(L to R) Matt Garten, Chairman of the Alleghany County Board of Supervisors; Susan Wolfe, Vice Mayor of Covington; Jeff Irvine, Mayor of Clifton Forge; and Kawahna Persinger, Mayor of Iron Gate.

Four Proclamations Signed Today in Covington By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer   Covington, VA (Aug. 19, 2026)— Four proclamations were signed today at Covington City Hall by four local governing officials: Matt Garten, Chairman on the Alleghany County Board of Supervisors; Susan Wolfe, Vice Mayor of the City of Covington; Jeff Irvine, Mayor of Clifton Forge; and Kawahna Persinger, Mayor of Iron Gate. The proclamations were as follows: "Proclamation One: 2026 Children's Environmental Health Day (October 8, 2026). Recognizes the importance of protecting children from environmental health risks and promoting clean air and water, safe and healthy surroundings, and practices that support the health and well-being of children throughout the Alleghany Highlands. Proclamation Two: International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31, 2026). Raises awareness of overdose, remembers those whose lives have been lost, supports families and individuals affected by substance use, and recognizes the importance of prevention, treatment, recovery, and reducing the stigma associated with substance use disorders. Proclamation Three: Recognizing First Responders Day, Virginia Police, Fire, and Rescue Services on Memorial Day, and Day to Serve (September 11, 2026). Honors law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, and other first responders for their service and sacrifice; remembers those who have lost their lives in the line of duty; and encourages residents to honor their service through volunteerism and acts of service throughout the community. Proclamation Four: 2026 Public Lands Day (September 26, 2026)— Celebrates the parks, forests, waterways, trails, historic sites, and other public lands that contribute to the natural beauty and quality of life of the Alleghany Highlands while encouraging responsible use, conservation, and stewardship of these shared resources."

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