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

June 6, 2024

Government

City Council backs low-income real estate tax relief, Mayor Cherelle Parker's budget

by Michaela Althouse

A bill backed by City Council would offer property tax relief for homeowners making under $33,000 annually as a single person or $41,5000 as a married couple. The effort gained support in Mayor Cherelle Parker's 2025 budget, which was approved by the Committee of the Whole early Thursday morning.

May 31, 2024

Transportation

With Pride, Roots Picnic and bike rides, here are this weekend's road closures

by Michaela Althouse

The Roots Picnic, Philly Pride, Independence Dragon Boat Regatta and the American Cancer Society Bike-a-Thon are all scheduled for this weekend. Here's how that will impact roadways for drivers.

May 31, 2024

Government

Philadelphia poised to make eviction diversion program permanent

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia is set to make the city's eviction diversion program permanent On Thursday, City Council passed legislation to extend the program and it is expected to be signed by Mayor Cherelle Parker. The program requires mediation sessions between tenants and their landlords before the situation proceeds to landlord-tenant court.

May 31, 2024

Books

Philly author explores life, art and a queer group house in new novel

by Michaela Althouse

Philly author Emma Copley Eisenberg's new book 'Housemates' explores queer life, love and art through the lens of West Philly roommates Bernie and Leah. They embark on a road trip through rural Pennsylvania, taking photos along the way.

May 30, 2024

Food & Drink

Fishtown Seafood is opening a second location in Fitler Square

by Michaela Althouse

Fishtown Seafood, the River Wards fish store, is opening a second location this weekend in Filter Square. The new spot features more space for classes and grab-and-go sushi.

May 29, 2024

Arts & Culture

18 Society Hill residents to open up their yards next month for annual garden tour

by Michaela Althouse

People can check out 18 gardens and yards in Society Hill during the annual walking tour on June 8-9. Tickets start at $35 and include entry for both days.

May 29, 2024

Investigations

Motorcyclist fatally struck by stolen vehicle driven by teen in North Philly

by Michaela Althouse

A 17-year-old driving a stolen SUV fatally struck a motorcyclist after running a red light on Front Street in Feltonville on Tuesday night, Philadelphia police said. The driver and four teens fled the crash scene on foot, but were captured by police.

May 27, 2024

Arts & Culture

Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show returns in June featuring art therapy exhibition

by Michaela Althouse

The Rittenhouse Square Fine Arts Show returns next month for its 97th year. The open-air event, which is expecting 20,000 attendees, will take place June 7-9 at Rittenhouse Square and feature about 145 artists.

May 25, 2024

Philly's Brett Gray appears in his debut episode of Paramount+ drama 'The Chi'

by Michaela Althouse

Mt. Airy native Brett Gray appeared in his first episode of "The Chi" on Friday on Paramount+, playing the role of Damien. He confirmed this morning that he'll be a recurring character for the rest of Season 6.

May 25, 2024

Travel

Wildwood: Everything you need to know about the beaches and things to do there this summer

by Michaela Althouse

Here's your guide to Wildwood this summer, from some fries on the boardwalk to knowing when lifeguards are on duty. Learn about beach rules, where you can bring dogs, local attractions and events like the Barefoot Country Music Festival.