Hurricane Guide

It has been a while since the last hurricane made it up to Southern New England. Hurricane Irene is tracking to be the first hurricane to travel towards this area in a number of years. A hurricane is a a tropical storm system with winds at a minimum of 74 miles per hour and is accompanied by heavy rains. It never hurts to be prepared in the instance of a hurricane, and at
Benny's we have you covered.

Heavy rains and winds can often lead to power outages and flooding. There are many items you should have in preparation for these instances. Many of the items we use in our homes are electricity dependent, and it is smart to have alternatives ready. Lanterns, flashlights and candles are always a great place to start. Old Fashioned corded telephones and portable radios will help you keep in touch and stay up to date on the latest news. Of course, you want to have plenty of batteries to power everything.

Now that you are home with no power, what will you do? How about some classic board games or breaking out a deck of cards. It is a great time to bond with your family over some games. It is a good idea to have some food around that house that does not need to be refrigerated. Bottled water, canned foods and snacks are standards. If you have a camping stove, a propane grill or a even a gas grill you can mix it up and create some great meals.

There are also a few things you can do to prepare your home for a hurricane. Putting storm or masking tape on your windows will help secure them from the heavy winds. Having a sump pump or a Shop Vac will help you deal with any flooding you may have. Be sure to secure your outdoor furniture or other things you may have laying around the yard with rope or bungee cords.

If you would like more information on Hurricane Irene, be sure to check your local news and favorite websites for the latest. You can also track the storm and learn more about hurricanes by visiting the National Hurricane Center http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

Local Spotlight: LTB Distributing's Formula X2

At Benny's, we're constantly searching for items that will best assist our customers with any projects or problems. From a leaky faucet to a bee's nest, you'll find the perfect solution on a Benny's shelf. We can accomodate all customers, from busy moms, to disorganized students, to car fanatics. Thanks to LTB Distributing and Formula X2, Benny's is pleased to help all fuel users, from vehicles to boat owners, solve one of their toughest problems: water found in fuels.

Formula X2 is a unique fuel additive and ethanol treatment that protects the entire fuel system and its components. With a formula that actually removes all water from gas or diesel tanks by breaking down water molecules in a cold chemical reaction, the product is guaranteed to remove water and prevent ethanol damage. Subsequently, Formula X2 limits rust and corrosion, prevents bacteria, algae growth, and phase separation, prolongs fuel injector life, decreases maintenance and improves performance. Formula X2 is also a great fuel stabilizer and additive for weatherization.

"We are so happy to be helping folks with this ethanol issue," writes Formula X2 distributor Jo-Ann Bonito. "We are hearing more horror stories everytime we visit small engine repair shops, marinas, and vehicle and motorcycle repair shops. It seems to be impacting everyone that uses fuel, period."

Lew & Jo-Ann Bonito of LTB Distributing are passionate about their product, and this is reflected in the growing popularity of Formula X2 throughout New England. Formula X2 was recently featured in the Fisherman Magazine, and has just joined social networking sites Facebook and YouTube. With a distribution center in nearby West Bridgewater, MA, Formula X2 has certainly become a local Benny's favorite.

Watch the video from Formula X2's website below:

Click here to view the Formula X2 Facebook page!

Let Summer Live On!

Although at Benny's we've been stocking our shelves to help students of all ages to get ready for school, we're still in summer mode! There are a still a few weeks remaining this summer, (fall doesn't officially start until September 23!) and we are helping our customers soak up every last ray of sun with a special sale on many of our beach chairs! Stop into Benny's for a great deal on supplies that will help you lounge, relax, and enjoy this Southern New England summer before the school schedule is back in swing.

Many beach chair models are discounted from now through Labor Day, September 5. Visit your conveniently located Benny's to see our large assortment. Here are some of our favorites:

The Zero Gravity Lounger is a comfort lover's dream. This popular chair is great not only for the beach, but is also a favorite by the pool, in the backyard, or on the deck. At a price like $34.99, now is the perfect time to purchase a set! (originally $49.99)

The Big Kahuna Chair is great for beach-goers who could use an extra hand! With a cup holder, a pillow, and a side compartment attached, this chair is the perfect for holding everything you need to enjoy a great beach day. (It's also perfect for an afternoon nap!) It's available at $27.99. (original $39.99)

The Folding Beach Chair in a Bag is so convenient for traveling, as it comes with a bag and an easy-to-carry strap. It is available in a variety of colors for just $13.29. (original $18.99)

Love the beach but want the shade? The 4-position Canopy Chair is the best style for you. The optional, lightweight personal canopy is attached to the back of the chair. Purchase it today for just $27.99. (original 39.99)

Happy Relaxation!

Your Favorite Store, Benny's

Happy National S'mores Day!

Today, Wednesday, August 10, is National S'mores Day! This delicious holiday comes at the perfect time of summer. It reminds us to enjoy time outside with friends and family on a beautiful warm night one last time before the back-to-school routine!

