GAS PRICES SPIKE, THEN EASE

Florida gas prices jumped last week, with the statewide average rising from two-95 last Sunday to three-20 by Thursday, before easing back to three-12 over the weekend. Triple-A reports the current average is three-ten per gallon -- up from two-98 a week ago and two-96 last month, but slightly below three-eleven this time last year. Spokesman Mark Jenkins says the price swings have become routine, as retailers adjust to stay competitive. The most expensive metro areas include West Palm Beach and Naples, while Pensacola offers the cheapest fuel.