The newest location of Ace Hardware is 200 Best Ave. in the Walnutport Plaza. The store opened on Feb. 19. The store is hosting its grand opening through Sunday.

All shoppers are given a reusable shopping bag with a mini ice bucket, Ace seed card, a Frostop Root Beer, chips, and candy. The store was quite busy Thursday as it is most days.

Shoppers Cindy and Sam Smith of Walnutport said, “We are so happy that a real hardware store has opened in our town. The selection is great. The store feels good. This store really has a great inventory.”

Tom Shear said, “I’m so glad I don’t have to go to the Ace in Schnecksville. They had just what I needed without having to drive far. I bought painting supplies and 10 bags of topsoil. I’m able to get back to what I was doing at home faster.”

Alaina Lambert came into the store to ask, “I have a salt stone massage unit that does not heat up. I was wondering if you fix devices?” She was told they do not, but they have a handyman list that might work for her.

Shopper Patty Reed said, “This is such a big relief and time saver for me.”

Tim Bracey, owner, explained that he chose to open his second Ace Hardware because of its location.

“There is a real need for this store due to the demographics. We have a grocery store, liquor store, fast food, restaurants, auto part stores and dollar stores. Everything you could want in one area. It keeps people in the area.”

Discussing the Walnutport Plaza location, Bracey said. “We have good neighbors centered around us. We will keep an eye on stock that really sells and those that don’t. We have a full selection of paint, anything and everything for yards, online ordering, delivery, we fix screens, sharpen mower blades and we are a true hardware store to maintain your home.”

This is the second Ace Hardware for Tim Bracey. His first one is in Brodheadsville. He resides with his wife and three sons in Lackawanna County.