Chronicle photo by Toni Milbourne From left to right, Bob Turner, Primary Business Consultant for the Baltimore-Washington Region McDonald’s, Elizabeth Parker, Restaurant Manager, Tim O’Brien, Area Supervisor for McDonald’s franchisee, Ronald McDonald, Mayor Jim Auxer, Miss Shenandoah Teen Morgan Breeden, Miss Jefferson County Teen Lexi Openshaw and James Vigil of Shepherd University, cut the ribbon symbolizing the grand-reopening of the Shepherdstown McDonald’s.

“Two all beef patties, special sauce….” So begins the Big Mac jingle that could be heard over and over again during Saturday’s grand opening ceremonies as the local McDonald’s. For all who could sing the jingle, a free Big Mac awaited. For those who were too young or unable to remember all the words, one of the signature sandwiches could be had for $2.

The celebration came on the heals of a short 19-day revamping of the Shepherdstown fast food restaurant that created a larger dining room with modern seating, comfortable lighting levels and fixtures that create a pleasant dining experience. Throughout the construction phase of the project, the restaurant remained open at least at the drive thru level.

According to Tim O’Brien, area supervisor based in Hagerstown, the restaurant previously did not have the seating capacity required for a town the size of Shepherdstown. He shared that family seating is what is important and what has been added locally. He explained that service to families is what McDonald’s is all about.

In addition to the roomier atmosphere and comfortable seating, customers at the local eatery will find large screen TVs in place and charging outlets for laptops. Wi-Fi, which has been available, will continue to be provided for customer use.

The Maddex Square restaurant is owned and operated by Stanley Neal. While Neal was unable to be at the ribbon cutting ceremony Saturday, many other officials and dignitaries took part. Shepherdstown’s Mayor Jim Auxer was given the honor of cutting the ribbon to officially welcome folks into the newly remodeled location. He was joined by Bob Turner, Primary Business Consultant for the Baltimore-Washington Region McDonald’s, Elizabeth Parker, local restaurant manager, O’Brien, Area Supervisor for McDonald’s franchisee, Miss Jefferson County Teen Lexi Openshaw, Miss Shenandoah Teen Morgan Breeden and James Vigil of Shepherd University.

Neal offered a written statement in his absence, saying, “We’re changing with the times and we never stop looking for ways to improve. This new McDonald’s speaks to the needs of our customers and our community. We want our customers to enjoy every part of the McDonald’s experience.”

In addition to the ribbon cutting portion of the day, Shepherd University Ram Band members played on the lawn and Ronald McDonald offered a show for children and adults alike.

Prize drawings took place during the day and three lucky individuals found themselves the owners of new iPads. Taking home those gifts were Matthew Myers, Laura Colbert and Sarah Ciaccio.