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

September 25, 2025

Government

City Council approves additional hiring protections for jobseekers with criminal records

by Michaela Althouse

Newly passed amendments to the city's Fair Hiring Law extend protections for jobseekers with criminal records. The legislation says employers must provide applicants a written explanation for rejecting them over a conviction.

September 25, 2025

Business

Iron Hill Brewery abruptly closes all 16 of its brewpubs

by Michaela Althouse

Iron Hill Brewery announced Thursday morning that it was abruptly closing all 16 of its locations. 'We sincerely hope to return in the future, and when we do, we promise to welcome you with open arms,' the company said.

September 24, 2025

Jimmy Kimmel returns to late night and calls Trump administration's threats against his show 'un-American'

by Michaela Althouse

'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' returned to ABC on Tuesday night, although it was not broadcast by about 70 affiliate stations. In his monologue, Jimmy Kimmel addressed his suspension, the killing of Charlie Kirk and his free speech rights.

September 23, 2025

Education

After turbulent year, Penn climbs to No. 7 in U.S. News rankings of universities

by Michaela Althouse

The University of Pennsylvania climbed to No. 7 in U.S. News & World Report's annual ranking of America's colleges and universities. Last year, the West Philly institution fell to 10th — its lowest ranking in nearly three decades.

September 23, 2025

Food & Drink

In absence of Restaurant Week, this Philly chef is offering prix fixe dinners at his establishments

by Michaela Althouse

Townsend Wentz Restaurant Group is hosting a Restaurant Week-style deal at its six Philadelphia restaurants, including Townsend, Oloroso, the Hayes and A Mano. Menus including three courses at $45 per person.

September 22, 2025

Investigations

Bucks County farm owner accused of animal cruelty returned to the U.S.

by Michaela Althouse

Abigail O'Keefe, the owner of Narrow Way Farm in Bucks County, was returned to the United States from Belize on Friday. She faces over 100 counts of animal cruelty in the largest case of its kind in county history.

September 22, 2025

Recreation

Work to Ride hosting indoor polo event to debut $15 million arena in Fairmont Park

by Michaela Althouse

The inaugural Philadelphia Arena Polo Championship will be held in the new McCausland Arena in Fairmount Park on Saturday, Sept. 27. There will be two matches that will benefit Work to Ride, an equestrian program for city kids.

September 22, 2025

Education

UArts' archives to be preserved by Historical Society of Pennsylvania

by Michaela Althouse

Archives from the University of the Arts, including student work, administrative records and historical photos, are now in the possession of the Historical Society of Philadelphia. A portion will be displayed to the public on Nov. 8, 2025.

September 19, 2025

Government

SNAP has new work requirements, but exemptions could help many at risk of losing food assistance

by Michaela Althouse

New eligibility requirements for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program began Sept. 1 in Philadelphia. A Community Legal Services attorney says exemptions could help thousands who are at risk of losing food assistance.

September 18, 2025

History

Gloria Dei Episcopal Church to restore bell with ties to 1776 celebrations of America's independence

by Michaela Althouse

Gloria Dei Episcopal Church in Philadelphia is using a National Park Services grant to repair its roof and restore its bell, which has ties to the celebrations that followed the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July 1776.