Tag Archives: AP

ACES Quality Management to present at CU:REALM Live 2026 conference in Atlanta

DENVER, Colo., March 17, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — ACES Quality Management® (ACES), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced that Brock Miller, CMQ/OE, senior director of business development, and Sharon Reichhardt, EVP of operations, will attend and participate in CU:REALM Live 2026, March 30-31 in Atlanta. Miller and Reichhardt will be joined by Elizabeth Million, SVP of lending at Elevations Credit Union, to host a session titled “Quality in Focus: From Compliance Burden to Strategic Advantage.” The event will be held at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel and the Delta Community Credit Union Conference Center.

Image caption: ACES Quality Management logo.

During the session, Miller, Reichhardt and Million will discuss how credit unions can transform quality control from a compliance requirement into a strategic tool for managing risk and strengthening lending operations. The session will highlight practical ways to integrate quality management into lending workflows to improve efficiency, accountability and performance.

“Quality management is no longer just about finding defects after the fact,” said Brock Miller, CMQ/OE, senior director of business development at ACES Quality Management. “When lenders connect quality data to operational decision-making, they can reduce repurchase risk, strengthen compliance and improve the borrower experience.”

Million will offer a credit union perspective, sharing how Elevations Credit Union approaches quality management and compliance in today’s evolving lending environment.

CU:REALM Live is an invitation-only event that brings together credit union executives and mortgage professionals for two days of education, networking and strategic discussions focused on mortgage lending innovation and operational excellence.

About ACES Quality Management
ACES Quality Management is the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry. The nation’s most prominent lenders, servicers and financial institutions rely on ACES Quality Management & Control® Software to improve audit throughput and quality while controlling costs, including:

Over 70% of the top 20 independent mortgage lenders;
7 of the top 10 loan servicers;
14 of the top 30 banks; and
7 of the top 15 credit unions in the United States.

ACES also supports multiple state housing authorities and mortgage insurers, a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE), along with dozens of third-party QC and compliance service providers that collectively serve hundreds of financial institutions.

Unlike other quality control platforms, ACES Flexible Audit Technology® enables independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions to easily manage and customize the system to their specific needs without relying on IT or outside resources. With ACES’ AI-powered capabilities, audit teams can translate complexity into clear insights and accelerate performance.

Using a customer-centric approach, ACES clients get responsive support and access to our experts to maximize their investment. For more information, visit www.acesquality.com or call 1-800-858-1598.

LOGO link for media: https://www.acesquality.com/assets/images/aces-logo.svg

NEWS SOURCE: ACES Quality Management

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (ACES Quality Management), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/aces-quality-management-to-present-at-curealm-live-2026-conference-in-atlanta/

ViewTech Borescopes to Demonstrate VJ-3 and VJ-4 Borescopes for Corrosion-Sensitive Industries at AMPP 2026

HOUSTON, Texas, March 16, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — ViewTech Borescopes, a leading provider of high-quality video borescopes for remote visual inspection, will exhibit at the AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2026, taking place March 15–19, 2026 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. Attendees are invited to visit ViewTech at Booth #2309 to see the latest advancements in remote visual inspection technology and learn how the VJ-3 and VJ-4 video borescopes can improve maintenance, safety, and operational efficiency across corrosion-sensitive industries.

Image caption: A field professional performs a remote visual inspection of industrial piping using a ViewTech borescope, highlighting the technology featured by ViewTech Borescopes at Booth #2309 during the AMPP Annual Conference + Expo.

Hosted by the Association for Materials Protection and Performance, the annual conference is the world’s largest event dedicated to corrosion control, coatings, and materials protection. With thousands of engineers, inspectors, asset owners, and industry leaders in attendance, the AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2026 features an expansive exhibition hall highlighting the latest innovations in corrosion mitigation, materials performance, and asset integrity solutions.

