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.
February 6, 2024
Business
Neshaminy Mall put up for sale; listing touts its possibility for redevelopment
The Neshaminy Mall in Bensalem has been listed for sale by owner Brookfield Properties. The mall was built in 1968, but has suffered the loss of anchor tenants Macy's and Sears in recent years. A listing from commercial real estate agent JLL touts the mall's location as a coveted suburban site that can be redeveloped and repurposed.February 5, 2024
Environment
Part of Cape May Co. beach, legendarily haunted and a haven for nudists, closes for ecological work
A portion of Cape May County's Higbee Beach Wildlife Protection Area will be closed until 2026 for a $37.5 million ecological restoration project led by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Higbee Beach, on the Delaware Bay and known for its wildlife, is popular among bird watchers, hikers and sunbathers. It also has tales of ghosts. About 428 of the preserve will be closed until December 2026.February 5, 2024
Education
Penn lecturer's political cartoons about Israel condemned by university president as 'antisemitic'
University of Pennsylvania interim President J. Larry Jameson condemned recent political cartoons drawn by lecturer and artist Dwayne Booth, aka Mr. Fish, who has published images critical of Israel's war in Gaza. Jameson called Booth's work 'reprehensible' and 'antisemitic' as the Ivy League school continues to navigate turmoil on its campus and concerns about safety for Jewish students. Booth said his art is being misinterpreted.February 2, 2024
Investigations
Bucks County man accused of beheading father wanted Gov. Shapiro to 'join forces' against feds, prosecutors say
Justin Mohn, the Bucks County man who allegedly decapitated his father on Tuesday, allegedly wanted to speak with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro to convince him to raise arms in rebellion against the federal government, prosecutors said Friday. Mohn, 32, allegedly had a 'clear mind' after his arrest at a National Guard base in Lebanon County on Tuesday night, District Attorney Jennifer Schorn said.February 2, 2024
Food & Drink
Bierhaul Farmhouse to open an indoor beer garden in West Chester
Bierhaul Farmhouse is expanding to West Chester. Its new indoor beer garden, Bierhaul Townhouse, is slated to open March 7 at 15 N. Walnut St. The restaurant fuses European and American influences, with a beer list of lagers and pilsners, and a menu of comfort foods. The original location in Thornton, Delaware County, opened in October 2022.February 2, 2024
Parenting
Strong parental support lowers the depression risk of young adults, study finds
Young adults who receive ongoing parental support are less likely to have depression than those who lack sustained involvement from their mothers and fathers, according to new research out of Penn State University. The study found this to be true even if the children have moved out of the home.February 2, 2024
Celebrities
Actor Carl Weathers, who starred as Apollo Creed in 'Rocky' movies, dies at 76
Actor and former NFL player Carl Weathers has died at 76, leaving behind a legacy of major roles including Apollo Creed in the 'Rocky' film franchise and as Chubbs in Adam Sandler's 'Happy Gilmore.' Weathers' death comes after his appearance in a Super Bowl commercial with retired tight end Rob Gronkowski, who will participate in FanDuel's 'Kick of Destiny' before Sunday's game between the Chiefs and 49ers. Fanduel says it plans to adjust its campaign for the promotion.February 1, 2024
Development
Camden's troubled Northgate One building to be converted into affordable housing tower
The Northgate One apartment tower in Camden, which sits at the foot of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, has been acquired by Hudson Valley Property Group to be renovated and transformed into an affordable housing complex. The 21-story building was constructed in 1963. It fell into disrepair in recent decades and was plagued by maintenance and security issues.January 29, 2024
Wildlife
Pa. Game Commission tables plan to reintroduce American martens into ecosystem
The Pennsylvania Game Commission voted to table a plan to reintroduce American martens, a weasel species that was wiped out of the state by the early 20th century. The omnivorous mammal was extirpated due to the fur trade and deforestation, but some states have begun restoring their populations in recent decades. Although the general public supported the plan, a survey of hunters revealed conflicting views on the American marten's return. The plan will now undergo further research and consideration.January 29, 2024
Food & Drink
Twin Peaks resumes plan to open 10 lodge-style sports bars in Pennsylvania
Twin Peaks, the lodge-style sports bar chain, has signed a franchise agreement to open 10 locations in Pennsylvania in the years ahead. The Dallas-based brand had aimed to expand to the state in 2022, but delayed those efforts due to a change in investors. The bar is known for its wall-to-wall TVs, 29-degree draft beers and scratch kitchen.Just In
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