A look back throughout the last 366 days finds many important stories throughout Newton County that were spread throughout the pages of this newspaper. The Covington News examined the year that was and came up with a list of the top 16 stories of our community in 2016.

Stories for this compilation were chosen based on newspaper sales, online readership and word of mouth. These are the stories the readers of The Covington News found important in 2016. 

Follow the links below to read about each of the top items:

1 - A proposed mosque - August

2 – NCSO Deputy Justin White dies in the line of duty – Nov. 2

3 – 2016 New County leadership – Nov. 8

4 – Square transformation

5 – Crime increases

6 – BOC financial issues

7 – Convenience center cost implemented/SWA

8 – Georgia State officially comes to Newton County – Jan. 13

9 – Sheldon Rankins drafted by Saints – April 29

10 – Major production studio announced – June 28

11 – Performing Arts Center opens

12 – Theme School recognized nationally – Oct. 5

13 – Newton County public servants retire

14 – Henderson’s announces end, others celebrate their longevity

15 – Agriculture Center breaks ground – Dec. 19

16 – Prep teams reach final four