CARSON CITY – It was the month the Nevada gaming industry and state political leaders were waiting for: the casino industry won more than $1 billion from gamblers in January, a double-digit rise fueled by a nearly 30 percent increase on the Las Vegas Strip.

The reason:  The Chinese New Year came in January instead of February this year. The celebration, which brings high rollers into Nevada’s casinos, ran from Jan. 23 to 29.

A new restaurant is looking to be open for business by the first week of April in the location recently vacated by Paradise Cove Cafe on the Stewart Street side of Carson Mall.

Zen's Cafe is a family-friendly bar and grill that currently has two locations in Arizona. Owner Adrian Yap said he has had success even in tough locations by offering great fresh-made food and being accommodating to his customers.

"People just want to have a good time," Yap said. He envisions his restaurants to be Cheers-style local's hangouts, and even names many of his menu items after his customers.

CARSON CITY – Three Republican state senators, all members of the Legislative Commission, have asked Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford, D-Las Vegas, to call a meeting of the panel as soon as possible to vote on the feasibility of the incorporation of Laughlin.

CARSON CITY – There are a few withdrawals in vacation destinations like New Orleans and Hawaii. There are a few from such tourist locations as Angel Stadium in Anaheim, SeaWorld San Diego and Pier 39 in San Francisco.

There are about 1,600 withdrawals in more than 35 states and the territory of Guam. And there are about 100 withdrawals at liquor stores and quite a few at Nevada casinos or slot parlors.