(L to R) Tyler Sizemore, Deputy Director at Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation; Kester Dingus, Executive Director of Olde Towne Covington; Patsy Snead, Patsy's Dance Studio; Terri McClung, President of Olde Towne Covington; Lisa Sponaugle, Alleghany Highlands Regional Library Director; Afton Griffin, AVP Branch Manager; and Josh Taylor, Executive Director for Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

Olde Towne Covington Hosts Sign Dedication By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer   Covington, VA (Oct. 23, 2026)— On the morning of Friday, October 23, Olde Towne Covington hosted a special sign dedication, which consisted of a photo opportunity and interview session with local members of the press. The event was organized to celebrate the installment of one of three new signs recently erected in Covington. as part of a broader effort to enhance the visibility and aesthetic appeal of Olde Towne Covington. Local leaders like Terri McClung, President of Olde Towne Covington, and Kester Dingus, Executive Director of Olde Towne Covington, were present to share their insights with the Alleghany Journal. Both expressed their enthusiasm for one of the new signs, located just outside of Cucci's on 566 East Madison Street, and what it symbolizes for the community. "It's more than just a sign," McClung shared. "It's proof of our teamwork, our hard work, our dedication not only to Olde Towne, but to the community." The Olde Towne President also shared her enthusiasm regarding the grants which are now open to the city of Covington because of the sign placements. This sentiment was shared by Dingus. "It opens up opportunities for grant opportunities for not only the city of Covington and the downtown, but also for the downtown businesses that are in the official Olde Town Covington District," Dingus stated. "It also gives the distinction of being a Main Street community. Olde Towne Covington was accredited back earlier this year. It was one of 37 communities in the state of Virginia. There are only 840 nationwide that carry that distinction that we have met all the accreditation standards for." The Journal spoke to both Kester Dingus and Terri McClung shortly after the sign dedication to hear their thoughts on what the new signs mean to them and what they represent for the community.

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