For many, lasting memories are made around a fire pit with the help of these ooey-gooey classic American treats. Here at Benny's we LOVE s'mores, and we've got everything you need to fire up your own.

Smorpak

Your conveniently located Benny's stores have s'mores products that are just as convenient! Our favorite is the Smorpak, an item that includes SmorStix, marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers all in one (everything but the fire)! We have all of these items individually as well, from your favorite brands like Honey Maid graham crackers or Hershey's chocolate bars! Here are a couple of unique ways to "spice up" your s'more recipe:

• Pick up a pack of DELICIOUS toasted coconut marshmallows at Benny's, and substitute these yummy treats for original marshmallows.
• Switch your Hershey's chocolate bar our for a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup to create a s'more for the peanut butter lover!
• Use chocolate graham crackers to make double chocolate s'mores!
• Add a dab of peanut butter and a few banana slices to your traditional s'more for a colossal treat!

We hope you treat yourself today!

Your Favorite Store,

Benny's

Victory Day 2011

What is Victory Day? Rhode Islanders get a state holiday on the second Monday of August each summer. So what's the "victory" anyway, and why are we the only state in the union that celebrates this day?

Victory Day is celebrated in honor of the anniversary of the Allies' victory over Japan during World War II. Japan's surrender during the second week of August 1945 determined the placement of the official state holiday as the second Monday in August. Rhode Island was the only state in the union to adopt the celebration as an official state holiday, and held its first Victory Day in 1948. Rhode Island still celebtrates the holiday as a tribute to the large number of sailors it sent and lost in the Pacific front. Victory Day is observed in order to commemorate the brave veterans who sacrificed for their country during the Second World War.

While Victory Day is a controversial state holiday, it is a day every summer that families can spend a long weekend together. This Victory Day, we hope that you and your family enjoy some outdoor fun. Make one more trip to Benny's for those last-minute summer essentials, like outdoor furniture, camping, beach, and pool items before you return to shop for back-to-school supplies!

The "Victory Day Kissing Photo"

Benny's: Your Summer Camping Gear Headquarters

For many families, camping trips are a summer tradition. Camping is a great way to gather together and escape into nature, away from all of the distractions in today's world such as computers, media, and Internet. These technologies have significantly changed our lifestyle, so every once and a while it's great to slow down and enjoy simplicity. At Benny's we can provide you with everything you need for a camping weekend in Southern New England.

Now through Saturday, July 30th, Benny's is holding its big annual summer clearance, making it the best time to pick up your must-have camping items.

Here is a great camping gear checklist from Benny's:

• Tent - right now, you'll save $5 to $10 on each! We've got high quality dome tents that fit 2, 3 or 4 campers, starting at $14.99.
• Tarp - We've got a large assortment in many colors and sizes; pick up one to cover your outdoor patio furniture too!
• Air beds - Our assortment of twin, full, or queen comfortable air beds are available at reduced prices. We LOVE the amazing air beds with built-in electric pumps (they inflate and deflate in less than 3 minutes, and come in a storage bag!)

• Air pump - During our clearance, save $5 on this camping tool.
• Sleeping bag - We have youth and adult sizes available in store!
• Outdoor folding mesh chairs - Starting at just $7.99, all chairs come with a cup holder and easy carry storage pouch. Lounge or canopy chair varieties are also in store.
• Life vests - At Benny's you'll find youth and adult sizes, even some with favorite characters, like Dora the Explorer (well, those only come in kids' sizes).
• "Outdoor kitchen" accessories, coolers, and fire starting materials.
• Nuts for the trail mix, Hershey's bars, marshmallows, graham crackers for smores, and jugs of water.

• A utility knife, rope, and flashlights.
• Sunscreen, bug repellent, and clothing that is easy to layer to stay safe!

Here are some camping tips for beginners:

• After you purchase a new tent at Benny's, it is best to practice pitching the tent before you arrive at the campsite. That way, it can be done quickly and easily in case of bad weather.
• Place a tarp underneath the tent to avoid weather damage on the tent.
• Try your best to pitch the test on a natural bed of soft, flat soil. Don't pitch at bottom of hills or valleys to avoid water logging.
• No matter what time of year you go camping, it is best to always dress in layers to control your body temperature through the day and night.
• If you are camping in a heavily-wooded area, keep a GPS or compass handy.

Click here for a list of campsites in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

Happy Camping!

Your Favorite Store, Benny's

Benny's Latest Claim to Fame

Below is our newest TV commercial! It was shot just a few weeks ago at our store on Atwood Avenue in Cranston. Watch it here and be sure to stop into Benny's to pick up the summer clearance deals mentioned in this ad, and so much more! The BIG summer clearance sale is happening now through Saturday, July 30. These great deals typically "fly off the shelves" during this sale each year, so hurry in! Don't miss out!

A special thanks to all those who helped us create a FANTASTIC commercial!

Let us know what you think of our new commercial!