Sports : Local business honors VS cross country runners

Annika Schmidt leaves her mark on the Ehlinger/McDonald's windows.

Lily Horst puts her name on a window at Ehlinger's/McDonald's during the VS XC celebration.

To celebrate the success of the Vinton-Shellsburg cross country teams, Mel Davis and her parents, Terry and Bonnie Ehlinger (the mom and grandparents of freshman runner Elisabeth Davis) welcomed the entire team to Ehlinger's 66 and McDonald's on Tuesday evening.

The runners painted windows of the convenience store and restaurant (and a few cars, as well) and also enjoyed free hot chocolate. Customers who wore a V-S shirt received a free ice cream cone. They also signed team photos, banners and other items.

The team leaves early Saturday morning for the State meet in Fort Dodge.

See more photos of the team at the event HERE.