At Booth #2309, ViewTech Borescopes will showcase its full line of professional-grade video borescopes designed to deliver clear, real-time inspection inside pipes, tanks, turbines, engines, and other hard-to-access equipment. ViewTech’s industrial borescopes help maintenance teams detect corrosion, cracking, and foreign object debris without disassembly, reducing downtime and inspection costs.

“Attending events like the AMPP Annual Conference give us the opportunity to connect directly with professionals responsible for protecting critical infrastructure,” said James Shomin, Customer Outreach Manager for ViewTech Borescopes. “Remote visual inspection plays a key role in proactive maintenance, and we’re excited to demonstrate how our VJ-3 and VJ-4 video borescopes help teams inspect faster, safer, and with greater accuracy.”

Conference attendees are encouraged to stop by Booth #2309 to meet the ViewTech team, explore the latest inspection technology, and discuss applications across industries including oil and gas, power generation, manufacturing, aerospace, and infrastructure.

Read more about AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2026:
https://www.viewtech.com/about-us/tradeshows/ampp-annual-conference-expo-2026

ABOUT VIEWTECH BORESCOPES

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America’s top seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics, and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

VJ-3 AND VJ-4 VIDEO BORESCOPE

The VJ-3 and VJ-4 mechanical articulating video borescopes are nondestructive visual testing instruments used for the remote visual inspection of machinery, equipment, and components. With diameters as small as 0.85mm, the VJ-3 and VJ-4 facilitate the visual recording and photo documentation of an inspection and components in areas that are otherwise inaccessible or require significant effort and expense to access directly. The VJ-3 and VJ-4 video borescopes consist of two modules integrated into one system: an insertion tube with distally mounted camera/LEDs and the base unit with control panel, LCD monitor, power source, and all necessary circuitry.

Learn more: https://www.viewtech.com/

MULTIMEDIA

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Logo link: https://www.viewtech.com/wp-content/uploads/view-tech-logo-h-650.png

NEWS SOURCE: ViewTech Borescopes

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (ViewTech Borescopes), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/viewtech-borescopes-to-demonstrate-vj-3-and-vj-4-borescopes-for-corrosion-sensitive-industries-at-ampp-2026/

Street Media Group Announces Strategic Partnership with Victor Outdoor

Partnership Expands Digital and Static Billboard Coverage Across Nebraska

FREMONT, Neb., March 16, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Street Media Group is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Victor Outdoor, significantly expanding its out-of-home footprint across central and eastern Nebraska, including the Omaha DMA.

Image caption: Street Media Group forms partnership with Victor Outdoor to offer high advertising exposure across Nebraska.

Victor Outdoor’s growing portfolio includes 27 digital billboards and over 60 static faces strategically positioned throughout key Nebraska markets such as Kearney, Grand Island, and the greater Omaha region. This collaboration brings together two forward-thinking outdoor media companies to deliver enhanced scale, premium inventory access, and simplified buying opportunities for brands and agencies.

Through this partnership, Street Media Group will align with Victor Outdoor’s high-visibility assets across major commuter corridors, retail hubs, and regional highways offering advertisers expanded access to both dynamic digital messaging and impactful long-term static placements.

“Victor Outdoor has built an impressive and rapidly growing network across Nebraska,” said Troy Hammond, Chief Operating Officer with Street Media Group. “Their strong presence in the Omaha DMA and surrounding central markets perfectly complements our strategic growth initiatives. Together, we’re creating new opportunities for advertisers to reach audiences across urban and regional communities with greater efficiency and impact.”

The addition of 27 digital units strengthens Street Media Group’s ability to provide flexible, time-sensitive messaging with high-frequency exposure, while the 60+ static faces offer sustained brand presence in key regional corridors. The combined inventory enhances regional dominance and allows advertisers to execute multi-market campaigns with seamless coordination.

This partnership reflects Street Media Group’s continued commitment to expanding premium digital inventory while building strong alliances with respected regional operators.

