The Snowbelt Musical Arts Association, composed of four performing ensembles, was founded in 2017 by Greg Hillis, a former director of the Great Geauga County Fair Band. Following his term with the fair band Hillis began looking at opportunities for local musicians to play and perform and also to offer high quality concerts to area audiences.

He notes that his wish to make music widely available in Geauga and Lake counties started years earlier while growing up in Chardon.

“I always wondered why we had to leave the county to hear or play in a concert,” he said. “I’ve made it my mission to bring as much music to the area as possible.”

Partnering with a group of friends from the fair band who served as the first board of directors, Hillis’s goal was achieved.

SMAA is comprised of four performing ensembles: Lake Effect Concert Band, a community band for older teens and adults; Blizzard Youth Winds, a concert band for junior and senior high school students; Polar Vortex, a big band jazz ensemble; and Snowbelt Symphony, a professional symphony orchestra.

Recruiting members through flyers at local music stores and using social media and emails for networking proved to be successful.

“It was almost immediately apparent that the Lake Effect Concert Band would be viable,” Hillis said.

Since that time general interest and support for the group has consistently grown. The Lake Effect Concert Band drew nearly 400 attendees at its latest concert and the SMAA Facebook page has attracted more than 1,200 followers.

The wide span of musicians’ ages ranging from high school students to seniors in their 80s is advantageous, according to Dee Costello, mother of one of the younger concert band members.

“(There’s) fantastic mentoring by the amazing more experienced musicians,” she said. “They’re just super human beings.”

The chance for many family members to participate together is another benefit. Michael and Nancy McMillin claim that band practice serves as the couple’s date night.

“Music has been important to our lives since before we met 26 years ago,” Michael said. “Participating in the Lake Effect Concert Band, watching our son participate in the Blizzard Youth Winds, and volunteering for the Snowbelt Symphony has given us such joy and fulfillment. We are very lucky and blessed to have this opportunity.”

Each ensemble typically meets for five or six rehearsals followed by one or more concerts. Along with designated sessions members are expected to practice on their own to further hone their skills.

Although COVID prevented gathering in person for more than a year, ingenuity and technology were employed in order to maintain musical connections.

SMAA Board President Steve Ingrassia mixed audio and produced videos from submissions by individual musicians. The videos are available on Ingrassia’s YouTube channel, under the Snowbelt Musical Arts Association playlist, and most are also available on the SMAA YouTube channel.

Jim Vinciquerra is a musician who plays euphonium in Lake Effect. More than 50 years ago he was a member of the Wickliffe High School Band.

“As one of the ‘elder statespersons’ of the group, I find that challenges of practice and performance keep me both young at heart and mentally sharp,” he said. “In addition, I get a chance to be part of something that brings joy to me as well as an appreciative audience.

“I had wanted to get back into music since my high school band years, 55 years ago, and the Lake Effect Band has thankfully provided me with that opportunity.”

Although SMAA is busy performing at various venues from senior living centers to local jazz festivals, the group continues to work toward growing audiences, establishing regular financial support from corporate and grant sources, creating school outreach programs and more.

Upcoming concerts include the Blizzard Youth Winds at 7 p.m. Feb. 9 at a location to be announced, Snowbelt Symphony 4 p.m. Feb. 18 at New Promise Church in Kirtland and Lake Effect Concert Band at 7 p.m. March 22 at Berkshire High School in Burton.

For additional concerts and more information on SMAA visit snowbeltmusical.org.

Since that time the now 24-year-old Willoughby woman has served as a volunteer with the organization, helping youngsters cope with their grief.

Described as a “much-loved counselor” by a hospice staff member, she transitioned from attending Together We Can grief camps held each summer at Red Oak Camp in Kirtland as a camper to someone who is now part of the supportive team.

As a teen volunteer she worked behind the scenes helping out with supplies and various other duties. Eventually she was trained as a counselor.

“I go back every year because I see the children grow throughout those three days, and they say that they want to be like me,” King said. “When they grow up, they want to volunteer. It makes me feel like I’ve done something great.”

Diane Snyder Cowan, former director of the Western Reserve Grief Services of Hospice of the Western Reserve, shared the benefits of the camp in an article posted on the organization’s website:

“Children tend to process their grief differently than adults,” Cowan wrote. “It provides a ‘safe zone’ where kids can feel comfortable sharing emotions and asking questions in a supportive environment. Camp activities encourage memories and the expression of feelings.

