Hello AJ readers!
This week, photo editor Annie Rice and I checked out Ogallala Greens, a hydroponic farm in Slaton. The business, which started its sales operations a few months ago, offers locally grown greens and subscription boxes full of vegetables. We caught up with Cory Roof and his dog, Robot, to learn more about the business and his plans to expand into other West Texas markets.
“It’s the perfect conditions for these plants, and they’re happy, and a happy plant is a tasty plant,” Roof said. “We really believe we can have an impact in the future to grow this region.”
Texas Tech opened the Charles Schwab Foundation Personal Financial Planning Clinic at the Texas Tech Plaza, 1901 University Ave., Suite 305, on Friday. This will enable Personal Financial Planning students to help the community with one-on-one coaching on financial goal setting, budgeting and improving credit.
Also Friday, Lubbock’s Joyland Amusement Park announced it has new owners in two established local business owners – Jim and Kai Evans and Darryl and Stephanie Holland. It comes after we reported last month that Joyland’s longtime owners intended to sell the park and plan to put it up for auction in October unless a buyer emerges.
Full details are still being finalized, but Joyland is expected to begin its 51st season in early March 2023, according to a Joyland press release.
Another story from this week prompted Express Employment Professionals to provide insight into trends about Lubbock’s employers and employees. They noted that demand for better wages and benefits has increased, allowing smaller companies to compete with chains. The team discussed how employers could compete without matching $18 an hour, along with advice for job seekers looking for their next career.
“You have to have a good workplace and can’t have a toxic environment,” said Gary Ball, owner of the Lubbock location. “You can’t have the old-school, ‘time is money,’ work-driven environment, where people don’t really engage with the workforce. You have to have engagement, an internal culture.”
Going into next week I hope to learn more about some newly opened businesses and track down some potential clients. An article, due out later next week, will look at the luxury real estate market and showcase the 10 most expensive homes for sale.
Feel free to send me ideas if you know of an upcoming company, or one celebrating an anniversary.
As always, thanks for reading and supporting AJ.
Alana Edgin is a journalist who covers Business News in Lubbock and the surrounding area. Send her a news tip at [email protected]
