Claire Rafford
@clairerafford.bsky.social
📤 550
📥 90
📝 120
higher ed reporter w/ Mirror Indy and Open Campus. TEXT JOBS TO 317-676-4163!!!
pinned post!
This first post feels like the right time to admit that I was pronouncing the name of this app as bluesky (rhymes with brewski) until very recently
over 1 year ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
10 days ago
During his first mayoral campaign, Joe Hogsett said he would take on “downtown insiders.” Over a decade in office, his campaign has worked behind closed doors to advance donor interests.
mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...
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Hogsett vowed to fight insiders. His campaign advanced their interests behind closed doors
Here’s how Hogsett’s campaign machine infiltrated city government starting in the mayor’s very first term.
https://mirrorindy.org/indianapolis-mayor-joe-hogsett-downtown-insiders-campaign-donors-influence/
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
10 days ago
To report this story, we digitized more than 10 years of Hogsett’s campaign finance records. We’re making that data available to the public. Find something interesting or have questions? Email me:
[email protected]
.
www.datawrapper.de/_/nvKd9/?v=5
add a skeleton here at some point
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
10 days ago
This is not my data. This is the public's data.
add a skeleton here at some point
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
29 days ago
“If it’s a dream you can think about, it’s a reality you can create.” And more wisdom from recent grads. 😭
mirrorindy.org/graduation-2...
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These Indy grads are looking toward the future
Class of 2026, this one’s for you.
https://mirrorindy.org/graduation-2026-indianapolis-ivy-tech-iu-indianapolis-marian-university/
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I love graduation season! There's something about watching people celebrate their accomplishments that gets me in my feels every time. This year, I wanted to find a way to celebrate Indy graduates for
@mirrorindy.org
. The result is these gorgeous portraits from Brett Phelps and audio interviews.
29 days ago
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Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
about 1 month ago
"But by the time students at Martin realized their financial aid was held up, there was no one left to help address the problem as school staff was abruptly laid off."
@clairerafford.bsky.social
dives into Martin University's closure. Buckle up.
mirrorindy.org/martin-unive...
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Inside the financial problems that led to Martin University’s closure
Students and former employees say the university owes students money.
https://mirrorindy.org/martin-university-indianapolis-closure-financial-aid-refunds-sean-huddleston-2026/
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Carley Lanich
about 1 month ago
A must-read story this morning from
@clairerafford.bsky.social
:
mirrorindy.org/martin-unive...
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Inside the financial problems that led to Martin University’s closure
Students and former employees say the university owes students money.
https://mirrorindy.org/martin-university-indianapolis-closure-financial-aid-refunds-sean-huddleston-2026/
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
about 2 months ago
People yearn for the Pizza Hut reading program. Some local folks are stepping up.
mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...
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Are your kids working through a summer reading list?
They could win prizes for their efforts at two local Indy bookstores.
https://mirrorindy.org/indianapolis-summer-reading-program-2026-whispering-shelf-ujamaa-community-bookstore/
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
about 2 months ago
When I wrote about Community Heights’ tactical urbanism projects, one of the complaints was how long it would take to install a permanent solution. So DPW has launched a quick-build program. Not permanent, but less temporary.
mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...
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New program will speed up traffic calming improvements
Fountain Square, Little Flower and Chatham Arch will participate in the quick-build program.
https://mirrorindy.org/indianapolis-department-public-works-tactical-urbanism-quick-build-program/
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Mandatory
#ivoted
selfie! Voting at the Boner Center gym this morning was quick and easy. Follow along with
@mirrorindy.org
’s live blog for updates from polls across the city all day long.
mirrorindy.org/indiana-prim...
about 2 months ago
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Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
2 months ago
THE JOBS LINE IS LIVE
@clairerafford.bsky.social
has heard from so many folks struggling to make it in this economy. So she's launching a text channel to build a bridge between people and jobs resources. Sign up for info on job fairs, trainings, etc.
mirrorindy.org/mirror-indy-...
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Sign up for Mirror Indy’s new text group, The Jobs Line
Find information about jobs in Indianapolis from Mirror Indy’s new text group called the Jobs Line with higher ed reporter Claire Rafford.
https://mirrorindy.org/mirror-indy-text-group-the-jobs-line-sms-sign-up-jobs-indianapolis/
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Exciting news:
@mirrorindy.org
and I are launching a new text line!! It's called The Jobs Line and it's focused on helping people learn about job fairs, free and low-cost trainings and employment resources in Indy. Text 317-676-4163 to sign up! Not spam!
mirrorindy.org/mirror-indy-...
