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!

Our Customers Drive on with Quality Cooper Tires

At Benny's, we know quality and safety, which is exactly why we have been providing our customers with Cooper Tires for over 60 years. Cooper Tire is an extraordinary company that manufactures some of the highest ranking products in the automotive industry. We are proud to carry such great tires at famously low prices. And from now until the end of July, Cooper Tire and Benny's are helping customers save more with a summer rebate and sale!

The Cooper Tire family took its first steps into the manufacturing business in 1914, when John F. Schaefer and Claude E. Hart purchased M & M Manufacturing Company, followed by The Giant Tire and Rubber Company, both in Akron. Two years later, the duo moved their business to Findlay, Ohio, where it grew immensely through mergers, expansion, and wartime production. In 1946, the firm officially changed its name to Cooper Tire and Rubber Company.

Cooper Tire continued to grow, as they entered the New York Stock Exchange, built additional manufacturing plants, enhanced their distribution system, and earned a spot among Fortune 500 companies to become one of the leading industrial companies in the country (all within half a century!). Today, with over 65 manufacturing, sales, distribution, and technical centers around the world, Cooper Tire shares its strong value of customer service with its loyal retailers (such as Benny's!) globally.

This summer, Cooper Tire and Benny's say thanks to their customers with special deals. Now through July 30, stop into Benny's and save up to $21 per Cooper tire purchased. In addition, through July 31, Cooper Tire is offering a $50 mail-in rebate prepaid Visa card with the purchase of four CS4 Touring or Discoverer H/T tires available at Benny's.

Click here to visit the Cooper Tire Facebook page, and download the official rebate form today! The rebate is available until July 31st, so stop into Benny's and pick up your Cooper Tires today!

Click here to view the tire clearance prices on our website. If you aren't sure of the size you need, our automotive sales associates will be happy to help in store! Also, if we don't have your car's tire in store, we will be glad to special order your tires. Did you know that we'll also mount them for you at no charge? Now that's a Benny's deal!

How to: Benny's Basic Pool Care Tips

It's hard to believe, but we are already halfway through the summer season! With some of this year's wild weather conditions, it is extra important to keep an eye on your pool's safety. Benny's has everything you need to maintain your pool's cleanliness throughout the entire summer. Now is the perfect time to check your in-ground or above-ground pool's pH levels, chlorination, and give it a good mid-summer clean.

There are many steps involved in keeping your pool in the best condition for the entire season. At Benny's, we've got fantastic pool chemicals from Robelle, and a full line of pool cleaning equipment. Here are some important tips to using your pool care products from Benny's:

• Check your pool chemical levels regularly. Your pH level should read between 7.4 and 7.6, and your alkalinity should read between 100ppm (parts per million) and 150 ppm.

• Prevent pool problems such as algae growth by cleaning the pool on a regular basis. Skim the top of the water, vacuum the bottom, and brush or scrub the walls.
• Eliminate algae growth by using shock treat, available in powder or liquid form. Click on the Shock Calculator to find out how much shock it will take to rid your swimming pool of algae.

• Algaecide is also preventative that can be used throughout the season to avoid this problem if it is reoccurring. We've got it available in quart or gallon sizes.
• Before you even get home to the pool, be sure to keep bottles of liquid shock treatment purchased at Benny's upright in your car on the ride home. This product will stain (and make a mess!) if it spills so please be careful!
• If your pool is becoming cloudy, purchase a gallon of pool water clarifier at Benny's. This chemical clots together the tiny particles that are causing the clouds so that they will be more easily trapped by the pool filter.

• Keep your pool chlorinated throughout the season; purchase chlorine tabs at Benny's, available in 4lb., 7lb., 15lb, or 25lb. sizes.

Check with a friendly employee at your local Benny's if you're not sure what products are best for your pool situation. Our expert sales team will be more than happy to assist you. Don't forget to check out our excellent selection of pool toys, floats, accessories, and safety gear, too!

Benny's Beach Guide

Here in Southern New England, we are fortunate to live so close to the coast. If you're a beach goer, we know you all head to the shore as often as you can (and usually at the same time, causing that horrid Route 1 beach traffic each weekend!) The summer weather got a late start this year, but at Benny's we're more than ready to help you gear up for your beach "daycation!"

Narragansett Town Beach narragansettri.gov

The most important beach accessory is sunscreen, yet many Americans avoid this life-saving product. A Consumer Report survey reveals that 31 percent of Americans don't use sunscreen. At Benny's, we've got a wide selection of sunscreens in a variety of SPFs in lotion and spray-on options to make sure you and your family stay sun smart at the beach.

We've got lots of other options to stay safe in the sun, too! Pick up an umbrella, sunglasses, hats, or T-shirts (with your favorite store's logo) at your conveniently-located Benny's.

Stay comfortable at the shore with a beach chair from Benny's. We've got many styles, from reclining and canopy chairs to lightweight and children's chairs. Don't forget a beach towel to dry off, and a cooler for refreshments. Pack the shovels, buckets, and other sand toys for the kids! Do you have too much to carry now? There's a "Wonder Wheeler" for that. (available at Benny's!)

