For the charter round of inductees into the American Pop Culture Icon Museum, the fast food giant, McDonald's, should be considered. Since McDonald's reopened its doors in 1948 with their new simpler menu and quicker service they have shown that they are an American pop culture icon. McDonald's exhibits three qualities that are important in determining the validity of a pop culture icon. They have a positive influence in the community due to their development of the Ronald McDonald House Charities. They are also known throughout the world and appeal to many countries and cultures due to their menu changes for different areas. Not only that but McDonald's represents the fast paced world that we now live in. .

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             The reality of becoming a multi-billion dollar company, and the sales from their famous Shamrock Shakes was what enabled McDonald's to start the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Through their work with the Ronald McDonald House Charities McDonald's has contributed to the availability of a real and practical support system for the families of extremely ill and dying children. These families are provided with lodging near specialized health and medical resources, emotional support, and therapeutic counseling. All this is offered to families in need at no cost. Ronald McDonald houses are available to every family that is faced with serious medical issues of a child member and observes guidelines that are not arbitrary or designed to restrict eligibility due to technicalities. This program alone represents a profoundly beneficial influence in pop culture and in the quality of life experienced by whole families, as well as treatment and increased recovery rate of young patients. .

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             Just like there are Ronald McDonald Houses all over the world, there are also McDonald's all over the world. The fast-food behemoth has more than 30,000 locations in 118 countries. Many locations around the world and a customized menu to fit the culture is something that makes McDonald's a pop culture icon.