Community Corner

Top 10 Business Stories of the Year

From store closings to new restaurants downtown, 2011 was a busy year for businesses in Riverhead.

Getting ready to ring in the New Year? Before you break out the streamers and noise-makers to celebrate 2012, join Riverhead Patch as we look back on the biggest news stories of the past year. Today, Patch counts down the top 10 business stories from 2011.

Hyatt Place East End Opens

In July, the in downtown Riverhead . The new hotel included 100 guest rooms, pools, and conference areas for businessmen. The Exhibition Center at the newly renamed also opened with the hotel, and .

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Tropical Storm Irene Brings Challenges to Local Farmers

Tropical Storm Irene wasn't as bad as some experts predicted, but that didn't stop the severe storm from with high winds and rain.

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Restaurants, Micro-Brews Open in Riverhead

2011 was the "Year of the Restaurant" in Riverhead. In 12 months, , , , and all opened their doors.

Local Businesses Shutter Doors

Unfortunately, 2011 also saw several businesses in Riverhead shut down. in October. after the company went bankrupt this summer, and in downtown Riverhead, just seven months after it .

Summerwind Square Begins Construction

In November, on Peconic Avenue. The The 8,000-square-foot building will also include space on the ground floor that can be divided for businesses.

The Faces of Downtown Business Owners

Shopping "local" is the latest trend for Riverhead shoppers, but who actually runs the "mom and pop" stores around town? In February, that continue the tradition of "keeping it local."

Potential Downtown Movie Theater Slowly Moves Forward

According to town officials, a plan to build a Regal movie theater in the old Woolworth building downtown is moving closer to being complete. Progress on the popular proposal has been slow; most recently, and meet with officials to discuss the project.

Vintage Square Developers Return With New Proposal

In September, with a new proposal for the Vintage Square project. a development with a multiplex, apartment and retail space, and a 750-car garage on Railroad Avenue near the courts, as well as "Vintage Village on the Peconic," a mixed-use space with more apartment space, restaurants and a village plaza across from the Suffolk Theatre on Main Street.

Country, Polish Town Fairs Draw Thousands

This year, thousands flocked to Riverhead for the Polish Town and . However, , as the poor economy caused many visitors to spend less at the fair.

Verizon Workers Strike Over Contract Negotiations

The summer Verizon strike came to Riverhead in August as . The union workers were demanding Verizon loosen its stance on health care and wages after contract negotiations between Verizon and the unions broke down. .


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