April 18, 2009 — Ronald McDonald visited St. Croix Saturday to officially open the Virgin Islands' newest McDonald’s restaurant at Sunny Isle Mall.
According to a press release, the total investment for the new restaurant is approximately $500,000.
Jacklyn Dyer, a 32-year employee of McDonald's and manager of the new restaurant, said it employs 40 full and part-time workers.
"The workers did well today and made me proud," said Dyer. "We served over a thousand people today." She said they had a "soft" opening in mid-February and the crew was ready for today's onslaught of customers.
"This is an excellent and exciting work experience," said employee Carima Henry. Romarah Regis said she loves to interact with customers and it is a fun job.
Ronald arrived by seaplane in the morning and was escorted by a police motorcade through downtown Christiansted to the new McDonald’s.
Hundreds of residents were on hand to greet the McDonald's mascot with live music provided by Ebenezer Methodist Steel Orchestra. There was a ribbon cutting with St. Croix dignitaries such as Lt. Gov. Gregory Francis.
The public was invited to the grand opening party with Ronald posing for photos, playing games, and giving out T-shirts and balloons through the early afternoon. DJ Chevron added his mix of tunes throughout the day.
"It was an awesome — the kids had fun," said Danisha Francis. She said her daughter 4 year-old Nyesha Matthews loved Ronald McDonald and didn't want to let go of him as he hugged her.
As part of the celebration, McDonald’s representatives gave a donation to the Queen Louise Home.
"We have a history of supporting children’s charities and are pleased to present The Queen Louise Home with this contribution," said Rocio Rivera, McDonald’s Caribbean Public Relations Officer for the Caribbean Division.
According to Cosmo Williams, McDonald’s St. Croix owner and operator, "We are excited to open St. Croix’s third McDonald’s restaurant. Crucians have been very supportive of McDonald’s efforts to provide top quality food at affordable prices."
McDonald’s is the leading fast food restaurant chain in the world, with more than 30,000 locations where it serves 52 million people each day in more than 100 countries. The Virgin Islands is home to six McDonald’s; three on St. Thomas and now three on St. Croix.
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