ABOUT STREET MEDIA GROUP

Street Media Group is an established leader in the out-of-home advertising industry, known for its strategically located inventory and commitment to impeccable service. The company specializes in providing top-of-mind awareness solutions through premium billboard locations and innovative digital advertising options.

Learn more about the company at: https://streetmediagroup.com/.

Learn more about this new line of inventory: https://streetmediagroup.com/street-media-group-victor-outdoor-partnership/

For more information about advertising opportunities, please contact sales@streetmediagroup.com.

ABOUT VICTOR OUTDOOR

Victor Outdoor is an out-of-home advertising company serving central and eastern Nebraska with a growing portfolio of digital and static billboards. With coverage spanning Kearney, Grand Island, and the Omaha DMA, Victor Outdoor provides high-visibility advertising solutions across key Nebraska markets.

LOGO link for media: https://streetmediagroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SMG-Victor-1.webp

NEWS SOURCE: Street Media Group

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Street Media Group), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/street-media-group-announces-strategic-partnership-with-victor-outdoor/

Argyle launches unified 3-in-1 Verification Suite for mortgage lenders

New verification product brings income, employment and asset verification together in a single, consumer-permissioned workflow

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y., March 16, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Argyle today announced the launch of its 3-in-1 Verification Suite, a unified verification product that brings verification of income (VOI), verification of employment (VOE) and verification of assets (VOA) together in a single, consumer-permissioned workflow. The consolidated Verification Suite enables mortgage lenders to manage multiple verification types through one interface, reducing the operational complexity of working across multiple vendors, integrations and contracts.

Image caption: Argyle.

The 3-in-1 Verification Suite includes direct source payroll, direct source banking and DOC VOI, which extends automation to document-based income verification when direct-source payroll connections are unavailable. Doc VOI automatically extracts and analyzes data from borrower-uploaded paystubs and W-2s, reducing manual document review while keeping loan files moving forward.

The Verification Suite is designed to streamline pre-approval, processing and underwriting workflows across the mortgage lifecycle. Along with creating a better experience for lending teams, it simplifies the verification experience for borrowers through a combined journey. Argyle is also introducing two-way communication between the point of sale (POS) and loan origination system (LOS), meaning that verifications started in the POS can be viewed and refreshed downstream without the need to toggle between systems.

“In mortgage origination, lenders typically rely on a combination of verification methods to support different borrower scenarios,” said John Hardesty, senior vice president of revenue at Argyle. “Our 3-in-1 Verification Suite brings income, employment and asset verification together into one experience, helping lenders automate more of their pipeline, reduce manual touchpoints and qualify borrowers faster.”

“It’s a really exciting development, and we’re grateful for the folks at Argyle acting on our feedback,” said Chris Sutherland, director of production strategy at American Pacific Mortgage. “With the success we’ve seen using Argyle for income and employment, adding assets was the obvious next step, and they’ve done some serious development to create continuity between the POS and LOS. The result is an intuitive borrower experience, and makes for a streamlined one-stop-shop for our branches.”

For more information about Argyle’s 3-in-1 Verification Suite, visit https://www.argyle.com/.

About Argyle:

Argyle is the leading provider of direct-source, consumer-permissioned income, employment and asset verifications, making it fast and easy to gain secure and reliable access to the most complete real-time datasets stored in consumers’ payroll and bank accounts. With Argyle, lenders automate verification workflows to save time, reduce fraud and compliance risks, lower costs and build better product experiences. As an authorized report supplier for Fannie Mae’s Desktop Underwriter® validation service and an approved service provider supporting Freddie Mac’s Loan Product Advisor® asset and income modeler (AIM), Argyle empowers mortgage lenders to auto-retrieve paystubs and W-2s, understand consumers’ ability to pay and improve loan quality—all at up to 80% less cost. Argyle’s commitment to innovation is backed by investors including Bain Capital Ventures, Checkr, Mastercard, Rockefeller Asset Management and SignalFire.

For more information on Argyle’s industry-leading verification platform, visit https://www.argyle.com/.

