The McDonald’s on Highway 84 and MLK Drive, had a ribbon cutting Nov.9, as they re-opened their newly renovated indoor dining area and unveiled something new for the children.

Owner Ashley Dodd said she was excited to invite everyone into their new indoor play land for kids of all ages to enjoy.

“It’s always about our children,” Dodd said. “I wanted to build the best play land for the kids in our community…somewhere they could have fun and smile and not worry about anything else except having fun.”

City of Hinesville Mayor Allen Brown said he was thrilled to see that Dodd is following in the footsteps of her father Gary Dodd, who opened the two McDonald’s in Hinesville several decades ago. Gary Dodd passed away in July of 2013.  

“He was all about the community and giving back, especially the kids, and I am thrilled that Ashley is doing the same. Her father would be very proud.”

Dodd invited the children from the Liberty County Pre-K Center. The kids were dressed up as tiny construction workers wearing their hard hats and safety vests. Pre-K staff members were on hand to assist, wearing bright red McDonald’s T-shirts they had received as gifts.

The ribbon was cut and the children rushed towards play land the playground. Parents watched and some participated in the festivities.

“Now that I’m a parent I understand the struggles of finding kid friendly places,” Dodd said. “I’ve always been an advocate of fun and now we have this play place…it even has a dance pad for all ages…maybe it will bring out the little kid in all of us.”

After the festivities the Pre-K children were all treated to a free happy meal. Each child was given a McDonald’s swag-bag that included a coupon for a free happy meal every week for an entire year. They also received T-shirts, McDonald’s cups and a variety of other goodies.