Wildlife Center Expands, New Whole Foods, Surging FL Gas Prices, Inflation: Business News

TAMPA BAY, FL — Here's the latest restaurant, retail and other business news from the Tampa Bay region.

Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center Announces Major Expansion

The wildlife center in Madeira Beach is home to exotic animals purchased by people on a whim who later realize they can't care for them. Now, the nonprofit plans its expansion, leasing 2 acres of land at 6000 150th Ave. in Clearwater from Henry W. and Pamela M. Sindlinger of the Farmer & The Farmer's Wife that will be developed into a refuge for some of the center's rescues that require larger enclosures and the ability to bask outdoors in natural sunlight.

Whole Foods Construction Means Demolition Of St. Pete Businesses

Piles of dirt and debris surrounded by a fence Tuesday show the demolition of a Dollar General building, a long-standing gym and a Kahwa Coffee drive-thru to make room for construction of a Whole Foods Market.

Rising Gas Prices Impact Sarasota, Bradenton Businesses

Small business owners and workers have felt significant financial impacts as gas prices surge in the Sarasota and Bradenton areas.

Nearly 8% Inflation Is Highest In 40 Years: What It Means In FL

Surging prices for food, gas and housing that are already putting the squeeze on Florida residents could go even higher, according to a report Thursday from the Labor Department that showed inflation jumped 7.9 percent over the 12-month period ending in February, the sharpest spike since 1982.

HGTV Taps Temple Terrace Realtor For New Series

In 2018, Amina Stevens opted to give up her career as a Hillsborough County English teacher to pursue a more lucrative calling as a Realtor.

Iron Gwazi Prepares To Invade; Anticipated Coaster Opens Friday

Just in time for spring break, Iron Gwazi, North America's tallest roller coaster and the world's fastest and steepest hybrid coaster, will officially opened at Busch Gardens Tampa on Friday.

Other Tampa Bay-area business news:

• Restaurant News: BLVD Bistro, SRQUS, Oscura, Healthy to Go
• Kids With Cancer Have Specialized School In Brandon: Report
• Sports-Themed Skybox Rooftop Bar Offers Craft Brews, Cocktails
• Pregnancy Center Celebrates Opening Of New Tampa Location
• Zoo's Rarest Animal Has Room To Roam In New Native Habitat
• Valspar Championship Takes Over Innisbrook March 14-20