Clark Oil & Gas Co. Fall 2024 Newsletter

FALL 2024

B R I N G I N G C OM F O R T H OM E F O R O V E R 9 5 Y E A R S

Special Feature RETIREMENTS

CUSTOMER HIGHLIGHT: THE OAKS RV RESORT

GIFT CERTIFICATE INCLUDED

REBATES INSIDE!

PROPANE – HEATING OIL KEROSENE – DIESEL – WATER HEATERS HEATING & HEARTH OUTDOOR ROOMS & MORE

clarkgasandoil.com

WELCOME TO CIRCLE K & E-Z STOP STORES

Enjoy simply great coffee & our Polar Pop selection! IN OUR CIRCLE K STORES

OUR CONVENIENCE STORES

Wytheville EZ Stop #109

Hillsville EZ Stop #204 105 W. Stuart Dr. Hillsville, VA 24343 Hillsville Circle K #108 26 Airport Road Hillsville, VA 24343

Critz Circle K #206 25652 Jeb Stuart Hwy., Stuart , VA 24171 Floyd Circle K #101

Stuart Circle K #105 124 East Blue Ridge St. Stuart, VA 24171 Ridgeway Circle K #107 6690 Greensboro Rd. Ridgeway, VA 24148

1286 East Lee HWY Wytheville, VA 24382 Martinsville Circle K #213 937 E. Church St. Martinsville, VA 24112

407 East Main St. Floyd, VA 24091

E-Z STOP

Family Owned and Operated for 95 Years.

3 WAYS TO

Save at the Pump!

Here are 3 ways to instantly receive 10¢ off per gallon before you start pumping:

Exxon Mobil Smart Card+: Just use your Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ Credit Card at the pump and instantly receive 10¢ off per gallon.

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2

Walmart+ Customers: Open your Walmart App at our station and instantly receive 10¢ off per gallon.

Exxon Mobil Direct Debit+: Open the Exxon Mobil App, Select Exxon Mobil Direct Debit+ as your payment method, and instantly receive 10¢ off per gallon. Tip: Set Direct Debit+ as your default payment method

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Exxon Smart Card+ & Rewards+ EXTRA PERKS WITH

Save 12¢/gal* on premium gasoline Instantly save 12¢/gal* on Synergy Supreme+™ premium gasoline purchases at the pump.

Save 10¢/gal* on other Synergy™ fuel grades Instantly save 10¢/gal* on other fuel grade purchases at the pump.

Get 5% back* on convenience store purchases At the end of every month, get 5% back* on convenience store purchases and car washes as a statement credit on the first $1,200 in non-fuel purchases per year.

smartcardplus.com

ENJOY ONLINE ACCESS.

Pay your bill Access account history, invoices Request delivery or service call

We have amazing customer service representatives. That’s what sets us apart from other companies! But for our customers who prefer online access, we offer a convenient online portal or mobile app. Customers can access real-time data, make payments, request deliveries, and more, by setting up an online account! To get started go to our website and click on the My Account button in the top right corner. You’ll need to know your Clark account # and the last payment amount to get set up. IF YOU DON’T KNOW THIS INFORMATION, GIVE OUR OFFICE A CALL . After getting your account set up online, feel free to download our mobile app for easy access from anywhere!

STEP 1

Open your camera to take photo of this QR CODE to set up your account online TODAY! or Go to www.clarkgasandoil.com and click on my account button.

Scan here

Set up your account online. You will need to know your Clark Account # & last payment amount. If you don’t have, call an office & we can help!

STEP 2

Enjoy the access!

On your desktop and/or download our mobile app to use on your phone or tablet

Download

Download our mobile app or search online for clarkgasandoil.myfuelportal.com

Download the mobile app on your celluar device. Access your account from anywhere with the Mobile App.

clarkgasandoil.com

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Blair Clark | President

Utilizing efficient tank monitors to save ADAPTING TO STAY CURRENT

In the simplest terms, we are focusing on minimizing our delivery expenses to remain competitive and fair in our pricing and provide a better experience for our customers. One of the ways we can work on our delivery efficiencies is by adding tank monitors to more customers’ tanks. Currently, we are placing monitors in areas that will assist us when the weather turns cool and our delivery drivers are pressed to get the job done! Installing tank monitors at locations that are difficult to reach safely in inclement weather and customers with sporadic usage are two major

areas that will help our team. If you fit one of these situations, you will likely see our staff installing a tank monitor this fall. Tank monitors are remote devices that check the propane level and report that real time level to us. Having this information will allow us to schedule your delivery at the optimal time. The tank monitor is also paired with our MyFuelPortal app or web log in allowing customers to view their fuel levels independently and remotely.

