McDonald's Training Manager Catrice Forbes, Mcdonald's Activities Representative Rochelle Davis,'Golden Girl' Debbie Ferguson McKenzie and Jade Forbes.

Fans of Bahamian athletics had a pleasant surprise last week when Olympic star Debbie Ferguson McKenzie arrived at McDonald’s restaurant in Oakes Field to receive a token of appreciation from her longtime community partner.

“We’re delighted to present these commemorative Olympic glasses as a token of appreciation to Debbie,” said McDonald’s Training Manager Catrice Forbes. Rochelle Davis, McDonald’s Activities Representative said, “She’s worked so closely with us for the past seven years as our World Children’s Day spokesperson, happily donating her time, energy and a helping hand, and for that we are so grateful. We want to wish her the best of luck in Beijing this summer and we want her to know that McDonald’s and The Bahamas are behind her all the way.” McDonald’s will make these commemorative glasses available to its customers starting July 4 through its McTriathlon promotion.

“Our children are the future of our country,” said Debbie Ferguson McKenzie. “I could not be happier to do all that I can to ensure that every Bahamian child receives the same chance in life as everyone else. I’ve been so glad to partner with McDonald’s for the last seven years and am proud to be their World Children’s Day spokesperson for The Bahamas. Thank you to everyone for your love and support and I hope to do The Bahamas proud in Beijing.”

McDonald’s World Children’s Day is held on November 20 every year. On that day $1 from every Big Mac sold is donated to both local charities and to the Ronald McDonald House charity. To date, McDonald’s has raised more than $100 million through World Children’s Day, benefiting children in more than 100 countries.

Longtime Ferguson McKenzie mentor and supporter Earla Bethel, president of DanBrad Ltd. which operates McDonald’s in Nassau, expressed her thanks and gratitude to the star athlete. “Debbie has happily supported us throughout the years. We share a common awareness of the importance of giving back to the communities we serve. Debbie is committed to children’s causes in The Bahamas and we’re thankful that she has decided to utilize her star power for the past seven years to help us raise awareness and support for our nation’s children. Thank you Debbie, we couldn’t have done it without you,” said Bethel.