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.
November 26, 2024
Movies
Philadelphia Film Society to host weekend marathon with all six 'Rocky' movies on Dec. 6-8
The Philadelphia Film Society will host a 'Rocky' marathon all weekend from Dec. 6-8. Attendees can watch all six of the franchise's movies for a bundle discount or attend individual screenings.November 25, 2024
Investigations
Marijuana disguised as a burrito found in Uber Eats delivery in South Jersey
An Uber Eats order was found to contain marijuana in Washington Township, New Jersey on Sunday, police said. The delivery driver called police after noticing the smell of cannabis coming from the bag. Police found an ounce of cannabis wrapped in a tin foil – designed to look like a burrito. The order originated from Lindenwold.November 25, 2024
Health News
Philly City Council supports the creation of a state health care advocate – here's what that office would do
Philadelphia City Council unanimously passed a resolution calling for Pennsylvania to create an Office of Public Healthcare Advocate. The office would help investigate and mediate coverage denials from health insurance companies and excessive billing from medical providers, among other responsibilities.November 23, 2024
Education
Penn is among U.S. colleges changing financial aid eligibility in move to make college more affordable
University of Pennsylvania is changing how it calculates financial aid. In the fall, students from families earning less than $200,000 can qualify for free tuition and a student's family's primary home will no long be factored into financial aid calculations, Penn says. It's among several U.S. schools implementing changes to make college more affordable to students from middle-income families.November 22, 2024
Transportation
Gov. Josh Shapiro approves $153 million for SEPTA to prevent massive fare increases, service cuts
Gov. Josh Shapiro said the state would divert $153 million that was meant for seven highway projects to aid SEPTA's ongoing budget deficit. The move delays massive fare increases and service cuts until at least July.November 21, 2024
Transportation
Philadelphia Marathon 2024: Road closures, race courses maps and SEPTA detours
The Philadelphia Marathon takes over much of Center City, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Fairmount Park this weekend. Here's everything you need to know, from road closures to SEPTA detours to details on the races themselves.November 21, 2024
Government
City Council to hold hearings ahead of Trump's inauguration to develop plan to protect marginalized groups
Philadelphia will hold hearings in January to develop strategies to protect immigrants and LGBTQ+ residents ahead of the incoming Trump administration. City Council on Thursday unanimously passed Councilmember Rue Landau's resolution calling for the meetings.November 20, 2024
Transportation
SEPTA and city transit workers agree on 1-year deal with 5% raises to avert strike
SEPTA and its largest union, Transportation Workers Local 234, reached a tentative deal Wednesday to avert a strike. The one-year contract includes a 5% wage increase, a bump in pension and safety improvements including bulletproof enclosures for bus drivers.November 19, 2024
Courts
Undated mail-in ballots can't be included in recount for Pa.'s Senate election, state Supreme Court declares
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled Monday that mail-in, absentee and provisional ballots that lack a handwritten date can't be included in the recount of the Senate race between Republican Dave McCormick and incumbent Democratic Sen. Bob Casey. The decision upholds a prior ruling.November 19, 2024
Shopping
More than 20 holiday markets in the Philly area provide plenty of chances to find homemade gifts
Vendors will take over parks, breweries and even a hotel in November and December for holiday craft markets across the region. Events include a trans art festival, punk rock flea market and fair for procrastinators. Here's where you can find more than 20 holiday markets.Just In
- Report: Phils ace Zack Wheeler to return Saturday vs. Braves
- Educators, tech advocates weigh in on Mayor Parker's proposed rideshare tax
- For older adults, excessive daytime napping may be a sign of underlying health issues
- Philly's MLB All-Star Game schedule includes fan festival and new 3-on-3 competition
- Who's John Ternus, the Penn graduate named next CEO of Apple?
- Exploring scenarios for the Eagles in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft
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