Grand Re-Opening at the Bear Family Niles McDonald's

The new Niles McDonald’s, located at 7969 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrated their grand re-opening with a ribbon-cutting, cake-cutting, and VIP party on Tuesday night, November 12th.

Although a frigid evening outside, the event inside was standing room only at McDonald's. David Bear, Owner/Operator, is overjoyed to bring a new, modern McDonald's to the Niles community. After opening in 1961, 58 years later the Niles community is excited to see their local McDonald’s still in business. There is no doubt that this new restaurant will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.

The new McDonald's has an expanded dining room, self-order kiosks, mobile-ordering, table service, and a dual drive-thru. It is exactly what Niles McDonald's lovers have been waiting for.

At the VIP party, David Bear welcomed friends, colleagues, chamber members, and representatives from the local school district 63 for a special grand re-opening VIP event. The event was kicked off with a special color guard performance by a local Niles girl scout troop.

Following the girl scouts, Mayor Andrew Przybylo spoke, expressing his love of McDonald’s and especially the Bear Family operation.

“McDonald’s is a very, very good corporate neighbor in Niles,” said Mayor Przybylo. “Also, you have to try the quarter pounder deluxe, it is hot, juicy and to die for.”

Next up to speak was Vince Gendusa who is the First Vice President of the Niles Chamber of Commerce. He expressed how proud the chamber was to have the new McDonald’s in the community.

Following Gendusa was the Principal of Washington School in District 63, Kate Anderson.

“The Bear Family is one of our strongest partnerships at Washington School,” said Anderson. “Because of their generosity and the money raised at the events hosted at their restaurants, we were able to develop our STEM club.”

Next up to speak was Principal Lewis Roberts from Gemini Middle School in District 63 in Niles. Roberts looked back on a quote by Ray Kroc that said, ‘The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves’.

“David and the entire Bear Family hold their restaurants to these high standards,” said Roberts. “We are so thankful for their continued support of our District 63 schools through their McTeacher’s Night program.”

After Roberts, Marco Acevedo, Operations Officer at McDonald’s Corporation reflected again on the work the Bear Family has done to contribute to the success of the communities in which their McDonald’s are located.

“I know it’s a little bit cold outside,” said Acevedo. “But in here, it’s a great environment.”

Following Acevedo was Sally Harrington, the Vice President of Integrated Merchandising Solutions (IMS). She presented a beautiful McDonald’s backpack filled with goodies to the Bear Family and expressed her excitement to continue doing business with their wonderful operation.

Lastly, David Bear spoke about how special his restaurant staff is, especially manager Vanessa Jimenez, and all of the amazing people who contributed to the opening of the new Niles McDonald’s. He noted that the restaurant was built in record time thanks to Walter Daniels Construction.

Bear reminisced on his family starting the business in 1967 and always wanting to be a pillar in the communities they serve. Bear talked about his father, Jerry Bear, who passed away this past May.

“When we bought this restaurant, we named it Jerry Bear, LLC.,” said Bear. “This restaurant will always have a place in our hearts because it reminds us of my father, the great things he did, and what family is about.”

Before the speeches were over, Bear presented a check for $1,000 to Niles Family Services, expressing his hope for all families in the Niles community to have food on their plates.

The event featured complimentary McDonald's appetizers, frozen drinks, and of course, cake. The event also featured special appearances by the famous Hamburglar.

It was a night to remember in Niles and the first of the many memories yet to come at this new, modern McDonald’s.

For future events with the Niles McDonald's, contact the Niles McDonald's Community Relations Director, Julie Travers at julie.travers@comcast. You can also visit the Bear Family Website at www.bearfamilyrestuarants.com.