“The children engage in memory-making art and nature projects that honor their special person,” she continued. “We do a drum circle every year that the kids and counselors enjoy. They also have time to enjoy the gorgeous outdoor setting and have fun with other children. There is swimming, rock climbing, archery and kayaking in the afternoon.

“There is comfort in being with other children who have experienced a death. They learn they are not alone, they are not going crazy and that other children their age are coping with some of the same kinds of feelings.”

King noted that at the time of her father’s death it was difficult to relate to other children because most had not undergone such a tragic loss. But by expressing her feelings in journals and taking part in beneficial activities and programs the healing process ensued.

As a counselor King has witnessed several children begin their own journeys toward healing. One boy who remained quiet during most of the camp finally broke down in tears on the last day.

“This is usually children’s first experience with someone close passing away,” King said. “They don’t know how to deal with it.”

Some children are fearful of visiting the cemetery but once King explains that they can help to keep the gravesite clean and place decorations there they become excited.

“Knowing I could make a little bit of difference in how this child views a cemetery makes me feel fulfilled,” she said.

Other experiences have proved gratifying for her as well.

For example, last summer King worked with a boy who lost his mother. During the camp he told her that his mother loved butterflies. The day after camp ended a butterfly landed on King’s shoulder.

“I felt like that was his mother coming back and telling me thanks,” she said.

Sharing the personal story of her loss and subsequent recovery often serves as an impactful tool for the children.

“They see that I got through it and they can too,” King said. “It’s OK to miss your loved ones. It’s OK, you can cry.”

Volunteers are an integral part of Hospice, and King encourages those who are considering coming forward in that capacity to do so.

“I feel like sometimes people are afraid because they don’t have any experience, but there are different ways to volunteer,” she said. “You can clean, cook, sit with the patients.”

Over the years she has also witnessed the positive difference that gifts to Hospice can make.

“I’ve seen those donations and how they help…whether it be art supplies or teddy bears…just the joy that it brings to people,” she said, adding that “I have seven teddy bears. They remind me of my time there and they remind me of my dad.”

Western Reserve Grief Services provides comprehensive offerings of grief programs to anyone needing support on their grief journey. A family member does not have to have a loved one in hospice care to take part in children’s bereavement camps, equine (horse) camps, family programs, special events, art therapy groups, Healing Arts Workshops, online forums and a wide variety of grief support groups.

Crisis response in the community and in-school grief programs are available.

For more information, call the center at 216-486-6838 or 800-707-8922 or visit hospicewr.org.

If you haven’t possessed that inkling Liz and Maggie Pryor have done it for you in the form of Chill Pops, a frozen fruit treat first marketed in Cleveland and now sold in stores throughout the U.S.

Liz, who grew up in Euclid and graduated from Hawken School in Gates Mills, along with her partner Maggie, hatched the idea for the healthy, all-natural popsicle in 2013 after experimenting with ingredients in their grandmother’s kitchen.

The pair first peddled Chill Pops at local markets and the Cleveland Flea where Liz says the hot items often sold out.

The following year they moved into their own production space in Cleveland and worked on designing packaging in order to wholesale to retail accounts.

By 2015 the businesswomen had an opportunity to pitch their cool creation to Whole Foods Market, hoping to snag a spot in their Cleveland-based stores.

Their expectations were exceeded when the market executives decided to launch Chill Pops as a regional brand.

“It was a pretty incredible experience, and not the typical path for getting on to shelves,” Liz said.

Soon after, several flavors were being sold not only at Whole Foods but at Heinen’s, Giant Eagle Market Districts and multiple stores nationwide.

With sales still going strong Liz recently noted that “while this may seem a bit cliche it seems that what we accomplished to this point is mostly attributed to the fact that we have an incredible product.”

She explained that with whole fruit as the first and foremost ingredient it’s simpler to keep the treat healthy by adding less sugar and more fiber while not relying on water or juice concentrates. The icy edible never contains artificial sweeteners, corn syrups, toxic dyes or other unnatural ingredients.

“Chill Pops tend to over deliver and surprise people once they try them…whether it’s the quality and texture, the whole fruit and no flavorings, or less conventional combinations,” Liz said. “It’s a mature, sophisticated spin on our collective nostalgia for Popsicles.

