9 Ways Malverne-West Hempstead Changed in 2011

Every year is filled with significant moments but some reshaped Malverne and West Hempstead more than others.

Here are the top nine ways the communities were changed in 2011.

1. No More Courtesy: After a decade of protests, letter-writing campaigns and much waiting, West Hempstead . The hotel was sold in February to Mill Creek Residential, which demolished it in the spring and has since been complex in its place. 
2. Ta Da, Turf: The sports facilities at Malverne High School received a major makeover in 2011 as local athletes played on for the first time this fall. As the bond projects continue in 2012, the district can look forward to two newly renovated elementary schools.
3. Great Losses: Both communities also suffered great losses this year with the passing of some of its most dedicated residents including active volunteer and war veteran , of West Hempstead, and
4. Big Comebacks: Despite a stagnant economy, two major businesses in Malverne and West Hempstead re-opened their doors in 2011. After in late 2010, the store didn't stay vacant for long. , but under new ownership and received rave reviews. Then in November, the owners of National Wholesale Liquidators decided to. And let's not forget about Malverne's historic Grossmann's Farm (now called Crossroads Farm at Grossmann's), which
5. Tax Cap: The new year will bring to the local school districts and village board as leaders struggle to craft their budgets while also playing by the rules of the
6. Halls Pond Reopens: For most of 2011, Halls Pond Park was closed off to residents in West Hempstead, as Nassau County renovated the park. Although not all the work has been completed, in early September.
7. Out of Business: A weak economy saw the exodus of several businesses from Malverne and West Hempstead including Gothic Cabinet Crafts, Blockbuster and which had been a fixture in Malverne for more than 25 years. All of these stores continue among others in the area.
8. Iron Plant On: Months after it was expected to come on-line, Long Island American Water finally ironed out the problems with its iron removal plant on the border of Malverne and Lynbrook. in early March, shortly after resident voiced their outrage about their brown tap water at a meeting held in Malverne. The plant brought some relief to customers' water woes, but others say the issues have not been completely resolved.
9. Going Green: Both Malverne and West Hempstead got a little greener in 2011. The West Hempstead school district formed a , which has been working on a number of ways to help the environment while becoming more energy efficient. In the spring, village of , a change that is not only helping Mother Earth but is saving money too.

How did your life change in 2011? Tell us in the comments section below.