Retail sales in the U.S. rose more than forecast in March, showing consumers are weathering the jump in gasoline prices heading into the second quarter. The 0.8 percent gain was almost three times as large as projected and followed a 1 percent advance in February, Commerce Department figures showed today in Washington. The median forecast of 81 economists surveyed by Bloomberg News called for a rise of 0.3 percent. Eleven of 13 categories showed increases. Americans snapped up Apple Inc. (AAPL) iPads and clothing at chains like Gap Inc. (GPS) and Target Corp. (TGT), indicating an improving job market is boosting ... (full story)