State Rep. Howard Penny Jr. (R-District 53), right, recognizes Erwin Mayor Patsy Carson with the Old North State Award during the May 5 Erwin Board of Commissioners meeting. This award, signed by Gov. Roy Cooper, recognizes ‘dedication and service beyond expectation and excellence to the Great State of North Carolina.’ Penny also presented Carson with a state flag that flew over the capitol on April 19 to honor her for her ‘dedicated service to the town of Erwin and other community projects.’ Carson has served as mayor for close to 16 1/2 years. This was her final meeting before passing the gavel in June to the next elected mayor. Standing in back, from left, are Commissioners Randy Baker, Charles Byrd, Thurman Whitman and Ricky Blackmon.