Pepsi Recognizes African-American Fathers With 'Four Weeks For Father'

Food & Beverage Close-Up, June 10, 2008

FOOD AND BEVERAGE CLOSE-UP-10 June 2008-Pepsi Recognizes African-American Fathers With 'Four Weeks For Father'(C)2008 - CloseUpMedia - newsdesk@closeupmedia.com

Pepsi said that it is celebrating Father's Day and the essential role of fathers and father figures in the African-American community with "Four Weeks For Father!," a free booklet available at pepsigreatfathers.com.

The booklet features words of wisdom from notable African-American dads, including Academy Award-winning actor Forest Whitaker, Grammy Award-winning musical artist Common, former professional football player Jerry Rice, acclaimed actor Mekhi Phifer and Congressman Jesse L. Jackson Jr.

Pepsi partnered with the Howard University Division of Fine Arts to gather the four contemporary and engaging images featured in the "Four Weeks For Father!" booklet. Student artists at the university submitted drawings for the project and graduating senior, Nia Lindsey, 22, was chosen as the winner. Lindsey was awarded the $5,000 grand prize and her designs are featured on the Web site as well as throughout the booklet. Three first prize winners received a $500 gift certificate and are also highlighted in "Four Weeks For Father!"

"We're proud to honor the important role of fathers in the community this month," said Marcus Minifee, senior manager of multicultural marketing, Pepsi-Cola North America. "A number of outstanding men contributed to 'Four Weeks For Father!' and we thank them for sharing their thoughts and experiences."

In recognition of Father's Day, Pepsi noted, it is making a donation to the United Negro College Fund to help support the dreams of young men and women.The Pepsi "Four Weeks For Father!" free booklet will also be available at a number of retail locations where Pepsi products are sold, the company noted in a release

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