Leadington, MO – The Park Hills - Leadington Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the official grand opening of McDonald’s in Leadington on Thursday, July 18, with a warm and patriotic ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together local leaders, community members, and McDonald’s team members.

The celebration began at 10:00 a.m. with a moving flag-raising ceremony performed by Navy veteran Ted Jones, accompanied by the National Anthem beautifully played on the saxophone by a member of the Mineral Area Fine Arts Academy. Following this tribute, remarks were shared by Owner/Operator Chrissy Hurst, Leadington Mayor Dustin McKinney, and Chamber President Brenda Jordan.

Chrissy Hurst, who now operates eight McDonald’s restaurants, marked the occasion by presenting a $500 donation to the Mineral Area Fine Arts Academy, accepted by Dr. Keith Zoromski, Provost of Mineral Area College, in support of continued arts education in the region.

In a touching moment of recognition, Mayor McKinney officially proclaimed July 17 as “McDonald’s Day” in the City of Leadington, honoring the positive impact the business is expected to have on the local economy and community.

To add to the excitement, the first 100 customers in line on opening day each received a special gift card good for one free sandwich per day for a month.

“We have a restaurant 3 miles that way, a restaurant 5 miles that way. I was somewhat concerned that people would say, ‘Why McDonald’s?’” Hurst said. “Well, because McDonald’s pays attention. Between the consumers and agents and community and real estate, enough people went to McDonald’s, and they think this is the perfect place to be. I hope everyone agrees.”

While the restaurant will offer 24-hour drive-through service on a probationary basis, Hurst noted that continued hours will be evaluated based on cost-effectiveness and demand.

The new Leadington location has already hired 80 employees, trained at five area locations, and Hurst emphasized her commitment to their growth and well-being. Through McDonald’s national Archways to Opportunity Program, employees can access tuition assistance, GED certification, and English as a Second Language training.

“We pay our employees to get educated,” Hurst said. “I really appreciate how everyone is looking at us as an opportunity they want to be involved in, and a family they want to be a part of.”

The Park Hills - Leadington Chamber of Commerce welcomes McDonald’s as a valuable addition to the community and applauds their investment in both economic development and educational advancement.

For more information about Chamber activities or local business events, visit www.phlcoc.net or contact the Chamber at (573) 431-1051.