What Drives Your Smile?

Hi, I’m Marsha, the receptionist at Wareing Sturgis Ford.

I recently had the idea to interview a few people here at the dealership and ask what their “staff pick” would be when it comes to Ford vehicles. To make it interesting, I asked some of the most experienced team members from each department.

Before I share their answers, here’s what I learned along the way:

It’s not about the miles per gallon — it’s about the smiles per gallon.

Let me explain.

I started with Jay in our Parts Department. Jay has an impressive 42-year history with the dealership. He’s been here through two owners and even a relocation — plenty of time to form a well-informed opinion.

Without hesitation, Jay chose the Ford Explorer. For him, it’s all about space. When his daughter and two grandchildren come along, the Explorer offers plenty of room, with seating that comfortably fits everyone. The kids go in the middle row, an extra adult can use the third row, and the all-wheel drive handles whatever weather we see here in the Black Hills.

Next, I visited with Wayne, our Senior Master Technician, who has been with the dealership for 29 years.

“New or used?” he asked.

I told him both.

For a new vehicle, Wayne would choose a gas Super Duty F-350 — perfect for towing a fishing boat or camper. For a used vehicle, he didn’t hesitate either: a 2002 7.3 diesel. In his words, “That’s the best truck Ford has ever produced.”

I asked both Jay and Wayne about features. Jay said he’d be happy with power windows, air conditioning, and a radio. Wayne added power seats to that list. Practical choices from practical guys.

Next stop was the Sales Department, where I visited with Mark, who has 43 years in the automotive industry.

“I’m just not a car guy,” he told me.

But if money were no object, he’d choose a F-250 or F-350 Super Duty diesel. For Mark, it’s about payload and ease of towing. He’d go with the Platinum trim for comfort and technology — features like multi-contour leather seats, a 360-degree camera, and a large touchscreen.

Then I checked in with our General Manager, Tim, who has 22 years in the industry.

His answer came quickly:

“Shelby F-150 Super Snake Sport.”

“It’s an 800-horsepower truck — a hot rod and a pickup all in one.”

There’s only one speed for Tim: fast. He’d take it in silver or race red. It’s a rare, high-performance truck with only a few hundred made each year — and yes, it’s pretty cool.

And finally, I thought it would be fun to ask one of the youngest members of our team — Landon, one of our Lube Technicians.

“Landon,” I asked, “what would be your pick?”

He didn’t take long to answer.

A F-350 Super Duty dually with a King Ranch trim.

“I’d go with blue,” he said, “because the King Ranch leather would look so good with it.”

Just thinking about it made him smile.

So there you have it — vehicle choices from some of our most experienced team members (and one of our youngest).

Some of us choose what we need. Some of us choose what we want. Either way, the goal is the same — something that makes you smile.

Thanks for reading.

Stop in sometime and let us help you find your smile.

— Marsha