Pure Growth Partners, a New York City-based company that conceives and markets consumer brands, announced the launch of Street King, an energy shot made in collaboration with rapper, actor and entrepreneur Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.

Packaging innovations, such as Bud Light’s “My Bud Light” scratch-on bottle, Miller Lite’s Home Draft and Budweiser’s Fourth of July can, highlight the most effective beer ads among beer drinkers for the year-to-date, according to Ace Metrix, a Los Angeles-based TV advertising effectiveness agency.

The Brewers Association, Boulder, Colo., reported that craft beer dollar sales increased 15 percent and volume grew 14 percent in the first half of 2011.

McDonald’s Corp., Oak Brook, Ill., announced U.S. sales increased 4.4 percent, which the company partially attributed to its McCafe lineup of beverages, including the recently introduced Mango Pineapple Smoothie.

SABMiller plc, London, and Molson Coors Brewing Co., Denver, reported that MillerCoors’ second quarter underlying net income, excluding special items, increased 2.6 percent to $400 million compared to the second quarter of 2010.

Tully’s Coffee, a brand of Waterbury, Vt.-based Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc.’s specialty coffee business, unveiled Taste of Community, a community-centric program in partnership with non-profit organization Pomegranate Center.

Purchase, N.Y.-based PepsiCo launched the Dream Machine Recycle Rally for the 2011-2012 school year.

Purchase, N.Y.-based PepsiCo brand SoBe partnered with iPhone game developer RockLive to give boxing, gaming and all-around fans the chance to train with boxer Mike Tyson.

The Abita Brewing Co., New Orleans, announced its plans to offer three of its flagship beer varieties in cans by early 2012.

The Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, announced a contest to award 10 inspirational teens the chance to carry the Olympic Flame next July during the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay.