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.
December 26, 2023
Investigations
Man fatally shot during suspected robbery attempt in Pennsport, police say
Philadelphia police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on the 1400 block of South Front Street in Pennsport early Tuesday morning. A man told police that he opened fire on two masked men who approached him after pulling up in a car, suspecting he was about to be robbed. No arrests have been made.December 22, 2023
Books
The Free Library to resume Saturday hours at 12 more branches
The Free Library of Philadelphia is adding Saturday hours at 12 branches on Jan. 6, 2024. At that point, nearly half of the library's 54 branches will offer weekend service – with more expected to add it as the year progresses. Some branches cut Saturday hours in 2018 due to budget constraints; the remainder never resumed it after the pandemic closures.December 22, 2023
Transportation
SEPTA's board approves new 3-year contract with transit police union
SEPTA approved the three-year contract with the Fraternal Order of Transit Police Lodge 109. On Dec 13, officers went on strike after negotiations stalled, but were back on the job on Dec. 16 when a tentative deal was reached.December 21, 2023
Social Media
Plushies of Ricardo, the bull found wondering on NJ Transit tracks last week, sold out in two days
The plushie toy of Ricardo the bull, who was found walking on t NJ Transit train tracks recently, has sold out. It's believed the Texas longhorn escaped a North Jersey slaughterhouse. Sales of the toy will help pay for the bull's stay at Skylands Animal Sanctuary in Sussex County.December 21, 2023
Investigations
Bucks County mother sentenced to life in prison for killing her two sons
Trinh Nguyen, 40, pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder on Wednesday for the killing of her two sons. She was sentenced to two life terms without parole and 10-20 years for the attempted killing of her neighbor — the maximum sentence for the latter.December 20, 2023
Jobs
Popcorn for the People to open on South Street in March, employing staff with autism
Popcorn for the People, the nonprofit that employs adults with autism and other disabilities, will open its planned storefront on South Street on March 1, officials said. The shop in Philadelphia is opening in the former Wawa at Ninth and South Streets. The organization strives to fill employment gaps for people with autism, who often struggle to find jobs. The nonprofit will hire local adults to cook, prepare and package popcorn.December 19, 2023
Development
City denies Right-to-Know requests for 76ers arena proposal, activists demand more information
Philly activists say the city has denied over 100 Right-to-Know requests regarding the proposed 76ers arena in Chinatown. Journalist Faye Anderson, the Save Chinatown Coalition and the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund have filed multiple requests for information on the project and say the city has denied them all. City Council is expected to introduce legislation regarding the proposed 76ers arena in January.December 19, 2023
Illness
WHO says COVID strain JN.1 is a 'variant of interest,' citing its increasing spread
The World Health Organization classified JN.1 as a COVID 'variant of interest' on Tuesday, but said that current tests and vaccines remain effective. JN.1 accounts for 32% of new COVID cases in the Northeast U.S.December 18, 2023
Mayor
Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker appoints 'Big Three' leadership team
Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker named the top three staffers in her new administration. Tiffany Thurman will be the Philadelphia mayor's chief of staff, Sinceré Harris will serve as the chief deputy mayor of intergovernmental affairs, sustainability and engagement, and Aren Platt will be the chief deputy mayor of planning and strategic initiatives. Parker, who takes office in January, said these are her administration's top three positions.December 18, 2023
Education
Penn's faculty sign letter opposing trustee, donor influence
The University of Pennsylvania's Faculty Senate released a letter condemning interference from donors, alumni, the Board of Trustees and the Board of Advisors in academic and governance policies at the school. More than 900 faculty members have signed the letter, which follows an email from a donor and leader of the Wharton School’s board of advisors that alludes to the potential elimination of some departments and a reexamination of criteria for hiring Penn faculty.Just In
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- Kelce brothers to release book inspired by 'No Dumb Questions' segment of 'New Heights' podcast
- The first professional basketball league formed in Philly in 1898, but the game didn't look anything like it does today
- Report: Ranger Suárez leaves Phillies for Red Sox, five-year deal
- New autistic Barbie may help some children feel more included and valued, experts say
- The Eagles signed 11 players
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