75 Years Ago
February 19, 1947
“Britain Recalls Wavell From India”
Authoritative sources said today that Lord Wavell will be called home soon from his post as viceroy of India and that Prime Minister Attlee will make an historic statement on Indian freedom in the House of Commons tomorrow. Covington’s need for more diversified small businesses and small industries, opening the door for trade expansion, was singled out last night by local businessmen as the primary factor in the future growth of the town, when the Chamber of Commerce, in its first full membership session since last August, met in the courthouse.
50 Years Ago
February 19, 1972
Nixon Party Leaves For Guam
President Nixon, boning up on China as he prepared to take off today on the second leg of his journey, cautioned again that no quick solutions to U.S.-Chinese problems may be expected. Presidential press secretary Ronald L. Ziegler said Friday that next week’s meetings with China’s leaders will be “only a start of the process of communications.”
Cougars Topple Colts In Dull 83-62 Game
Despite two shaky quarters and their worst ball handling exhibition of the season, the Covington Cougars recorded an 83-62 Blue Ridge District victory over the Alleghany Colts Friday night in Colt gym. A less than capacity crowd braved the snow to see a game that certainly wasn’t exciting. It was generally dull all the way, mainly because of the ragged play.
25 Years Ago
February 19, 1997
Bath County Given Jail Deadline
Bath County is being given until March 18 to become part of the Alleghany Highlands Regional Jail agreement. The agreement, which calls for construction of a new jail in downtown Covington, has been approved by the Alleghany County, Clifton Forge and Covington. The Bath County Board of Supervisors tabled the agreement last week. Bath is evaluating a jail offer from Augusta County and it has asked accountants to review the Alleghany County-Covington-Clifton Forge agreement.
Eagle Rock Bridge
Eagle Rock residents continue to hope that the bridge connecting the town with Rt. 220 in Botetourt County can be saved. The 63 year-old span over the James River is in danger of being closed and torn down if an agreement can’t be reached between the county and the state. Should the bridge be closed, Eagle Rock residents would be forced to drive several additional miles on Rt. 43 to get to the town. The Botetourt County Board of Supervisors is expected to act on a proposal to save the bridge in March.
10 Years Ago
February 19, 2012
Snow-Covered Covington
A heavy, wet snow that snapped branches off trees and clung to power lines and fences fell in the Alleghany Highlands. Over nine inches of snow was reported in parts of the Highlands. The snow closed schools in Covington, Alleghany County and Bath County, but it shouldn’t stick around long. Temperatures are expected to rebound into the high 50’s later this week. This was the first significant snowfall of what has been an unusually mild winter.
CHS Students In All District Chorus
Three students at Covington High School have been chosen for District VI All District Chorus. Representing CHS at the All District Chorus concert were Megan Lockhart, alto II; Joseph Byer, tenor II and Brynel Osbourne, tenor II. CHS choral students and choral director Joe Austin attended All District Chorus auditions at Forest Middle School recently.
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