5/4/2017 – LOCAL CHARITIES TAKE CENTER STAGE AT DERBY FESTIVAL CELEBRITY EVENT

May 4, 2017. 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.  Three local charities were also presented with checks totaling $4,000 as part of a special promotion.

The Kentuckiana Honda Dealers –Jeff Wyler Dixie Honda, Hardin County Honda, Honda World, and Neil Huffman Honda – conducted a social media contest that ran through April 27.  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: Norton Childrens Hospital Kentucky (Jeff Wyler Dixie Honda), Active Heroes (Hardin County Honda), Livestrong YMCA (Honda World), and Norton Childrens Hospital (Neil Huffman Honda). The non-profit that had the most votes through the social media campaign would receive $1,000.  But, after careful consideration of each of the charities it was announced today at the luncheon each of the nonprofits would receive a $1,000 check.  Over 1,400 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.

The Celebrity Day at the Downs event is sponsored by Kentuckiana Honda Dealers, with Contributing Sponsor, Macy’s.  Media sponsors are The Voice-Tribune and 106.9 PLAY.

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.

January 11 - April 20
March 28
April 6 - April 6
April 11 - April 21