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

March 2, 2026

Food & Drink

Rita's is selling a Peeps water ice flavor this spring

by Michaela Althouse

Rita's will offer a Peeps-flavored water ice for a limited time beginning March 20. People who guess the mystery ingredient have the chance to win free Italian ice for a year.

March 2, 2026

Nature

For botanical artist Tu Bloom, 'mistakes make perfection' in floral arrangements

by Michaela Althouse

Tu Bloom, who is hosting potting parties at the Philadelphia Flower Show, is also behind the red carpet florals at the Grammy Awards. He shared his tips on arranging, why he loves plants and the behind-the-scenes of his celebrity gig.

March 2, 2026

Shopping

Philly's new youth-run thrift store lets teens use clothing to explore their identities

by Michaela Althouse

Fab Youth Philly has opened a teen-run thrift store at 2025 E. Atlantic St. in Harrowgate. Teens ages 15-19 can get workwear, formal pieces and casual clothing for free.

February 27, 2026

Performances

On stage in March: A one-woman version of 'Hamlet' and a play on a hallucination of Martha Washington

by Michaela Althouse

In March, catch performances of William Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' 'Twelfth Night' and 'Romeo and Juliet,' plus Edward Albee's 'A Delicate Balance' and another James Ijames original.

February 27, 2026

Arts & Culture

Here are 5 can't-miss exhibits to see at the 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show

by Michaela Althouse

The 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show features historic scenes and gardens created from orchids, dried plant materials, grasses and other florals. It runs from Saturday, Feb. 28, to Sunday, March 8.

February 26, 2026

Politics

Voters to weigh in on longstanding rule requiring Philly elected officials to resign before running for a new office

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia elected officials could be allowed to keep their jobs if they decide to run for state or federal office under legislation that was approved by City Council on Thursday. The measure will now appear as a ballot question in May.

February 25, 2026

Business

Philly could earn up to $4 back for every $1 spent on 2026 events, controller says

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia is expected to generate $1.3 billion to $2.5 billion from a string of events this year that coincides with the country's 250th anniversary, a report from City Controller Christy Brady's office said.

February 25, 2026

Politics

President Trump gives nod to Philly's history during State of Union address focused on economy, immigration

by Michaela Althouse

In his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump highlighted this summer's celebrations of America's 250th birthday and brought attention to the 'historic streets of Philadelphia.'

February 24, 2026

History

Pennsylvania Hospital's storied history dates back 275 years. Now, it's the subject of an upcoming museum

by Michaela Althouse

Pennsylvania Hospital plans to open a museum that tells its 275-year history in May 2026. Founded by Ben Franklin, the Philly hospital has treated soldiers, responded to outbreaks and formed the nation's first maternity ward.

February 24, 2026

Weather

Philly still needs to clear many roads of snow, but SEPTA and NJ Transit have restored most service

by Michaela Althouse

Snow has been removed from most Philadelphia, and SEPTA and NJ Transit have restored most services following the massive snowstorm that hit the Philly region over the weekend.