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Ronald McDonald, Marilyn, and Elvis party it up at grand opening event

When Patricia Cabrera and her family walked through the doors Tuesday night, it was to a loud cheer from every crew member: “Welcome to McDonalds!”

Cabrera just so happened to be the first “official” customer of the new McDonalds on Winnie Lane and Carson Streets. She was among the 300 first customers, all of which received a free Big Mac per week for a year. Other prizes were given to customers as well: gift cards, coupons for free coffee, free ice cream cones. These gifts were the reason hundreds — well over that first 300 — lined up hours before the store officially opened at 6 p.m.

Customers in line for the grand opening were treated to entertainment - Ronald McDonald himself spent the time joking with, pranking, and giving gifts to waiting patrons. Every so often he stopped and posed for a picture for anyone who asked -- young or old, black or white. Everyone who wanted one got a picture with the beaming mascot.

Just in case, the Carson City Sheriff’s Department maintained a presence, and they got drawn into the fun by demonstrating some of the tricks their K-9 officers are taught.

As 6 p.m. drew closer the staff began to get more tense. Well-dressed managers and office staff (including area operations manager Derrick Young, in a bona-fide tuxedo) dashed to and fro, talking into radios and making sure their crews were well prepared for the influx. Crews which were clad in T-shirts printed with a faux tuxedo front, and who were all smiling happily.

The crowd began chanting, “Big Macs! Big Macs!”

Just before the official grand opening, visitors were witness to yet another treat — a sleek white limousine pulled up and special guests, “Marilyn,” and “Elvis,” exited, just in time to walk down the red carpet. The actors were a surprise, and they posed for free professional pictures with the public, as a souvenir of a good time.

Finally the doors opened, and customers poured in. Patricia and her children placed their orders and stepped to the side -- they were only one family of many.

Outside, Marilyn and Elvis entertained guests, and children visited a booth for face-painting and balloon animals. The music of Elvis Presley played over speakers, encouraging patrons to dance as they waited for their turn to order. 70 new employees were hired to staff the new restaurant, and most of them were in attendance, cheerfully keeping the traffic flowing. Others cleaned and greeted customers; yet another served free popcorn. Still more staff served as security, letting customers know which doors were exits and not entrances.

The grand opening celebration wound down at 9 p.m., but business did not. The new facility was offering 75 cent Big Macs from 9 p.m. - 4 a.m., and most of Carson City seemed determined to eat their fill. (The 75 cent burgers, by the way, will also be available Wednesday from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.).

Grand opening specials throughout the months of June and July will include Big Macs for $1.50, $1.50 McCafe beverages, and $2 Happy Meals.

McDonalds is located at 2001 N. Carson Street. Their drive-thru is open 24 hours a day, and their lobby is open from 5 a.m. to midnight.

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