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 4, 2024

Donations

Rail Park seeks to raise $10,000 to repair damage from Saturday's fire

by Michaela Althouse

A section of the Rail Park in Callowhill caught fire over the weekend, and leaders launched a fundraiser seeking up to $10,000 for repairs. A temporary fix will be installed by next week.

December 4, 2024

Investigations

4 people indicted for allegedly running human trafficking ring in South Jersey

by Michaela Althouse

Seven people allegedly tied to a pair of human trafficking rings in New Jersey – one in Bridgeton, Cumberland County; the other in Newark, Essex County – have been indicted. Prosecutors say the operations threatened victims with violence and forced them to engage in sexual activity with people who paid for it.

December 3, 2024

Government

New safeguards for Philly residents using housing vouchers go into effect

by Michaela Althouse

New protections for Philadelphia residents who use housing vouchers go into effect Wednesday. The bill, which was passed by City Council in June, aims to prevent discrimination from landlords with more clarity in the ordinance and additional safeguards.

December 3, 2024

Music

Philadelphia Orchestra CEO departs to lead New York Philharmonic

by Michaela Althouse

Matías Tarnopolsky, the CEO of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts, is leaving to lead the New York Philharmonic, effective Jan. 1. He lead the Philadelphia Orchestra through its merger with the Kimmel Center and guided it through the COVID-19 pandemic.

December 2, 2024

Education

Penn's 133-year-old Fisher Fine Arts Library to undergo $17.8 million renovation

by Michaela Althouse

Penn's Fisher Fine Arts Library will undergo a $17.8 million restoration project to bring the 133-year old building back to its original state. Plans include new windows, deep cleaning its sandstone exterior and roof repairs.

December 2, 2024

Transportation

SEPTA's first fare increase since 2017 now in effect

by Michaela Althouse

SEPTA implemented its first fare increase since 2017 on Sunday. All subway, trolley and bus rides now cost $2.50, and Regional Rail tickets cost $0.25 to $1 more, depending on where riders get on and off. SEPTA averted another 21.5% fare increase that was proposed to take effect in January, thanks to an influx of state funding.

November 28, 2024

Arts & Culture

On Stage in December: 'Elf,' Neil Diamond tribute and 'Nutcracker' one-man show

by Michaela Althouse

Ring in the holidays with performances of 'ELF the Broadway Musical,' 'A Christmas Carol' and a 'Nutcracker' one-man show. Plus, Bucks County Playhouse puts on a stage version of 'Anastasia' and Quintessence brings back a classic in 'Kiss Me Kate.'

November 27, 2024

Streaming

New episode of 'Chef's Table' visits Thailand with Kalaya chef Nok Suntaranon to show her life, influences

by Michaela Althouse

Nok Suntaranon, owner and chef of the acclaimed restaurant Kalaya in Fishtown, is featured in a new episode of'Chef's Table,' released by Netflix on Wednesday. The documentary series catches Suntaranon opening up about her life and cooking beginning with her time in Thailand.

November 27, 2024

Food & Drink

Twisted Gingers Brewing Co. works with street artist to release Shamcow IPA

by Michaela Althouse

Manayunk's Twisted Gingers Brewing Co. will release a Shamcow IPA on Friday, created in collaboration with the artist behind the popular graffiti. The 16-ounce cans will be available at the taproom and farmers markets, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting a local high school.

November 26, 2024

Government

Mayor Cherelle Parker begins search for new LGBTQ+ Affairs leader after filling 2 top roles in her administration

by Michaela Althouse

The Parker administration is searching for a new LGBTQ+ Affairs leader following the departure of Celena Morrison-McLean. On Monday, Mayor Cherelle Parker tapped Candi Jones as the city's new chief human resources officer and Sabrina Maynard as the city's new budget director.