“We also worked to make the product accessible to those with certain food allergies or restrictions by having a lineup that is mostly dairy-free and also gluten-free, soy-free and non-GMO.” 

The idea developed through the couple’s focus on healthy lifestyles as well as their status as self-proclaimed “foodies.”

Liz previously worked as a holistic health coach after studying with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition based in New York. Maggie still serves as a respiratory therapist at University Hospitals and also holds a master’s degree in health education.

“Both of us care deeply about our food system, understanding where our food comes from and how it’s produced,” Liz said. “Even so, we fully ascribe to the philosophy of finding balance between eating clean and well but also enjoying food as an experience, treat or indulgence.” 

Since their early days in the kitchen stirring up the pops they’ve created more than 40 different flavor combinations, none too basic or mainstream, including peach sriracha and agave garlic for the Cleveland Garlic Festival hosted by North Union Farmers Market.

The company’s website offers six types — avocado mint chip, black pepper plum, coco mocha fudge, lemon ricotta, sea salt strawberry cream and the most requested watermelon lime.

“People always share that it tastes exactly like frozen watermelon, to which we reply with amusement ‘that’s because it is’,” Liz said.

Although the women are working hard producing pops by the thousands in order to keep up with demand, they’re still looking ahead.

“We do have some neat iterations in the pipeline and hope for those products to launch when the timing is right,” Liz said. “And we’d still love to offer a retail format of our own someday or debut a pop-up option during the summer season.” 

Preparations for the commemorative year began in 2018 with Bicentennial committee members gathering to share ideas. From there a comprehensive list of viable activities that could easily be distributed throughout the year was formulated.

“The (organizing) committee felt it was important to bring creativity into traditional Bicentennial planning and offer a robust schedule of events,” said township Recreation Director and committee member Debra Esker.

During each month in 2022 a special theme linked with corresponding activities will be featured.

In February “LOVE Concord” will offer township business discounts, special photo opportunities and more. A Founder’s Day breakfast is set for March and activities in May include a Kentucky Derby themed 5K run.

“Amped up” summer outdoor concerts throughout June and July will showcase music of past and modern decades. Following in August the popular “UNCORKED” event will return along with a community parade.

In September back-to-school will be marked with historical presentations at the Old Stone School and Concord Game Day at one of Riverside High School’s football games.

Spirits of Concord Halloween Cemetery Tours are scheduled for October along with a photo contest focused on historical sites. And in November a “Thank You Concord” luncheon honoring long-time residents and veterans will take place.

Serving as the celebration’s grand finale is a Christmas extravaganza presenting a tree lighting, live music and fireworks.

“As we roll out the schedule of events and continue to publicize our history through pictures, books and stories, I hope residents take pride in Concord’s evolution…from smaller, quieter get-togethers that explore Concord history to larger celebrations with music, food and fireworks, we hope every resident and guest finds something to enjoy,” Esker said.

Township Trustee Morgan McIntosh recently noted that the township stands as a a premier community in Lake County because of its small, country feel while at the same time offering the conveniences and amenities of larger, neighboring communities.

He said that it’s important to acknowledge the 200-year milestone because it “provides our community an opportunity to embrace our history and connect our community, building unity and pride… I cannot think of a better gift to the residents of Concord than to celebrate this event as we open up and come back together.”

Fellow township Trustee Amy Lucci also shared her thoughts regarding the township and upcoming bicentennial.

“The reason Concord stands out is because of its people,” she said. “Residents take pride in living in this township. We are proud of our history, have prospered through the challenges, and continue to support each other and welcome new neighbors…

“It is important to celebrate the bicentennial because 200 years is a significant achievement.”

While working on plans for the year-long festivities committee members researched the actual date of Concord’s establishment.

Because the area was originally part of Geauga County planners reached out to the Geauga County Public Library System for possible clues. Adult services assistant Christine Peace tracked down the minutes from an 1822 Geauga County Auditor’s meeting which revealed March 8 as the township’s official beginning.

“We finally found our birthdate,” Esker said.

Other historical information regarding Concord is being included in an “Images of America” book scheduled for publication and available for purchase later this year.

Members of the Bicentennial Planning Committee are Esker, township Trustee Carl Dondorfer, Alice Fish, Kelly Kurec, Rachel Lamb, Betty Leiby, former township Trustee Connie Luhta, Dan Maxson, Rose Moore, Jennifer Rardon and township Administrator Andy Rose.

