Tax revenue to Indiana’s General Fund tumbled more than 12% below projections last month, according to the latest state revenue report.

The fund took in about $2.7 billion during April, or $393 million less than expected in a December state revenue forecast.

But the fund is still keeping pace year-to-date, with collections $23 million or 0.1% greater than forecasted.

A decline in individual income tax collections contributed to the monthly miss. The state received $1.5 billion instead of $1.8 billion, falling $300 million — or 17% — short of predictions.

In commentary, the State Budget Agency noted that taxpayers have for the last year been adjusting to 2023 legal changes, resulting in “unusual payment timing.”

“Various timing factors impact this month’s withholdings and other individual income tax collections. The below-mentioned performance in withholdings and other individual income tax collections should be interpreted within the perspective of total individual income tax collections and within the fiscal year-to-date trend,” the agency wrote. “These factors are projected to fully normalize over the coming months and month-to-month variations may still occur.”

The state is still $87 million, or 1%, ahead of individual income tax projections year-to-date. Lower corporate tax collections also played a role. The state took in about $201 million, or about 33%, less than anticipated.

“Differences relative to monthly estimates are likely as various factors may impact monthly revenue activity including payment and refund timing, late payments, and more,” the agency wrote. “Corporate tax collections should be interpreted within the fiscal year-to-date trend.”

But year-to-date, they’re still down nearly 12% from expectations.

April is a key month for both individual income and corporate taxes because it’s one of four quarterly deadline months. Year-over-year comparisons in both are complicated by a variety of legal changes, per the agency.

The Outlet Youth Center has announced the hiring of a new Associate Director, Kaya Stilwell.

Stilwell is a Rochester native and graduated from Rochester High School in 2018. After RHS, she earned her cosmetology license from Aveda Frediric’s Institute in Indianapolis. Since completing her schooling, Stilwell has had service industry experience and worked with youth in her free time. She's also worked as a softball coach for young students. 

“The energy was contagious! I loved being responsible for all of their new tricks and skills while also watching them achieve their personal goals,” commented Stilwell.

As Associate Director, Stilwell's main responsibility will be to implement high-quality and consistent programming for The Outlet’s After School Program. This includes planning for after-school program clubs, keeping an inventory of snacks and supplies, and assisting the Executive Director with interacting with kids and running the After School Program. 

Stilwell also will be directly involved with the Alternative School Program. She will assist Alternative School Teacher Bryan Holcomb in writing and implementing lesson plans for the program’s students. Currently, the Alternative School holds class at The Outlet twice a week for 90 minutes. During this time, the goal is to teach and give real-life scenarios they will soon face after graduation. Stilwell  herself was a 2018 graduate of the ASE program and is excited to give back to these students. 

Stilwell began at The Outlet on April 29. Executive Director Taylor Showley is already impressed with her efforts.

“She fits right into our culture. The students have already taken to her and she’s shown great initiative in developing ideas to implement! I’m confident she will grow into this role and become a great role model for our students,” Showley commented. 

The Outlet Youth Center is open for 6th - 12th grade students Monday - Thursday from 3:00 - 5:30 p.m. After Memorial Day, they will be open for students from 12:00 - 2:30 p.m.

For more information visit www.theoutletyouthcenter.org and make sure to follow their Facebook page. 

Detectives from the Indiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division at the Peru Post initiated an investigation at the request of the Miami County Sheriff’s Office into the death of an inmate.

Investigators are being assisted by the Miami County Coroner’s Office and Miami County Sheriff’s Office. An autopsy of David M. Douglass, 36, is pending to determine the exact cause of death.

Deputies with the Starke County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the area of 1025 E and 50 N early Monday morning

About 12:15 a.m. a vehicle failed to stop for law enforcement and a pursuit was initiated.  The pursuit traversed several miles between Starke and Marshall counties.

Starke County deputies noted that items were being discarded throughout the pursuit. Deputies attempted to deploy stop sticks and the driver attempted to elude them by stopping in the middle of the roadway and turning the vehicle around.

The pursuit came to an end at 300 N and 950 E when the suspect struck a deputy’s vehicle. The driver, Jordan Hahn 30, of Plymouth, and her passenger Jace Erikson 29, of Rochester, were taken into custody.

