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

August 19, 2025

Weather

Jersey Shore towns issue swimming bans as Hurricane Erin creates strong currents

by Michaela Althouse

Several Jersey Shore towns have issued swimming bans because Hurricane Erin has created strong currents along the East Coast. They include Wildwood, Belmar, Bay Head and Island Beach State Park.

August 19, 2025

Illness

New Jersey may have its first locally transmitted malaria case since 1991

by Michaela Althouse

A malaria case was reported by Morris County, New Jersey, resident who hadn't left the United States. Health officials are working to determine if it's the first locally transmitted case in New Jersey since 1991.

August 18, 2025

Investigations

Rapper Skrilla arrested for allegedly assaulting police officer while filming music video in Kensington

by Michaela Althouse

Skrilla, a Philly-based rapper, was arrested Saturday night while filming a music video in Kensington, where he grew up. Police said he was taken into custody after allegedly shooting an officer with gel pellets from a toy gun.

August 18, 2025

Education

Frankford High will reopen for new school year after asbestos abatement

by Michaela Althouse

Frankford High School will reopen in time for the start of the 2025-2026 school year after asbestos abatement and upgrades to the building. The school was one of six that closed in April 2023 because of exposure to the dangerous material.

August 15, 2025

Transportation

SEPTA to cut service, increase fares after lawmakers fail to reach state funding deal

by Michaela Althouse

SEPTA will eliminate 32 bus routes and reduce bus and train service by 20% on Aug. 24, and then increase fares in early September, because lawmakers didn't meet its deadline for providing additional state funds.

August 15, 2025

Government

New Philly police contract includes pay increases and a path for civilians to hold some department jobs

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 5 agreed to a new two-year contract that includes 3% pay increases each year and a one-time bonus. It also includes funding that will allow civilians to perform certainly jobs currently done by uniformed officers.

August 15, 2025

Books

In 'Mounted,' author Bitter Kalli explores the connection between Blackness and horses

by Michaela Althouse

In 'Mounted,' a new book from West Philly author Bitter Kalli, readers can learn about the historical and modern connection between horses and marginalized communities.

August 14, 2025

Investigations

45 chickens seized from Kensington home that showed 'clear signs of cockfighting'

by Michaela Althouse

Forty-five chickens — 23 hens and 22 roosters — were rescued from a Kensington rowhome that showed clear signs of cockfighting, ACCT Philly says. The hens and three roosters will be sent to the Last Chance Ranch in Quaktertown. The others will be euthanized.

August 13, 2025

Transportation

GOP passes transit plan in Pa. Senate, but it faces Democratic opposition ahead

by Michaela Althouse

The Pennsylvania Senate approved a GOP-backed two-year, $1.2 billion transit plan, which called for using $292 million of the Public Transportation Trust Fund. Democrats say this would take away from critical repairs and safety projects.

August 12, 2025

Business

Another dog-friendly bar is coming to Manayunk in the former Bark Social spot

by Michaela Althouse

Fetch Park, a membership-based dog-friendly bar, will open in the former Bark Social space in Manayunk. The Atlanta-based chain offers drinks, coffee and food, plus space for pups to roam around.