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

December 12, 2025

Holiday

LL Cool J, who dropped out of Welcome America, to perform free New Year's Eve concert on the Parkway

by Michaela Althouse

Rapper LL Cool J will headline a New Year's Eve concert that will be followed by fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The musician is returning to the city after dropping out of the Wawa Welcome America concert in July.

December 11, 2025

Business

More sidewalk cafes could pop up next year after City Council cuts red tape in approval process

by Michaela Althouse

City Council approved a bill Thursday that speeds up the approval process for Philly restaurants seeking to add a sidewalk cafe outside their establishments.

December 11, 2025

Philadelphia 250

U.S. Mint releases new coins for America's 250th anniversary. Will they become prized among collectors?

by Michaela Althouse

The U.S. Mint revealed new semiquincentennial coin designs at the National Constitution Center. A Philly coin expert says they likely won't have much value to collectors.

December 10, 2025

Transportation

Columbus Boulevard ramp to I-95 to close Thursday due to capping project

by Michaela Althouse

The ramp from Columbus Boulevard to Interstate 95 North in Center City will be closed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday due to the I-95 capping project. The ramp also provides access to I-676 and Callowhill Street.

December 9, 2025

Philly native Sheinelle Jones named Jenna Bush Hager's permanent co-host for final hour of NBC's 'Today' show

by Michaela Althouse

Sheinelle Jones, a Philly native and onetime anchor of 'Good Day Philadelphia,' will permanently replace Hoda Kotb as Jenna Bush Hager's co-host for the final hour of the 'Today' show on NBC.

December 9, 2025

Food & Drink

How has a Michelin star changed Philly's acclaimed restaurants?

by Michaela Althouse

Weeks after Friday Saturday Sunday, Her Place Supper Club and Provenance earned a Michelin star, Philly's acclaimed chefs discuss the added pressure and popularity that comes with receiving one of the highest culinary honors.

December 9, 2025

Investigations

Philly youth football players charged with stealing merchandise from Dick's Sporting Goods store in Florida

by Michaela Althouse

Eight players on the United Thoroughbreds, a Philadelphia youth football team, were arrested Saturday in Polk County, Florida for allegedly stealing 47 items valued at more than $2,000 from a Dick's Sporting Goods store. They were in the state to play in a championship game.

December 8, 2025

Donations

These Philly groups are accepting food, clothes and gift donations during the holidays

by Michaela Althouse

These Philadelphia organizations are accepting food, clothing and gift donations to help people in need during the holidays. Here's what they need and how to get the items to them.

December 8, 2025

Arts & Culture

Alex Cooper's 'Call Her Daddy' podcast nominated for new Golden Globe Award

by Michaela Althouse

The 2026 Golden Globe nominees include Alex Cooper's 'Call Her Daddy' — one of six podcasts nominated in the new podcast category. Amanda Seyfried and Mark Ruffalo received nominations for their roles in TV shows set in the Philly region. And 'Abbott Elementary' earned its 10th nomination since it premiered in 2021.

December 6, 2025

Government

'Just part of the legislative process': Council president downplays tension over delay to Parker's housing plan

by Michaela Althouse

Mayor Cherelle Parker's H.O.M.E. initiative won't get final approval until next year after City Council amended the budget. Both sides say their relationship remains strong.