The Starke County Sheriff's Office says a semiautomatic sporting rifle located in the back seat was set to “fire” and over four grams of suspected marijuana was located in the vehicle. Deputies reviewed their in-car dashcam systems and were able to locate a suspected methamphetamine pipe. Deputies also located a semi-automatic handgun that was discarded during the pursuit.

Hahn was booked into the Starke County Justice Center on preliminarily charges:

• Resisting Law Enforcement – a Level 5 felony

• Resisting Law Enforcement – a Level 6 felony

• Possession of Marijuana – a Class B misdemeanor and

• Criminal Recklessness – a ClasB misdemeanor

Erikson was also booked into the Starke County Justice Center on preliminarily charges:

• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by Serious Violent Felon – a Level 4 felony

• Resisting Law Enforcement – a Level 6 felony

• Possession of Marijuana – a Class B misdemeanor and

• Possession of Paraphernalia – a class c misdemeanor

Both subjects were initially held with a $50,000 cash bond.

The Starke County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, Knox Police Department, and Howard’s Towing.

A family in living just outside of North Manchester is left picking up the pieces, after a storm destroyed their home on Tuesday. 

Jenny Halverson, 10475 N State Rd 13, near North Manchester, said she was watching her four small children, all under the age of 8, play outside when dark clouds rolled in. 

Halverson said the storm cut loose around 6 p.m. as she sat with her children and husband in their living room. As the winds started to increase, so did the couple's worry.  

Quickly ushering their children to the basement, Halverson said the family of six barely made it. 

Although their home was destroyed, their entire family was left unscathed. 

Halverson said this wasn't the only bad storm that's battered their home in recent times. Just last June, the couple replaced their roof after it susstained major damage from a severe storm in May of 2023. 

Still, despite the damage, Halverson is just thankful everyone is safe. Having a support system has made all the difference to their family.

As the family figures out their financial situation, they are able to stay with Halverson's parents.

Halverson, who also ran a childcare business from her home prior to the storm, was thankful she's able to continue the daycare business temporarily at her parents home. 

When asked about a GoFund Me, or any donations being accepted, Halverson said that's not something her family is looking for right now. 

Halverson said they are currently waiting on the damage assessment, along with their home owners insurance to determine the next step they need to take, depending on whether or not their home is salvageable. 

Commonwealth Engineers, Inc., a leading provider of water resource engineering, will be assisting the City of Rochester in a lead inspection program for water service lines.

In response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirement to ensure all water service lines are free of any lead material, the City of Rochester is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. The initiative involves locating and inspecting water service lines in high-risk areas to identify the presence of lead, safeguarding communities against potential health hazards.

Key components of the inspection program include:

• Locating Meter Pits and Curb Stops
• Identifying Routing from Pit to Main and Pit to Your Home

To facilitate these inspections, Commonwealth Engineers, Inc. will require access to residential properties. Specifically, homeowners are requested to allow access to inspect the water service line entry point and assess the material and plumbing layout. This is essential for the planned replacement of the water service supply line from meter into home up to and including the existing shut-off valve or similar components, ensuring the integrity and safety of the water distribution system.

This project will allow the City of Rochester to apply for grant funding for service line improvement work and providing qualifying homeowners FREE replacement of their service lines from the meter pit/curb stop to shut off valve (in their home).  The service line from the meter into the home is owned by the homeowner.  Without taking advantage of programs such as this, the homeowner runs the risk of being liable for the full cost of a future replacement. We encourage everyone to take maximum advantage of this program while the funding and opportunity is available.

"We are committed to ensuring the safety of our community's water supply," said Derrick Holloway, Water Department Superintendent. "By proactively inspecting water service lines for lead, we aim to mitigate potential risks and protect public health."

Homeowners who will be asked to schedule their inspections will receive a notice on their front door with contact information and instructions on scheduling. Inspections can be scheduled promptly by scanning the QR code provided:

Contact:

Derrick Holloway

City of Rochester Water Department

320 Main Street, Rochester, IN 46975

Phone: 574-223-3412

Email: water@rochester.in.us

A person was arrested after leading an ISP trooper on a pursuit in Cass and Fulton counties.

Around 9:00 p.m., last Thursday, a trooper was patrolling on State Road 25 in Cass County when he observed a yellow motorcycle with its taillight not illuminated. The driver was later identified as Jamie Corbin, 43, from Rochester. The trooper attempted to stop the motorcycle on State Road 25 near County Road 900 North. The motorcycle led the trooper on a pursuit through Cass and Fulton County roadways, reaching speeds of approximately 80 mph.

