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

September 12, 2025

Books

Jersey Shore author explores themes of toxic positivity in 'Fun at Parties'

by Michaela Althouse

In 'Fun at Parties,' a new book by Jersey Shore author Jamie Harrow, a cycling instructor goes on a cross-country road trip after a public meltdown. Despite plans to spend time in nature, she ends up party-hopping in different cities.

September 12, 2025

Education

Penn law school adds Sadie Alexander fellowship after backlash over pausing scholarship named after activist

by Michaela Althouse

The University of Pennsylvania law school announced new full-tuition scholarships and a fellowship named after Sadie T.M. Alexander after facing backlash over pausing a scholarship named after pioneering civil rights activist.

September 11, 2025

Government

City Council defends business curfew set to expand beyond Kensington

by Michaela Althouse

City Council members defended the expanded business curfew that is approved in June. The curfew, which takes effect in 60 days, requires businesses in certain districts to close between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Opponents hoped City Council would recall the law.

September 11, 2025

Government

City Council plans to address a range of issues this fall – from utility costs to affordable housing

by Michaela Althouse

City Council returned Thursday for its fall 2025 session. Council members' priorities include affordable housing, utility costs, quality of life improvements, green infrastructure and addressing federal policy changes.

September 10, 2025

Government

Water main break closes Philly's Stout Center for Criminal Justice

by Michaela Althouse

The Justice Juanita Kidd Stout Center for Criminal Justice in Philadelphia is closed Wednesday due to a water main break that took place Tuesday night. Cases have been rescheduled; the building should reopen by Thursday.

September 10, 2025

Neighborhoods

Richmond Library reopens after finishing eight-month, $2.5 million renovation

by Michaela Althouse

Richmond Library in Port Richmond reopened Wednesday, eight months after it was shut down to undergo repairs to its roof and HVAC system.

September 9, 2025

Food & Drink

Center City District pulls plug on its fall Restaurant Week, citing 'finite' resources

by Michaela Althouse

Center City District Restaurant Week won't take place this September, but the winter iteration of the promotion will go on as scheduled. The CCD says it is shifting its focus o other promotions like Open Streets and Let's Do Lunch.

September 9, 2025

Investigations

Suspect accused of vandalizing Philly's Jewish history museum surrenders

by Michaela Althouse

A suspect accused of vandalizing the Weitzman Museum of American Jewish History has surrender to Philadelphia police. A banner displaying the museum's support for Israel was spray-painted red twice last month.

September 8, 2025

Festivals

Oktoberfest season is near. Here are eight ways to celebrate the German festival

by Michaela Althouse

Oktoberfest celebrations are coming to Philadelphia and South Jersey this fall, featuring German beer, bratwurst, polka music and traditional festivities.

September 4, 2025

Transportation

SEPTA must reverse major service cuts but can keep fare hikes, judge rules

by Michaela Althouse

A judge ruled Thursday that SEPTA must immediately reverse major service cuts that were recently implemented, but the agency can still increase fares by 20%.