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BON AQUA, Tenn. (WSMV) — A gas station near Interstate 840 and State Route 100 is more than a pit stop.
An ice cream parlor, a bait and ammo shop, prayer shack and more have transformed it into a gathering place for the community.
Owner Lindsay Blaze Smith, CEO and operating manager of Gas Boss, said none of the additions were accidental.
“Out here they’re hunters, fishermen, they’re families,” Smith said. “They asked for somewhere for families, and I said ice cream is the best way to get kids in.”
She heard what they needed and wanted to create that space for neighbors.
“Everything that is getting built is based on what I’m hearing, what they’re asking for, and who they are.”
Smith said it’s humbling to see how Gas Boss has turned into something more.
“To watch families come to watch kids dance around and meet new friends and not be on screen and be outside listening to music.”
No rushed transactions
It’s known as a place with comradery, not only between staff but the public too.
“We are here to have a moment with you,” Smith said. “If you’re stopping, we want to look you in the eye, we want to know how you are and where you’re from.”
Bon Aqua resident Gerry Hutcherson said that personal touch has made Gas Boss part of his daily routine.
“Every morning I stop inside and get a coffee and a croissant ... every single morning,” Hutcherson said. “I can go in and it’s simple and easy.”
Hutcherson said he keeps returning because Smith listened when the community needed it most.
“She wants the community behind her, not Gas Boss behind the community, and that’s a huge benefit for us, but that says a lot about her character,” Hutcherson said.
He also frequents their events, like live music on Friday nights.
Gas Boss plans to add a live event space and amphitheater, among other things, on the multi-acre property that backs up to the gas station.
Gas Boss will have their next community event on October 3 for their third annual Banana Pudding Event with a full day of live music, BBQ, local vendors, baked goods and more.