The pursuit continued northbound on State Road 25 before coming to a stop at County Road 950 South in Fulton County. Corbin fled on foot but was later taken into custody.

A subsequent search of the motorcycle revealed suspected methamphetamine.

During the investigation, the trooper reported that he was able to gather information leading to the belief that Corbin was under the influence. Corbin was transported to an area hospital for a certified test before being transported to the Fulton County Jail.

Further investigation revealed Corbin had two active warrants out of Howard County.

As a result of the pursuit and ensuing investigation, Corbin was preliminarily charged with:

1. Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle (prior) – Level 5 Felony
2. Possession of Methamphetamine- Level 6 Felony
3. Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated – Class A Misdemeanor
4. Resisting Law Enforcement- Class A Misdemeanor

The trooper received assistance at the scene from other troopers from the Peru Post and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.

Rochester Ford continues to grow their business, making investments like a newest addition to their service bays that raises the bar even more in their passion for customer service. 

High-quality customer service has always been a priority to co-owners John Ringle, and Monte and Debbie Hoffman. The trio have been running the business since 2003, continuing to grow Rochester Ford's location at 119 East 4th St by extending their property and services over the past two decades. 

Planting the seed of growth once again, Hoffman said by this summer Rochester Ford will be adding four more service bays to their department, and two new bays in their detail department, as construction continues on their new garage going up east of their office building. 

Ringle said an heavy truck lift also adds a new service to their full service garage. 

Rochester Ford also has a passion for supporting the local economy. Hoffman noted that all work on their garage is being done by local businesses, as well. They hope to have the new garage completed by the end of June. 

Rochester Ford currently has 19 employees, with room to add to that in the future. The newest addition also means one more service member will be added to their team in the near future.

Focused on consistency, Hoffman said the loyal customers accumulated over the years are what have made their investments at Rochester Ford worth it. 

Three people were injured in a two-vehicle Cass County crash Monday.

Just after 12:30 p.m., Cass County deputies and medical personnel were called to a crash at the Burlington Exchange of the Hoosier Heartland Highway, US 24 and SR 329. A semi tractor-trailer and passenger car were involved in the incident.

Emilee Scott, 231, of Monticello, was driving a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze eastbound on the distributor ramp of US 24. The sheriff's department says the investigation indicates Scott failed to yield to a northbound 2007 Kenworth semi-tractor with an empty grain trailer driven by David Chaney, 33, of Camden.

Scott and an 11-month old passenger sustained minor injuries and were transported to Logansport Memorial Hospital. The sheriff's department noted that proper use of passenger and child restraint systems definitely reduced the injuries.

The tractor-trailer crossed the southbound lanes and came to rest in the ditch. Chaney sustained serious injuries and was transported to IU Arnett Hospital in Lafayette.

The sheriff's department investigation further states that alcohol is not considered to be a factor in this crash.

The Fulton County Republican primary for auditor was decided by a slim eight votes.

Katherine (Easterday) Adamson won the primary for auditor defeating Lorie Hurst, 1069-1061.

In a tightly contested race, Barry Baldwin was Fulton County’s top Republican county council candidate and will lead three at-large winners out of Tuesday’s primary.

Baldwin received 1381 votes, just 55 more than second place Steven Fishburn’s 1326.  With 1161 votes, Patty Geier claimed the third and final at-largeadvancement from the primary

Matthew Finke also received over a thousand votes with 1044.

Caston Elementary and Caston JR SR High School have completed the Indiana Department of Education  2024-2025 Family Friendly Schools Designation Initial Process.

The IDOE recognizes that the schools have demonstrated that there are various programs and processes in place during the current school year that engage families, students, staff, and leadership within each building. The award letter stated that Caston’s commitment to fostering strong family-school partnerships is truly commendable and plays a vital role in promoting student success. By prioritizing family engagement, Caston is enriching the educational experience and strengthening the community as a whole. 

Through the process, surveys were completed by students, staff and families.  Survey results were shared with principals and a Family Friendly Schools Self Evaluation Rubric was completed for each school.

Results from the self evaluation will be used in the planning process and goal setting for the 2024-25 school year.

The Fulton County Community Foundation awarded a $20,000 grant to the Fulton County 4-H Council for the fairground’s goat barn improvements.

