Year in Review: Top Ten Business Stories of 2011

Most of the talk about the economy in 2011 was about how bad things have been. 

But despite the gloomy backdrop, several new businesses gave it a go in 2011.

We saw innovative ideas and controversy, change and stability.

Check out our look back, and cast your vote for the top story of the year:

Unemployment:  We started with a 6.7 percent jobless rate in January which was the high for 2011. It dropped to a low of 5.8 percent in April. Last month the most recent report had unemployment at 6 percent.  We saw an improvement but it was a far cry from the 3 percent jobless rate we saw five years ago.

Yogurt Craze: One of the most noticeble trends in 2011 has been the growth of self serve frozen yogurt shops. Massapequa had an entrant in the field when  Frozen yogurt opened it's doors in September.

Deli Opening:  Another start-up that was more traditional was which put their emphasis on quality food. Finn's owner said he wanted the place to be known for "awesome catering at reasonable prices."

Black Friday: It may be the biggest business event of the year, in Massapequa and around the country. Black Friday at the Wesfield Sunrise Mall grows bigger every year. Last month they opened their doors at 5 a.m.

Chamber of Commerce: The installed Phyllis Doria to serve a second term as the group's president. Doria pledged the Chambers help as local businesses try to weather difficult economic times.

New Pizza Joint: A new entry in Massapequa's pizza market is pizza on North Broadway in North Massapequa. Their owner Joe Iannone showed great confidence when he said, " If you come and try our regular pie, it'll the best pie you'll ever have." 

R Bar: Rising from the ashes of the Bar Harbour Saloon, was , which held a grand opening in March. The owners of the establishment told us at the time that early business was stronger than expected.

Halloween: Not every business is meant to be opened for the long term. We learned that in October when we profiled Spirit of Halloween, a specialty store that represents an example of the growth of seasonal stores.

Checkers: A proposed Checkers franchise on Merrick Road encountered opposition from local residents who were concerned about the noise and possible pollution. The lot remains undevloped as 2011 closes. 

Massapequa Nissan: The name may say Massapequa, but the tax break says Seaford. Massapequa Nissan entered into an agreement with the Hempstead Industrial Development Agency to take over a site in Seaford.