Tags: @withArgyle #mortgagelending #lending #underwriting #digitalmortgage #mortgagetech

NEWS SOURCE: Argyle

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Argyle), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/argyle-launches-unified-3-in-1-verification-suite-for-mortgage-lenders/

Floify powers launch of Timberline Mortgage

Community bank selects scalable point-of-sale platform to support growth across Colorado markets

BOULDER, Colo., March 16, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Floify, the mortgage industry’s leading point-of-sale (POS) solution, today announced that Timberline Bank has selected its platform to power its recently launched mortgage division. Founded in 2004, Timberline Bank is a Colorado-based community bank serving customers across western Colorado with locations in Grand Junction, Montrose and Aspen, delivering relationship-focused banking tailored to the needs of its local communities.

Image caption: Floify powers launch of Timberline Mortgage.

Launched in December 2025, Timberline Mortgage delivers personalized, competitive home financing solutions to local borrowers at each branch, backed by the strength and local commitment of its parent company.

As part of standing up the mortgage division, the six-person lending team conducted a comprehensive review of loan origination systems (LOS) and POS providers. “What became clear through the process was that Floify was offering a true partnership,” said Justin Harris, president of Timberline Mortgage. “As a newly launched mortgage division, it was critical for us to have a team that would support us as we grow. Floify’s onboarding and ongoing support gave us confidence that they’ll evolve alongside us.”

Timberline Mortgage worked closely with Floify’s implementation and training teams through twice-weekly working sessions tailored to the bank’s specific needs. Rather than requiring dedicated internal staff to manage the technology stack, Timberline has relied on Floify’s support team to configure workflows, milestones, and integrations with its LOS and pricing engine.

“We’re proud to support Timberline Bank as they launch Timberline Mortgage and deepen their commitment to community lending,” said Joshua Steffan, SVP and Group General Manager at Porch Group and Interim President and General Manager of Floify. “Community banks excel at relationship-driven service, and our role is to equip them with intuitive, scalable technology that strengthens that advantage. Floify will enable Timberline to grow confidently while delivering the seamless, high-touch experience their customers expect.”

ABOUT FLOIFY:

Floify is a fully configurable point of sale (POS) platform that streamlines the loan process with a secure application, communication and document portal between lenders, borrowers, referral partners and other mortgage stakeholders. Its Dynamic AI feature reimagines the mortgage application process by moving document collection and AI-driven data extraction to the very beginning of the process, allowing borrowers to upload key documents and have applications prepopulated with verified information, accelerating pre-approvals and simplifying the borrower experience. Floify is a subsidiary of Porch Group, Inc. (“Porch Group”) (NASDAQ: PRCH). For more, visit https://floify.com/ or find us on social media at Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter / X.

X: @Floify #mortgage #fintech #housingfinance

NEWS SOURCE: Floify

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Floify), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/floify-powers-launch-of-timberline-mortgage/

Gold, Fuhrmann, Cook Win 2026 Top Individual NPA Awards

The NPA names the winners of its 2026 Gallagher Mentor Award, Distinguished Service Award, and Postdoc of the Year Award

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., March 13, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — As it celebrated 150 years of postdoctoral scholars in the U.S., the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) announced at its annual conference that Michael S. Gold, Ph.D., Cynthia Furhmann, Ph.D., and Olivia K. Cook, Ph.D., are the 2026 winners of the organization’s three most prestigious individual awards.

Image caption: National Postdoctoral Association.

“This year’s award recipients reflect the strength, generosity, and leadership that sustain the postdoctoral community at its best. Their contributions remind us that improving the postdoctoral experience requires more than individual excellence—it calls for mentorship, advocacy, service, and a genuine commitment to helping others thrive,” said Andrea Pereyra, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the NPA board. “Together, these honorees represent the values the NPA strives to advance and the kind of impact that strengthens both our community and the broader research enterprise.”