Funds will be used for critical upgrades within the goat barn including more durable stalls, exhaust fans for better ventilation, and an area for participants to groom their animals for show.

 “We are thrilled about this grant—it’s a game-changer for our youth,” said Ben Reason, Fair Board Vice President. “Not only does it ensure a safer environment for our kids, spectators, and animals, but it also provides long-term cost savings by eliminating the need for frequent fence repairs. This investment will leave a lasting impact on our community and the future of this program.”

Over the years, the Foundation has awarded more than $161,000 in grants to Fulton County 4-H projects and endeavors.

 “The Foundation appreciates organizations that work to provide the best experience possible for their members,” said Brian Johnson, Fulton County Community Foundation Director. “4-H provides youth the opportunity to learn a variety of life skills, and this grant will help provide a better, safer environment for learning.”

Grants like this one are made possible through Fulton County Community Funds, which currently have a $2-to-$1 donation match initiative. Community Funds create a pool of flexible grant dollars available to charitable organizations that work to make our communities a better place for everyone.

It's been over a month now since Dennis and husband, Jesse Day, officially opened the Peru campground now known as Misthaven Resort located at 4252 W 200 N outside of Peru.

The campground specifically caters to those 18 years of age and older in the LGBTQ community made its official opening on April 1. 

Buying the campground in May of 2023, the couple soon learned that there were around 15 other traditional family camping units within a 30 minute drive radius from them. 

In December of 2023, the couple made the bold decision to shift gears and convert their campground to a LGBTQ oasis. Day said although the campground does specifically cater to the LGBTQ community, it's also open to any campers outside of that community over 18 years old, as well. 

Investing everything they had for the business, Day said opening Mistihaven Resort has been a dream come true for the couple.

Making it a safe space was important to the new business owners. 

On top of the numerous security cameras to help keep Misthaven Resort crime free, the couple have also talked with local law enforcement to ensure police support for safety at the campground, as well.

With both the Miami County Sheriff's Department and the Indiana State Police Department, being just minutes away from the campground, Day ensures a safe environment for all of their campers and visitors alike. 

Day said while the campground isn't something everyone within the area understands or agrees with, the amount of positive support the couple have gotten has been even greater.

Their on-site disc golf course happens to be the oldest in the state of Indiana, and is free to members or campers staying on-site. Day said for visitors not looking to spend an entire evening to camp, day passes are also available for guests wanting to enjoy their amenities. 

The 46 acres also provides a pool for guests, and a pavillion that will be utilized for things like dance parties, comedy shows, and more. 

Guests staying have an option of tent site camping, RV camping, or renting a cabin. Mistihaven Resort also has twotrailers for rent, for campers who don't wish to bring their own. 

For those wanting to make reservations, Day says you can do so on their website at misthavenresort.com. 

Woodlawn Health has announced a partnership with Concord Medical Group for the hospital's Emergency Department.

Concord will be staffing providers to provide in that department.

“We’re extremely excited to partner with Woodlawn Health. Concord has always strived to provide the highest quality of care possible to the communities that we serve. Woodlawn Health’s commitment to increasing patient satisfaction fits perfectly with our mission and vision for the community in and around Rochester,” stated Kyle Sheets, MD, Founder and Owner of Concord Medical Group.

Due to these changes, patients will receive a bill from Concord Medical Group and Woodlawn Health if they visit the Emergency Department. More information will be provided during the registration process.

“We believe having Concord as a part of our organization and community is a positive change,” said Alan Fisher, CEO and President of Woodlawn.

A Warsaw man returned home and was found safe.

In the initial report, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office was asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing Warsaw man. 

According to police, Richard A. Smith, 69, of Warsaw, was last seen at his residence on the evening of April 25. As of the initial report, no contact had been made with Smith since. It was reported he may possibly be in need of medical assistance due to poor health.

Every year the Fulton County Leadership Academy handles group projects to help improve Fulton County.  This year one group has made it their goal to improve Lakeside Park Beach.

The beach, also known to some as Manitou Beach, Dairy Queen Beach, the boat launch, or even just the public access site, is located on East 9^th Street across from Dairy Queen and is the first park most people see when coming to Rochester on State Road 25 or Highway 14.  This group has made it their goal to update and renew this area, but they need your help in doing so. 

They have launched a survey which can be found at https://forms.gle/cHixaQehE2ny1M7n8 (link is on our website fultoncountypost.com).  The goal of this survey is to determine what residents want most from this space and to take those ideas to the appropriate parties to get them done. 

