AHOSKIE – In a day and age of rising prices, it’s refreshing to catch a break every now and then.

That will be the case here Saturday, Oct. 16 where local citizens, and even those passing through from out-of-town, may do a double-take when they see the price of gas at one local retailer.

During a three-hour stretch (9 a.m. until 12 noon) on Saturday, Duck Thru #31, located on Memorial Drive in front of Ace Home Center, will be offering gas at 40 cents per gallon below the normal price.

And the best thing about this “Super Saturday Savings” is that it comes with no strings attached.

Thanks to the efforts of the Carpenter’s Shop Church of Ahoskie, Jernigan Oil Company, owners of Duck Thru convenience stores throughout eastern North Carolina, and Ace Home Center, those looking for a fill-up or just to top off their tank will enjoy the savings.

Rev. Wallace Phillips, pastor of Carpenter’s Shop Church, said his congregation took up a collection for this effort – one he referenced as “Pay It Down Gas Sale.” He added that the event is part of the church’s “Awake Ahoskie 2010: A Week of Spiritual Renewal.”

“We want to show our community God’s love in a practical way,” Rev. Phillips said. “We will pay the price down at the pump for three hours, wash the windshields of customers and pump their gas for them.”

Partnering with the church are Michael Harrell (Jernigan Oil/Duck Thru Stores) and Jamie Johnson (Ace Home Center)

“I think it’s incredible that on National Bosses Day two businessmen in our community are willing to partner with us to serve and save our citizens some money,” Rev. Phillips said.

According to Phillips, Jernigan Oil will supplement the reduction in price and Ace Hardware will provide all the necessary products to supply the team of ministry volunteers.

“Spiritual renewal is deeper than just another church service.  While they are very important, it’s the personal impact that Christ makes on your life that shows up outside the walls of the church,” Rev. Phillips concluded.