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Soap Box Derby Forms Partnership With NORKA Food And Beverage

International Soap Box Derby President and CEO, Joe Mazur, announced today that the Derby will partner with NORKA,  Akron's newest iconic beverage company, for the  Gravity Racing Challenge STEM Team Competition and the 78th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby in July.

NORKA will provide samples of their product on May 16 for the Gravity Racing Challenge STEM Team Competition presented by Time Warner Cable and at the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby's World Championship. This will provide a great opportunity for everyone to try this new, more natural beverage.

Mazur stated, "We are excited to partner with this new and growing Akron company that is revitalizing Akron's craft soda. With craft sodas growing in popularity, families will enjoy the opportunity to try this vintage soda with a modern flare."

"It's exciting to be an official partner of the Soap Box Derby," said Michael Considine, President of NORKA Food and Beverage LLC. "The Derby is an AKRON event, which compliments the NORKA brand. NORKA is all about family, fun and entertainment. This is a perfect match because the Derby and NORKA have such proud Akron roots."

About NORKA Food and Beverage

NORKA Food and Beverages was originally founded in 1924 and was known for its line of hand-crafted sparkling beverages. The company continued to operate until 1962, when the production creased. In 2014, Considine decided to revive the brand with four of their original flavors and looking to eventually launch more flavors from the original offerings. Currently, these sparkling beverages are available at Acme's, West Point Market and other local establishments.

About International Soap Box Derby

The Soap Box Derby is an international nonprofit organization whose mission is to build knowledge and character, and to create meaningful experiences through collaboration and fair and honest competition. The Derby's Core Values and Drivers include: Youth Education and Leadership Development; Family Engagement and Enrichment; Honesty, Integrity and Perseverance; Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Teamwork and Collaboration; Mentoring; Volunteerism; and Commitment to Community. The Derby's two youth initiatives are the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby racing program and the STEM-based Education Program, which provides educational opportunities for K-12 youth worldwide through Soap Box Derby racing. The Derby dates back to 1934, when the first All-American race was held in Dayton, Ohio.