Responses are being accepted now through May 6.

4C Health is promoting its efforts in industry and market-leading wages for Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists under their 4-day / 32-hour work week model.

Under the new wage model, a fully licensed Indiana therapist (LCSW, LMHC, LMFT) can earn between $75,000-$90,000 annually for just 4 days/32 hours of work each week. 4C Health is approaching two years as a 4-day work week employer and is showing no signs of slowing. A 4-day/32-hour work week employer pays their staff 100% of 40 hour wage for just 32 hours of work per week.

“This is about getting earnings for a professional license where it needs to be and getting there within a 32-hour work week model. It is the intersection of valuing licensed professional care and supporting well-being simultaneously. This is not just to the benefit of our 4C Health workforce but spurs others to consider making the same move. It is trail-blazing for the local workforce, workforce development for the state, and licensed clinical therapist industry,” per Carrie Cadwell, CEO of 4CHealth

According to Jason Cadwell, Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative officer of 4C Health, “Like all healthcare nonprofits, we are facing flat, outdated, and unsustainable payor reimbursements, in addition to delays in license obtainment, while scrambling to outmaneuver shortages of licensed healthcare providers in the State especially in rural markets. We knew we had to stand out, between 4DWW coupled with a “lean” and minimalistic business model, and clinic/payor practice models, we took our waste savings and added it back to our bottom line which in turn meant staff wage and benefitinvestment while keeping it as budget neutral as possible.”

Letecia Timmel, LCSW, Senior Outpatient Therapist had this to say, “At 4C Health, I have always felt valued as an employee. This most recent change in therapist wages is further validation of the knowledge, education, and experience that I have worked hard to bring to the table for those I serve. It is often joked about that community mental health is not where you go to make money, and while that may still ring true, 4C Health is breaking through some of those barriers that have previously existed and ensuring that we are compensated for the work we do. The wage increase for licensed individuals in combination with a 4 Day Work Week is an absolute game changer in the goal to make sure we are taking care of those who are taking care of others.”

Nicole Hiatt-Drang, Chief Clinical Officer expanded on that, “The implications of this change are not only exciting for licensed therapists who will be joining our agency, but it also reinforces the appreciation and acknowledgment of our licensed therapists (ranging in tenure from 2 years to 32 years) from a clinical standpoint. We understand that when clinicians feel valued and professional growth is supported, it results in reduced burnout and turnover rates, ultimately enhancing the continuity of care, advancing clinical skills, and improving outcomes.  As a result, this change will have a profound impact not only on licensed therapists but also on the individuals whom we serve.”

This move by 4C Health is a strong example of how clinical, quality, operations, and fiscal components of care and the organization can come togetherwithout undue hardshipand weave a golden thread.4C Health plans to continue this and conduct center-wide wage assessments of both direct and support positions over this next fiscal year. To date, new wage scales have been for Registered Nurse, Medical Assistants, Billing support staff, and now fully licensed therapists.

A Kokomo man was convicted of dealing fentanyl in Cass County.

According to a press release given by Cass County Prosecutor Noah Schafer, Vashawn Rose, 24, of Kokomo, was convicted bya jury in the Cass Circuit Court of Dealing in a Narcotic Drug.

The jury heard evidence where in May and June of 2023 the defendant conspired with his sister, Jesse Rose, and Dreyton Cameron to deliver fentanyl pills.

On June 7, the trio also sold a quantity of fentanyl pills to an undercover officer with the Indiana State Police at a gas station in Galveston. Video recordings and text messages between the defendant and the undercover officer were presented as evidence of the exchange. 

Co-defendants Jesse Rose and Dreyton Cameron had each previously plead guilty to dealing fentanyl and agreed to testify against Rose, but neither were called as witnesses.

Documents and testimony established Rose had also prior, unrelated felony convictions for dealing marijuana and unlawful possession of a legend drug. Following Rose's conviction of dealing fentanyl, further evidence was presented, resulting in the jury finding Rose guilty of being an habitual offender.  

In closing, Deputy Prosecutor Lisa Kempf argued that this was a case about the defendant’s decisions and actions, urging the jury to focus on the evidence in its deliberations.

Rose had posted bond and failed to appear for the trail, leading to a warrant now being issued for the arrest of Rose. 

Rose is scheduled for sentencing on May 23, 2024 in the Cass Circuit Court.

