Your Turn: Top Business Story of 2011
Which business event was the biggest in 2011?
14th Annual Culinary Delights Event
Mayor Suozzi and Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce at 14th Annual Culinary Delights event.
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Business and economy made headlines throughout 2011, from festivals and new ventures, to closings and problems with LIPA. Now, it’s your turn to decide which one was the biggest. In no specific order, here are the top 10 business stories in Glen Cove. When you are finished reading, take our simple poll attached at the bottom:
Coliseum Vote: Nassau County voters shot down the referendum to refurbish the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Ed Mangano went after private firms to redevelop the 77-acre site. Charles Wang had hinted of moving his NHL team, the Islanders, and all sides debated whether jobs were really on the line.
LIPA, National Grid to Close Glenwood Power Station: LIPA and National Grid announced in June that they have reached an agreement to shut down the Glenwood Landing and Far Rockaway power stations, effective June 2012. The shutdown of the Glenwood site on Shore Road is expected to reduce property taxes to reflect lower property values, according to LIPA.
St. Rocco’s Feast: This year, The Church of St. Rocco's brought "Little Italy on Long Island" to Glen Cove for an almost week-long carnival that included live entertainment, rides, games, raffles, religious masses, food and more food. After a one-year hiatus in 2010, the feast made a successful return. Several thousand homemade meatballs, sausage and pepper heroes and chicken cutlets were sold, Chairman of the Feast Reggie Spinello said.
Struggling Business: Our story on Stango’s Restaurant in August received quite a bit of attention. While restaurants and businesses all over the nation struggled to survive through the dismal economy climate, this Glen Cove landmark was no exception. Owned and operated within the Stango family for over 90 years, the restaurant has survived through the Great Depression and World War II. But owners said the economy was one of the toughest for business they have seen.
Top Chef Contender Opens New Local Restaurant: Danny Gagnon, a season five contestant on Bravo TV's "Top Chef" on cable, brought his culinary talents to Glen Head in December. He opened DoraNonnie Tapas & Wine Bar - located inside Bernard's Market - which features Italian-Asian fusion cuisine and other unique selections.
The Economy: By the end of the year, the latest unemployment figures were disappointing across Long Island but remained steady in Glen Cove. Jobs in the health care sector showed some of the most promise.
Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber has hosted multiple events throughout the year, including 14th Annual Culinary Delights. President of Chamber Mary Stanco said in January that the Villa townhouses, ferry terminal, and Glen Isles are among the city's various projects that will improve the city's economy. Phyllis Gorham, Executive Director, said in December the amount of membership renewals and new members have remained the same as last year, however there are signs of economic improvement within the city.
Glen Cove Hospital: The hospital won awards and brought new innovations to the city. They named a new co-chair of its Advisory Council and built the Lillian Rose Program, which provides unique care for patients with Alzheimer's and dementia.
Glen Cove Downtown Business Improvement District: From the Downtown Sounds Summer Concert Series, to the Halloween Costume Parade and Winter Festival, the BID has been an integral part of organizing some of the year’s biggest events.
LIPA Problems: The power company was widely criticized for its response to Hurricane Irene, where Glen Cove residents were left in the dark for days. Then the utility announced it would raise its rates by 2 percent.
John Cocchiola
3:28 pm on Friday, December 30, 2011
For us here on the North Shore, it's the LIPA plant closing hands down. They're takin' their tax dollars, and going away. It's going to cause quite a few headaches for quite a while.