CRESWELL – Creswell gained a pair of golden arches in the spot that was once home to China Wok and Hot Shot Coffee. Construction has been brewing for months, but last Friday, a grand opening celebration welcomed a brand-new, top-of-the-line McDonald’s at 375 E. Oregon Ave.
Originally from Utah, Shane and Kara Campbell operate 16 McDonald’s locations across Western Oregon, including Springfield’s Gateway and Thurston locations, Cottage Grove’s, and now one in Creswell. The Campbells have worked with the company for over 30 years.
“I’m loving this community,” Kara Campbell said. “They’ve been awesome so far.”
The restaurant partnered with Creswell High School sports teams earlier that morning. The cross country team, the girls and boys soccer teams, and the volleyball team each received $500 for working. A total of $2,000 was awarded to the high school. According to Campbell, the teams ran social media, held signs, and even dressed up as Grimace.
During the grand opening event from 4-7 p.m., members of the public had the opportunity to get their faces painted by Chelsea Wagoner, receive free balloon animals from her husband, Alex Wagoner, enjoy cotton candy, and participate in raffles to win prizes such as a TV, a bike, and Big Macs for a year.
The Creswell food pantry was taking non-perishable donations, and everyone who donated a can of food could get a free order of fries. Ronald McDonald House Charities was also there, seeking volunteers for future events. Additionally, open interviews were being held all day for positions at the new restaurant.
McDonald’s employees were on hand to give out prizes and gifts during the big ceremony. / PHOTOS BY BOB WILLIAMS
New technology
“This store is the newest store in the U.S. right now,” Kara Campbell said. “We just partnered up with our new technology program, so we’re the first ones to roll out the brand-new McDonald’s technology. So this is the greatest of the greatest right here.”
“I’ve had lots of comments on how this is the best burger anybody’s been eating. It’s because they’re brand-new grills,” she said.
Grimace was a popular character with the crowd at Friday’s grand opening.
New technology for the back of the house includes a microwave and air fryer combo, as well as a third drive-thru window for orders that are larger or more complicated. A 24-hour pickup window opens by the front door for deliveries after the lobby closes for the night.
There is also a brand-new ice cream machine, so you don’t have to worry about it being out of order anytime soon.
At around 5 p.m., Kara and Shane presented a check to Michael Johnson, the Creswell School District superintendent. They cut a ceremonial ribbon at the front of the restaurant, alongside members of the Creswell Chamber, the Campbell Organization, and State Rep. Darin Harbick.