The NPA Gallagher Mentor Award recognizes the very best of mentors across the nation who advocate for postdoctoral scholars, make themselves available to their researchers, and empower their postdocs to succeed. Award winners demonstrate a sustained commitment to creating a productive working environment that enhances the overall postdoctoral experience. The award is made possible by the support of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

This year’s award was presented to Michael S. Gold, Ph.D., professor of neurobiology at the University of Pittsburgh. Those supporting Gold for the award noted that he values both professional excellence and personal well-being while promoting an inclusive, psychologically safe culture. Gold commented, “There are so many truly outstanding mentors across the country, it is a true honor to not only to have been nominated for the Gallagher Mentor Award, but selected as recipient.”

The NPA Distinguished Service Award (DSA) recognizes the highest appreciation for an individual who has demonstrated a profound, sustained, or leadership contribution to improving the postdoctoral experience. Today, that honor was bestowed on Cynthia Fuhrmann, Ph.D., associate professor of the RNA Therapeutics Institute, biochemistry and molecular biotechnology, UMass Chan Medical School. Additional finalists for the award were Sara Dann-Grice, Ph.D., director of the postdoctoral certificate program, The University of Texas Medical Branch, and Paolo Mangahas, Ph.D., director, division of education and training, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Fuhrmann received the DSA today to an audience of peers in San Francisco who recognized her years of supporting the national postdoctoral community. She was lauded in her nomination for her work as an innovator, helping to develop groundbreaking educational and training instruments, including myIDP and pdHub. “She has an unwavering commitment to building coalitions that have the potential to actually effect national systemic change,” noted her nominators.

Upon being notified of the award, Fuhrmann commented: “Postdocs play a vital role in research and innovation, yet too often their own professional development and career goals are forgotten by the very systems that reap those benefits. The NPA’s twenty-year leadership on this issue makes this award an especially touching honor. To me, this award symbolizes the value of working together as a community, across disciplines and institutions, to effect change.”

Lastly, the NPA presented its annual NPA Postdoc of the Year Award, bestowing that honor on Olivia K. Cook, Ph.D., Dean’s Postdoctoral Scholar, Department of Psychology & Learning Systems Institute, Florida State University. The award recognizes a postdoc who has advanced the postdoctoral community in an exceptional manner beyond their work duties and in alignment with the NPA mission and core values. The NPA announced additional finalists for the award as Saul Huerta de la Cruz, Ph.D., postdoctoral associate, University of Vermont, and Courtney Matson, Ph.D., postdoctoral researcher, Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota.

In nominating Cook for this prestigious award, faculty members noted she “exemplifies this award through leadership, exceptional service, and a profound commitment to the advancement of the postdoctoral community.” Cook stated, “this award speaks to the collective efforts of concurrent and former postdoctoral leaders at my institution – I am hopeful that this platform can bring attention to causes in need of additional advocacy, such as postdocs’ access to healthcare, childcare, and paid parental leave.”

“It’s an honor to work alongside these three individuals and all our exceptional nominees,” said Thomas P. Kimbis, J.D., executive director and chief executive officer of the NPA. “Drs. Cook, Fuhrmann, and Gold set the standard for excellence in their institutions and beyond. They demonstrate the irreplaceable role of postdocs in promoting American leadership in the sciences and beyond.”

The awards are part of the NPA’s Excellence Recognition Program, highlighting the exceptional work of individuals and organizations in the postdoctoral space. Follow the work of Cook, Fuhrmann, Gold, and other exceptional leaders by collaborating with the NPA, committed to advancing the skills and careers of our nation’s postdoctoral scholars, who have been working for 150 years to benefit Americans across all fifty states.

About the National Postdoctoral Association:

The National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charitable and educational association headquartered in Bethesda, MD. Founded in 2003, the NPA envisions an inclusive community where all postdocs are empowered, valued, recognized, and supported in their current and future endeavors. The NPA serves the entire postdoctoral community, including its 24,000 individual and 250 organizational members.

