More Than 375,000 Visit Welcome Center In 1992 (Continued On Following Page) Staff members also have greeted students from France and Switzer land who were touring the United States. "Sometimes it's hard to under stand each other with the language barrier, but somehow you deal with it and get your point across." Hodges said. "Being friendly to them is one of the most important tilings. They pick up on vour hospi tality." Many visitors arc impressed with the SI.2 million facility, which was funded by the N.C. Department of Transportation. "I can't tell you how many limes we've heard people say this is the nicest visitors center and cleanest visitors center they've ever been in," Hodges said. "I think that means a lot to the visitors." Huge glass panels enclose the 1,200-square-foot building, and the 38-foot high ceilings don't go un noticed. "Everybody really likes the architecture of our building. We get a lot of comments on that," Hodges said. The welcome center is open sev en days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Restrooms facilities arc open around the clock. The center is closed Easiei Sunday, Tnanks giving and Christmas. In addition to Hodges, welcome center staff members include Terri Durham, Rena Giles and Margaret Means. Shelby Rudd and Angela Caison work part time at the center. Southeastern is one of 12 wel come centers in the state, eight of which are located on interstates. All American Home Sales US Hwy. 74 & NC 701 By-pass Whiteville, NC 28472 "Selling For Less" 919-640-2699 1993 Fleetwood 2 BR, 1 Bath Energy Efficient Home