Polk County government held a reception Thursday, Feb. 28 in honor of board of election director Dale Edwards’ retirement. Edwards was the director of elections for almost 31 years when she retired last week. County employees, past and present Polk County Board of Election members, board of elections directors from other North Carolina counties, friends and family attended the event to celebrate Edwards’ service. Teresa Roberts made Edwards a North Carolina Tarheel themed quilt (below) with well wishes from friends and family and the event was catered by Rachel Bell. At right: Becky Kennedy, George Comparetto, Judy Arledge and Dale Edwards. (photos by Leah Justice)