Hello A-J readers!
Around the Hub is finally back, and a lot happened during that two-week hiatus. This will be a bit of a "speed round" of what happened in business news.
Before that happens, I just want to give a shout-out to my awesome colleagues for holding down the business fort. I hope all of the Around the Hub readers enjoyed their work, and continue to read all the impressive articles they write in the future.
Now, let's get down to business.
Midland's West Texas National Bank confirmed that they would open a Lubbock location at 6502 Slide Road in August. It will be led by Jay Kemper, a Texas Tech grad with 29 years of experience in banking.
On July 8, Lubbock had to say goodbye to Brooklyn Pizza, 5217 98th St. #600. The location closed several weeks prior for expected repairs, but those repairs had not started.
Amarillo's Cliffside Gas helium plant officially went up for sale on Wednesday. Interested parties can reach out to william.rollings@gsa.gov.
We had a sweet feature on Williams Ranch Vineyard, a historic family property in Tokio, Texas near Plains. The family behind the business shared their story and their future plans, which could include new wines.
Also, we can't forget the June business wrap-up piece, which published on July 3rd. There were 16 new businesses, three closed businesses, and six businesses that announced Lubbock plans.
Comings and goings: Lubbock's openings, closings, confirmed rumors from June 2023
On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to get a first look at the upcoming Dutch House of Plants at 3413 49th St. Chelsea Kidder, owner, discussed how she plans to "let the good times grow" once the store opens in August.
More: Lubbock's Dutch House of Plants details plans, offers first look ahead of opening day
And rounding off my first week back, I interviewed the Midnight Shift's new executive chef, Kate Diehl. You may recognize her as the former owner of the Home Café or the Crafthouse Gastropub. Diehl details her plans to keep things fresh with a seasonal menu full of flavor. Keep an eye out for that article on Monday.
More: Midnight Shift adds Lubbock's Kate Diehl as executive chef, here's what she has planned
I also had to try some of her new food, and I highly recommend the Midnight Burger. It harmonizes sweet cherry jalapeño jam, a brisket-chuck patty, aged cheddar and crunch from fried onion bits. It's a must-have, in my opinion.
For upcoming articles, I hope to gain some insight on what's going on with the Caffeination Station, Layne's Chicken and other rumored businesses.