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Sign up for Mirror Indy’s new text group, The Jobs Line
Find information about jobs in Indianapolis from Mirror Indy’s new text group called the Jobs Line with higher ed reporter Claire Rafford.
https://mirrorindy.org/mirror-indy-text-group-the-jobs-line-sms-sign-up-jobs-indianapolis/
2 months ago
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Love this story from
@carleylanich.bsky.social
so much. A must read today:
mirrorindy.org/hope-academy...
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How an Indianapolis high school is helping students in recovery find purpose
For 20 years, Hope Academy has focused on teaching students with substance use disorder.
https://mirrorindy.org/hope-academy-recovery-high-school-indianapolis-substance-use-disorder/
3 months ago
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News: Eastern Star Church is looking to purchase Martin University's eastside campus, two people who are familiar with the plans told Mirror Indy. Read more:
mirrorindy.org/eastern-star...
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Eastern Star Church looking to buy Martin University campus
Eastern Star Church on the east side of Indianapolis is exploring buying Martin University, which closed in December 2025.
https://mirrorindy.org/eastern-star-church-martin-university-sale-2026/
3 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
3 months ago
Easter Sunday in Indy: Serving the Lord and serving looks You have to see these photos!
mirrorindy.org/easter-sunda...
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Easter Sunday in Indy: Serving the Lord and serving looks
Big hats and head pieces, a pinstripe suit, flashy bangles and earrings, and lots of pinks, blues and purples.
https://mirrorindy.org/easter-sunday-church-black-people-fashion-indianapolis/
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Don't miss this one! Fashion report from Easter Sunday at Indy's Black churches from
@theavgjourn.bsky.social
& Brett Phelps. I love the OOTD audio descriptions!!
mirrorindy.org/easter-sunda...
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Easter Sunday in Indy: Serving the Lord and serving looks
Big hats and head pieces, a pinstripe suit, flashy bangles and earrings, and lots of pinks, blues and purples.
https://mirrorindy.org/easter-sunday-church-black-people-fashion-indianapolis/
3 months ago
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it’s here!! everything u need to know about the 2026 primary is live at
mirrorindy.org/vote/
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3 months ago
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Love this story
@enriquesaenz.bsky.social
. Everyone deserves the feeling of a great new haircut!
mirrorindy.org/west-indiana...
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“When you look good, you feel good”: New program helps westsiders get free haircuts
Corte Solidario program at Mary Rigg offers free cuts from experienced stylists Tuesdays.
https://mirrorindy.org/west-indianapolis-new-program-free-haircuts-supportive-cuts/
3 months ago
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We made our student loan explainer into a quiz! Do you need to switch plans? Consolidate your loan? Find out here:
mirrorindy.org/trump-federa...
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Major changes coming to federal student loans
Do you need to change repayment plans? This quiz can help you find out.
https://mirrorindy.org/trump-federal-student-loans-education-quiz/
3 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Carley Lanich
3 months ago
That and kids are the future! If you care about what direction Indy is moving in, you should definitely care about what's up in our local schools! ☀️
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Carley Lanich
3 months ago
...which is why we want to know: What's most important to you? Is there something you want to know more about in Indy's education scene? Let
@clairerafford.bsky.social
and I know! We really want to make sure our work is useful, accessible and informative (and fun too!) (3/3)
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“Everyone should care about education whether you have a kid in school or not, because your tax dollars are paying for it.”
@carleylanich.bsky.social
add a skeleton here at some point
3 months ago
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Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
3 months ago
Local Indy sports events that won’t break the bank
mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...
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Local Indy sports events that won’t break the bank
Here’s a list of low-cost and family-friendly Indianapolis sporting events.
https://mirrorindy.org/indianapolis-sporting-events-guide-2026/
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What the heck is happening with student loans? is the question I have been asking myself for months. I spoke to experts to find to what borrowers need to know right now. Presenting,
@mirrorindy.org
's(jargon-free) guide to federal student loan changes:
mirrorindy.org/student-loan...
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We broke down all the changes coming to federal student loans this year
What’s going on with Grad and Parent PLUS loans? What about PSLF? We answer these — and more.
https://mirrorindy.org/student-loans-changes-parent-plus-treasury-save-plan-2026/
3 months ago
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I checked my voter registration status (and updated my address) this morning! It's quick and easy. Make sure you're registered by April 6 using
@mirrorindy.org
's helpful guide:
mirrorindy.org/register-to-...