Our Benny's locations are conveniently located on the way to the shore. With the help of our friendly and helpful service and great assortment of beach favorites, you'll be on your way to the beach in no time!

We've made a special list for our beach-loving customers:

Click here for a list of directions from your favorite beach to the nearest Benny's location!

The Grill Daddy

Grilling is one of our favorite parts of summertime, but no one likes to clean the grill off. This is where the Grill Daddy comes in. The Grill Daddy cleans the grill easily and effectively with the power of steam! This grill accessory also sterilizes the grill so that your next meal a safe one!

Here we have a video demonstration of an innovative product that is the perfect grilling accessory and a great gift to any "grill-master."

The Grill Daddy steam brush is available at Benny's for $14.99 . Our Benny's team is extremely impressed with the effectiveness of this product, and you will be too! Happy grilling!

Bristol Continues to Make National History

Did you know that Bristol's Fourth of July celebration is the longest annual Independence Day celebratory tradition in the U.S.? Talk about patriotism! Benny's is proud to be close to such a special tradition and event in our nation.

Rev. Dr. Henry Wright kicked off the oldest continuous celebration in our country on July 4, 1785 when he was chosen as the town's first patriotic speaker. Every year since, the Bristol celebration committee has chosen a Speaker of the Day to address the community that gathers on Independence Day. Throughout the years, the town has developed other patriotic traditions, such as the downtown Bristol parade, selection of a Chief Marshall for celebration, the arrival of a U.S. Navy Visiting Ship, the selection of a Miss and Little Miss Fourth of July from the community, and the presentation of the Hattie Brown community service award.

Bristol's superb parade attracts both local spectators and summer tourists with its patriotic presentation and impressive parade floats. Benny's is committed to helping parade viewers have the best experience possible by providing you and your family with all the items needed to stay comfortable this Independence Day.

Our Benny's Bristol location is conveniently located less than 2 miles from the parade starting point. Be sure to come in before the parade to pick up lawn chairs, sunblock, sunglasses, coolers, snacks, refreshments, hand-held American flags, and so much more.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

Your Favorite Store, Benny's

View Larger Map

Click here for a list of fireworks displays throughout Rhode Island this holiday weekend.

A Local Favorite: Paw Sox

Here at Benny's, one of our favorite summertime activities is heading to a PawSox ballgame at McCoy Stadium and cheering on our local sports heroes. The stadium is always filled with enthusiastic fans and community sponsors that create an exciting environment for the whole family.

The Pawtucket Red Sox team, the Triple A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, is a local icon that has made baseball history. In 1981, the team played in and won the longest game in professional baseball history at McCoy Stadium, against the Rochester Red Wings. Future Major League Baseball Hall of Famers Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs played in this game. Do you know how many innings this game was? Leave a comment to tell us!

Click here to watch a video clip about the "Longest Game"

Benny's is a proud sponsor of tonight's Paw Sox game, Junk Ball Night. The first 3,000 fans 14 and under entering McCoy Stadium prior to the 7:05 game will receive a Junk Ball. The Junk Ball also comes with an exclusive coupon to get a free Benny's T shirt with the purchase of any Junk Ball item in the store. We also gave away tickets to tomorrow night's game, featuring a post-game fireworks display. These exclusive tickets include access to the pre-game Red Tent BBQ party with complimentary ballgame food. You can enter to win contests like this on our Facebook page, so look out for the next one soon!

Also a special congrats to PawSox pitcher Matt Fox, who was just selected to be a member of the 2011 International League All-Star Team!

National Hardware Show: No-Mess Plunger

This week's video from the National Hardware Show features an innovative product from P.F. WaterWorks, a great company that creates innovative and sustainable water products. P.F. WaterWork's Sanjay Ahuja gives us a demonstration of the PlungeMax, the No-Mess Plunger. This product allows consumers to plunge the toilet without putting anything in the toilet bowl.

Watch the video presentation of this innovative plumbing device, and please give us feedback by telling us what you think! This product will appear in stores soon!

A Local Favorite: Del's Lemonade

At Benny's, we are happy that customers recognize our 32 convenient, friendly stores as a local favorite. We strongly believe in supporting local business, which is why we are going to highlight some of our local favorites on our new blog. Today, we salute one that has been around for over 50 years: Del's Lemonade.

Del's Lemonade and Refreshments is a family business that has grown through generations. The earliest frozen lemonade was created by great grandfather DeLucia, who sold the refreshing drink at his "mercato locale" (local market) in Naples, Italy, in 1840. His son, Franco, brought the recipe across the seas with him to America, and in 1948, Franco's son Angelo began selling the sensational treat to his neighbors from a lemonade stand in little Cranston, Rhode Island. Following the refreshment's popularity around town, Angelo's family expanded their business through stands, trucks, and franchises.

This summer, Benny's is offering Del's at-home lemonade packets at all of our neighborhood locations in the original lemon and watermelon flavors. In addition, Del's lemonade stands will be set up at select Benny's locations! What's better than sipping on your favorite frozen treat while getting a great deal at your favorite store? Come back to our blog soon for more details on Benny's locations and Del's!

