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 8, 2025

Food & Drink

N.J. chain Tacoria Mexican Street Kitchen opening Cherry Hill location Saturday

by Michaela Althouse

Tacoria Mexican Street Kitchen, a New Jersey chain serving tacos and burritos, will open its 12th location on Saturday in Cherry Hill.

August 8, 2025

Education

Penn closes office of equal opportunity in law school and pauses scholarship for students studying racial justice

by Michaela Althouse

The University of Pennsylvania's law school is shutting down its Office of Equal Opportunity and Engagement as the Trump administration threatens to cut funding to schools that don't end diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

August 7, 2025

Recreation

This Bucks County teen began jumping rope in kindergarten and now competes on the world stage

by Michaela Althouse

Zach Peckman, a 16-year-old from New Hope, Bucks County, is a U.S. jump rope champion who holds two national records. He just returned from competing in the 2025 World Jump Rope Championships in Japan.

August 7, 2025

Recreation

Watch Party PHL raises nearly $90,000 to open women's sports bar in Philly

by Michaela Althouse

Watch Party PHL has raised $87,700 toward its goal of opening a women's sports bar in Philadelphia. The organization, which throws watch parties for sporting events, has gained the support of Sixers broadcaster Kate Scott, rugby player Kristin Aliberto and Alex Sykes, the wife of comedian Wanda Sykes.

August 7, 2025

Business

Amada in Old City has a new look after a month-long renovation project

by Michaela Althouse

Amada in Old City reopened Thursday following a month-long redesign that includes hand-painted murals, Moorish mirrors, a marble bar and plush banquettes. The Jose Garces restaurant also has several new menu items.

August 7, 2025

Healthy Eating

Americans are eating fewer ultra-processed foods, but they still account for most of our calories

by Michaela Althouse

The average American gets 55% of their calories from ultra-processed foods like chips, hot dogs and frozen pizza — though consumption of them is falling, a new CDC report shows. These foods have been linked to an array of health issues, including obesity, diabetes and early death.

August 6, 2025

Wildlife

Philadelphia Zoo has a new tiger and leopard on display — and hopes to have cubs in the future

by Michaela Althouse

The Philadelphia Zoo has added an Amur tiger and an Amur leopard — both males — as part of a breeding program for endangered species. They can be seen by visitors at the Big Cat Falls exhibit.

August 5, 2025

Transportation

First smokestack from SS United States removed as historic ship is prepared to be sunk later this year

by Michaela Althouse

The first of the SS United States' two smokestacks was removed Monday as the historic ship is being prepared to be sunk off the Florida coast. The ship's funnels will be used in a museum honoring its legacy.

August 5, 2025

History

Kids to interview seniors for time capsule at Smith Memorial Playground

by Michaela Althouse

Smith Memorial Playground is holding an event Friday with summer campers and seniors to start accepting submissions for a time capsule that will be buried next to the giant wooden slide until 2075.

August 4, 2025

Prevention

Mosquito insecticide to be sprayed in Germantown parks to prevent West Nile virus

by Michaela Althouse

Mosquito insecticide will be sprayed in Wister Woods and Wakefield Park in Germantown on Monday evening to prevent West Nile virus, Philadelphia health officials said.