2011 in Review: Business in Upper Dublin

With New Years just around the corner, Upper Dublin Patch is taking a look back at the top stories of the year in several categories. Check in each day to take a trip back through the calendar, before we unveil the top stories overall on the first day of 2012.

Business

Most of the national business headlines in 2011 came to the same conclusion: it stinks. And while many of Patch's business pieces were of the same variety, we also went on a bit of a mission to find inspiring stories in Upper Dublin. It didn't take much digging before striking paydirt.

We found that the down economy didn't stop Marty Levin from pursuing his dream of owning a landscaping business. Or Chris Brannigan from starting a to offer honest services to Upper Dublin's elderly residents. And we found that some, like barber 'Toly,' know firsthand that an America with a hurting economy is still a land of opportunity.

Is the economy down? Sure. Is it out? No chance.

December 20:
Upper Dublin Patch gets some national attention after covering the fallout from a large Fitness acquisition.

December 18:
Horsham isn't in Upper Dublin, but planes don't know that.

November 4:
UDPL holds a Meet and Greet with the Maple Glen Community Association.

October 20:
If you ever wanted an example of the economic damages caused by flooding in Upper Dublin, look no further than Competitive Edge Martial Arts' 2011 experience.

October 12:
This one got a lot of attention. What can we say? People love booze.

October 11:
Chris Brannigan, owner of Community Hearing Aid Services, followed the dream of opening his own business in order to be closer to his family and serve his neighbors.

October 6:
Seven years ago, Marty Levin was staring at an unplanned retirement. Now, he's running his own show with Passionate Landscaping, LLC.

August 8: What happened, why, and what to expect next? Level-headed experts offer level-headed analysis.

June 14:
The owners of the newly opened Ambler Donuts say they're bringing fresh-baked pastries to town.

June 3:
Over 100 of the area's most business-savvy women hit the links at Blue Bell Country Club

May 5:
Some stormy weather didn't stop the music, or the donations.

March 15:
Gentleman's Choice owner, "Toly," uses over 30 years of experience to run a traditional barber shop in Dreshertown Plaza. Toly's career spans two countries and three different shops, but the quality and dedication remain consistent.

March 2:
Spring is around the corner, and the Udder Delight ice cream shop is back with some new flavors and ideas.

December 27:
The historic site will no longer be giving tours.