National Hardware Show Video Series

This May, our hardworking team of buyers attended the 2011 National Hardware Show in Las Vegas, NV. This annual show at the Last Vegas Convention Center brings over 100,000 unique products from over 2,300 vendors under one roof, creating a wonderful opportunity for Benny's to find the best items for their loyal customers to purchase locally and conveniently. Show organizers select vendors from nine home improvement segments.

• Hardware & Tools
• Homewares
• Lawn, Garden, & Outdoor Living
• Paint & Accessories
• Plumbing & Electrical
• Storage & Organization
• Tailgate Products
• Energy Efficient
• Pet Products

This year, we took videos of some very help sales representatives explaining the use and originality of unique products that we think our customers may like. Each week, a new video segment will be featured on Benny's Facebook, Twitter, and blog. Please comment on the video, tell us what you think about the product, and if you'd like to see it on the Benny's shelves!

This week's video is the Anti-Steam Ove Glove, a product by Joseph Enterprises. Do you own an Ove Glove? What do you think?

Celebrate Father's Day!

Every June, we dedicate one Sunday to celebrate the love and kindness of fathers, grandfathers, uncles, stepfathers, and other great men who have made a difference in our lives. Father's Day, Sunday June 19, 2011, is a great time to give back to our loved ones who supported us while we were young, and continue to influence our lives today.

Many of us have fond memories of great times with Dad or Grandpa. They taught us how to ride our first bike which they bought at Benny's. Some fathers take their kids to McCoy Stadium to catch the Paw Sox in action, and others drive them to the local Del's Lemonade stand to pick up their favorite summertime treat. Dads bring the family to their favorite Southern New England beach, and treat the gang to Iggy's famous "doughboys and chowdah." These loving men work hard to maintain the house, landscape, tech gadgets, and family cars. Dads cut the grass, plunge the toilet, replace the light bulbs, change the oil, chlorinate the pool... (all with the help of products found at Benny's!)

Dads definitely deserve some recognition! Say "Thanks" to dad this Sunday with a special gift. Benny's is the perfect store to pick up everything you need to make this Father's Day special. Here are some great Father's Day ideas:

• Spend the day hanging out in the backyard after Dad unwraps his favorite outdoor game, like bocce or volleyball.
• Keep him caffeinated with a new coffee maker.
• Style his ride with car mats, license plate covers, air fresheners, and those fantastic ArmorAll detailing products.
• Dad's don't like to stop for directions: Buy him a Garmin portable GPS.
• Buy Dad or Grandpa the Zebco or Pinnacle fishing rod they always wanted.
• Purchase the supplies for Dad's next camping adventure.
• Help Dad get grilling with new Char-Broil or Coleman grilling supplies and fresh meats and produce from Dave's Marketplace.
• Roast some marshmallows together over one of our beautiful outdoor fireplaces.
• Help Dad relax at the beach with a new beach lounger and towel (don't forget the sun block).
• Support your fanatic sports fan with team sports gifts (The Stanley Cup champion Bruins!, Red Sox, Yankees, Celtics, and more!)
• Still stumped!? Let Dad pick something out with a Benny's gift card, available at any denomination.

A special thanks to all the Dads on Father's Day!

Benny's Stays Local Through Merchandising a New England Fishing Favorite

This month, our friends at Gibbs Lures were featured in The Providence Sunday Journal for their expertise, attention to detail, and preservation of tradition. This Cape Cod Canal business was sold and is now in the hands of Rhode Islander Dan Smalley and his friend Dennis Ryan of Massachusetts. Although the saltwater fishing lures are now manufactured in Cumberland, RI, these fishing fanatics have focused on continuing the handmade wooden craft designed by founder Stan Gibbs in 1946.

The demand of the Gibbs Lures plugs has only increased with its age. Since the establishment of Stan Gibbs' business, fishing has transformed into a popular leisurely sport that people of all ages participate in. Fishermen today prefer these natural, wooden products, originally nicknamed "poppers," because they are far more effective and synthetic than many plastic plugs that are manufactured by overseas competitors.

Gibbs fishing lures are a favorite among avid Southern New England fishermen. Not only are these wooden fishing tools terrific at assisting fishermen with the perfect catch, but they are also handcrafted right in the Southern New England factory in nearly 360 varieties. The intricateness of the craft is visible on the product. No two lures are alike, as each fishing device undergoes a 55-step process that incorporates all woodworking techniques.

To preserve the tradition of the craft and manufacturing operation, Gibbs Lures only merchandises its products to special bait-and-tackle shops and local favorite stores like Benny's all along the East Coast. We are grateful to have been able to provide our customers with such an exceptional product since 2003, and are happy that Gibbs Lures recognizes Benny's commitment to helpful, friendly customer service and famous low prices.

Benny's customers will find Gibbs Lures alongside a full line of fishing equipment. We sell a combination of fresh and saltwater products from some of your other favorite brands like Penn, Shakespeare, Zebco, and more. Stop into Benny's to pick up fishing lures, rigs, line, floats, nets, and tackle boxes. Ask a sales representative in one of our Rhode Island locations how you can obtain a Rhode Island fishing license at Benny's.

Click here to view the Providence Journal video about Gibbs Lures.