The local group that provides upbeat polka music and entertaining shows at festivals, senior centers, schools and more has found ways to reach their many fans as well as engage newcomers during the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Jake Kouwe, an accordion player who initiated the ensemble in 2003 while attending Chardon High School, along with bandmates Mike Franklin (banjo and guitar), Mitch Lawrence (saxophone) and Bob Young (drums), have been pumping out the polka jams on broadcasts via the Internet.

“It’s kinda just making whatever we can work at this point,” Kouwe said.

Programs including Zoom, Skype, Google Meets and Facebook all are used to interact with residents of nursing homes and senior centers as well as children in elementary schools. A live stream for music lovers seeking toe tapping tunes appears on their Facebook page at 6:30 p.m., Saturdays.

Because band members are isolated from each other individual input is coordinated using technology.

Four sound and video performances created separately are edited then patched together to create a full band performance.

Fortunately the system has been working, but not without a few glitches.

“There are so many challenges,” Kouwe said. “Normally, in live performances I just haul my accordion in. With digital we have to test the connection then we might lose the connection…there are all these hurdles.”

An inability to play in person for the annual Dyngus Day event in Cleveland wasn’t going to stop the crew from boosting the strong Polish spirit annually celebrated there. Putting songs together for the online concert took a vast amount of time compared to playing in person but they managed to get it done.

Between virtual full band gigs Kouwe sometimes performs alone, albeit in a very unusual manner.

At a senior facility in Youngstown his smiling visage was seen and melodious voice heard emanating from a computer screen wheeled on a cart down a hallway for residents, spaced apart for safety, to enjoy.

“When I was wheeled around they were blowing me kisses, dancing, laughing. That had a huge effect on me,” said Kouwe, adding that their happiness increased his own.

A performance for an elementary school in North Carolina resulted in kids playfully waving stuffed animals at the accordion player while delighting in the show.

Some fans have conveyed their appreciation for the band’s virtual efforts through letters.

One woman described her feelings by writing “You are a breath of fresh air in these monotonous days…I find myself laughing out loud… it’s good medicine…can’t wait to set you outside at a performance or festival again.”

Kouwe said that he’s grateful for the good weather so that the band can practice together outdoors in safe conditions. He’s also waiting on word regarding some scheduled summer events where the possibility of performing live still exists.

“There are so many unknowns with the virus,” he said.

Despite the work required to produce performances virtually, the enthusiasm and support showed by the band’s online followers and the ability to reach new locales has persuaded them to perhaps add the new avenue to their repertoire.

“We’re going to try to make an effort to engage people that way,” Kouwe said. “It would take some extra effort, but we could technically. These same people from Nebraska, Florida, Texas who tune in every week would be able to join in.”

For more information on the Chardon Polka Band and to watch their Saturday live-streamed performances, visit www.facebook.com/thechardonpolkaband/.

Reggie Case, a smoking cessation educator and pulmonary rehabilitation specialist for Lake Health, once worked with a woman who successfully ended a lifelong smoking pattern at age 72.

Along with heavy doses of support, Case said what’s often needed to snuff out that last cigarette forever is coming across new information.

‘You have to get that ‘wow’ in there,’ she said, ‘…that ‘oh, I never thought of that’ piece. Sometimes it’s the pictures (of how smoking affects the body), but not always. ‘

Up In Smoke, an ongoing six-week smoking cessation program offered by Lake Health, focuses largely on medical based-information as well as behavior modification. Case noted that many smokers don’t realize that once harmful elements are inhaled they filtrate throughout the body, affecting the colon, kidneys and other areas many don’t associate with smoking.

On average, smokers die 11 to 12 years earlier than non-smokers, according to the American Cancer Society.

Those extra years are what prompt many to seek specialized programs.

Marianne Vest, a senior clinical nurse and certified tobacco treatment specialist at University Hospitals, said she’s often told by those seeking to end the habit that grandchildren have asked them to stop.

Along with group programs including Beat the Pack and Tobacco KnockOut, UH offers individualized counseling.

During the personal sessions Vest looks at behavior modifications as well as nicotine replacement therapy using such medications as Chantix or Welbutrin.

Assistance with kicking the habit to the curb has proven to be more helpful than counting solely on oneself.

