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

May 22, 2025

Development

Ahead of 2026 celebrations, Philly again seeks vendor for LOVE Park flying saucer

by Michael Tanenbaum

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation is searching for a business to take over the vacant, flying saucer-shaped LOVE Park Welcome Center. The city hopes to find a vendor who can operate in the circular building by early 2026 to coincide with events and festivities surrounding the semiquincentennial celebration.

May 21, 2025

Transportation

Pennsylvania's new-look license plates, featuring the Liberty Bell, to hit the road soon

by Michael Tanenbaum

Pennsylvania's redesigned license plate will be rolled out in phases this summer. The red, white and blue design features the Liberty Bell and the slogan, 'Let Freedom Ring,' as a way to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary next year. PennDOT has started taking orders to replace license plates for $13.

May 21, 2025

Recreation

After chaos last Memorial Day weekend, Jersey Shore towns warn visitors to behave this year

by Michael Tanenbaum

Ahead of Memorial Day weekend, the mayors of Ocean City and Sea Isle City issued a joint statement warning visitors not to engage disruptive behavior. Communities at the Jersey Shore have dealt with unruly crowds of teens over the past several years. In Wildwood, officials are preparing by working with state police. Police in Seaside Heights say they'll have assistance from the FBI this year.

May 21, 2025

Politics

Downingtown's Erica Deuso could become Pa.'s first openly transgender mayor

by Michael Tanenbaum

Erica Deuso's victory in the Downingtown Democratic primary election on Tuesday will give her the chance to become the first openly transgender mayor in Pennsylvania. Deuso defeated Barry Cassidy by a wide margin on Tuesday and will face Republican Richard Bryant in the November general election.

May 20, 2025

Travel

American Airlines to open two premium lounges at Philly airport

by Michael Tanenbaum

American Airlines is opening two new premium lounges Thursday at Philadelphia International Airport, which serves as one of the airline's hubs in the United States. The Flagship and Admirals Club lounges are located in Terminal A-West between gates A15 and A16. American Airlines is also testing out new premium seating on select international flights from Philadelphia to London this summer.

May 19, 2025

Transportation

Pennsylvania law toughens ban on using cellphones behind the wheel

by Michael Tanenbaum

Starting in June, Pennsylvania will have a new law that bans drivers from using cellphones and other handheld electronic devices in the car. The updated rules expand on the state's existing ban on texting while driving, allowing police to pull drivers over for any use of a handheld device on the road. Beginning in June 2026, violators will face a $50 fine and associated court costs.

May 19, 2025

Lifestyle

Sixers' Jared McCain creates nail polish line with Sally Hansen

by Michael Tanenbaum

Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain, known for his TikTok dance videos and painted nails, has debuted a new line of nail polish that he made with beauty brand Sally Hansen. McCain, 21, visited the company's lab in New York to work alongside scientists and create the five color set that's available on Amazon.

May 19, 2025

2025 Election

Larry Krasner wins easily against Pat Dugan in Democratic primary for Philadelphia district attorney

by Michael Tanenbaum

Follow live results from Philadelphia's District Attorney Democratic primary between incumbent Larry Krasner and challenger Pat Dugan. Results will be updated throughout Tuesday evening.

May 19, 2025

Neighborhoods

'Footpath highway': 1,304 steps in Roxborough and Manayunk have linked communities and generations

by Michael Tanenbaum

The steps of Roxborough and Manayunk, built into rocky slopes between the neighborhoods, are among Philadelphia's unique urban features, creating pathways that have been in use since the 19th century and continue to shape neighborhood's identity today.

May 16, 2025

Streaming

Former Eagles star Terrell Owens to get feature-length documentary on Amazon Prime

by Michael Tanenbaum

Former wide receiver Terrell Owens will be the subject of an Amazon Prime documentary produced by NFL Films, the streaming platform announced. Owens' career included a brief time in Philadelphia, where he helped propel the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance in 2005 before his relationship with the team unraveled.