Spa at Gasoline Alley opens

Date: 12/18/2012

SPRINGFIELD – The Spa at Gasoline Alley held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 29 in celebration of its grand opening at 250 Albany St. Honored guests included Bud Williams, Athan 'Saco' Catjakis, Stephen Krevalin of Bacon Wilson, Dale Mazanec of United Bank and Joe Sibilia of CSRwire.

Under the direction of owner Rhonda Black, whose services include skin care, manicures, pedicures, massages, hair removal and make-up, she has created a first class, full service spa in a location which she calls an "oasis" in the middle of Springfield.

"Being a part of the Gasoline Alley culture was an important part of my decision. When I walked in to look at the space, I knew I had to be here. The businesses located here are all dedicated to bringing beauty, nature and a clean environment to a once neglected industrial area of the city. You'll also find art, furniture, flowers and urban gardens, and some truly wonderful people you're working with. The centralized location is perfect, and investing in our local community was very important to me," Black said.

Among some of the other businesses located at 250 Albany St. are The Salon at Gasoline Alley, a full-service hair salon, which nicely compliments The Spa's services, The Gasoline Alley Foundation, a nonprofit organization teaching socially responsible business practices, MetalWoodCommon Good, artisans of recycled furniture, other artists and CSRwire, a web-based, global media platform distributing and archiving news making the connection between good business practices and increased shareholder value.

Black, a native of Springfield, decided a few years back that the legal profession she was working in although successful, was not very fulfilling. She found herself following her vision and passion in owning her own business.

"Growing up, all my friends called me the 'Beauty Queen.' I always wanted to make everyone beautiful," Black said. "I'd say to my girl friends, 'Let me do your make-up. Let me do your nails. Let me do your eyebrows.' After a while, people started asking for me.

Joe Sibilia of the Gasoline Alley Foundation stated, "The Spa offers a peaceful respite from the day's hectic pace, for both men and women, and we are very pleased Rhonda chose our location. Her business is a beautiful fit"

Blacked invited all to check her place out. I'm really proud of my staff. They're knowledgeable, disciplined and dedicated. Most importantly though, we keep it fun!" she said.