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

November 17, 2025

Food & Drink

Which Philly restaurants could earn Michelin stars and how did other U.S. cities do in their debuts?

by Michaela Althouse

On Tuesday, officials will unveil the 2025 Northeast Cities edition of the Michelin Guide, which will include Philadelphia restaurants for the first time. Here's how other U.S. cities fared in their first year and some Philly contenders.

November 17, 2025

Shopping

These holiday markets offer an array of art, jewelry, home decor and other handmade items

by Michaela Althouse

Nearly 20 holiday markets featuring art, jewelry, home decor and other handmade goods are taking place in the Philadelphia region this November and December. Here's where to find them.

November 17, 2025

Transportation

SEPTA transit workers union votes to authorize strike amid Regional Rail disruptions

by Michaela Althouse

SEPTA's largest union voted to authorize a strike Sunday, allowing them to walk off the job if contract negotiations break down. TWU Local 234 represents bus, trolley and subway operators. A work stoppage would come on top of ongoing Regional Rail disruptions.

November 14, 2025

Government

SNAP benefits resume in full in Pa. following end of government shutdown

by Michaela Althouse

Pennsylvania residents should receive their monthly SNAP benefits in full in the coming days, state officials said Thursday. The benefits program had been paused during the government shutdown.

November 13, 2025

Environment

City Council's bill to charge 10 cents for paper bags to become law despite lack of support from mayor

by Michaela Althouse

A bill passed in City Council that requires stores to charge a 10 cent fee for every paper bag used will become law. However, Mayor Cherelle Parker declined to sign the legislation.

November 13, 2025

History

Independence Hall to close for two months for renovations to prepare for 2026 festivities

by Michaela Althouse

Independence Hall will be closed to the public from now until Jan. 28 for repairs and upgrades to the building. Changes include adding accessible ramps and restoring some of the original elements in the space.

November 12, 2025

Books

New book unpacks legacy of Black-owned bookstores, including Hakim's in West Philly

by Michaela Althouse

Author Char Adams' new book 'Black-Owned' chronicles the history of Black bookstores in America, including Hakim's Bookstore on 52nd Street in West Philly.

November 12, 2025

Food & Drink

Herr's holds chip contest for America's 250th birthday, featuring flavors that embody freedom, liberty and unity

by Michaela Althouse

Herr's is hosting a chip flavor contest in honor of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Voters can choose from one of three flavors in the liberty, unity and freedom categories.

November 12, 2025

CBS Philadelphia anchor Jim Donovan to retire after 2 decades at station

by Michaela Althouse

CBS Philadelphia anchor Jim Donovan is retiring after a 39-year broadcasting career. His final broadcast is slated for Friday, Dec. 19. The 15-time Emmy winner joined CBS Philly in 2004 as a consumer reporter after stints at several other stations.

November 12, 2025

Government

City Council calls for Mayor Parker's H.O.M.E. plan to prioritize Philly's poorest residents

by Michaela Althouse

At a hearing to help get Mayor Cherelle Parker's Housing Opportunities Made Easy initiative over the finish line, City Council members questioned if the program is doing enough to prioritize Philly's poorest residents.