Businesses We Were Sad to See Go in 2012

Thank You For Your Business

House of Renee Originals, 3125 Beach Blvd. S. closed this summer. After more than 20 years of business in Gulfport, Joey Goodrich decided to retire. Goodrich is known for creating one-of-a-kind fashions for men and women of all ages. She's also known for making her dream come true and becoming successful with hard work and sacrifice. Goodrich started The House of Renee Originals in 1991 with just $80 in her pocket. If that wasn't hard enough, four years later, she was diagnosed with cancer and given 6 months to live. Goodrich completed intense chemotherapy, radiation and came out on top. Learn all about Joey Goodrich in our article, "House of Renee Originals Celebrates 20 Years."

Eileen's Resale Boutique, 5401 Gulfport Blvd. closed this summer. The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce informed members that the business sold in September. "Debbie Welsh, owner of “Coutre'd” in Largo who says she will continue in the quality resale business and will add some new merchandise to the product mix," according to the newsletter to chamber members. Eileen's Resale Boutique served residents for nearly 20 years before closing up.

Kozy Kazual Wears, 3007 1/2 Beach Blvd. S. closed in August. Jeff Moore expanded his online clothing shop into a business right off Beach Blvd on April 1. However, Moore informed friends and customers via Facebook that he was closing up shop on August 31. "We want to thank all of our customers for shopping, chatting, and even having a cup of coffee with us here at the store," Moore wrote.

Salty Sal's Restaurant at 2930 Beach Blvd. S. closed it's doors this fall.  Salty Sal's was only open for a couple of months. In August, Gulfport Patch published a business spotlight article shortly after the restaurant opened: "Salty Sal's Brings Variety and Flavor to Gulfport." A "for lease" sign was posted on the front door sometime in October.

The Gate House Antiques and Collectibles, 2825 Beach Blvd. S., opened during the summer of 2011. Proprietors filled a cottage with vintage furniture, retro collectibles, paintings and storied pieces. Learn more about the owners and their antiques in our story, "New in Town: The Gate House Antiques and Collectibles." In April of this year the owners announced they were moving to St. Petersburg. The following message was posted on their Facebook page, "We are completly out of the shop in Gulfport. We are now located inside of The Lion's Paw Antiques in the Grand Central District of St. Pete. Please come down and check us out! 2541 Central Ave!"