To the Editor:

A wonderful event took place in Ahoskie on November 16 when Ace Hardware hosted an Open House and Christmas celebration.

Jamie Johnson and his Ace gang deserve a big thank-you for hosting such a grand event, especially the “Ace girls” who did an awesome job of decorating the store…from the lumber warehouse, to the main interior, to the garden center; it all was gorgeous.

And speaking of gorgeous, Miss North Carolina was simply beautiful, stopping to greet and take photos with anyone who asked.

Then there was the food – the pig picking prepared just right by Trey Byrum and L&W Catering. They can really put on the “whole hog.”

Let’s not forget about Colton James – the “Little Ride in the Country” singer. He was awesome. My husband, Wade, purchased for me a copy of Colton’s CD and Colton was so gracious to autograph it. That was awesome!

Wade and I also had the chance to chat with Jerry Castelloe of the Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce. He gave Wade and I some real good advice on how we can continue to improve our new Chamber over in Gates County.

But back to Jamie….he sure knows how to put everyone in the Christmas spirit. What he does for his community shows his love for those in our little area.

He also showed that love on Veterans Day, saluting his wonderful dad, Jim, and all the veterans in the Ace family. The ad he ran in the newspaper was quite a tribute.

Jamie’s love of the older generation, either those still with us or who have passed away, is very apparent. His love of people and memories of their parents is great and I love Jamie everyday for remembering that great generation of people.

Jamie’s love for his fellow man is something that will never be forgotten. I just wish everyone had a little piece of Jamie Johnson inside them…the world would be a better place.

And to top it all off, all he asked in return on this special night was for those coming into his store to bring non-perishable food items that were donated to the Ahoskie Food Pantry.

Thanks again to Jamie and his staff for a wonderful night.

Ann Stokes Askew

Eure