Dow Gains on Mixed Economic News

Stocks were off to a slow start today as equity markets in Europe were having a rough day.  There was some positive information as Retail Sales improved by .5% as opposed to the .2% expected.  Minutes later the Empire State Manufacturing Index, which acts as a barometer for future capital expenditures, was down for the sixth consecutive month.  With that information stock traders began to sell.  A tame reading on inflation made them feel better.  The Dow managed to eek out a 28 point gain.