Service businesses quickly recognize that the best advertisement is usually word of mouth, a satisfied customer who is willing to tell others of his experience.

It doesn’t matter how big the billboard, or how flashy the tables in the restaurant, if the customer isn’t satisfied, the public will find out. Likewise, few people will stay quiet when they know of quality that shouldn’t be missed.

The same is true when it comes to promoting a community. At the Logan County Chamber of Commerce annual luncheon, director Tim Edgar noted that each area resident should be an ambassador for our communities. It is this belief put into practice that makes the Tourist Information Center what it is.

Saturday night, the Tourist Information Center honored the many volunteers who keep the center open and welcoming to travelers. The event was held at the Riverview Golf Club.

After an introduction by TIC Director Elda Lousberg and the invocation by Cal Johnson, the evening started with a full multi-course dinner. Following the dinner, Lousberg again took the front to recognize the many volunteers who keep the Tourist Information Center open and traveler-friendly. Her message was simple, but clear: The volunteers make the center special.

The banquet included Mayor Dan Jones representing the Sterling City Council, and Debbie Zwirn representing the Logan County Commission.

Those recognized for 100 to 200 hours of service included: Helen Atchison, Marlon Bazata, Norm Berry, Lee Bowey, Norma Dzurovchin, Florence Gertner, Chuck Hicks, Joanne Jefferies, Cal Johnson, Wilmer Johnson, Naomi Kennedy, Lois and Veldon Kenney, Marsha Konken, Lorraine Murphy, Oren and Rosemary Nicholson, Catherine Sheldon, Robert Slonecker, Henrietta Uhlenhopp, Phyllis Wilkins, Peggy Williams and Vi Winter.

Volunteers with 10 to 100 hours of service were: Carol and Jerry Atkin, Leroy Berg, Nick and Genna Cinocco, Ken Dillinger, Barbara Gertner, Roxana Hensel, Lee Jarred, Jack Lousberg, Richard Lousberg, Barbara Malaby, Annette Mensendick, Gladys Reinhardt, Joann and Russell Smith.

Barbara Gertner, Joanne Jefferies and Phyllis Wilkins have served as volunteers since the center opened.

New volunteers recognized Saturday are Virginia Hicks and Jan Zuber.

Tom Hasher was recognized for serving the center with more than 400 hours.

Lousberg also thanked the city of Sterling, Colorado Department of Transportation, Logan County Commissioners, Logan County Lodging Tax Board, for continuing support. Colorado Popcorn Company, Logan County Chamber of Commerce and Trinidad Benham Company were also thanked for their support.