The Culver Town Council was given the annual review of the Redevelopment Commission.

The report includes a list of members, Marti Oosterbaan as President, Sally Ricciardi as Vice President, Sara Jone as Secretary, and Ginny Munroe and Erika James are members.  Karen Shuman, the Culver School Superintendent is a non-voting member.

The Culver Redevelopment Commission has two Tax Incremental Funds (TIF). District 1 had revenues of $620,301.35 and expenditures of $976,056.53 leaving a fund balance of $312,544.67.  Expenditures last year included $531,000 for Surf Broadband, $6,265 for Christmas decorations, nearly $13,000 for a housing study, $30,000 for police vehicles, about $60,000 for park improvements, $151,000 for Storm Water bonds, $6,000 for trail engineering, $116,700 for façade grants, $30,000 for the water commitment and $32,700 to the Visitor Center. 

TIF District II in Culver had revenues of $6,857.51 in 2023 and expenditures of $50,253.94 leaving a balance of $327,286.99.  Expenditures included nearly $43,000 for bond interest and principal and $7,328.94 for trail engineering and INDOT grants.  

A Rochester student was injured in the school's student parking lot during after school dismissal.

The school responded to questions about this incident by reporting that a student was injured after stepping in front of a vehicle moving through the parking lot. Emergency responders and staff responded. The student did not suffer any life-threatening injuries but was transported by EMS to Woodlawn Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
 

An early Monday morning car accident in Starke County claimed the life of a Chesterton woman.

According to police reports, emergency personnel were called to a two-vehicle accident at County Road 200 North 600 East in rural Starke County just before 6 a.m. local time.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a car driven by Alyssa Ramey, 26, of Chesterton, was traveling west when she pulled out in front of a vehicle driven by Kimberly Wilke, 53, of Knox, at the intersection.

The Starke County Coroner pronouced Ramey dead at the scene. 

Wilke sustained neck and chest injuries. She was transported by medics to the hospital in stable condition. 

The accident is still under investigation by the Starke County Sheriff's Office.

The Koscuisko County Sheriff's Office reported that an elderly Warsaw man died from injuries received in a two-vehicle accident on US 30 days earlier. 

According to police reports, Marion Aleman, 93, passed away Sunday, April 28. Aleman sustained internal injuries during a wreck on the morning of April 24, on US 30 and County Road 325 East, near Warsaw. 

Reports stated that Aleman's vehicle failed to yield the right of way to another vehicle on US 30 driven by Richard Vonesh, 79, of Fort Wayne. 

Vonesh claimed he attempted to avoid the crash by changing lanes on US 30, but that Aleman’s vehicle still continued on, stricking his. The damage from the crash is estimated at $25,000.

Both Aleman and passenger, Mary J. Aleman, 84, of Warsaw, who also sustained injuries, were taken by ambulance to the local hospital for treatment. 

Vonesh and passenger, Naomi L. Vonesh, 78, of Fort Wayne, were also taken to a local hospital for further evaluation of minor injuries. 

A recent traffic stop near Rochester by an Indiana State trooper resulted in the arrest of a man on multiple drug charges. 

James Schofield, 33, iof LaPorte, was charged with possession of cocaine, a Level 6 felony; trafficking with an imate, a Level 5 felony; and possession of marijuana, a Class A misdemeanor. 

According to court documents, the trooper was patrolling US 31 when he noticed a vehicle traveling 81 mph. During the subsequent traffic stop, the trooper told Schofield he smelled marijuana coming from his vehicle. Schofield denied having marijuana on him, but admitted he had smoked marijuana an hour prior. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a small bag of marijuana was found.

Schofield was turned over to staff at the Fulton County Jail and additional illegal items were found on him. Schofield admitted to jail staff that he had been concealing cocaine and a THC vape on his person. 

Schofield was booked into the Fulton County Jail with additional charges for the confiscated items, on top of the original possession of marijuana charge.

Forty high school seniors from throughout Indiana have been named 2024 Indiana Academic All-Stars.

Now in its 38^th year, the program is bestowed by the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP). In addition, 50 more students were recognized as Academic All-Star Regional Honorees.

The students were selected from a field of 281 outstanding nominees from the state’ private and public accredited schools.

Rochester High School’s Tanner Reese was named a 2024 Regional Academic All-Star.

