Officials say that the Norman Park trial of 5 people charged with the shooting death of John Hester last July could be put off until a later date; possibly in June. Charges were initially filed against seven men, however, two of them entered into plea agreements to offer testimony against the other defendants.

Eric Sheppard, the man who garnered national attention when he walked on an American flag during a demonstration at Valdosta State University is scheduled to go on trial the week of April 28th in Superior Court in Lowndes County. Sheppard is also allegedly connected to a hand gun found in a backpack that law enforcement officers linked to him. Jury selection gets underway April 28th to be followed by his trial.

Gunfire erupted at an apartment complex in Albany and when the shooting stopped two people had been struck by the projectiles. According to the report what began as an argument between two men soon escalated into shots being exchanged. One victim age 56 was pronounced dead at the scene and another victim age 35 suffered critical injuries. At last report the names of the victims were withheld pending notification of family.

The focus will be on the support of small businesses in the Tifton community as the city takes part in the Main Street contest along with other municipalities across the nation. A $25,000 award will be given to the winner to be invested in downtown development. Persons wanting to cast a ballot for the South Georgia city should logon to America’s Main Street for more information or call the Tifton Chamber of Commerce. The deadline is April 24th.

The rising tide of youth violence, murders and other crimes committed by young offenders in Moultrie has prompted an outpouring of initiatives to stop the violence in that area. A recent introduction to the mentoring program Boys to Men attracted more than 50 youth and community leaders are hoping to bring in even more young people with a special presentation. Former California gang member and police officer, now mentor and workshop facilitator Marc Fomby will bring his Gangs 101 four hour session to the C. A. Gray Junior High School. Fomby will give adults and children a crash course on the subject breaking down the meaning of lyrics to some popular music, which organizers say will be an eye-opening experience for parents.