Attorney General's News Release

August 18, 2004

Consumers left hanging after Florissant health spa closes to receive refunds after Nixon takes action

Jefferson City, Mo. — Dozens of people who bought gift certificates from a closed day spa in Florissant will receive refunds as the result of an agreement negotiated by Attorney General Jay Nixon. Christine Kellogg Moorehead, who owned Body and Soul Day Spa Inc. at 1141-43 N. Highway 67 in Florissant, agreed to pay $6,000 to the Missouri Merchandising Practices Restitution Fund to repay consumers.

Thirty-eight people who held gift certificates from the spa complained to the Attorney General after Moorehead abruptly closed her business in August 2003. The consumers had gift certificates ranging in value from $30 to $385 they were unable to use.

"Consumers thought they were going to enjoy a relaxing day at a spa. Instead, they got a year-long headache. Now, they'll get the relief they deserve," Nixon says.

Body and Soul Day Spa was in business from 1999 to 2003. After closing her business due to financial difficulties, Moorehead moved to Florida.

In an assurance of voluntary compliance signed by Cole County Judge Richard Callahan, Moorehead agreed not to operate a day spa or similar facility in Missouri without first posting a $10,000 bond.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818