Where can someone find flowers, candy, arts and crafts, office supplies and toys all in one place?

Just over half a mile away from campus, Ben’s has all of that and more. Ben’s has been a staple of Bowling Green since 1976 and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

It is owned and operated by the Craft family, and has stood the test of time over the years thanks to their adaptability and willingness to make decisions quickly.

Floyd Craft, a seasoned business owner, chose to open his store in Bowling Green due to the presence of the university. It is located at 154 S. Main St.

“There’s a lot of reasons to be in business in Bowling Green,” Craft said. “I like sports, I like the university. The university has been very supportive of us.”

The Craft family has been invested in the well-being of Bowling Green’s downtown shopping district. Floyd Craft cofounded the Black Swamp Arts Festival to bring life and art to the city, giving back to the community that supports his business.

The Craft family especially appreciates the college students that shop with them.

“We are happy to have the students shopping with us,” said Amy Craft Ahrens, Floyd Craft’s daughter. She runs Ben’s and also owns the nearby businesses The Busy Thimble, a quilting shop, and For Keeps, a gift shop.

All are welcome to the Craft family’s weeklong celebration of the 50th anniversary, beginning April 15 and ending April 22, which is the actual date of the anniversary. Ben’s is currently giving out bingo cards, just one activity of many. For every purchase made, a stamp is put on the card. Those who get a bingo or fill out the entire card can earn prizes.

During the celebration, Ben’s will be holding flash sales, where their merchandise will reflect 1970s pricing. Also, for customers with children, they will be able to pick out one free toy at Ben’s ‘Toy Table’ to stay busy while their parents shop.

The weeklong celebration will close with a ribbon cutting ceremony by the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on the celebration and the store in general, visit their website at https://www.bensbg.com/bensbg_013.htm, or Facebook page, Ben’s Downtown BG.