Only about four to seven percent of people are able to quit smoking on any given attempt without medicines or other help, according to the American Cancer Society.

‘If you’re going to go cold turkey the rate of success is going to be very low,’ Vest said.

The medical specialist said taking the first step by walking into the door and expressing a desire to quit is highly significant.

Often they’ll tell of previous unsuccessful attempts. She responds by letting them know the ending the addictive habit is going to take work.

‘It’s not just about having a quit date,’ she said. ‘They have to have an emergency plan ready and they have to have it with them… driving a different way from where you pick up your cigarettes, having something in your fingers like rubber bands (instead of cigarettes).’

Vest noted that the individual counseling is beneficial in that everyone is different. Normally she’ll meet with someone for six or seven visits over a three-month period and then be available for reinforcement afterward.

Telephone-based cessation programs have become a popular way to help those seeking to quit using tobacco.

The American Cancer Society, partnered with Alere Wellbeing, offers Quit For Life.

Via telephone, participants are matched with a quit coach who helps them develop a personalized plan, gives guidance in selecting medicines and provides ongoing follow-up support.

Utilizing modern communication, personalized text messages as well as motivational emails can be sent to participants.

Though programs are plentiful, the overall success rate for those wishing to quit is not as high as medical professionals would like.

Vest said that the Mayo Clinic, often referred to for setting the gold standard in cessation programs, has an overall success rate of about 35 percent.

Typically those reaching the six-month mark are noted as being habit-free, although some return seeking help after falling off the wagon one or two years later, Vest said.

The Cleveland Clinic offers a Tobacco Treatment Center.

While some programs are free, in some cases medical insurance covers the cost of those with accompanying fees.

The votes were taken at separate meetings on Jan. 26.

Previously, Geauga Educational Service Center Superintendent Matthew Galemmo said the ESC’s initation of the transfer, which is part of the complete transfer process, would not take place without both boards’ approval. Geauga ESC Treasurer Lorrie Petersen said no negative discussions surrounding the issue have been heard.

The Geauga ESC Board is expected to vote on a resolution to initiate the transfer at a meeting on Jan. 27.

If passed, a 30-day referendum period would take place.

During that time Ledgemont residents may file a petition opposing the transfer if they can obtain a designated amount of signatures from qualified electors who both live in the Ledgemont District and who voted in the last election.

If such a petition is not presented, Geauga ESC must approve a second resolution making the transfer effective on or before June 30. Once the second resolution is passed the Berkshire board must vote to accept the transfer.

This article, with video, will be updated later today.

However, alternatives to ‘roughing it’ do exist.

Among them is Aurora Pointe, a spacious chateau tucked in the mountains of West Virginia’s Canaan Valley, land designated as a National Natural Landmark for the beauty of its forests and fauna.

When first learning of the opportunity for a stay at the retreat, owned by Slopes to Sands Dream Vacation Homes, an operation with several plush properties in the U.S. and Mexico, I scoped out the details online.

Winter skiing and summer water activities, both nearby options during times of accommodating weather, weren’t available in October, the month of our planned trip.

Nonetheless, multiple options for relaxation and entertainment presented themselves.

From ventures into the Appalachian Mountains during the height of scenic foliage season to a generous cache of high-tech theater and gaming equipment provided indoors, there were plenty of choices to keep all nine of us – with age groups ranging from toddlers to seniors – engaged.

As is often the case, planning the trip pumped up the fun factor some weeks prior to our departure. A few family gatherings dedicated to working out the details allowed us to prepare an organized game plan as well as build anticipation for the experiences ahead.

Comprehensive information online made it easy to familiarize ourselves with the layout of the home, which included seven bedrooms.

It was helpful claiming bedrooms in advance, thus saving time upon our arrival. And although several eateries were not very far from our mountainside location, a state-of-the art kitchen containing a large Teppanyaki grill convinced us to cook all of our meals in-house.

Fortunately, my son-in-law, Pete Kavalecz, is a professional chef with vast experience using commercial grills. Bringing along exotic ingredients used to create an elaborate stir-fry dinner on the evening of our arrival made the celebration of my daughter’s 30th birthday very special. Other pre-trip arrangements included taking advantage of a linen service offered through the rental. Rather than packing up pillows, sheets, blankets and such, we opted to split the $150 fee for the service, which was well worth the convenience.

