Twenty-six years ago, when “The Simpsons” was first premiering on FOX and the University of Miami was taking home a 33-25 win over the University of Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, the City of Covington was introducing a new city attorney who would serve the city up until present day.

Edward A. Crudup Jr. oversaw his final Covington City Council meeting Monday night.

Crudup was met with a standing ovation as Mayor Ronnie Johnston thanked him for his service and mentorship during his time with the city.

Johnston thought back to five years ago when he first became the Mayor of Covington and reminisced on all of the questions he had and how helpful Crudup was on helping explain the rules of government to him.

“I’m sad to report tonight that Mr. Crudup is actually retiring,” he said.

“He’s learned a lot,” Crudup said of Johnston. “But one of the things he hasn’t quite grasped yet is the meaning of ‘no.’”

“We appreciate everything you’ve done for the city,” Johnston said.

Covington City Manager Leigh Anne Knight said she was grateful to have worked with Crudup but would miss having a chance to talk with him regularly.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Crudup,” she said. “He has been a really big help to me, he’s taught me a lot, I’ve learned a lot from him and I’m definitely going to miss our chats about government and government life and how it should work and how it does work and what we think about it.

“We’re going to miss you so please come back to visit often.”

Councilman Michael Whatley said he has served the city for about the same number of years as Crudup and he has been happy to “grow up” with him.

Councilwoman Hawnethia Williams said she tried to convince Crudup to say for a couple more years.

“At some point in our lives we realize its time for us to do what we need to do and you’ve (Crudup) realized that,” she said. “May the Lord continue to bless you.”

Councilman Josh McKelvey, who is in his first year as a councilmember with the city, thanked Crudup for helping him learn his way.

“You’re kind of a legend in your own right here in the City of Covington and Covington politics,” he said. “I just wanted to say how much of an honor it was to serve with you and get one year with you.

“Thank you for your service.”

The City of Covington’s legal matters will be turned over to Attorney Frank Turner.