The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) — The Alleghany Highlands is experiencing a remarkable period of growth and achievement, with local institutions demonstrating exceptional commitment to youth development, education, and community recreation. The Jackson River Technical Center (JRTC) stands at the forefront of these successes, providing students with comprehensive vocational training across multiple disciplines. From culinary arts to welding, the center has become a beacon of opportunity for local youth.
Recent achievements highlight the center’s impact. Davin May’s ninth place finish in the 2025 Skills USA welding championships in Atlanta represents a significant milestone. Competing against students from across the United States, May highlighted the high-caliber training provided by JRTC.
Healthcare students from the center also made waves, participating in the international HOSA Leadership Conference in Nashville. Over 13,000 students attended, with local participants networking with healthcare professionals and exploring cutting-edge medical technologies.
The center offers an impressive array of programs, including automated technology, building management, carpentry, culinary arts, drawing and design, early childhood occupations, electricity, marketing, nurse aid training, and welding. Local sports have also contributed to the community’s positive momentum. The Covington Lumberjacks baseball team continues to unite our residents and anytime the highlands community comes together its good news for Alleghany County. Jacks’ pitcher Clayton Stewart received the prestigious Eric Workman Memorial Award for exemplifying leadership, character, and being a positive role model, the children of the Highlands can look up to.
The Virginia Commonwealth Games further demonstrated the athletic prowess of Allegheny Highlands’ young athletes. Ty’aieja Smith set a new
school record in the girls’ 400-meter dash, clocking an impressive 1:01.31 seconds and surpassing her previous personal best. Maddox Wickline and Levi Bartley also delivered strong performances in their respective events.
Perhaps the most exciting “Good News” for the community is the new Maple Tree Trail mini golf course at the Jackson River Sports Complex. City
Manager Alan Dressler described the facility as the “Walmart of parks,” highlighting its diverse recreational offerings. The 18-hole course transforms a previously unused wooded area into a meticulously designed recreational space. Local contractors and JRTC students contributed to the project, crafting benches that now line the trail. The whole complex includes a playground, walking trail, and riverside cabana, connecting to the Jackson
River Scenic Trail. With affordable pricing — $6 for adults, $4 for children ages 4-18, and free for children under 3 — the facility aims to be accessible to all community members. Extended hours from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends, with evening lighting, provide additional entertainment options for teenagers and young adults. The project pays homage to Covington’s mini golf history, particularly the former Cadd family venue, while creating a
modern, inclusive recreational space. These developments underscore the Alleghany Highlands’ commitment to education, youth development, and community engagement. From technical training to athletic achievements and recreational innovations, the region demonstrates a remarkable ability to invest in its future.
Local educators, coaches, and community leaders continue to emphasize the importance of supporting young people, providing them with opportunities to gain experience, grow, and excel. As the Maple Tree Trail mini golf course opens and JRTC students continue to achieve remarkable success, the Allegheny Highlands stands as a testament to the power of community investment and educational excellence. This region’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for the youth suggests a bright and promising future, with each achievement building upon the last and spreading positivity throughout the Highlands.
Truly the Good News is ever present everywhere you look.
