Actress Roselyn Sanchez Presents One-Of-A-Kind Mercury Milan to Auction Winner in Motor City

Actress Roselyn Sanchez Presents One-Of-A-Kind Mercury Milan to Auction Winner in Motor City

- Actress Roselyn Sanchez, currently starring in the hit TV series "Without a Trace," presents the 2006 Mercury Milan Voga to Rick Schmidt, winner of the eBay auction for the customized vehicle designed by Ford GT designer Camilo Pardo

- All proceeds from the auction will benefit MANA, A National Latina Organization committed to empowering Hispanic women

DETROIT, Sept. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- After sharing the spotlight with Latin America's top designers during Miami Fashion Week, the Mercury Milan Voga returned to Motor City where actress Roselyn Sanchez presented its keys to new owner, Rick Schmidt of Ocala, FL. Schmidt is the winner of the eBay auction for the exclusive vehicle that was customized by Ford GT designer Camilo Pardo to capture the spirit and style of the American Latino culture.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060918/NYM154 )

All proceeds from the Milan Voga auction were donated to MANA, a National Latina Organization that strives to empower and improve the lives of Hispanic women through leadership development, community service and advocacy.

"When we first unveiled the Voga in May during Miami Fashion Week I was truly impressed," said Roselyn Sanchez, actress currently starring in the hit TV series "Without a Trace." "I am pleased to deliver this beautiful Mercury Milan to Rick, along with all of its proceeds to MANA, a well-deserving organization that carries a powerful message for the Latinas across the U.S."

"On behalf of MANA, we thank Mercury for this generous donation and the support of the advancement of Latinas in this country," said Alma Morales Riojas, National President and CEO of MANA, A National Latina Organization. "Our mission to empower Hispanic women in this country is only possible when companies like Mercury have the vision and commitment to give back to the community."

Members of MANA include female professionals, homemakers and college students who align with a group of consumers that Mercury calls "Nueva Latinas" -- youthful, bicultural women. The proceeds will be distributed in the form of Mercury scholarships and funding programs for MANA's affiliates in key Hispanic markets.

One of a Kind -- Mercury Milan Voga

Already known for its sophisticated flair and distinctive good looks, the stylish Milan Voga was specially customized by Camilo Pardo, designer of the critically acclaimed Ford GT supercar, to capture the spirit of the Hispanic culture. From its sleek, lowered stance to its unique palette -- featuring a Mar Azul exterior and rich Arena interior -- the Voga signals confidence and style.

"I am thrilled to receive the keys to the Milan Voga from Roselyn Sanchez, especially knowing that Mercury is donating the proceeds back to the community through MANA," said Rick Schmidt, new owner of the Milan Voga and part-owner of National Parts Depot. "When I first saw the vehicle I was immediately attracted to its brilliant blue color and custom body work by Camilo Pardo, who I've always been a huge fan of."

Pardo worked with Ford Motor Company's design team and aftermarket specialists 3D Carbon to create a complete style makeover for this special- edition Milan. Special exterior upgrades were made including the addition of a front air dam, a full body skirt, a rear spoiler on the decklid and a stunning high-polished stainless steel roof panel. Special 20-inch polished aluminum wheels were also added to compliment the Voga's sporty presence, and modified polished dual exhaust tips complete the rear.

The interior of the Milan Voga is stunning, with metallic detail on the IP that brings in the cool metallic blue exterior palette, highlighted with polished chrome accents. The car's distinctive black environment also is off- set by Arena, or sand-colored, leather seating accented with Mar Azul stitching detail. The custom Voga insignia is stitched into the seats and onto the floormats.

About Mercury

Mercury is a brand of Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 300,000 employees and 108 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands also include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, and Volvo. Its automotive-related services include Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit http://www.fordvehicles.com/.

About MANA

MANA, A National Latina Organization, is a nonprofit, advocacy organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. With chapters across the country, it is the oldest National Latina membership organization in the United States. MANA, whose mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development, community service and advocacy, envisions a national community of informed Latina activists working to improve the quality of life for all Hispanics. MANA also has the only national young Latina's mentoring program for girls 11 to 17, "HERMANITAS(R)." It brings more than 100 girls to Washington, D.C. to a summer institute that includes a briefing at the White House and a visit to the girls' Congressional representatives. Information on MANA can be obtained at: http://www.hermana.org/ or by sending e-mail to hermana2@aol.com.

About Roselyn Sanchez

Roselyn Sanchez is a multi-talented performer who has established herself as a leading actress in Hollywood. Sanchez first graced the big screen in New Line's blockbuster hit "Rush Hour 2" starring opposite Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan, and has also has leading roles in "Basic," "Chasing Papi" and "Boat Trip." In 2003, she released her debut music CD entitled "Borinquena," in which she was nominated for a Latin Grammy for the single "Amor Amor." In addition to acting and singing, Sanchez is an entrepreneur, a business partner and spokesperson for a line of hair care products aimed at the Latina community called Activate. She can currently be seen on the hit CBS television series "Without a Trace."

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060918/NYM154
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Mercury Public Affairs

CONTACT: Eddy Davis of Conexion PR, +1-305-913-2416,
eddy@prconexion.com; or Alan Hall of Ford Motor Company, +1-313-594-3744,
ahall32@ford.com

Web site: http://www.fordvehicles.com/
http://www.hermana.org/

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