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

July 6, 2026

Arts & Culture

Benjamin Franklin is reimagined as a rock star in new FringeArts musical

by Michaela Althouse

'The Sound of America,' a new musical playing at FringeArts, portrays Benjamin Franklin as a young rock star seeking worldwide fame. It is playing through Aug. 1.

July 4, 2026

History

As Philly celebrates America's 250th, test your knowledge on how the city has marked July Fourth over the years

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia has marked the Fourth of July in many ways over the years. Test your knowledge of the city's celebrations of the United States' biggest anniversaries.

July 3, 2026

Lawsuits

Trump administration may hang new panels at President's House, federal court says

by Michaela Althouse

The federal government may hang new panels at the President's House exhibit in Independence National Historical Park, a Third Circuit appeals court ruled. Philadelphia has appealed the decision, saying it did not have enough time to respond to a motion by the Trump administration.

July 3, 2026

Music

Low Cut Connie releases its first album full of protest songs

by Michaela Althouse

Philly rock band Low Cut Connie released its new protest album, 'Livin' in the USA,' on Friday. Its 10 songs are critical of the Trump administration and encourage people to find joy amid political unrest.

July 3, 2026

America250

Salute to Independence Parade in Center City canceled due to extreme heat

by Michaela Althouse

The Salute to Independence Parade, which was supposed to kick off at Independence Hall at noon Friday, has been canceled due to extreme heat. The Pops on Independence concert scheduled for Saturday evening is still on.

July 2, 2026

Investigations

Suspect in SEPTA subway shooting charged with attempted murder

by Michaela Althouse

Lester Perez, 27, has been charged with attempted murder and other offenses for allegedly shooting a man in the stomach while riding SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line on June 18, 2026.

July 1, 2026

Transportation

Regional Rail service restored following train derailment in North Philly

by Michaela Althouse

A Manayunk/Norristown Line train derailed near North Philadelphia Station early Wednesday morning, causing widespread Regional Rail service disruptions, SEPTA officials say.

June 30, 2026

Holiday

Officials shorten Salute to Independence parade on July 3 over concerns about heat wave

by Michaela Althouse

The Salute to Independence Parade will take place with a shorter route due to the extreme temperatures. It will now turn at City Hall and end at Broad and Chestnut streets instead of going to Logan Circle and looping back.

June 30, 2026

History

Here's a look at the newly renovated First Bank of the United States, which is now open to the public

by Michaela Althouse

The First National Bank is open to the public again after a 24-year hiatus in which it underwent a multimillion dollar renovation and was turned into a museum. Here's a look inside the building and at two new exhibits.

June 29, 2026

Pets

For a woman and her dog, rat hunting in Philly is about bonding, community and providing a public service

by Michaela Althouse

Jenna Walkling and her dog Torch have hunted rats around Philly for the past six years. For them, it's a bonding activity and a public service they can provide to help keep the city's pest population under control.