A day in the life of Henry Bell, Indy’s most beloved garbage truck driver.
Author Archives: Peter Blanchard
Alma Mater: Ithaca College
Before arriving at Mirror Indy, I wrote about state politics and economic development for the Indianapolis Business Journal, where my work was honored by the Society of Professional Journalists and The Alliance of Area Business Publishers. Prior to moving to Indiana in 2021, I worked for newspapers, online publications and radio stations in upstate New York and my native state of Pennsylvania.
I joined the Mirror Indy team because I believe that local journalism is an essential public service that is vital to a functioning democracy. As local, for-profit newspapers continue to shutter or make cutbacks, non-profit newsrooms can help fill in gaps in coverage, ensuring that communities have access to information that shines a light on the truth and holds public officials accountable.
When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors, playing music and spending time with my wife and our cat at our home in Irvington.
My phone number is 317-605-4836 and my email address is peter.blanchard@mirrorindy.org.
Posted inGovernment
Make your voice heard on Indiana Avenue redevelopment
A kickoff event for the plan, which looks to honor the once-thriving corridor of Black culture, is April 16.
Posted inGovernment
Indy councilor, young Democrat seek Sen. Breaux’s vacant Senate seat
Democratic party insiders will choose from Chunia Graves and La Keisha Jackson.
Posted inGovernment
Black faith leaders: Time to get ‘uncomfortable’ to create change
At a meeting of the Black Church Coalition, one local official was conspicuously absent.
Posted inGovernment
A poem, candy and song at the late Sen. Breaux’s goodbye
Sen. Jean Breaux, D-Indianapolis, died last month after a long illness. She was 65.
Posted inGovernment
The backroom Blue Line deal may just add new lanes to existing roads
The agreement to save the Blue Line remains shrouded in secrecy.
Posted inGovernment
Indy removes recycling drop-off site after illegal dumping
Residents are leaving trash and other items that can’t be recycled, costing the city time and effort.
Posted inGovernment
‘Work that’s unfinished’: Colleagues and community reflect on legacy of Sen. Jean Breaux
The late senator fought for women’s health, affordable utility bills and equal pay for women.
Posted inGovernment
Indy installed no-turn-on-red signs at downtown intersections. Are drivers obeying them?
Police have written 41 tickets at the intersections since the signs were installed.
Posted inGovernment
Why parts of Michigan and New York streets are being converted to two-way traffic
The effort stems back to conversations following an eastside plant closure in 2007.