Lubbock business news includes Buddy Holly Hall, HTeaO, energy

Hello A-J readers!

Energy, HTeaO, a full-time Texas Tech student/entrepreneur, and Buddy Holly Hall made headlines in the business beat this week.

Buddy Holly Hall's recent partnership with SAVOR, the new food and beverage vendor, hinted at upcoming changes. I met with two SAVOR officials, who gave me more details on what those changes would be. Cashless concessions, new food, giving back to the community, and a Chilton bar are just some of the highlights. Make sure to read the article for all the details.

More: Cashless sales, Chilton Bar, Rave On, more to come at Lubbock's Buddy Holly Hall

Along with the opening of the latest HTeaO at 5105 98th St., we're sharing an article about Natalie Snow, the Lubbock head of operations who is also a full-time student at Texas Tech. The first-generation college student and Monterey High alumna started with the company as an assistant manager when she was 19. Now, 2-and-a-half years later, Snow is operating three locations, empowering women and taking on a full course load.

"Sometimes, I don’t give myself that recognition, that acknowledgement for how hard I’ve gotten to get here, all the things I’ve done to get here," Snow said. "It’s just something that I really do love, putting a smile on people’s faces has always been something that I’ve been, probably an advocate for, for so long."

Read her inspiring story to see how she does it all, what advice she has for others, and what her coworkers and mentors have to say.

More: Texas Tech student operates 3 businesses in Lubbock. Here's her inspiring story

In the energy sector, the surrounding area had a big powerhouse, pun intended, open recently. Repsol, a global multi-energy company in Spain, the United States, Chile, Italy and Portugal, finished the Frye Solar project in Swisher County on Thursday, April 11. Frye is the company's largest facility with nearly one million panels.

More: International company completes 1 million solar panel plant near Kress

Also, in case you missed it, last week's column did not mention the Aqua Cabana controversy, as the story happened after the deadline. Lubbock officials and a Tennessee waterpark responded after a nonexistent Lubbock waterpark went viral for criticizing officials. Aqua Cabana was also caught using photos of a Tennessee waterpark, and had no connection nor permission from the Tennessee park.

More: Lubbock officials respond to Aqua Cabana Water Park controversy

Outside of business news, I have a new best bite. I went to Stella's for brunch over the weekend, because I needed French Toast. It is my favorite breakfast item, and is difficult to find a great one. Stella's exceeded my expectations with its Berry French Toast Casserole, which hit all the sweet, berry and cinnamon notes I craved. Our server was also so kind. I look forward to trying whatever new flavor the weekly menu will have next.

Next week, stayed tuned for details on an interesting Elvis Presley-themed hair salon, a Ransom Canyon metalworker and jewelry maker, and whatever other news comes throughout the week.

As always, thank you for reading and supporting the A-J.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock business news includes HTeaO, Buddy Holly Hall, energy