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

April 24, 2026

Environment

Temple scientist discovers rare species of wildflower only grows in New Jersey

by Michaela Althouse

A Temple University scientist discovered that a type of flowering plant thought to be a relative of another species is actually unique to the Pine Barrens in New Jersey. He said the finding will be key for conservation efforts.

April 24, 2026

Food & Drink

West Coast-based loaded french fry shop opens first Pa. location in Fishtown

by Michaela Althouse

Mr. Fries Man, a viral fast-casual chain which serves loaded fries and wings, opened its first Pennsylvania location Friday in Fishtown. The menu includes fries topped with shrimp, steak, crab and more.

April 23, 2026

Politics

Approval of 'ICE Out' legislation shows Philly 'is not afraid' to stand up to Trump, council member says

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia City Council passed the seven-bill 'ICE Out' package Thursday, limiting what Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents can do in the city and protecting immigrant communities.

April 23, 2026

Politics

City Council expands renter protections by approving Safe Healthy Homes Act

by Michaela Althouse

City Council approved the Safe Healthy Homes Act, which expands protections for renters. The package says landlords can't alter lease terms or refuse to rent to tenants who have previously reported violations or joined an association.

April 22, 2026

Investigations

Abandoned puppies found in Old City for second time in months

by Michaela Althouse

The Pennsylvania SPCA recovered seven puppies that had been abandoned in a Old City parking garage on Saturday. The case is similar to another case of abandoned puppies that occurred in December.

April 22, 2026

Lifestyle

These 5 free resources can help Philly residents make their homes more green

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia offers residents several free eco-friendly resources, including rain barrels, yard trees, composting services, recycling bins and storm drain marking kits. Here's how to access them.

April 21, 2026

Celebrities

Quinta Brunson says she didn't tell her mom when she dropped out of Temple

by Michaela Althouse

'Abbott Elementary' creator Quinta Brunson says she didn't tell her mom when she dropped out of Temple University. The Philly native appeared on 'The Tonight Show' ahead of the season finale of 'Abbott Elementary.'

April 20, 2026

Transportation

Soccer fans can ride SEPTA home for free after Philly's World Cup matches

by Michaela Althouse

After each World Cup match in Philadelphia, SEPTA will offer free rides on the Broad Street Line from NRG Station in South Philly. The free fares are part of a sponsorship deal with Airbnb.

April 20, 2026

Investigations

Temple University student assaulted after being chased into Morgan Hall residence complex

by Michaela Althouse

A Temple University student was assaulted early Sunday morning by a group of juveniles who chased the student into the Morgan Hall dormitory, Temple police said. Investigators are searching for the attackers.

April 20, 2026

History

Purported photos of Billy the Kid, possibly taken in Philly in the 1860s, are up for auction

by Michaela Althouse

Two purported photographs of Billy the Kid, the famous Western gunslinger, are being auctioned off by Fox Auctions in South Jersey. The photos suggest Billy the Kid lived in Philadelphia with his mother as a child in the 1860s.