ATHENS, Ga. – Earlier this week, Senior Police Officer (SPO) Tony Howard was shot in the face and shoulder by carjacking suspect, 33-year-old Jaime Hood of Athens.

Officer Howard was transported to Athens Regional Medical Center for treatment. Currently, Howard is recovering and he is expected to make a full recovery.

Howard, 43, has a wife and four sons – aged 11 to 20. SPO Howard has served on the force since 2003. According to Major Mike Shockley, “Officer Howard is respected by his colleagues and has a strong commitment to the community”, he volunteers with the Athens Weed and Seed Program.

Also, in 2009, SPO Tony Howard received the Michael K. Connor Public Service Award, an award that acknowledges law enforcement officers “who have provided exemplary leadership and outstanding service on behalf of Weed and Seed communities in their jurisdiction”.

Reunions continue to grow in popularity as groups, friends, and extended families make extra efforts to reconnect by bringing everyone together for reunion weekends.  The current economy has reunion organizers searching for budget-friendly and convenient locations. As a service to reunion planners, the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will host a free Reunion Planning Workshop on Saturday, February 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Holiday Inn Express, located at 513 W. Broad Street in Athens.