The morning of our departure our three-car caravan took off with nary a hitch. Drive time from Concord Township to Davis, West Virginia, is about five to six hours, depending on traffic and delays caused by road construction.

Information provided by Slopes to Sands not only suggested the best routes for the trip but also gave turn-by-turn directions once GPS systems no longer picked up signals in the mountainous area.

Upon arrival we delighted in yelps of excitement from the children as they discovered the theater and gaming rooms. That matched the satisfaction of the adults as we explored the bedrooms appointed with regally dressed beds on elevated platforms which gave excellent vantage points for panoramic outdoor views. The bathrooms, some equipped with Jacuzzis, easily served as mini-spas where one could while away hours winding down from the stresses of everyday life.

With nine in our group, there was room to spare, as the ch teau’s bedrooms can accommodate 16 people plus four more on queen-sized air mattresses.

A well-thought-out design separates the home’s three distinct levels. The ground floor is equipped with an Xbox 360 console, movie theater-style seating and a 16-foot screen along with two bedrooms and adjoining Jack and Jill bath. Knowing they’d be eager to get busy with the amenities after awakening each morning, my 6- and 12-year-old grandsons chose to bunk there. Not only did the selection prove beneficial for them, but the adults were able to snuggle in for a bit more restful sleep on the center level, as the boys remained happily occupied.

The top floor, sporting a great room with two fireplaces, expansive dining room and kitchen, sauna, outdoor deck complete with barbecue grill and seating, served as our central gathering spot.

To illustrate the attention to detail designers used when building the home, outside deck railings are composed of transparent glass, giving guests an unobstructed view of Mother Nature’s beauty.

After becoming acquainted with our surroundings and taking in the spectacular dinner show presented by our resident chef, some of the family crew decided to relax in the hot tub on the deck before retiring to bed. Again, thoughtful design provides a door from the deck to an indoor hall with a bathroom, thus saving carpeting and furniture from wet feet and towels.

The next morning, eager to delve deeper into our surroundings, we took advantage of a golf cart housed in the attached garage. Traversing somewhat rugged paths, we discovered beautiful vistas, a horse farm, Timberline Ski Resort and other residences scattered over the mountainside.

Another outing, this time by car, took us to Canaan Valley Resort and Conference Center within the Canaan Valley State Park. The modern, well-appointed facility offers the use of indoor and outdoor pools, an 18-hole championship golf course, fitness center and spa treatments, covered outdoor ice skating and more. Fees are not included with rental of the home so those choosing to use the amenities should be prepared for additional costs.

With plentiful opportunities for fun at the chateau, including a shadowbox theater complete with props the children used to full advantage, most of our time was spent playing indoor games and walking about the surrounding property. The shutterbugs in our group were thrilled with countless photo opportunities presented by the expansive scenery.

However, those so inclined may choose to travel a bit farther for visits to Dip Creek Lake, Seneca Rocks, Nelson Rocks Outdoor Adventure Center or other locales.

Within 24 hours of it announcement on Dec. 15 more than 200 schools and districts responded.

Ledgemont School District in Geauga County and Saints Robert and William Catholic School in Euclid are among them.

‘The safety of our boys and girls remains the top priority of our schools,’ said Superintendent of Public Instruction Richard A. Ross. ‘The SaferOH tip line provides another resource for schools and school districts in their continuing efforts to provide a safe and secure educational environment.’

The tip line allows students and adults to anonymously share information with school officials and law enforcement about threats to student safety – whether that involves a threatened mass incident or harm to a single student, according to a state Department of Education news release.

Department Spokesman John Charlton noted that such reports could include bullying and potential suicides.

He added that a terrorism tip line, already in place, has been expanded to include the new service.

Research shows that in 81 percent of violent incidents in U.S. schools, someone other than the attacker knew something was occurring or was about to occur but failed to report it. Often the reason is the person who knew something was in fear of being labeled an informant or becoming the target of the attacker or bully.

Although school safety analysts may ask for additional information, every tip may remain anonymous.

Calls or texts to 844-SaferOH are answered by analysts in the Ohio Homeland Security’s Threat Assessment and Prevention Unit. When action is called for, the TAP Unit immediately forwards information to local school officials, law enforcement agencies and others, if necessary.

‘The assurance that their calls cannot be traced and that serious, proper action will be taken to end the threat is helping to persuade young people to take a stand against school violence,’ the news release stated.

