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.
March 17, 2026
Music
For Record Store Day, WXPN is dropping a compilation that includes a song from its 1,000th Free at Noon concert
WXPN is releasing its 'Homegrown Originals Volume 4' vinyl compilation as a Record Store Day promotion. People who purchase an item at participating stores on April 18 will receive it as a gift.March 16, 2026
Pets
Dog rescued from Market-Frankford Line support beam that is several stories above ground
A small black Shih Tzu mix was seen running along the tracks on the Market-Frankford Line before she got stuck on a support beam that's several stories above ground. An ACCT member rescued the dog, which was named Dottie.March 13, 2026
Food & Drink
Argentine cafe and bakery Jezabel's to return to Fitler Square this summer
Jezabel's, an Argentine cafe and bakery, will open a new location in Fitler Square later this year. The eatery was in the neighborhood for seven years before it had to close in 2018, and chef Jezabel Careaga is eager to return to the area.March 13, 2026
Education
Philly school district plans to cut hundreds of positions to reduce $300 million deficit, but no layoffs are coming
School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Tony Watlington announced a plan to cut $225 million in operating costs for the 2026-2027 school year that includes eliminating vacant roles, cutting substitutes and reassigning staffers.March 11, 2026
Transportation
SEPTA revives bus redesign plan with route changes and new schedules
SEPTA has revived the Bus Revolution, newly named the New Bus Network initiative, and will implement changes to routes and schedules in three phases, with the first one starting in August.March 11, 2026
Government
Sincere Harris, a top official in the Parker administration, is stepping down
Sincere Harris, one of two chief deputy mayors under Mayor Cherelle Parker, is departing city government for a job in the private sector.March 11, 2026
Government
Mayor Parker proposes new taxes on Uber rides and Amazon deliveries to raise money for schools and road repairs
Mayor Cherelle Parker's budget proposal includes new taxes on rideshare trips and retail deliveries in Philadelphia. It also includes funding to add homeless shelter beds and operate addiction recovery services.March 9, 2026
Politics
For young political candidates, getting elected is about making their voices heard
In upcoming Democratic primaries, two 20-somethings will appear on the ballots in Philadelphia and the suburbs. Leo Solga, 22, and Jahmiel Jackson, 24, shared why they're running, and how they feel they're represented currently.March 9, 2026
Adult Health
Recreational drug use significantly increases risk of stroke, study finds
The use of recreational drugs, including amphetamines, cannabis and cocaine, significantly increases the risk of stroke later in life, a new study shows. There was no connection between opioids and stroke.March 9, 2026
Investigations
Pennsylvania state trooper fatally shot in apparent murder-suicide in Chester County
Pennsylvania state trooper Tim O'Connor was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Chester County on Sunday night. The man who shot O'Connor then fatally shot himself, authorities said.Just In
- Poison centers are fielding more calls tied to kava use
- Smith Memorial Playground is collecting letters from kids for a time capsule that won't be opened until 2076
- Jersey Shore towns get $99 million in federal funding for beach replenishment
- Cyclists are bringing concrete curbs and traffic cones to Center City to advocate for protected bike lanes
- Eagles 2026 draft prospect visit tracker
- Flyers rooting guide: A look at everything they need, and face, in the playoff chase
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