Sheila Dixon Trial UPDATE

10:00 a.m.

Our reporter Doug Donovan is sending updates from the coutroom today, as opening statements are set to begin  in the corruption trial of Mayor Sheila Dixon.

Opening statements are expected this morning after various motion hearings. Judge Dennis Sweeney rejected the prosecutors request to use new evidence that a third developer gave gift cards to Mayor Dixon for use by her church. The judge left open whether the new info could be used in cross-examination of witnesses.

The heat is on. As if facing theft charges isn't tough enough, Mayor Dixon has to do it in a stifling hot courtroom. But as the lawyers debated whether evidence of her character traits of honesty and generosity could be used in trial, Dixon was busy displaying kindness. She fanned her hands in front of her face as if hot and then poured bottled water into tiny paper cups that she gave to each of her three lawyers. She then served herself. A true public servant.