News 12 First at Five / Wednesday, May 25, 2011

AUGUSTA, Ga.---Oprah has inspired millions of people across the world. That includes a local mother of two who is on a mission to Give It 4ward.

"Today we are giving out free gas," said a smiling Candye Smith. "Look at all of this money."

Augusta mayor Deke Copenhaver also got in on the action.

"I understand Candye is paying for people's gas," said Copenhaver. "Today I want to give $40."

Candye surprised several people by giving them each $40 to help them fill up their gas tanks.

"I'm going to stop you before you use your card," cried Candye to an unsuspecting customer. "I'm going to assist you with your gas! We're going to pay for it."

"Oh my goodness," said Hope Hodge. "Are you serious?"

"I have never had anything like this happen before," said Richard Bullard. "Not at all."

"We go out and we help others," said Candye to each customer. "I'm just going to ask you to be nice and help someone else."

"I am going to help someone else before the day is over," proclaimed Mr. Frank Benjamin. "I can't believe this. This is unbelievable."

Mr. Benjamin says filling up his truck is not cheap.

"We are talking about $90 to fill it up," said Mr. Benjamin. "When she walked up to me and said I'm going to give you $40...I couldn't believe that."

Candye used her lunch hour to surprise customers.

"You never know where Give It 4ward will show up next," she said.

"It is something that I think is contagious," said Mayor Copenhaver. "It is something that is great for the city. It puts a smile on my face."

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