Several small business owners and even some big name retailers will look to make this year a prosperous one as they open up their new shops here in the Valley.
It's an exciting time for local businesses in the Valley, and with a new year brings new hope for our area which has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state.
The Wedgewood Wedding and Banquet Centers took over the old Grand Occasions venue in Northwest Fresno. It's located near Shaw and Highway 99. What's different about this place is that the owners here have added an outdoor garden wedding venue in addition to making renovations to the existing building.
Also in Northwest Fresno on Bullard and West is the second Casa Corona Mexican Restaurant. The restaurant has taken over the old "El Toro Tambien" location. The other location has been in business in Northeast Fresno for more than a decade. The new restaurant is open in an area that already has quite a few eating options, but the owner calls it healthy competition.
There's also good news in the North and South Valley.
In Merced, De Angelo's re-opened Monday after a fire in 2010 destroyed the old restaurant. The new location is just off Highway 99 and Childs Avenue and we're told the owner Vinnie De Angelo is very happy with his new venture.
In Visaila, Mooney Boulevard is getting a makeover. A new commercial strip along the road will be home to a new Wal-Mart. It will be taking over the old Costco. We are already hearing that other business will return to that area later this year.
In Fresno County, Nature Organic Food store is opening in Fowler. Dan-D-Pak, which offers packaged fruits and nuts, is opening in Fresno County at Jenson and Cherry.