Learn more: https://www.nationalpostdoc.org/

MULTIMEDIA

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NEWS SOURCE: National Postdoctoral Association

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (National Postdoctoral Association), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/gold-fuhrmann-cook-win-2026-top-individual-npa-awards/

Tamika Catchings Joins the UPSHOT League as Advisor and Investor, Alongside Cheryl Miller and Ann Meyers Drysdale

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., March 13, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The UPSHOT League, a new professional women’s basketball league dedicated to expanding opportunities for elite players and strengthening connections within communities, today announced that Tamika Catchings has joined the league as an advisor and investor.

Image caption: The UPSHOT League.

Catchings joins an extraordinary leadership group that already includes basketball pioneers Cheryl Miller and Ann Meyers Drysdale, helping shape the vision and future of the league as it prepares to tip off its inaugural season in May 2026.

“I’m so excited to join the UPSHOT League alongside Cheryl and Ann, two of the most influential people in our sport,” said Catchings. “There are so many talented players and I’m proud to be a part of the effort to create new opportunities for them. I can’t wait to officially kick off the season in May.”

Tamika Catchings is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of women’s basketball. A four-time Olympic gold medalist, Catchings spent her entire 15-year WNBA career with the Indiana Fever, leading the franchise to a WNBA championship in 2012. Known for her relentless defense and leadership, she earned five WNBA Defensive Player of the Year awards and captured both NCAA and WNBA championships during her career. Catchings was later inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential figures in the game.

The UPSHOT League was co-founded by Andy Kaufmann, CEO, Zawyer of Zawyer Sports and Donna Orender, who also serves as Commissioner of the UPSHOT League. The league is built around a mission of creating additional professional opportunities for women’s basketball players while fostering meaningful and trusted connections with the communities the teams serve.

“Tamika Catchings represents the very best of our sport—competitive excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to community,” said Orender. “Her experience as a champion and ambassador for the game will help guide our league as we build a platform that expands opportunities for women in professional basketball.”

Catchings joins fellow advisor Cheryl Miller, widely considered one of the most influential figures in the history of women’s basketball. Miller’s impact spans playing, coaching, and broadcasting. She has served as a sideline reporter for NBA games on TNT Sports and currently works with NBA TV as a reporter and analyst, after previously working as a sportscaster for ABC Sports, TBS Sports, and ESPN. Miller also served as head coach and general manager of the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, further cementing her legacy as a pioneer and leader in the sport.

Also serving as an advisor is Ann Meyers Drysdale, a trailblazer who excelled at every level of basketball—from high school and college to the Olympic Games, international competition, and the professional ranks—before becoming one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting.

The UPSHOT League will launch its inaugural season in May 2026, featuring teams in Charlotte, Jacksonville, Savannah, and Greensboro. Together with its growing roster of leaders and partners, the league aims to build a player-focused professional platform that celebrates elite competition while strengthening the bond between teams and the communities they represent.

Media Contact:
LeslieAnne Wade
UPSHOT League
(917) 751-7693
https://upshotleague.com/

NEWS SOURCE: The UPSHOT League

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (The UPSHOT League), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/tamika-catchings-joins-the-upshot-league-as-advisor-and-investor-alongside-cheryl-miller-and-ann-meyers-drysdale/

New Memoir ‘The Last Neighborhood: A South Philly Memoir’ Tells a Powerful Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting for Respect

PHILADELPHIA, Pa., March 13, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Author and former professional boxer Mike Rafferty announces the release of his new memoir, “The Last Neighborhood: A South Philly Memoir” (ISBN: 978-1834189406; March 2026, by Tellwell Publishing) a deeply personal coming-of-age story set in the working-class streets of South Philadelphia.

Image caption: Cover, “The Last Neighborhood: A South Philly Memoir.”

In “The Last Neighborhood: A South Philly Memoir,” Rafferty takes readers back to Grays Ferry, where every block had its own identity and every kid learned early how to survive. Growing up as the son of a boxer, young Michael faced constant pressure to prove himself in a neighborhood filled with tough fighters and athletes.

