9: 20 am: the scene on The Mall:

Political observers during the campaign wondered whether similarities between the Obama campaign's logo and Pepsi's are coincidence or a secret neuromarketing strategy to link the soft drink brand with Obama's youthful vigor and optimism. CEO Indra Nooyi's history of generous donoations to Democratic politicians also is well-known.

And today, Pepsi deployed 50 shiny young grunts to hand out free buttons, cards, hats, backpacks and T-shirts here on the Capitol grounds (shirts, backpacks & hats will be given away on Inauguraion Day only).

Pepsi also has set-up an SMS feed and video-sharing website (details on the cards) for people to post suggestions to the incoming president.

UPDATE: Pepsi swag spotted on the Mall on Inauguration Day:

Sent from blackberry by MIGHTY at 8:14 pm

Sent from blackberry by MIGHTY at 7:10 pm

Sent from blackberry by MIGHTY at 6:16 pm