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How to register to vote in Indiana’s May 5 primary election
The deadline is April 6. You can register in-person, online or by mail.
https://mirrorindy.org/register-to-vote-indiana-primary-election-may-5-2026/
3 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Kendra "Gloom is My Beat" Pierre-Louis
4 months ago
Babies can be vaccinated against measles at as young as six months. The child will need to begin the normal series again at 12 months, so a kid vaccinated prior to being a year old will get 3 shots total instead of two. (at 6 months, at 12 months, and btwn 2-4 years old) /1
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For today's
@mirrorindy.org
newsletter, I wrote about "English," which is showing at the IRT through April 4. This production was so beautiful and captured all the emotions that come with learning a new language. I highly recommend you see it!
4 months ago
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"People forget that these are not just folks we tuck away and never think about or talk about again,” director Morgan Morton said. “We should be reframing things so that we really do think about them as our neighbors.” Love this story from Seth Johnson:
mirrorindy.org/re-entry-pla...
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How do you build a life after being released from prison?
A new play by Summit Performance brings re-entry stories from 20 local women to the stage.
https://mirrorindy.org/re-entry-play-life-after-incarceration-summit-performance/
4 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
4 months ago
The Braun administration decided in February to scrap a 15-acre expansion to the White River State Park. One westside resident: “There were guarantees for Elanco, and there were promises for the community.”
mirrorindy.org/white-river-...
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State quietly scraps plans for expanded White River State Park
‘We kind of got the wrong end of the stick over here,’ said a westside resident.
https://mirrorindy.org/white-river-state-park-expansion-indianapolis-iedc-elanco-westside/
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From
@allymburris.bsky.social
- Ivy Tech President Marty Pollio's former school district faces a $188 million deficit. Audits and school officials blame him.
www.indystar.com/story/news/i...
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Ivy Tech's president left Kentucky schools with big budget hole
Ivy Tech President Marty Pollio's former school district faces a $188 million deficit. Audits and school officials blame him.
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/investigations/2026/03/09/ivy-tech-president-marty-pollio-left-jefferson-county-schools-with-big-budget-hole/88950758007/
4 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
4 months ago
Indy’s hearing examiner has a contract with the city and is paid with city dollars. But the zoning official was adamant during a recent hearing: The public is not her boss. How does she view her responsibility to the public? I didn’t get to ask her.
mirrorindy.org/mdc-hearing-...
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‘The public isn’t my boss’: Zoning official’s comments don’t sit right with community
The comments were directed at Martindale Brightwood residents who oppose a data center proposal.
https://mirrorindy.org/mdc-hearing-examiner-judy-weerts-hall-metrobloks-data-center-martindale-brightwood/
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Never met a
@mirrorindy.org
reporter's notebook I didn't like ❣️if you have thoughts/experiences to share about looking for a job in Indy, my DMs are open!
4 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
4 months ago
All of our data center coverage! In one spot! With a form to take your questions!
mirrorindy.org/data-centers/
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Indianapolis data centers, explained
Companies want to build data centers in Indianapolis. Here's what you need to know.
https://mirrorindy.org/data-centers/
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A nice public records story from Natalie Chan with
@idsnews.bsky.social
! IU Indianapolis spent nearly $1.3 million on snow removal after winter storm
www.idsnews.com/article/2026...
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IU Indianapolis spent nearly $1.3 million on snow removal after winter storm
The expenditure followed a winter storm in late January.
https://www.idsnews.com/article/2026/02/iu-indianapolis-spent-1-million-snow-removal-storm
4 months ago
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Spotted on my biweekly scroll of r/IUPUI
youtu.be/S3mer-qV3XQ
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IUPUI Split (REAL)
YouTube video by bob hope
https://youtu.be/S3mer-qV3XQ
4 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Rodger Sherman
4 months ago
this is one of the best hockey games I've ever seen but I keep wondering: are any of these men's hockey players married or related to women that I've heard of? what is the US women's hockey team up to right now
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Rodger Sherman
4 months ago
Mikaela Shiffrin wins the slalom gold medal by 1.50 seconds If you add up the winning margins of the winners at the 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 women's slalom, you get 1.51 seconds
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
4 months ago
Martin University is for sale.
#HoosierSky
mirrorindy.org/martin-unive...
