The humbleness of Todd Sheckler radiated through his tears as he accepted the Ray Kroc Award at McDonald's in Nesquehoning on Friday morning. He even had to pause a moment to gain his composure after being presented with the award.

Sheckler is the general manager of the restaurant and was awarded the honor in Chicago at McDonald's headquarters. His name was added to the 141 names on a wall plaque at the headquarters. He received a Ray Kroc trophy, citation, and an all-paid expense trip to Chicago where the banquet was held. He also receivedan award from Coca ColaCompany. His boss and owner Scott Kavlick presented Sheckler with a magnificent ring to commemorate the award.The award is an annual performance-based award that recognizes the top performing McDonald's restaurant managers in the country.Named after McDonald's corporate founder Ray Kroc, the award was established in 1999 to honor those who make Ray Kroc's vision of excellence come to life in restaurants for customers every day.Sheckler is involved in the community and assorted charities for children. He provides over 300 Happy Meals to area churches for Children's Day of Panther Valley, organizes fund raisers that support the local Ronald McDonald House and charities of NEPA, participates in local holiday parades, the local Relay for Life, volunteers to help the Sam Miller Field Association of the American Legion pack care packages for military troops. He has worked for McDonald's for three years. The award comes with a $2,500 cash award, a Ray Kroc trophy and pin. The banquet took place at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers in Chicago."Todd being honored with the coveted Ray Kroc Award is a true testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence, building our business and taking care of our customers' needs each and every day," said Kavlick. "We are truly proud to have Todd as part of our McDonald's family and commend him on this truly amazing accolade."Training at McDonald's at Hamburger University can earn credits toward 2 or 4 years college degree. McDonald's employees credit their success to their first job at McDonald's Across the McDonald's system, many of the Franchise owners, corporate staff, and restaurant managers started as crew. McDonald's also celebrates excellence with the Ray Kroc Award designed to honor and reward the top one per cent of restaurant managers.Nesquehoning Mayor Tony Walck proclaimed March 19 as Todd Sheckler Day in Nesquehoning presenting him with a proclamation. Also attending the celebration besides Sheckler's wife and son were his mother and two of his brothers and their wives. He is one of five sons.Sheckler commented that he could not have accomplished this award without the help of his managers and crew.