DOWNTOWN RETAIL BUSINESS UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

Whippersnappers is under new ownership.

Chris Tanksley has purchased the children's apparel and accessories store, from Lorene Garner. It will remain in its present location in downtown Cape Girardeau at 127 N. Main St.

"We are planning some changes for the store. We'll be adding infants wear and accessories," Tanksley said. "The store has carried lines for toddlers through pre-teens.

"We will also have a new line of skin care products for ages 5 through 14 by Bloomers," said Tanksley. "It includes a how-to video. And we will have a birthday club. Registrants will receive a birthday card and a discount coupon."

Cheri Medlin of Cape Girardeau will serve as the store's general manager.

Tanksley previously worked with the Koala Center in marketing and in sales with the Brown Owl apparel store. The Cape Girardeau native and her husband Gary have one daughter. They live near Kelso.

Whippersnappers was established in the 1,800 square foot store in June of last year by Garner and Marsha Eggimann.