Hello AJ readers!
One of the biggest stories this week was a sad one, as the potential saviors of Joyland Amusement Park backed out of the deal. The news broke on Tuesday, when the Dean family announced that the longtime park would not reopen for the 51st season.
“It is with a broken heart that we must announce that Joyland Amusement Park will not be reopening after all,” the post stated. “The local group of investors that originally agreed to purchase the business have backed out of the sale.”
Those prospective buyers – Jim and Kai Evans and Darryl and Stephanie Holland – shared a statement with the Avalanche-Journal later Tuesday.
“We share the disappointment of not being able to move forward with the acquisition of Joyland – as our team has encountered numerous obstacles which prevent a successful transition. Our intent to purchase this Lubbock landmark has been earnest from day one – but a number of overwhelming factors – chiefly the inability to obtain specialized insurance, vandalism during the offseason, dwindling experienced carryover staff, the fast-approaching spring operating season – and many others factors – contributed to this very difficult decision. We appreciate the efforts of the Dean family, the City of Lubbock and citizens for their support of our sincere efforts. An enormous amount of time, energy and investment into the exploration of this endeavor has been put forth – including entrance design makeovers, proposed splash pads and many other upgrades to benefit families and our community – but factors beyond our control were too great to overcome. “
more:Buyers back out of Joyland Amusement Park rescue, liquidation to begin
Several readers reached out regarding rumors that Ollie’s Bargain Outlet may be coming to Lubbock in 2023. We received confirmation from the company this week, though they did not confirm an exact address.
“We are tentatively scheduled to open in Lubbock, TX in mid May of 2023,” said Rachael Feuchtenberger, a company customer service representative. “We hope to see you there!”
On Friday, the story of how a family’s little plant nursery plans to grow this year is published. Little Red Nursery’s Anna Johnson discussed the plans for an 8,400 sq. ft. greenhouse, and further ideas on how to branch out in the community.
more:Big plans growing for Lubbock’s Little Red Nursery: Massive greenhouse, new store, more
Planet Fitness opened its second Lubbock location at 5005 Marsha Sharp Freeway on Jan. 9. Oceans Behavioral Hospital also held a ribbon cutting for the 32-bed facility on Tuesday, Jan. 10. Domino’s issued a news release on Jan. 11 about their newest location at 7611 82nd St., which opened on Dec. 31.
The Mom Lounge, owned by friends Mary McCabe and Anna O’Steen, will be open on Monday, Jan. 16. Classes are available to book now at themomlounge.com.
Going into next week, I’m hoping to hear back from some sources regarding several new restaurants.
As always, thank you for reading and supporting AJ.
Alana Edgin is a journalist covering Business News in Lubbock and the surrounding area. Send her a news tip at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock’s business news includes Joyland closure, plants, more