But this is not a Hollywood boxing story. It is a raw, honest account of a skinny, uncertain boy struggling with fear, self-doubt, and expectations. Determined to earn respect from his father and peers, Michael turns to boxing as a way to stand out and build confidence.

Supported by his large family, his faith, and his community, he enters the ring as a teenager, discovering that boxing is more than a sport—it is a test of character. Along the way, he learns the true meaning of discipline, resilience, and courage.

The memoir explores whether faith can silence inner doubts, whether community can lift a young man through hardship, and whether heart matters more than strength. It is also the story of how a future police officer learned life’s toughest lessons long before wearing a badge.

“This book is about where I came from, what shaped me, and how faith and perseverance helped me become who I am today,” said Rafferty. “It’s a tribute to South Philly and the people who never stopped believing in me.”

About the Author

Mike Rafferty was a top-ranked amateur and professional boxer for nine years. He went undefeated as a professional with a 7–0 record before a car accident and injuries interrupted his career. He later finished with a 9–1–1 record. Rafferty has served in law enforcement for 28 years and currently holds the rank of sergeant with the Philadelphia Police Department.

Book Information

Email Contact: Authorpress@tellwell.ca

Title: The Last Neighborhood : A South Philly Memoir

Author: Mike Rafferty

Website: https://authormikerafferty.com/

Genre: Memoir

Format: Paperback / Hardcover / eBook

ISBN: 9781834189406

Publication Date: March, 2026

IMAGE link for media: https://authormikerafferty.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cropped-The-last-neighbourhood-book-by-author-Mike-Rafferty-4.png

NEWS SOURCE: Tellwell Publishing

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Tellwell Publishing), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/new-memoir-the-last-neighborhood-a-south-philly-memoir-tells-a-powerful-story-of-faith-family-and-fighting-for-respect/

GSJJ Releases Spring Gift Trends: Targeting Easter, Graduation, and Brand Refresh

WALNUT, Calif., March 12, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — As spring marketing campaigns begin to accelerate, GSJJ, a global supplier of custom promotional products, has published its 2026 Spring Gift Trends report. The report outlines three major seasonal marketing scenarios—Easter & Outdoor Season, Graduation & End of Semester, and “Spring Refresh” & Brand Reinvention—offering businesses practical ideas on everything from product choices to campaign planning.

Image caption: GSJJ Releases Spring Gift Trends: Targeting Easter, Graduation, and Brand Refresh.

HOW CAN BRANDS CONNECT WITH CUSTOMERS DURING EASTER AND OUTDOOR SEASON?

Spring marks both the arrival of Easter celebrations and the start of peak outdoor activity. GSJJ’s internal data shows that inquiries for holiday-themed and outdoor custom gifts rise noticeably every year from March through April.

During a season associated with renewal and social gatherings, brands often look for ways to build more meaningful connections with consumers. GSJJ suggests selecting gifts that combine holiday character with everyday usability.

For instance, Custom Pins can serve as memorable souvenirs during Easter egg hunts, while Custom Patches can be attached to backpacks or jackets, bringing brand exposure into parks, hiking trails, and even social media photos.

“Easter gifting is really about shared happiness,” said Karen, Marketing Director at GSJJ. “With our AI-assisted design system, brands can generate themed design drafts in just minutes. Easter elements and brand logos can be combined quickly, making the gift feel like a natural part of the celebration.”

Among outdoor-focused products, Custom Keychains and Custom Golf Ball Markers remain especially popular for corporate golf outings and team-building activities. Despite their small size, these items allow brands to showcase visual elements through 3D embossing and laser engraving, accompanying users during various spring activities.

Market data support the growth of this category. Research from Research and Markets estimates that the global personalized gifts market will increase from $30.79 billion in 2025 to $33.49 billion in 2026, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 8.7%. Within that market, seasonal and commemorative gifts are expanding particularly quickly.

