Local example: Hard work paved the way for Kenney Moore's success

How nice it is when there is a local example to prove your point.

Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes and Fries did not get to the point where it was able to offer franchises around the country because a government program paved the way.

And it did not become a successful concept that attracted interest from international investors because of some bureaucrat behind a desk in Washington.

The restaurants are enjoying additional success and interest because of the hard work of founder and owner Kenney Moore, the people who were there when opening the doors was a risk and the hundreds of others whose hard work every day has made this chain a success.

And the store owners who run these restaurants now did not get their businesses handed to them, either.

Most of them worked their way up from waiter, waitress or grill cook to earn a chance to own their own "Andy's."

And that is how it should be. Success should be based on hard work and elbow grease.

Wayne County should be proud of this successful business that has not only remembered its roots, but lives the principles of giving back every day.

And why not be just a teeny bit boastful that it all started here -- especially when we see photos of the first Middle East franchise opening.

Moore, his staff and the other small business owners like him across the country take chances every day.

They invest blood, sweat and tears into businesses that have no guarantee or inflated government loans.

The success they have is based on their own hard work, their adherence to the pursuit of a dream and the way they treat the people who work alongside them every day.

That is why Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes and Fries continues to grow and thrive -- on its own.

This company is a tangible reason -- right here at home -- to preserve the possibility and the opportunity of the American dream for thousands of other entrepreneurs who are ready to put their shoulders to the grindstone to make those visions a reality.

Hwy 55 is proof positive that this system works -- and will continue to work, as long as there are people willing to do the work, to take the chance and to dream big.

Published in Editorials on July 31, 2012 10:30 AM