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

December 2, 2024

Education

Penn's 133-year-old Fisher Fine Arts Library to undergo $17.8 million renovation

by Michaela Althouse

Penn's Fisher Fine Arts Library will undergo a $17.8 million restoration project to bring the 133-year old building back to its original state. Plans include new windows, deep cleaning its sandstone exterior and roof repairs.

December 2, 2024

Transportation

SEPTA's first fare increase since 2017 now in effect

by Michaela Althouse

SEPTA implemented its first fare increase since 2017 on Sunday. All subway, trolley and bus rides now cost $2.50, and Regional Rail tickets cost $0.25 to $1 more, depending on where riders get on and off. SEPTA averted another 21.5% fare increase that was proposed to take effect in January, thanks to an influx of state funding.

November 28, 2024

Arts & Culture

On Stage in December: 'Elf,' Neil Diamond tribute and 'Nutcracker' one-man show

by Michaela Althouse

Ring in the holidays with performances of 'ELF the Broadway Musical,' 'A Christmas Carol' and a 'Nutcracker' one-man show. Plus, Bucks County Playhouse puts on a stage version of 'Anastasia' and Quintessence brings back a classic in 'Kiss Me Kate.'

November 27, 2024

Streaming

New episode of 'Chef's Table' visits Thailand with Kalaya chef Nok Suntaranon to show her life, influences

by Michaela Althouse

Nok Suntaranon, owner and chef of the acclaimed restaurant Kalaya in Fishtown, is featured in a new episode of'Chef's Table,' released by Netflix on Wednesday. The documentary series catches Suntaranon opening up about her life and cooking beginning with her time in Thailand.

November 27, 2024

Food & Drink

Twisted Gingers Brewing Co. works with street artist to release Shamcow IPA

by Michaela Althouse

Manayunk's Twisted Gingers Brewing Co. will release a Shamcow IPA on Friday, created in collaboration with the artist behind the popular graffiti. The 16-ounce cans will be available at the taproom and farmers markets, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting a local high school.

November 26, 2024

Government

Mayor Cherelle Parker begins search for new LGBTQ+ Affairs leader after filling 2 top roles in her administration

by Michaela Althouse

The Parker administration is searching for a new LGBTQ+ Affairs leader following the departure of Celena Morrison-McLean. On Monday, Mayor Cherelle Parker tapped Candi Jones as the city's new chief human resources officer and Sabrina Maynard as the city's new budget director.

November 26, 2024

Movies

Philadelphia Film Society to host weekend marathon with all six 'Rocky' movies on Dec. 6-8

by Michaela Althouse

The Philadelphia Film Society will host a 'Rocky' marathon all weekend from Dec. 6-8. Attendees can watch all six of the franchise's movies for a bundle discount or attend individual screenings.

November 25, 2024

Investigations

Marijuana disguised as a burrito found in Uber Eats delivery in South Jersey

by Michaela Althouse

An Uber Eats order was found to contain marijuana in Washington Township, New Jersey on Sunday, police said. The delivery driver called police after noticing the smell of cannabis coming from the bag. Police found an ounce of cannabis wrapped in a tin foil – designed to look like a burrito. The order originated from Lindenwold.

November 25, 2024

Health News

Philly City Council supports the creation of a state health care advocate – here's what that office would do

by Michaela Althouse

Philadelphia City Council unanimously passed a resolution calling for Pennsylvania to create an Office of Public Healthcare Advocate. The office would help investigate and mediate coverage denials from health insurance companies and excessive billing from medical providers, among other responsibilities.

November 23, 2024

Education

Penn is among U.S. colleges changing financial aid eligibility in move to make college more affordable

by Michaela Althouse

University of Pennsylvania is changing how it calculates financial aid. In the fall, students from families earning less than $200,000 can qualify for free tuition and a student's family's primary home will no long be factored into financial aid calculations, Penn says. It's among several U.S. schools implementing changes to make college more affordable to students from middle-income families.