Chicago -- The Black McDonald's Operators
Association (BMOA) got their party on this year at the 71st annual Bud
Billiken parade. The joy and fun was in the air as everyone joined in the
merriment. With their festive floats, the BMOA saluted those students that
participated in some of their youth oriented programs.
Packed full of people, the BMOA rainbow
float showcased the Millennium Dreamers, NAACP ACT-SO Award winners, and
Andre' Brown; the McDonald's All-American Basketball Player. The Millennium
Dreamers include Janet M. Kelly, Stephanie Gayle, Jasmine Eason, Yanette
T. Douglas, Donovan Mitchem, Tyree Nettles, and Robin Major. The NAACP
ACT-SO Award winners include Leigh Davenport, Veishena Drain, Lindsey,
Fackler, Annice Fisher, Alea Huggins, Johnathon Green, Marques Jackson,
Dajuan Marshall, Aliant Mason, Lonnie Norwood, and Stephanie Sowell. Also
aboard were BMOA Owner/Operators, McDonald's All-American Crew people and
WYBA Power 106 FM providing inspiring tunes that uplifted everyone.
The huge shoe float showcased little Miss
Jackie Robinson West and her little royal court as the high steppers of
the Jackie Robinson West Little League organization marched along with
the float. Ronald McDonald was also aboard, bringing smiles to the faces
of the youngsters as he passed and waved during the parade procession.
Founded over 30 years ago, the BMOA is
comprised of approximately 20 African-American McDonald's franchise owners
who continually seek to make positive contributions to enhance the lives
of thousands of African-Americans in the communities they serve. McDonald's
is the largest and best-known global food retailer with more than 25,000
restaurants in 103 countries. Approximately 84 percent of McDonald's restaurants
are owned and operated by independent franchisees.