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

May 27, 2025

Environment

From ant scones to cricket granola, University of Delaware students explore insects as food

by Michaela Althouse

A new course offered at the University of Delaware during the spring semester taught students about the environmental benefits of eating bugs. During the insects as food class, students made recipes such as scones with dried ants and smoothies with mealworm protein powder.

May 26, 2025

Books

Summer reading: Jersey Shore plays a role in these newly released books by local authors

by Michaela Althouse

Four new books by Philadelphia-area authors perfect for Jersey Shore summer reading, including romance novels set in Cape May and short stories exploring life and death.

May 23, 2025

Adult Health

Billy Joel is getting treated for normal pressure hydrocephalus, a rare brain condition that causes walking difficulties

by Michaela Althouse

Singer Billy Joel canceled his summer tour after being diagnosed with a rare brain issue called normal pressure hydrocephalus. Here's a breakdown of its cause, symptoms and treatment.

May 23, 2025

Arts & Culture

UArts 'celebration of life' will be held next month in Hamilton Hall to mark anniversary of closure

by Michaela Althouse

Scout, the new owner of the defunct University of the Arts, will host a four-day 'celebration of life' for the institution from June 4-8 to mark the one-year anniversary of its closure. Musicians, speakers and dancers can sign up for a slot to perform.

May 23, 2025

Recreation

Spruce Street Harbor Park and many spraygrounds open during Memorial Day weekend

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia will kick off Memorial Day by turning on nearly half of the city's spraygrounds throughout the weekend. On Friday night, popular family-friendly attraction Spruce Street Harbor Park will also make its return.

May 22, 2025

Weather

Philly is finally out of a drought after 8 months of abnormally dry conditions

by Michaela Althouse

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report, released Thursday, no longer lists Philly in a drought. The city had been in extended drought conditions after an exceptionally dry fall, which included 42 straight days without rain.

May 21, 2025

Amy Poehler releases trailer for 'Philly Justice,' the fake show created by the 'Parks and Recreation' cast

by Michaela Althouse

'Parks and Recreation' star Amy Poehler shared the trailer for 'Philly Justice,' the fake legal drama set in Philadelphia, during her podcast, 'Good Hang With Amy Poehler.' The long-running inside joke began with a silly photo and evolved to include scripts and film shoots.

May 21, 2025

Food & Drink

Brewery owners try to salvage Philly Beer Week after organizer's death

by Michaela Althouse

After the death of Philly Beer Week organizer Rich Colli, 44, brewery owners said they will still be hosting events for the celebration. But the future of the annual gathering remains unclear.

May 20, 2025

West Philly's Renzo will sing for the win on the finale of 'The Voice'

by Michaela Althouse

Renzo, a singer who was raised in West Philadelphia, will compete Tuesday night in the finale of 'The Voice' on NBC. He'll be up against four other finalists to win a record deal and $100,000 cash prize.

May 20, 2025

Food & Drink

Gopuff is expanding its Starbucks service area and will deliver free iced coffees Wednesday

by Michaela Althouse

Philly-based delivery company Gopuff is expanding its Starbucks service area and is celebrating by offering residents in a number of Philly neighborhoods and the surrounding suburbs a free grande iced coffee Wednesday.