April 30, 2015. Louisville, KY. – Celebrities weren’t the only ones getting the spotlight on Millionaire’s Row at today’s Celebrity Day at the Downs presented by Kentuckiana Honda Dealers. Four local charities were also presented with checks totaling $20,000 as part of a special promotion.
The Kentuckiana Honda Dealers – Sam Swope Honda World, Neil Huffman Honda, Jeff Wyler Dixie Honda and Hardin County Honda – conducted a social media contest that ran March 20-April 24. The contest allowed anyone to “like” the Kentuckiana Honda Dealers Facebook page and vote for their favorite nonprofit. Each dealership was partnered with a different charity: Harbor House of Louisville (Sam Swope Honda World), Gilda’s Club (Jeff Wyler Dixie Honda), PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) Shelter Foundation (Hardin Country Honda), and Kosair Children’s Hospital (Neil Huffman Honda). The non-profit that had the most votes through the social media campaign would receive $5,000. But, after careful consideration of each of the charities it was announced today at the luncheon each of the nonprofits would receive a $5,000 check. Over 900 fans participated in the campaign.
Said Mike Porro, President of the Kentuckiana Honda Dealers, “Every nonprofit that participated is just doing such great work, it didn’t seem fair to choose. Also, everyone got many votes. The community really turned out for everyone. So, we just decided to give everyone the prize. This is a great community; there are a lot of kind individuals who make Kentucky home.”
After voting for their favorite charity, patrons also had the opportunity to enter a “Celebrity-for-a-Day” Contest. The four lucky winners and their guests mingled with celebrities today on Millionaires Row, dined in style at the Celebrity Day at the Downs luncheon, and enjoyed a special photo op in the Winners Circle. They’ll also ride in today’s Republic Bank Pegasus Parade. The four lucky winners were: Andrea Wheeler and Nikki Cochran, Christy Ann Martin, Jamie Hendricks, and Bev Powell.
The Celebrity Day at the Downs event is sponsored by Kentuckiana Honda Dealers, with contributing sponsors, Macy’s. Media sponsors are Nfocus Magazine and Lite 106.9 WVEZ.
Since 1956, the Derby Festival has worked to bring the community together in celebration. The Festival is an independent community organization supported by 4,000 volunteers, 400 businesses and civic groups, Pegasus Pin sponsorships and event participation. This involvement has made the Festival the largest single attended event in Kentucky and one of the leading community celebrations in the world.
