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.

michaela@phillyvoice.com

January 19, 2026

Senior Health

New finger-prick blood test could help in diagnosing Alzheimer's disease

by Michaela Althouse

A new trial for older adults is exploring whether blood collected with a finger prick can accurately show proteins in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease. A similar test from a Malvern company was FDA approved in May 2025.

January 16, 2026

Arts & Culture

City unveils 22 Liberty Bell replicas that local artists designed to pay tribute to Philly neighborhoods

by Michaela Althouse

The city unveiled 22 Liberty Bells replicas that will be installed in Philly neighborhoods for the celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary. Artists were inspired by the history, landmarks and personal experiences in their communities.

January 14, 2026

Investigations

Helicopters that crashed in South Jersey were flying closely together, NTSB report says

by Michaela Althouse

The two helicopters that crashed shortly after departing Hammonton Municipal Airport on Dec. 28, 2025, were flying closely together before they collided, a preliminary NTSB report shows. The pilots, Michael Greenbeg and Kenneth L. Kirsch, both died.

January 14, 2026

Nature

Philadelphia Flower Show to dig into the history of gardening in America

by Michaela Althouse

The Philadelphia Flower Show on Wednesday announced its 2026 theme will be 'Rooted: Origins of American Gardening.' This will be the last part of the event's three-year series exploring the past, present and future of planting.

January 13, 2026

Investigations

Police search for suspects tied to fatal shooting at Chipotle near Temple University

by Michaela Althouse

A 16-year-old boy, identified as Khyon Smith-Tate, was shot and killed inside a Chipotle near Temple University on Monday night. Police are looking for three possible suspects. No arrests have been made.

January 13, 2026

Transportation

Greyhound bus terminal in Center City to reopen by May after Parker signs renovation bill

by Michaela Althouse

The former Greyhound Bus Terminal in Center City is set to reopen by May 1 ahead of the World Cup and other summer events. Bus operators will pay a $40 fee per stop to cover renovation costs.

January 12, 2026

Transportation

SEPTA is running trolleys to Center City again after completing wire repairs in tunnel

by Michaela Althouse

SEPTA reopened its trolley tunnel in Center City on Monday morning, restoring trolley service between 40th and 15th streets. For two months, riders had to take shuttles to and from Center City, because the tunnel was closed for repair work.

January 12, 2026

Performances

Mummers string band competition is rescheduled for Jan. 31 at the Linc

by Michaela Althouse

The Mummers string band competition, which was canceled on New Year's Day because of high winds, has been rescheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at Lincoln Financial Field.

January 9, 2026

Transportation

SEPTA's Regional Rail morning express service to be restored Monday

by Michaela Althouse

SEPTA is restoring morning express service on Regional Rail lines starting Monday. Enough Silverliner IV cars have cleared inspections to return to the tracks after electrical fire repairs.

January 9, 2026

Philadelphia 250

Philly invests $11.5 million for graffiti removal, murals and landscaping ahead of 2026 events

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia is investing $11.5 million for beautification efforts to remove graffiti, paint murals and plant flowers along highways and busy roads ahead of the city's busy 2026 slate of high-profile events.