A reminder that a local organization is going out of business today.

Ben’s Five & Dime is closing its doors after business hours today following a successful 70-year run. Store Owner Andrea Tunink shares that she has been working at the organization since she was in high school then took over as the owner in 2019. Tunink commented that the pandemic shifted people’s mindset to shopping online more. She says that the business has been a staple in the Perry community and brings many memories for people. Tunink thanks all her employees that have committed their time.

“It’s been great, and I’ve always loved being able to have high school kids. We’ve employed at least a dozen, I think I have five or six on staff right now, and I got to have all three of my own kids working for me, so that’s been great.”

Although Tunink recognizes the closing is hard, she is grateful to the Perry community for supporting the business over the past seven decades. Tunink reveals that Ben’s Five & Dime will remain open today from 9am-5pm. She stresses to keep backing other local organizations in Perry and to welcome any new businesses with open arms.