One of the most recognizable comics from the 1980s, Tampa's own Gallagher (Plant High grad, Class of 1964) is making one of his rare post-retirement appearances at a comedy show Friday with comedian friends Bob Nelson and Artie Fletcher to help Pinellas Park celebrate its 100th birthday. Now 69, Gallagher is bringing his Sledge-O-Matic, made famous for wailing on watermelons, so the relatively intimate Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center could have a pretty large splatter zone. The show is at 8 p.m. Friday at 4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park. Tickets are $40 at pinellas-park.com or call (727) 369-5746

Sharon Kennedy Wynne, Times staff writer