KARL WEISS Happy Retirement!

Karl Weiss

In the 16 1/2 years Karl has been with our company, he has given his best, worked hard, and provided outstanding customer service! Karl’s work ethic and thoughtfulness, made him invaluable to our company and his customers! Congratulations Karl on your retirement!

TANKLESS HOT WATER HEATER

Tankless, on-demand water heaters are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs. Unlike traditional water heaters that store and continuously heat a large tank of water, tankless models heat water only as it is needed. This not only provides a continuous supply of hot water but also eliminates the need for a bulky storage tank, freeing up valuable space in your home.

Tankless water heating system installs require a specific knowledge and highly trained skill set you can only get from a professional. Be sure to protect your investment by having your tankless system installed & serviced by one of our certified technicians.

REBATE

$100 CLARK SAVINGS ON HOT WATER TANKLESS PURCHASE

TANKLESS BENEFITS

SPACE SAVING SIZES: Smaller homes can get on-demand access to hot water without having to dedicate a large area to a bulky water tank. LIMITLESS HOT WATER: Users don't need to worry about the shower suddenly getting cold, which happens when a tank style water heater runs out of hot water. LONG-LASTING DURABILITY: Tankless water heaters last for up to 20 years before needing to be replaced. For comparison, tank-style water heaters have an average life of about 12 years.

ON DEMAND HEATING: Allows the user to turn on any hot water faucet and get hot water almost instantaneously. Tank style water heaters take more time to heat the water stored in the tank.

HIGH EFFICIENCY AND ENERGY SAVING DESIGNS:

Tankless water heaters help reduce overall energy costs and keep more money in your pocket. A tankless water heater only activates when hot water is needed, instead of continuously using energy to heat and reheat a standing tank of water, even when hot water isn't being used.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24%-34% more energy - efficient for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. This efficiency can lead to significant savings on utility bills over time. Furthermore, tankless units typically have a longer lifespan compared to traditional water heaters, lasting about 20 years or more with proper maintenance, which translates to fewer replacements and lower long-term costs.

Customer highlight

OUTDOOR FIREPLACE INSERT

THE OAKS RV RESORT

www.theoaksrvresort.us

MEADOWS OF DAN, VIRGINIA

Every RV site has been carefully positioned to provide stunning views, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re planning to unwind or stay productive, the resort offers the perfect environment for both. Mark and Terri are excited to welcome new guests and are hopeful that their resort will have a positive impact on local tourism. By providing a beautiful and comfortable place to stay, they aim to encourage visitors to spend more time in Patrick County, exploring the local communities and supporting small businesses. Looking ahead, the couple plans to expand the resort by adding hiking trails for guests to explore and hosting special events and celebrations, particularly during holidays. They envision the resort as a place where guests can create lasting memories with their loved ones, both human and furry.

At the top of the mountain, Mark and Terri Vaughn have brought their dream to life with the opening of their brand-new RV resort. This isn’t just any stopover for travelers—it’s a carefully crafted retreat where RV enthusiasts and their pets can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Mark and Terri are no strangers to the RV lifestyle. As avid RVers themselves, they knew exactly what they wanted when

they set out to create their resort. With Mark’s background in building contracting and Terri’s expertise in sales and customer service, the couple combined their talents to design a place where guests can unwind and enjoy breathtaking long-range views. Their journey wasn’t without challenges, but the result is a beautiful 44-acre property, with 15-20 acres dedicated to the RV park, offering everything guests need for a comfortable stay. One of the key features that sets this resort apart is its dedication to being pet-friendly. Mark and Terri put their dogs first when

“God blessed us, and we want to use this space as a blessing for others to enjoy”

planning the resort, ensuring that there’s plenty of space for pets to play and explore. The resort includes a spacious dog park where large dogs can run freely and a dog-washing station for easy cleanup after a day of fun. The resort is packed with amenities designed to make every stay enjoyable. Guests can take a dip in the outdoor heated pool, relax in the large clubhouse, or gather around the outdoor fireplace in the custom-built pavilion. The private bathhouse is designed to feel like home, offering all the comforts travelers crave. And for those who need to stay connected, strong Wi-Fi ensures that working remotely is a breeze.

