McDonald's® Recognizes Three National Luminaries with Inaugural Award

McDonald's® 365Black initiative, a recognition of African-American achievement, culminates in a joyous celebration. On Wednesday, June 4 at 7:00 p.m., three legends will be honored at the inaugural 365Black Awards Gala at Reign Restaurant in Beverly Hills, Calif. Hosted by actress Tisha Campbell ("My Wife and Kids"), celebrities and dignitaries from across the country will gather to acknowledge the lifetime achievements of the first African-American McDonald's franchisee Herman Petty, nationally-syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner and ESSENCE Senior Vice President/Editorial Director Susan L. Taylor.

Last year, McDonald's launched the 365Black campaign to recognize the historical contributions and accomplishments of African-Americans all year round. The 365Black Award was created to honor African-American pioneers for their outstanding achievements. The three award recipients have made significant contributions to American history in their respective fields, and have served as strong community role models.

"Our 365Black Award acknowledges African-Americans who have helped shape American history," said Pat Harris, Chief Diversity Officer, McDonald's USA. "We're excited to recognize these living legends, and McDonald's plans to continue to celebrate the 365Black program with an annual awards ceremony."

Herman Petty is the first African-American McDonald's owner/operator. In 1968, he opened the first of his nine stores in Chicago. In 1972, he co- founded the National Black McDonald's Operators Association.

Tom Joyner, Sr., host of the nationally syndicated "The Tom Joyner Morning Show", is viewed as one of the most influential radio personalities in the country. For decades, he has actively involved his listeners in community and health education initiatives. In 1997, he founded The Tom Joyner Foundation, an organization that has raised more than $12 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Joyner's most recent venture is BlackAmericaWeb.com .

Susan L. Taylor has been a guiding light for ESSENCE magazine for more than 30 years. Her dedication has helped to make the magazine a successful news resource for African-American women.

McDonald's is the world's leading foodservice retailer, with more than 29,000 restaurants servicing over 46 million people each day. Approximately 80 percent of McDonald's U.S. restaurants are owned and operated by independent local businessmen and women.

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SOURCE: McDonald's Corporation

CONTACT: Shannelle Armstrong of McDonald's Corporation, +1-630-623-5508,
shannelle.armstrong@mcd.com , or Raynya Simmons of Burrell, +1-312-297-9796,
rsimmons@burrell.com