May 7.

April 30, 2026

Transportation

City Council to consider expanding SEPTA’s student fare program

by Michaela Althouse

City Council approved a resolution Thursday calling for hearings on SEPTA's student fare program, which offers free public transit rides to students. Parents want to expand who qualifies for a pass and when they can be used.