HOW CAN COMMEMORATIVES CAPTURE GRADUATION’S MEMORABLE MOMENTS?

The months of May and June traditionally bring the busiest period for graduation and end-of-semester gifts. From proms and commencement ceremonies to student leadership transitions and teacher appreciation events, the season centers on recognition and remembrance.

GSJJ has noticed growing demand for metal collectible items, especially custom Challenge Coins and Medals, in graduation-related celebrations. Schools may award medals to top-performing students, while student organizations and alumni groups often design commemorative Challenge Coin designs or Enamel Pins featuring graduation years.

These items allow graduates to keep a small but lasting reminder of their time on campus.

“Graduation gifts usually stay with people for years,” Karen said. “Even a small pin can include a school emblem, a graduation year, an inspirational message, or a student’s name. Those details turn a simple object into something meaningful.”

Graduation season is also becoming an opportunity for companies that recruit on campus. A study from Global Growth Insights notes that corporate gifts account for roughly 20–25% of the personalized gifts market.

More organizations are now creating branded graduation-themed items for campus recruitment events, using them to build early brand familiarity with potential employees. GSJJ’s production system allows orders to move into manufacturing within 24 hours, helping companies meet tight event schedules.

HOW CAN A “SPRING REFRESH” HELP BRANDS REINVENT THEMSELVES?

Beyond seasonal celebrations, spring is also a natural moment for brand updates and visual refreshes. Many companies choose this period to introduce new product lines or update their brand identity.

Custom merchandise can help communicate those changes tangibly.

For example, Custom Metal Business Cards offer a durable alternative to traditional paper cards, leaving a more memorable first impression. Personalized Lanyards frequently appear at trade shows and corporate events, acting as mobile brand displays. Meanwhile, Custom Stickers provide a simple and shareable way to engage younger audiences.

“Refreshing a brand isn’t only about changing visuals,” Karen said. “It also means rethinking how the brand appears in everyday interactions. Items like employee badges, event giveaways, or client gifts can all carry updated branding.”

Technology is also playing a role in this shift. GSJJ’s AI-assisted design tools allow customers to generate early design drafts in minutes rather than waiting days.

According to the company’s 2026 Global Custom Promotional Gifts Trends Report, AI-driven rapid customization is becoming a major factor shaping the promotional products industry.

GSJJ: FULL-SCENARIO CUSTOMIZATION FOR SPRING MARKETING

To support a variety of seasonal marketing needs, GSJJ provides a wide range of customizable products, including Custom Pins, Custom Medals, Custom PVC Patches, Custom Keychains, and Custom Stickers.

By combining AI-assisted design tools, experienced manufacturing processes, and global logistics support, the company offers a complete customization workflow—from initial concept to finished product.

Looking forward, the personalized gifts market is projected to continue expanding steadily. Data from Global Growth Insights suggests the industry could grow at an average annual rate of about 7% between 2026 and 2035, reaching $61.71 billion by 2035.

For brands planning spring campaigns, custom gifts are no longer just giveaways. They are becoming practical marketing tools capable of strengthening emotional connections with audiences.

ABOUT GSJJ

Headquartered in Walnut, California, GSJJ serves global businesses and individual customers as a leading provider of custom gift solutions. Product lines include Custom Stickers, Keychains, Challenge Coins, Medals, Custom Neon Sign, and more, catering to diverse personalization needs across B2B and B2C markets.

Combining AI-driven design, precision craftsmanship, and global delivery, GSJJ transforms brand concepts into lasting keepsakes. The company maintains over 53,000 verified customer reviews with a 4.9/5 rating (as of February 2026).

MEDIA CONTACT
GSJJ Marketing Department
Contact Person: Sophie Qin
Email: affiliate@gs-jj.com
Official Website: https://www.gs-jj.com/

Address: 20812 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789, USA

NEWS SOURCE: GSJJ

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