HEATED POOL

PLAN YOUR VISIT Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway or a longer escape, the The Oaks RV Resort is the perfect destination. Be sure to visit their website for information on upcoming events and to book your stay at this stunning new retreat. www.theoaksrvresort.us

Feature Story

RETIREMENT

R I C K I E F U LC H E R Where can you go today to fill up your car’s fuel tank, grab a hot cup of coffee and a warm, buttery breakfast biscuit, or when you pick your children up from a long day at school, and they are begging for a special treat? A convenience store. The gas station has evolved over the past decade to become a one-stop shop for one’s immediate needs of daily life. It has become a place where you meet your neighbors and discuss the community happenings. Many of Clark Gas & Oil’s convenience stores are these places, and thanks to Rickie Fulcher, Director of Retail Operations, he has helped make Clark Gas & Oil’s convenience stores what they are today.

Rickie and Della Fulcher

H ired in June of 1984, when the average price of gas was $1.13 a gallon, Rickie Fulcher has served both Clark Gas & Oil and his community in many capacities. Fulcher has been a member of the Patrick County School Board from January 1997 until December 2007; also serving terms as Vice Chairman and Chairman. He was a member of the Patrick County Board of Supervisors from June 2015 until December 2019 and served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Board. In addition to our local government boards, Fulcher has served on the Piedmont Governor’s School Board of Trustees, the Patrick Henry Community College Apprenticeship Advisory Board, the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce—serving as Vice President and President,

Hurricane Katrina, the company’s philosophy has always remained the same—the customers come first.

The people who impacted his life and career have been his grandparents, Earley & Beulah Hopkins, and William B. Clark. Losing his father at the early age of 14, Mr. Fulcher learned many life lessons from his grandma and grandpa who guided him with love, patience, and the occasional sternness. He stated that Mr. Clark, known as B., gave him the opportunity by offering him the position as Director of Retail Operations, allowing him to make those critical decisions to build and grow the C-stores, by both of them putting their faith in the Lord and having faith in each other.

was a founding member of the Patrick County Education Foundation, as well as the Patrick County High School Alumni Association. Rickie has also given of his talents to Patrick County’s Girl Scouts, Band Boosters, and the Developmental Center. In addition, he has served Virginia as a founding member of the Virginia Tobacco Settlement Foundation, Preventions Connections Foundation, SYNAR, and the Virginia School Board Association. It was very important from the beginning of his career at Clark Gas & Oil that community involvement and giving of oneself through service to others was not only the company’s mission, but his as well.

Mr. Fulcher said that the most rewarding aspect of his career at Clark Gas & Oil has been the relationships he has made over the years whether it was co-workers, vendors and customers and the trust factor that is built as a result of those relationships. He stated that Clark Gas & Oil is a family, and that family comes first. If there is ever a crisis, Clark is there. He recalled a time when his house burned and how both the company and family came together to help him and his wife, Della. When asked about his plans for retirement, Mr. Fulcher said that he wants to spend more time with his wife Della and has started vegetable gardening. He wants to become more involved

Rickie is a true professional who’s shown by example that excellence is something to aim for every day. For the last 40 years he’s inspired everyone around him to be more – professionally and personally. We wish him a wonderful, much deserved, retirement.

When asked how the job changed over the years, Fulcher said that it has become more hectic and challenging—business today is not as simple as it was forty years ago. When he began, Clark Gas & Oil had three convenience stores located in Dry Pond, Floyd and Christiansburg, Virginia. They grew up to ten stores, then sold the ones where they did not own the property, and now have eight stores today with locations in Floyd, Wytheville, Martinsville, Ridgeway, two in Hillsville, and two in Stuart, Virginia. Today it has become more challenging due to pricing, staffing and meeting the customer’s needs. When asked about skills critical to his success, Rickie replied having the ability to remain calm and to look at all sides of the problem. It was important not to jump to conclusions, but to be pro-active and not re-active when the challenges presented themselves. Despite the many challenges throughout the years working at Clark Gas & Oil; including multiple gas crisis and keeping gas in the tanks after

in outreach programs through his church, Bouldin Memorial Presbyterian Chruch, and have continued involvement in the Patrick County High School Alumni Association. As far as his words of wisdom for those who will follow in his footsteps at Clark Gas & Oil, Mr. Fulcher said to enjoy what you do--you can choose to either just make it a job, or you can develop relationships and give of yourself. His career at Clark Gas & Oil has embodied these words that have become his mission in life, “To fail to give of oneself for the benefit and service of others is a failure unto yourself.”

