MCDONALD'S RETURNS AS SPONSOR OF THUNDER FUNDER PROGRAM

The Kentucky Derby Festival is pleased to announce that McDonald's Restaurants of Kentuckiana will once again be title sponsor of the Thunder Funder program, which will help raise funds for the 2008 Thunder Over Louisville show, the Derby Festival's Opening Ceremonies on April 12. From February 5 to March 23, 93 area McDonald's restaurants will donate 10 cents from the sale of every 32-ounce drink in a commemorative cup to help support Thunder. Drinks may be purchased separately or as part of a Thunder Funder meal (Filet O' Fish sandwich, French fries and large drink).

"We're very grateful that McDonald's Restaurants of Kentuckiana are returning as sponsor of the Thunder Funder program for the third year in a row," said Mike Berry, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. "McDonald's generous commitment has proved to be a tremendous component to Thunder Over Louisville fund-raising. This gives the public a chance to support Thunder Over Louisville and ensure the show will remain free for everyone."

Last year's McDonald's Thunder Funder Program raised more than $215,000 to help support Thunder - $71,856 from restaurant sales purchases and more than $143,000 through the purchase of viewing packages, small business contributions and individual incentive packages. Contributions were also accepted online at www.mcdonaldsthunderfunder.com. This year's "Gear Up For Thunder" event will be held March 20 at Bowman Field and will give the public a special preview and behind-the-scenes look at the 2008 Thunder Over Louisville show.

"McDonald's Restaurants of Kentuckiana is very pleased to continue our support of Thunder Over Louisville. McDonald's has a strong commitment to the Louisville community, and Thunder Funder is an event we are proud to participate in." said Ira Salls, McDonald's Owner/Operator.

Thunder Over Louisville - the Derby Festival's Opening Ceremonies - is one of the more than 70 events produced by the Derby Festival in the spring. The 2008 Thunder Over Louisville, themed "Out Of This World," is set for Saturday, April 12 and will be the  will be the 19th annual production. The show is sponsored by Caesars Indiana, E.ON U.S., Meijer and UPS. 

The Derby Festival is an independent community organization supported by 4,000 volunteers, 400 businesses and civic groups, Pegasus Pin sponsorships and event participation. It entertains more than 1.5 million people in a two-week period and has a local economic impact of more than $93 million. Thunder alone contributes $31 million of that estimate to both sides of the Ohio River.