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

June 16, 2026

Lawsuits

Family of CHOP doctor killed by drunk driver while biking in Center City files wrongful death lawsuit

by Michael Tanenbaum

The family of Barbara Friedes, a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia doctor killed by a drunk driver while riding her bike in Center City two years ago, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the man who was behind the wheel. Michael Vahey is now serving six to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty last year.

June 16, 2026

Government

As invasive fly that threatens pets and livestock enters Texas, Pennsylvania and New Jersey take precautions

by Michael Tanenbaum

The New World Screwworm, a fly species that feeds on wounds of livestock and pets, was detected in Texas this month. Officials in Pennsylvania and New Jersey are taking steps to prevent the spread of the invasive insect.

June 15, 2026

History

With a history of music and beer, Lemon Hill has always been a 'place for parties'

by Michael Tanenbaum

The history of Lemon Hill in East Fairmount Park, the site of Philadelphia's FIFA Fan Festival, stretches back centuries to the arrival of William Penn. The grounds went on to become Philadelphia's first public park.

June 12, 2026

Recreation

Philly man aims to run across Pennsylvania faster than anyone ever has

by Michael Tanenbaum

Ultramarathon runner Bud Wilson, 58, of Philadelphia, seeks to run across Pennsylvania in six days — a record time for the 361-mile route. He'll start outside Pittsburgh on Sunday and end at the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. He is raising money for St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

June 12, 2026

Marijuana

Pa. Senate Democrats reject bill to create independent board for marijuana, hemp regulation

by Michael Tanenbaum

A Republican-sponsored bill to create an independent Cannabis Control Board in Pennsylvania was voted down by the Senate on Wednesday as political tensions persist in the state's push for marijuana reform.

June 11, 2026

Business

These are the Philly bars that can stay open until 4 a.m. during World Cup

by Michael Tanenbaum

Some bars in Philadelphia will have the option to stay open until 4 a.m. with a special permit from the state extending curfew hours for the duration of the 39-day World Cup, which runs from June 11 to July 20.

June 11, 2026

Education

Drexel gets record $112.6 million gift for new robotics and aerospace facilities

by Michael Tanenbaum

Drexel University has received a record $112.6 million gift to create new facilities for robotics and aerospace engineering and research. The gift comes from the Howley Foundation, named after Drexel alumnus Nick Howley.

June 10, 2026

Business

Walmart plans to bring delivery drones to Philly in 2027

by Michael Tanenbaum

Walmart will begin using Wing drones for deliveries in the Philadelphia region next year. The drones can travel up to 60 mph and use a tether to lower lightweight packages at their destinations.

June 9, 2026

Entertainment

IMAX still 'actively looking' to bring a screen to Philly after Riverview Plaza theater project hits a wall

by Michael Tanenbaum

IMAX is exploring options to bring one of its premium screens back to Philadelphia, which currently has no IMAX theaters, after Apple Cinemas' planned renovation at Riverview Plaza was canceled in May.

June 9, 2026

Media

Jamie Apody gets expanded role with FOX29's sports team

by Michael Tanenbaum

Longtime Philly sports reporter Jamie Apody will get an expanded role at FOX29, appearing more often as an anchor on the station's newscasts in addition to continuing as co-host of the 'Phantastic Sports Show.' Apody spent 18 years as a reporter and anchor at 6ABC before her departure from the station in 2023.