Clark Gas & Oil is very grateful and blessed for Mr. Rickie Fulcher’s forty years of service. Best wishes in your well-deserved retirement!

Giveback

COMMUNITY

COM MUN ITY E N G AG E M E N T

Our crew spent a couple of hours together along Route 8 in Stuart picking up litter to clean up the beautiful community in April! The Clark Clean Up was a success removing 420lbs of litter! ROADSIDE CLEAN UP

SUMMER CAMP BOAT ACCESS RAMP Clark Gas & Oil was happy to help The Fisher Peak Chapter of Friends of the Blue Ridge create a new boat ramp at Camp Dickenson for summer campers, retreat groups and RV residents.

THIS YEAR’S RECIPIENTS INCLUDED:

While providing quality products & services is our job, it is our mission to make a positive impact in our community . Our company was thrilled to donate $102,500 to many worthwhile organizations from Floyd, Hillsville & Patrick County in February 2024.

Safety Rope, Reynolds Homestead, Caring Hearts Free Clinic of Patrick County, Patrick Co Food Bank, Patrick County Alzheimer's Group Llc, Patrick County Developmental Center, PARC Workshop, Dan River Basin Association, Meadows of Dan Elementary School, Stuart Elementary School, Hardin Reynolds Memorial School, Patrick Springs Primary School, Blue Ridge Elementary, Woolwine Elementary School, Blue Mountain School, Springhouse Community School, Floyd County High School, Floyd Co Cares, SustainFloyd, Floyd Baptist Church, The Floyd Center for the Arts, Plenty!, First United Methodist Church of Hillsville, Hillsville Fire Department, Carroll Co Social Services, Joy Ranch, Pipers Gap Rescue Squad, Inc., Cana Volunteer Fire Dept, Rotary Club of Hillsville, Hillsville Pentecostal Holiness, Ararat Volunteer Fire Department, Meadows of Dan Fire Department, Moorefield Volunteer Fire Department, Patrick Springs Volunteer Fire Department, Stuart Volunteer Fire Department, Patrick Henry Volunteer Fire Department, Smith River Rescue Squad, Vesta Rescue Squad, Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department, & Jeb Stuart Rescue Squad

A DISAGREEABLE ODOR IS ADDED TO PROPANE SO THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO DETECT THE SMELL EASILY IN CASE A LEAK DEVELOPS.

WHAT IS THAT SMELL?

Here’s how to cut off your tank, closing Gas Supply Valves

IF YOU THINK YOU SMELL PROPANE... 1. Extinguish all smoking material and any other open flames or sources of ignition. 2. Get everyone out of the building. 3. Turn off the gas using the shut-off valve on the tank. 4. Call Clark Gas & Oil or 911 from a neighbors home. 5. Stay outside and leave the gas off until the leak has been fixed. DO NOT... 1. Turn light switches, appliances or thermostats on or off, and do not use the telephone (this includes your cell phone). A spark from one of these could ignite the gas. 2. Light or try to re-light any appliances. Leave this job to Clark Gas & Oil. 3. Re-enter the building, until the problem has been corrected.

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Turn Shut Off Valve clockwise to close

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Shut Off Valve Here

Turn Shut Off Valve clockwise until it stops turning.

Control your power. Control your life.

Uncertain times & uncertain weather. Generators are for certain

An automatic standby generator is a backup electrical system that operates whether you are home or away. Within seconds of an outage, it automatically supplies power directly to your home’s electrical circuit breaker box. After utility power returns, the generator shuts itself off and waits for the next outage. It operates on propane, gas or diesel and remains outside just like a central air conditioning unit. These power disruptions are considered a nuisance; yet for many, they cause lifestyle and economic hardships. Depending on your needs and budget, many options exist that can help prepare your home for future power outages.