Academic All-Star distinction recognizes seniors who excel in the classroom first and foremost, but who also are actively involved in their schools and communities, and take on leadership roles in those activities. The program is produced by the IASP and sponsored by Purdue University. Additional support is provided by Inter-State Studio.

The IASP Indiana Academic All-Stars program salutes academic excellence in the same manner that student athletes traditionally are honored. By providing a showcase for academically talented seniors, the sponsoring organizations hope to accomplish the following objectives:

Give academic achievement the prestige it deserves

Motivate students to recognize the value of academic excellence

Provide students with an incentive for academic achievement

Promote a positive image of Indiana’s young people

Each public and private high school accredited by the Indiana Department of Education may nominate one senior for consideration as an Indiana Academic All-Star. From these nominees, a selection committee chose the Regional winners (representing five regions in Indiana) and the 40 Indiana Academic All-Stars.

Selection of the school’s nominee is based upon the following considerations:

Student transcript, with a focus on Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, International Baccalaureate, and Advanced College Placement classes taken/grades received

Academic achievements and honors, academic courses and academic extracurricular activities

Other extracurricular activities, community service and leadership qualities

The Indiana Association of School Principals leads in the advocacy and support of all principals in their commitment to every child. The Department of Student Programs hosts 11 different academic competitions for students in grades 4-12, as well as a Martin Luther King Jr. essay contest, the Academic All-Stars Program, and the Indiana Cheer Championship.

Annually, over 30,000 students are involved in Department of Student Programs sponsored events.

To learn more about the Indiana Association of School Principals and the Department of Student Programs, go to www.iasp.org.

It's been almost 50 years since the Fulton County Council on Aging started its humble beginnings at 625 Pontiac Street. 

Formed out of the basement of the former Rochester High School building in 1974, it would be two more decades before the group would get the building which they have today.

Transportation Supervisor for Fulton County Transpo Rusty Moore said that prior to scoring a building, the idea came about more like a grassroots movement for seniors in Rochester. 

Devoted to providing services that enable and encourage senior citizens, for the past five decades the Council on Aging's aim has been to keep the older Fulton County population active, social and vibrant.

Between classes that range from exercise and technology, to day trips, movies, and community gardening, each program is provided to strengthen minds and bodies. The Council also provides medical equipment, blood pressure monitoring and other health related services, to help address the overall health needs of the seniors.

Moore's mother, Terry Moore, was the executive director for more than 24 years. Her heart for helping others during her reign was contagious at the facility. 

Over time, the Council building was utilized to help the community even more when it expanded to become the Fulton County Community Center & Council on Aging. Now more than just services for seniors, the Community Center also helps low income individuals, and disadvantaged people trying to maintain an independent lifestyle.

Their growth was made possible thanks to grants and support from the Fulton County Community Foundation, along with local donations. 

In 2002, the building added Fulton County Transpo, providing public transportation to Fulton County residents, something the area had never seen before. A decade later brought another major addition with the construction of an expanded transportation garage and office space. 

Running Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fulton County Transpo provides rides in Rochester for $2, and throughout Fulton County for $4. Riders over the age of 60 are free, but donations are accepted. 

A community food pantry, United Ministries, and Energy Assistance Program were also later added to transform the full service “Community Center.” 

Keeping on the legacy of his mother, Moore continues to water the growth at the Community Center as much as possible by working with the other organizations when he sees opportunities come up. 

Lunch is served daily during the week to seniors by Area 5, with senior activites that are before lunch like bingo, card games, chair volleyball, chair yoga and more. 

All of the meals and many of the activities are in the 'Terry Moore Memorial Activity Room.'

The room was dedicated to Terry Moore in 2022, in honor of the decades she had spent working on the vision and development of the Fulton County Community Center and Council on Aging. 

Moore said around 10 to 30 seniors show up each day to their facility, something he knows his mother would be proud of. 

To celebrate their 50th anniversary, the Fulton County Council on Aging will be the highlight of several activities during the month of June.

On June 8, the 32nd Annual Golf Scramble will kick off the month, with all proceeds from the event being donated to the Community Center and Council on Aging. Moore said the golf event is also one of the biggest financial boost helping to purchase the vans used for Transpo.

The facility will host an open house on June 29. Activities will include a cookout, tours of the senior center and new garage, and introductions of staff and drivers to community members. 

Moore hopes the open house will make more locals aware of their services at the Fulton County Community Center & Council on Aging.