What was once a vacant building in downtown Reno is now home to a new business.
210 North nightclub closed its doors almost two years ago after falling victim to the struggling economy. And now, Rise Nightclub is taking its place.
Ownership has been working non-stop for two months, preparing for Friday's grand opening. Rise's look and feel is still very similar to 210 North's, but the owner has high expectations.
"You see, the big difference is the economy is coming back up," says owner Shannon Dobbs. "New businesses are coming in downtown. A lot of people are coming back from the suburbs and populating the downtown area again."
Dobbs says Rise will draw music fans from across the area who want to hear something different.
"Experience new music. They're going to be able to kind of get good underground scenes, get good Top 40, get the mash-ups and the mixes, and that's the whole point of it."
No doubt, the economy is still struggling though. Which is why there are still fears involved with opening a new business. But, Dobbs also owns 5-Star Saloon and says he has a handle on what sells and what doesn't in The Biggest Little City.
"Everybody is absolutely stoked," he says. "I've talked to city officials. I've talked to other business owners around the downtown area. Everybody is looking forward to seeing this area revitalized."
We've seen a few other businesses pop up recently, including Scampi which just opened its doors a couple weeks ago. They took over the location once owned by Amendment 21. Scampi's co-owner hopes Rise is here for the long haul.
"I wish them all the luck in the world," says Ray Salaho. "If they do it right, just like any other business, if you do it right, most likely, you're going to succeed."
The key to success, he says, is delivering a great first impression.
"You have to take your time and do it right," says Salaho. "If you rush it, you're not going to have a second chance for the first impression. Never will."
Dobbs is confident Rise's first impression will go over well with locals.
"Capacity of 1,000. So, I'm expecting to pack the house," he says.
If you plan on heading down to Rise, it opens at 10 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and there is a $20 cover charge.
Written by Adam Rasmussen
