BEDFORD – With star athletes, community members and local officials on hand, the new Bedford Ace Hardware hosted its grand opening on Saturday.

The store, located at 209 Route 101 in Bedford’s 101 Plaza, has a full line of hardware, paint and outdoor items, including grills, smokers and much more.

Red Sox Hall of Famers Rico Petrocelli and Luis Tiant and former Patriots’ stars Steve Nelson and Joe Andruzzi were on hand to sign autographs and talk with customers. In addition, Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess and Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig attended, in addition to several other state and county officials.

Mike Grady was one of many area residents who came out for Saturday’s festivities. He stopped by to see Tiant, who he played a round of gold with in 1990.

“I have a cigar he autographed for me from back then. Luis told me that was the first cigar he had ever signed,” Grady said while displaying the cigar.

“I’ve kept that for over 30 years,” Grady added. “I watched (Tiant) play baseball. He was great. He’s such a down to earth, fantastic person. I’m so glad he came here to Bedford so I could see him.”

Grady, of Goffstown, also brought along a signed photo and a signed newspaper from his solo golf adventure with Tiant.

“The opening went really well,” said George Katis, whose son, Charlie, runs the store. “We couldn’t have asked for a better day.”

The Bedford Ace Hardware location is a sister store to the Nashua Wallpaper & Design Center, Dean’s Carpet One and Queen City Paint & Flooring. The store is helmed by Charlie Katis and is managed by Dan Riedy.

Bedford Ace Hardware’s hours of operations are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For additional information, call the store at 603-329-3312.

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