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From Fry-Cook To Franchisee, Owner Puts New McLook On Restaurant

DETROIT (WWJ) - It's not just another new McDonalds restaurant in Detroit. One former McDonalds employee has worked their way from handling french fries to owning the place.

As Newsradio 950's Stephanie Davis reports, the new golden arches on the city's east-side is a significant milestone for its owner, Sonja Sheilds.

"I'm totally excited about the whole project ... this is my baby," she said.

Shields is totally rebuilding the McDonalds on Dequindre at Conant and the location holds special meaning to her, as it is the same restaurant where she held her first job when she was 15 years old.

"As I moved up in the organization, the opportunity became available and it was just one of those things - a dream come true."

"It's been really good, it's been empowering.It feels good to be able to own your own business and be a part of the community and just be there and give back," said Sheilds.

She's excited to be able to bring new construction to Detroit with the McDonalds rebuild.

"Anytime you have such a new project here for the city of Detroit when there are so many other things that are going on right now to be able to plant a new building and that's just great for the community," she said.

The grand opening is slated for the end of this month. Sheilds who also owns the McDonalds restaurant on Southfield Road near 12 Mile - between the two restaurants Sheilds employs over 150 people.

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