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.
July 3, 2026
Music
Low Cut Connie releases its first album full of protest songs
Philly rock band Low Cut Connie released its new protest album, 'Livin' in the USA,' on Friday. Its 10 songs are critical of the Trump administration and encourage people to find joy amid political unrest.July 3, 2026
America250
Salute to Independence Parade in Center City canceled due to extreme heat
The Salute to Independence Parade, which was supposed to kick off at Independence Hall at noon Friday, has been canceled due to extreme heat. The Pops on Independence concert scheduled for Saturday evening is still on.July 2, 2026
Investigations
Suspect in SEPTA subway shooting charged with attempted murder
Lester Perez, 27, has been charged with attempted murder and other offenses for allegedly shooting a man in the stomach while riding SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line on June 18, 2026.July 1, 2026
Transportation
Regional Rail service restored following train derailment in North Philly
A Manayunk/Norristown Line train derailed near North Philadelphia Station early Wednesday morning, causing widespread Regional Rail service disruptions, SEPTA officials say.June 30, 2026
History
Here's a look at the newly renovated First Bank of the United States, which is now open to the public
The First National Bank is open to the public again after a 24-year hiatus in which it underwent a multimillion dollar renovation and was turned into a museum. Here's a look inside the building and at two new exhibits.June 30, 2026
Holiday
Officials shorten Salute to Independence parade on July 3 over concerns about heat wave
The Salute to Independence Parade will take place with a shorter route due to the extreme temperatures. It will now turn at City Hall and end at Broad and Chestnut streets instead of going to Logan Circle and looping back.June 29, 2026
Pets
For a woman and her dog, rat hunting in Philly is about bonding, community and providing a public service
Jenna Walkling and her dog Torch have hunted rats around Philly for the past six years. For them, it's a bonding activity and a public service they can provide to help keep the city's pest population under control.June 29, 2026
Arts & Culture
Joe Frazier sculpture installed at base of art museum steps where Rocky statue used to stand
A sculpture of boxer Joe Frazier has a new home at the base of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's steps. It replaces the Rocky statue, which was moved inside as part of a special exhibition and will later be installed at the top of the steps.June 29, 2026
Business
Comcast to split NBCUniversal, which includes Peacock and theme parks, into separate company
Philly-based media giant Comcast announced plans Monday to split NBCUniversal — which includes streaming service Peacock, the Universal movie studio and theme parks — and European media company Sky into a separate company.June 26, 2026
Courts
City officials defend 'ICE Out' law singled out in federal lawsuit, saying it limits 'confusion and fear' around agents
Philadelphia officials responded to a lawsuit from the federal government that claims a law in the city's recently approved 'ICE Out' package that bans agents from wearing masks and using unmarked cars is unconstitutional.Just In
- Heroes and zeroes from the 17th and final day of Eagles training camp
- Here are the child safety features Facebook and Instagram must adopt as part of $17.1 billion lawsuit settlement
- How can Philly students apply to criteria-based schools without their latest PSSA scores? The district is readying a plan
- Ritz Five movie theater shut down indefinitely due to fire code violation
- Masked man accused of terrorizing people in Center City is arrested in Las Vegas
- 2026 fantasy football WR rankings: DeVonta Smith poised for monster season?
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