Chuck Merlis, Author at Tampa Bay Business & Wealth

Out-of-state capital backs $3.7M senior housing buy north of Tampa

Local Buzz October 1, 2025 |

A $3.7 million senior housing acquisition north of Tampa underscores Florida’s urgent demand and growing investor interest in assisted living.

Front exterior view of Crown Court senior housing facility in Inverness, Florida, a historic 120-year-old building set for renovations after its $3.7 million sale.

Clearwater’s Yo Mama’s Foods racks up 36,000 orders after GMA feature

Entrepreneurs & Business Strategy September 30, 2025 |

Clearwater’s Yo Mama’s Foods turned a GMA spotlight into 36,000 orders and now heads to ABC’s “View Your Deal.”

USF names sole finalist for presidency

Local Buzz September 30, 2025 |

USF names Moez Limayem sole finalist for its presidency, a decision that could shape Tampa Bay’s economic and educational future.

Tampa-based Anchor Glass cuts debt 60% while securing $100M for growth

Uncategorized September 30, 2025 |

Anchor Glass reduces debt 60% and raises $100M in new capital, reinforcing growth under CEO Nipesh Shah.

$120 million Marina Bay condo planned on Pinellas Bayway

Uncategorized September 30, 2025 |

Developer Reza Yazdani unveils plans for a $120 million luxury condo tower, the final piece of the Marina Bay community in St. Petersburg.

Rendering of Marina Bay Residence, a planned 12-story, $120 million condominium tower on the Pinellas Bayway in St. Petersburg, with rooftop amenities, pools and waterfront views.

University of Tampa appoints new marketing chief to boost national profile

Education September 29, 2025 |

UTampa names new marketing chief to guide brand strategy and boost the school’s national profile.

Industry veteran buys Riverview Village Inn

Local Buzz September 29, 2025 |

After decades running Village Inn restaurants across Florida, Dean LaFollette now owns the Riverview location he first advocated for nearly 20 years ago.

Riverview Village Inn restaurant exterior alongside owner-operator Dean LaFollette.

Hilton Garden Inn sale marks Ybor’s rising profile

Real Estate September 29, 2025 |

The sale of the Hilton Garden Inn in Ybor underscores the district’s revitalization and rising investor interest in Tampa hotels.

Exterior of the Hilton Garden Inn Ybor City in Tampa, Florida, photographed at night.

THEA approves $362M South Selmon expansion

Local Buzz September 26, 2025 |

THEA has approved a $362 million South Selmon Capacity Project to add lanes, modernize bridges and deliver community upgrades from Riverview to downtown Tampa.