If you can see Mt. Baker, you are part of The Experience
Sue Masters at the Acme General Store counter. Courtesy photoWhen Sue Masters has a day off from work at Acme General Store, customers routinely ask, “Where’s Sue?” She’s a staple at the store and in October will be celebrating 37 years as an employee.
Acme General Store, 2035 Valley Highway, provides gas and groceries to the small town of Acme, east of Stewart Mountain on Highway 9. The store is a popular breakfast spot for loggers during the summer.
In 2023, the store will also be turning 125, and owners Steve and Jacki Rossing will celebrate 25 years owning the store in January 2023. Jacki said in their 25 years Sue has been their most valuable asset.
“How many people stay at a job 37 years these days?” Jacki said.
Acme is home for Sue. She grew up in town, moved to Seattle for a bit when she was young, but returned home and has been working at the store ever since.
“She's a small town girl, who doesn’t like to draw attention her way and can be a little shy all the while holding her own when teased by the regulars,” Jacki said. “Sue is a staple at our store, and the store will not be the same when she decides to retire.”
Sue opens the store regularly through the week at 4 a.m., even though the store’s posted hour is 4:30 a.m. She provides notary service and helped the Rossings transition to retail management when they took over the store in 1998.
Recently asked how long she will keep working at the store, Sue replied, “Till I drop!” x
