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.
August 4, 2026
Mental Health
AI chatbot companions could be making adults more lonely, new study finds
Stanford University researchers found that many people use AI companions to reduce loneliness, but without a strong in-person social network, using the tools actually might contribute to people feeling even more isolated.August 3, 2026
Food & Drink
Two Robbers to close the Lodge, its South Philly bar and restaurant
Two Robbers, the canned cocktail company, is closing its South Philadelphia bar and restaurant on Aug. 9. The company's Fishtown tasting room will remain open, with the company shifting greater focus to its wholesale operations.August 3, 2026
Investigations
Assisted living facility in South Jersey evacuated after van crash sparks fire
Nearly 110 residents of the Ridgewood Senior Living at Historic Smithville complex in Galloway Township were forced to temporarily relocate Sunday night after a van crashed, caught fire and settled near the building, authorities say.August 3, 2026
History
While Philly's marquee events are over, some improvements the city made for 2026 are here to stay
Philadelphia officials invested in a number of improvements as the city prepared to host the MLB All-Star Game, World Cup and semiquincentennial celebrations. Here are some changes that are staying beyond 2026.July 31, 2026
TV
South Jersey teacher is competing on Food Network's 'Pitmasters'
Matthew Groark, a high school teacher from South Jersey, is one of the competitors on Food Network's new show 'Pitmasters.' Teams of two are asked to make unique dishes by cooking over an open flame or grill.July 31, 2026
Health News
'Fantastic Four,' 'Captain America' cups sold at AMC theaters recalled because they contain small batteries
Two drink cups and a popcorn bucket sold at AMC and other theaters during the release of 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' and 'Captain America: Brave New World' last year have been recalled. The products contain small batteries that present a swallowing hazard for children, and did not have warning labels.July 30, 2026
TV
LeBron James reportedly in talks with ESPN to make a documentary
LeBron James is reportedly in talks with ESPN to make a documentary about his career. If a deal is finalized, camera crews could be following the newly signed Sixers star around during his first season in Philadelphia.July 29, 2026
TV
Netflix docuseries revisits 2022 slayings of four University of Idaho students
The Netflix series, 'The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare,' revisits the slayings of four University of Idaho students in 2022. The series was released two days after convicted killer Bryan Kohberger filed a petition seeking to rescind his guilty plea.July 29, 2026
Investigations
Four coaches and six players charged in connection with football hazing incidents at Cheltenham High School
Six players and four coaches of the Cheltenham High School football team have been charged in connection with two hazing incidents from last year that involved the assault of a 15-year-old sophomore.July 28, 2026
Movies
New documentary, '1776 Seconds,' examines Philly life during America's 250th birthday
A new documentary, '1776 Seconds: Philadelphia Illuminated,' uses footage shot during block parties and community events to capture life in Philly during the United States' 250th birthday celebrations. The film, from Creative Philadelphia, premieres Aug. 4 on the facade of City Hall.Just In
- Two Philly hot spots make Bon Appétit's list of 19 best new restaurants
- At least 1 in 4 NFL players develop CTE — and that's likely an undercount, new study finds
- Scammers are skimming EBT cards in Bristol and across the U.S. Here's how to spot a device
- Food Network's Michael Symon says this Philly restaurant is the most 'special' in the U.S. and Michelin is crazy to snub it
- 2026 fantasy football RB rankings: Will age, mileage catch up to Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry and Christian McCaffrey?
- Eagles 2026 training camp battle tracker
Must Read