You don’t miss it until it’s gone. That’s certainly true of electricity. We take for granted that it will be there at a flip of a switch, but sometimes that doesn’t happen. In an area that’s seen its share of both short and extended power outages, both in the summer and winter months, you can skip the inconveniences and economic hardships by investing in

a generator. Prevent :

Food spoilage Frozen pipes Extreme temperatures indoors Loss of internet, use of appliances & electronics

FROM YOUR DELIVERY DRIVERS:

Helpful tips TO KEEP THINGS MOVING!

• Keep trees & shrubs trimmed along your driveway so that we can drive our big trucks safely to make a suc cessful delivery. • When the weatherperson predicts snow, mark your underground tank location with a flagged stake. This will help our drivers that might not normally work your route. • Make sure there are no parked cars blocking access. • Is your 911 address clearly posted? We want to find you and we want any emergency personnel to also find you should they ever be needed! Please ensure that your 911 address is visible. • Don’t forget to share a new key or access code to your gate if you have any changes.

LEVEL PAY B U D G E T I N G M A D E E A S Y

Receiving a large fuel bill at the same time your property taxes are due or during the holiday season can be quite stressful. To alleviate this concern, we offer our Level Pay Plan, designed to provide our customers with the ease and comfort of predictable monthly fuel costs. The Level Pay Plan works by estimating your annual fuel consumption and dividing the total cost into twelve manageable payments. Enrolling in the Level Pay Plan is simple and straightforward. Our customer service team is ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

Customers can call their local office or email support@clarkgasandoil.com to find out what their estimated monthly Level Pay Plan payment will be. CONTACT

“The Level Pay Plan demonstrates our commitment to customer satisfaction and financial wellbeing. It reflects our understanding of the challenges faced by our customers and our dedication to providing a payment option. Byoffering this solution,we aimto build trust and long-term relationshipswith our customers, ensuring they feel supported and valued throughout the year.” - Blair Clark

Tell your friends, neighbors and family! For every NEW credit-approved automatic delivery customer you refer to Clark Gas & Oil, with a tank installation or 150 gallon fuel purchase, you will receive a $100 credit on your account following your referred friends’ first delivery. Not only do we reward you, but your friends receive the benefit of our caring service and the chance to earn referral incentives also. $100 REFERRAL CREDIT ARE YOU HAPPY WITH OUR SERVICE?

Inspection of propane tank System leak check Regulator performance test Operating pressure test Inspection of cook tops, ranges, fire places, furnaces, and other DURING THE VISIT OUR CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS WILL COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING:

Save Money! FALL TUNE UP

As the cooler months approach, let’s be proactive on heating appliances that kept you cozy all winter. However, summer is the perfect time to perform a tune-up on these essential devices. Our Fall Tune-Up Special for Heating Appliances ensures your systems are in top shape and ready to deliver optimal performance when the temperatures drop again. During our Fall Tune-Up Special, our certified technicians will thoroughly inspect your heating appliances. We’ll clean and replace filters, check for any potential issues, and ensure all components are functioning correctly. By addressing minor problems now, we can help prevent costly repairs and emergency breakdowns during the colder months when you need your heating system the most. Not only does regular maintenance extend the lifespan of your appliances, but it also improves energy efficiency, saving you money on your utility bills. Don’t wait for winter to roll around—take advantage of our Fall Tune-Up Special and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re ready for winter. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and keep your home comfortable all year long.

gas appliances Check venting Basic cleaning Re-light pilot lights Odor test

Gift Certificate

Clip & Redeem at a Clark Gas & Oil Office or Showroom *2024*

P.O. Box 31 Stuart, VA 24171

clarkgasandoil.com

685 Commerce St. Stuart, VA 24171 276.694.3772 413 East Main St. Floyd, VA 24091 540.745.2323 135 East Stuat Dr. HIllsville, VA 24343 276.728.3335

FOR YOUR CONTINUED BUSINESS! THANK YOU From our family to yours

P.O. Box 31 Stuart, VA 24171 1-800-950-3772 Clarkgasandoil.com support@clarkgasandoil.com

Connect with us @clarkgasandoil #ComfortYouCanCountOn

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR OVER 95 YEARS

We proudly serve Pulaski, Giles, Dublin, Bland, Wytheville, and Radford along with our home areas of Patrick, Floyd, Carroll, Stokes and Surry counties.