New businesses open in beach towns
       An  increase in new business ventures late in 2007 could be giving the economies of Pinellas County's Gulf coast beach towns an unexpected economic boost. Here are some of the latest.
       Madeira Beach: The Beach Food Mart has opened on Madeira Way. A large convenience store, it is in the space most recently occupied by the late Cafe Racer. Construction continues on what is to be an expanded Hess gasoline station and convenience store on Gulf Boulevard and 143rd Avenue.
       North Redington Beach: Casa de Isla has moved into Fashion Plaza on Gulf Boulevard. It's a boutique-style gift and interiors shop with moderate prices. Beach Gourmet has opened a self-service eatery at 171st Avenue, just off Gulf Boulevard, where Capone's pizzeria had planned to open, but never did.
       Redington Shores: Havana Beach Cigars is the fifth cigar shop to open in the beach towns and only about a quarter-mile south on Gulf Boulevard from Cigarista. Shore Deli has opened in the building once occupied by Cecilia's. Tiger Auto Repair has replaced Bob's Auto Service on Gulf Boulevard.
        In the loss column, Wilson Realty has moved out of its strip mall location in North Redington Beach; work has stalled on the planned expansion of the Mobil gasoline station and convenience store on Gulf Boulevard near Madeira Way; Cafe de Paris has closed its Treasure Island branch, but still is doing brisk business in Indian Rocks Beach.
       For news on restaurants go to dining.