Michael Tanenbaum

Michael Tanenbaum is a senior staff writer for PhillyVoice.com, with interests ranging from technology and behavioral health to local community initiatives and cultural life. Michael has written for the Argentina Independent and Bespoke Magazine and previously served as a news editor for Xfinity.com before joining PhillyVoice. He received his B.A. in The Writing Seminars at Johns Hopkins University.

tanenbaum@phillyvoice.com

November 8, 2023

Investigations

Montgomery County authorities offer $10,000 reward to solve woman's cold case murder

by Michael Tanenbaum

Julie Barnyock's cold case murder has remained unsolved for 30 years since she went missing from SEPTA's Lansdale Station in Montgomery County. Her body was found in a nearby rail yard three weeks later. Montgomery County prosecutors are offering a $30,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in the case.

November 8, 2023

Senior Health

Eating strawberries may lower the risk of dementia, study finds

by Michael Tanenbaum

Eating strawberries may slow cognitive decline and the progression of dementia among middle-aged people, especially those who are overweight. A new study from the University of Cincinnati suggests the berries may improve cognitive performance and mood, possibly because they reduce inflammation in the brain. Strawberries and blueberries also may both be helpful supplements for adults with mild cognitive impairment.

November 8, 2023

Investigations

Former J.R. Masterman School teacher fatally struck by car while biking in Roxborough

by Michael Tanenbaum

Former J.R. Masterman School teacher Kevin St. Clair, 64, was killed in a multi-car crash while biking in Roxborough on Monday night. He is the 10th cyclist to be killed in a car crash in the city this year, marking the highest number on record in Philadelphia. St. Clair was a sixth grade teacher, middle school dean and cross-country coach.

November 7, 2023

2023 Election

Cherelle Parker wins to becomes Philly's 100th mayor and first woman to lead city

by Michael Tanenbaum

In Philadelphia's mayoral election, Democrat Cherelle Parker defeated Republican David Oh on Tuesday. She will be the city's 100th mayor and the first woman to hold the office. Parker's victory comes at a significant moment for Philadelphia as the city seeks a new police commissioner and decides key issues like whether to approve a new 76ers arena in Center City.

November 6, 2023

2023 Election

2023 election roundup: Brian O'Neill wins 12th term on Philadelphia City Council, statewide judicial races go to Democrats

by Michael Tanenbaum

In Tuesday's election, two district seats in Philadelphia City Council are up for grabs. Voters also will choose judges for key positions in Pennsylvania's courts.

November 6, 2023

Politics

George Norcross threatens to sue Eagles after being removed from the Linc for hanging American-Israeli flag

by Michael Tanenbaum

George Norcross III, the New Jersey political powerbroker, was ejected from Sunday's Eagles-Cowboys game at Lincoln Financial Field for draping an American-Israeli flag from a luxury box. Norcross said he is considering filing a lawsuit against the Eagles, the NFL and the security company at the stadium. Video of his removal went viral on social media.

November 3, 2023

Social Media

Drexel student who sank half-court shot to win $10,000 says 'the ball just felt right' in his hands

by Michael Tanenbaum

Drexel University student Sakirul Karim won $10,000 for making a half-court shot at a pep rally for the upcoming basketball season. Karim was swarmed by Dragons players after the ball went through the hoop. The freshman computer science major says he plans to use the winnings to pay his college tuition.

November 3, 2023

Development

The SS United States, the ocean liner docked in South Philly, may find a new home as a Manhattan hotel

by Michael Tanenbaum

Developers want to restore the SS United States and move it to the Hudson River in Manhattan to serve as a hotel and event space. The historic ocean liner has been docked on the Delaware River waterfront in South Philly since 1996. The SS United States Conservancy is partnering with developer RXR and MCR Hotels in hopes of bringing the vessel to New York or another host city. The ship has recently faced threats of eviction from its pier.

November 2, 2023

Prevention

New lung cancer screening guidelines advise 5 million more people to get annual scans

by Michael Tanenbaum

The new lung cancer screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society cover about 5 million more current and former smokers in the United States. Yearly scans are now recommended even for people who quit smoking at least 15 years ago. They should begin getting scanned at age 50 and continue until age 80 – a longer range. And the length and intensity of smoking history needed to be eligible for regular screenings has been shortened.

November 2, 2023

Investigations

Texas man arrested in Philly, charged with killing wife at South Jersey hotel

by Michael Tanenbaum

Steven Burgess, 38, of Texas, allegedly shot and killed his wife, 30-year-old Ivy Morris, at the Days Inn in Runnemede, New Jersey early Wednesday morning, Camden County prosecutors said. He also is accused of carjacking a man at gunpoint as he fled the hotel. Burgess was arrested in Philadelphia on Wednesday and will be extradited to New Jersey.