January Business in Western Nevada

January has come and gone for Nevada business. News today spoke of the Dow reaching over 12,000 once again, so does hope spring eternal for Nevada business. 
Gaming figures don't figure to have rebounded, nor has the short sale market subsided, however positve signs can be seen in Nevada Small business.  One Gardnerville retailer had gains of 27% over last year, after catering to her best customers in 2010 with an exclusive sales event.  I spoke with a fitness center today that said January is always good but this year was absolutely robost. And I witnessed a Minden Appliance store have a line of customers all making purchases of a major appliance on a Monday, several tickets of over $10,000 each.
Famous Daves in Reno is Opening this spring and is hiring over 150 employees, Big 5 expanded its stores in Carson City this month and also hired new employees. The town is a buzz of news  that the Olive Garden is still coming.
Positive signs are showing for those businesses which have pushed on in this economy. The Snow pack has helped fill
rooms and the resorts are happy, I think it is safe to say that Nevada Small business has hope. This is not over, not by a long shot but positive energy can be contagious, so let's share the success stories of Nevada Business.
I welcome your stories here, as I try to reflect on our challenges and offer features on our success.