Ronald Stephens, executive director of the National School Safety Center, said the Ohio departments of Education and Public Safety are to be commended for initiating the endeavor.

‘Tip lines are a positive and proactive way to support safe schools for all children,’ Stephens said. ‘They acknowledge the key roles that students and community members play in promoting safe schools.

‘Public awareness of tip lines can also provide a deterrent effect that may preclude acts of crime and violence from occurring by providing an early warning notice to responsible adults, linking victims or potential victims with a network of protective services to support the safety of all children and those professionals who serve them.’

Schools can sign up for the free tip line at saferschools.ohio.gov.

Refreshing fragrances, colorful and creative displays and thousands of interesting items stimulate the senses and encourage a pleasurable, relaxing shopping experience.

Owner Barbie Gennarelli initiates the satisfying venture by ensuring customers are greeted with scents, samples, smiles and the sound of music.

The shop, housed in a bright pink building, and its practical as well as pampering products, have garnered attention and multiple accolades.

The Heart of Willoughby organization has deemed the shop as the best place to buy a unique gift in Willoughby. Its products were honored in the Best of Cleveland 2013 contest, and the business ranked as the fourth top gift shop out of 84 nominees on Cleveland’s 2014 Hot List.

The shop has also been featured on local television shows.

Gennarelli, a gregarious and energetic individual, is featured in a book titled ‘The Entrepreneurs: Success and Sacrifice’ by Kip Marlow.

A Euclid High graduate and current Willoughby resident, Gennarelli worked successfully in the corporate world before deciding she wanted to travel less in order to spend more time with her family, which includes three sons.

Using her corporate and marketing skills she started up a home-based business selling soaps in 2010. Cleansing materials fascinated her since receiving a gift of soap molded to resemble a pair of shoes when she was a youngster.

Starting out at the seasonal Willoughby Market, the products’ success led her to open a shop on Erie Street, later moving to the current spot at 37917 Vine St.

‘The whole concept is fresh, usable, handcrafted gifts made in small batches,’ Gennarelli said. ‘Soap is something everyone will use. It’s not a gift that will sit on a shelf.’

A crafting team comprised of individuals from Cleveland and other areas in the U.S. supply the store with products in all price ranges.

Among top sellers is an olive oil soap made in three versions: wrinkle defy, oatmeal milk and honey and skin renew selling for $6 per ‘slice.’ Other soaps decorated for the holidays include sugarplum, Christmas tree and gingerbread.

‘Once you experience handmade soap with natural rich glycerine you’ll never go back,’ Gennarelli said. She noted that many times soaps made en masse and sold in larger retail stores remove the glycerin for its value, leaving a less effective product.

Another popular item is a triple-whipped lotion comprised of beeswax, coconut oil and shea butter that can be used on elbows, hands, feet, hair and other parts of the body selling for $12.95.

A Santa’s Corner has been set up with special holiday-themed items.

Those seeking inexpensive presents and stocking stuffers may assemble an assortment of samples costing as little as 50 cents each. Placed in a decorative bag, the variety provides a handy opportunity to try several products.

Among store staples and always in demand are soapy sponges and loofah bars containing both soap and a scrubbing element, Gennarelli said. Directions note to ‘have a blast with this unique soap and sponge in one. Simply wet the sponge and squeeze for a foamy clean shower or bath.’ Cost of the dual purpose sponge is $9.50; $8.50 for the loofah.

For an extra rich lotion, Gennarelli said Argan Oil at $21.95 is considered a drink for your face. She added that the oil is cold-pressed from seed of a tree and so effective that it’s often referred to as liquid gold.

Seeking to satisfy customers of different tastes, a Cafe Bakery area presents cupcakes and other sweet items, all made of soap. And the bonus? Each carries the fragrance of the confection serving as its inspiration.

Youngsters might easily be more convinced to clean up when presented with a bar of soap holding toy lizards or ballerinas. The more the soap is used the closer the child gets to uncovering the ‘prize’ inside.

Gennarelli claims that many of the shop’s customers are men, seeking to purchase treats for their significant others as well as themselves.

A section designated as ‘What Men Prefer’ offers body mists, body washes, shaving dishes and brushes and more.

Enhancing the positive aspects of each purchase is gift-wrapping. From free, simple wrapping to more elaborate totes resembling designer purses at an additional cost, the choice of presentation lies with the customer.

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