By MATT LINDSEY

POTSDAM – A local women’s clothing store will close after doing business in the community for over 25 years.

The Cheshire Cat, 78 Market, St., will close July 20.

Store owner Pam Sherburne opened the retail store in September of 1990 along with her business partner Kathy Donnelly. Donnelly retired after nine years and Sherburne kept the store running for another 16 years.

“We thought downtown Potsdam would be a great place for a retail shop to provide clothing, jewelry and accessories for middle-aged ladies,” she said.

Donnelly said that there was a niche for her product and that they offered items that were not carried locally.

Other stores took care of younger generations, while The Cheshire Cat catered to a different clientele.

“There were not a lot of shops in the area and we saw a need for a clothing store,” she said.

Sherburne says she is liquidating her inventory.

The store is offering 40 percent off on nearly all products through July 20, with greater discounts possible as the closing date nears.

Anyone who has a credit slip or gift certificate is encouraged to stop in before prior to closing.

“I want to say thank you to all the great customers I’ve had over the years,” Sherburne said. “We had a great collection of individuals and that's what I am going to miss the most.”

The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: 265-6265.