
Hello AJ Readers!
One of the biggest stories of the week was a sad one, as the potential savior of the Joyland amusement park walked out of the deal. The news broke on Tuesday, when the Dean family announced that the historic park would not reopen for Season 51.
“It is with a broken heart that we must announce that Joyland will not reopen after all,” the post said. “The local investor group that originally agreed to buy the business has withdrawn from the sale.”
Those potential buyers — Jim and Kay Evans and Darryl and Stephanie Holland — shared a statement with Avalanche Magazine late Tuesday.
“We are disappointed that we were not able to move forward with the acquisition of Joyland – as our team encountered many obstacles that prevented a successful transition. Our intent to purchase this Lubbock landmark was serious from day one – but there were some overwhelming Factors – primarily the lack of access to professional insurance, offseason sabotage, reduced experienced carryover personnel, the upcoming spring operating season – and many other factors – contributed to this very difficult decision. We thank the Dean family, The efforts of the City of Lubbock and the citizens, thank them for their support of our sincere efforts. Significant time, energy and investment have been invested in exploring this effort – including entrance design revamps, proposed splash pads and many other upgrades, to the benefit of families and our communities — but the factors beyond our control are too great to overcome.”
more:Buyer pulls out of Joyland amusement park rescue, liquidation begins
Some readers contacted us about rumors that Ollie’s Bargain Outlet might be coming to Lubbock in 2023. We received confirmation from the company this week, but they did not confirm the exact address.
“We are tentatively scheduled to open in Lubbock, Texas, in mid-May 2023,” said Rachael Feuchtenberger, the company’s customer service representative. “We want to see you there!”
The story of how one family’s small nursery plans to plant this year was published Friday. Anna Johnson of Little Red Nursery discusses plans for an 8,400 sq. ft. greenhouse, and further ideas on how to expand in the community.
more:Lubbock’s Little Red Nursery has big plans: Big greenhouse, new store and more
Planet Fitness opened its second Lubbock location on January 9 at 5005 Marsha Sharp Freeway. Oceans Behavioral Hospital also held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the 32-bed facility on Tuesday, January 10. Domino’s issued a press release on January 11 about its newest facility at 7611 82nd St., opening on December 31.
The Mom Lounge, owned by friends Mary McCabe and Anna O’Steen, will open on Monday 16th January. Classes are now available to book at themomlounge.com.
Heading into next week, I’m hoping to hear back from some sources about a couple of new restaurants.
As always, thanks for reading and supporting AJ.
Alana Eakin is a reporter covering business news from Lubbock and the surrounding area. Send her news alerts at aedgin@lubbockonline.com.