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Martin University’s eastside campus is for sale
The campus and several surrounding residential properties are listed for $3.5 million.
https://mirrorindy.org/martin-university-eastside-campus-sale-closure/
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New: Martin University is selling its campus. It's listed for $3.5M for its eight-acre property, along with several smaller properties. Read more here:
mirrorindy.org/martin-unive...
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Martin University’s eastside campus is for sale
The campus and several surrounding residential properties are listed for $3.5 million.
https://mirrorindy.org/martin-university-eastside-campus-sale-closure/
4 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Rodger Sherman
4 months ago
DOG AT THE OLYMPICS FULL COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS
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Claire Rafford
Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana
5 months ago
Eligible Eastsiders can get free home repairs through this program. To qualify for free repairs, you need to own and live in your home, live on the east side and meet certain income limits.
localnewsforindiana.bluelena.io/lt.php?x=4lZ...
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Eastsiders can get free home repairs through this program
Indianapolis east side’s New Direction Church and Englewood Community Development Corp. will offer neighbors free home repairs.
https://localnewsforindiana.bluelena.io/lt.php?x=4lZy~GE7IXXND5J_zd9OgeNtAH-kk_UjlxZkYqHMJXKZ5XJ6y0y.0OFy237ziNL1jNYybHTGKXOaT8DvydHFW.VrPbKRia
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I actually cannot express how wonderful it is to clock out of work and know I can go home and watch the Olympics. What a joy in these times
5 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Rodger Sherman
5 months ago
THE OLYMPICS OF BIATHLON MESS CONTINUES GOLD MEDAL FOR THE WOMAN WHO STOLE HER TEAMMATE'S CREDIT CARDS
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
5 months ago
What even is a data center?? We are breaking it all down as the conversation continues in Indy.
mirrorindy.org/how-indianap...
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What’s the deal with data centers in Indy?
4 projects have been proposed in Indy alone. But what do these things even do?
https://mirrorindy.org/how-indianapolis-residents-use-data-centers-martindale-brightwood-decatur-township/
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Ashlee 🤟🏻
5 months ago
Love that
@clairerafford.bsky.social
of
@mirrorindy.org
reported on it:
mirrorindy.org/butler-unive...
. Thank you, from a Deaf Hoosier.
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Butler’s new Deaf education curriculum draws concern
A master’s program will focus on spoken language instead of sign language.
https://mirrorindy.org/butler-university-indianapolis-deaf-education-masters-degree-asl/
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Claire Rafford
Kendra "Gloom is My Beat" Pierre-Louis
5 months ago
We owe the existence of the modern half time show to Black people.
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This is now the second attempt by Indiana lawmakers to ban "low earning" college degrees this session. The language was taken out of one bill and inserted into another. Really good catch by Marissa Meador for
@indystar.bsky.social
www.indystar.com/story/news/p...
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Indiana Senate passes under-the-radar provision scrapping 'low-earning' college degrees
The provision, buried in the bill and absent from the digest, would eliminate degrees where graduates earn less than peers with a high school diploma.
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2026/01/30/indiana-general-assembly-college-low-earning-degree/88420199007/
5 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
5 months ago
We made a one-stop shop for city transparency after the Hogsett administration failed to. While reporting, we noticed years worth of missing reports. Since we contacted the city, they've updated their website. Updates to ours coming shortly.
mirrorindy.org/disclose-ind...
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Hogsett hasn’t delivered a ‘Disclose Indy’ ethics portal. So we built one.
We also obtained records not previously made public as promised.
https://mirrorindy.org/disclose-indy-transparency-indianapolis-hogsett-ethics-campaign-finance-portal/
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UPDATE: A community meeting to discuss the findings of the city's community survey regarding Black wealth in Indy has been postponed due to weather. New date coming soon. read more about the project here:
mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...
5 months ago
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reposted by
Claire Rafford
Emily Hopkins reporting for Mirror Indy
5 months ago
What does the car sound like with Liam inside? Does the ICE agent stay quiet while he sobs? Does he try to comfort Liam? Or get frustrated and lash out at the five-year-old’s despair? Does the agent secure his seatbelt? Is Liam big enough to not need a car seat?
sahanjournal.com/education/ic...
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Columbia Heights school leaders speak out after ICE detains kids
ICE agents have detained students on their way to and from school and also tried to get onto school property, the Columbia Heights superintendent said in an emotional news conference Wednesday.
https://sahanjournal.com/education/ice-minnesota-columbia-heights-students-detained/
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