The Tribune

ON the eve of another World Children's Day, the golden arches of McDonalds in downtown Nassau opened its doors with Golden Girl Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie at the till and ready to go. "Welcome to McDonald's. May I take your order please?" she said repeatedly, smiling. With the same gusto, class and grace that have become her signature traits on the track, the 4-time Olympian and Gold-medallist greeted customers, assembled their orders and thanked them for supporting McDonald's. "World Children's day at McDonald's was first launched in 2002," explained Shanendon Cartwright, McDonald's marketing and development manager. "In 10 years, the event has grown and expanded to more than 100 countries and raised more than $100m. Here in the Bahamas, we are pleased to participate and even more pleased to welcome back Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie who is always willing and ready to support this worthy cause." In Nassau, McDonald's celebrates World Children's Day by inviting customers to purchase a "Give A Hand" sticker for $1 with proceeds earmarked for specific children's causes within the community. Beneficiaries have included the Centre for the Deaf, the National Children's Choir, the Down's syndrome Association and for the past four years, a child who has courageously battled cancer. "Javon Knowles' bravery and positive attitude have touched us all. He has worked his way into our hearts and earned his place as our poster boy, setting an example for others," said Cartwright. It is this spirit of giving that lures Ferguson-McKenzie to lend her support. This is the 10th year she has served up Happy Meals, smiles and helped raise funds for children's causes. "Giving back to the community, especially for causes related to children, is a natural and easy thing for me," acknowledged the Gold Medallist. "Where would any of us be, were it not for the support of others?" With this said, she sprinted to her post to welcome another approaching customer, Robert Romano, the mayor of Vineland, New Jersey. "I live about 40 miles away from famed Olympian Carl Lewis," said the Mayor, "and have never met him. It is quite a twist to be on vacation in Nassau and to be served by another wonderful Olympian whose contributions are so noteworthy. I'm loving it." Similar sentiments were expressed by Kristal Bethel, a high-ranking manager with the Ministry of Tourism. "In Tourism, we are always taking note of those good ambassadors who represent our country," she said. "Debbie has represented The Bahamas beautifully over the years, so I feel quite privileged to be served by her. I am also so impressed by her willingness to give back and serve in this manner." McDonald's in Nassau is among more than 30,000 restaurants worldwide celebrating World Children's Day November 20.