Pam Dudding-Burch Contributing writer

Mike Carper presents CCHS Principal Robert Stump with a check for $1500 from Citgo IGA Express from their ‘Spirit Pump’ gas fundraiser.

 As one drives through New Castle on Route 311, there are only a few businesses to be seen.

However, many have consistently proven that their love for the community goes beyond their size.

On Friday, January 27, the local Citgo IGA Express presented a $1,500 check to Craig County High School. Principal Robert Stump received the check and shared how appreciative he is and that the money will be put to very good use. “The money will be directly used for school materials and supplies for students,” Stump shared.

The money came from a promotion that Citgo sponsored, called ‘Spirit Pump’, which ran from November 13, 2016 through January 22, 2017. “IGA Express donated .03 cents per gallon of gas sold during those dates,” shared Mike Carper, IGA co-owner.

Some people purposefully bought gas during the promotion to help support the school. The gas pumps were decorated with the ‘Spirit Pump’ logo. “The community should be commended for supporting this promotion that gives back 100% of the promotion to Craig County Public Schools,” Carper shared.

“I was on my way to Roanoke and saw the sign so I decided to stop and see what it was all about,” shared one community resident. “When I found out, I continued to get my gas there, asking myself why I bought gas at Hanging Rock in the first place… so now, I always get gas here.”

She continued to share that Citgo IGA and the Carpers having this fundraiser for the school was a great gesture. “If we all started spending more of our money here in Craig, instead of Roanoke and Salem, we’d probably be able to provide more for our own kids….just a thought,” she said with a smile.

“All of our IGA Express employees appreciate the business and support of all our customers,” Carper exclaimed. “Never underestimate the power and giving of a small community like New Castle and Craig County.”