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.
December 19, 2023
Illness
WHO says COVID strain JN.1 is a 'variant of interest,' citing its increasing spread
The World Health Organization classified JN.1 as a COVID 'variant of interest' on Tuesday, but said that current tests and vaccines remain effective. JN.1 accounts for 32% of new COVID cases in the Northeast U.S.December 18, 2023
Mayor
Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker appoints 'Big Three' leadership team
Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker named the top three staffers in her new administration. Tiffany Thurman will be the Philadelphia mayor's chief of staff, Sinceré Harris will serve as the chief deputy mayor of intergovernmental affairs, sustainability and engagement, and Aren Platt will be the chief deputy mayor of planning and strategic initiatives. Parker, who takes office in January, said these are her administration's top three positions.December 18, 2023
Education
Penn's faculty sign letter opposing trustee, donor influence
The University of Pennsylvania's Faculty Senate released a letter condemning interference from donors, alumni, the Board of Trustees and the Board of Advisors in academic and governance policies at the school. More than 900 faculty members have signed the letter, which follows an email from a donor and leader of the Wharton School’s board of advisors that alludes to the potential elimination of some departments and a reexamination of criteria for hiring Penn faculty.December 15, 2023
Shopping
European clothing brand Mango to open store in King of Prussia Mall next year
European clothing brand Mango is opening its first Pennsylvania store in January at the King of Prussia Mall. The new store, part of a larger U.S. expansion plan, will only sell the company's women's line.December 15, 2023
Transportation
SEPTA plans to add rideshare-style bus service in some suburbs next year. How will it work?
SEPTA has proposed adding an on-demand bus service in the Philadelphia suburbs. The rideshare-like service would replace bus routes that are infrequent and have low ridership. The proposal is part of SEPTA's plan to overhaul its bus system. The 'Bus Revolution' plan will be voted on by the SEPTA board in January 2024.December 15, 2023
Food & Drink
Bacon-themed restaurant — serving pork sandwiches, cakes and even drinks — opens in South Philly
Bake'n Bacon, a bacon-themed restaurant, opened its physical location at 1148 S. 11th St. in South Philadelphia's East Passyunk neighborhood. The restaurant, which started as a food truck, serves bacon sandwiches, bacon-themed drinks and desserts with bacon.December 14, 2023
Government
Philly's chief medical examiner abruptly resigns after 1 year on the job
Philadelphia's Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Constance DiAngelo resigned from her post this week. The news comes just a few days after 6ABC reported that a Southwest Philadelphia family was suing the city after their 16-year-old daughter, Ashay McCord, was mistakenly cremated. Officials say DiAngelo's resignation is unrelated to the lawsuit.December 13, 2023
Music
Kurt Vile makes surprise appearance during Beach House show at Johnny Brenda's
Philadelphia-based musician Kurt Vile made a surprise appearance Tuesday during a concert at Johnny Brenda's by t Baltimore band Beach House.December 13, 2023
Transportation
SEPTA to suspend Chestnut Hill West line this Sunday as city removes pedestrian bridge
SEPTA will suspend service of the Chestnut Hill West Regional Rail line for all of Sunday, Dec. 17 as the city removes the Duval Street pedestrian bridge. Service will shift to the Chestnut Hill East line; extra trains will accommodate the change but no bus substitution is planned.December 13, 2023
Transportation
Philadelphia receives $16.4 million in latest round of federal bike and pedestrian safety grants
Philadelphia will receive $16.4 million for pedestrian and bicycling safety measures through the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant. The funds will be primarily used for upgrades to Old York Road and Hunting Park Avenue in North Philly. Last year, Philadelphia received $30 million from the same grant.Just In
- MLB rumors: Phillies seriously considering manager swap, from Rob Thomson to Alex Cora
- A Pierre Robert mural is coming to Center City, but its exact site is undetermined
- Mann Center concertgoers have to pay for parking again starting next month
- Intimate partner homicide has clear warning signs – and is often preventable, research shows
- As data centers spread in Pa., lawmakers are proposing guardrails. Community activists want a moratorium
- Joel Embiid listed doubtful for Sixers-Celtics on Sunday; full injury reports ahead of Game 4
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