Good Cents celebrates 20 years in Geneva

Shirley Stopka was an avid bargain hunter always searching for new clothing, toys and books for her children.

In the midst of her shopping hobby two decades ago, Stopka felt the urge to open a bargain retail store that could compete with modern retail stores in her area, and in June 1990, Good Cents Children in Geneva was born.

As the store celebrates its 20th anniversary this month, Stopka still is pleased with her level of acceptance in the community.

"We have always prided ourselves on looking like a real retail store, and it is evident in how well people accept this store," she said. "Especially in present day, where everyone's financial belts are being tightened, they are accepting of recycling and reusing their commodities."

In response, the store is featuring special discounts on particular products, noted by each week on the calendar.

This week, customers are given 20 percent off purchases from toys and games. Next week, customers are given 20 percent off anything in the store.

Stopka said in recent years that the store has adopted both a current and bargain retail theme. Customers who enter the store today can choose from a variety of clothing, toys, books, DVDs, games, shoes and accessories, including the current trend of Silly Bandz.

"We always try and stay on top of the hot trends, which is newer to our store. When Beanie Babies were a hit some 10 years ago, no doubt we had a collection of those," she said.

Customers also have the opportunity to win a free birthday party. Stopka said a box at the front of the store is accepting entries for a raffle held later this month.