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New Generation Consumer Group, Inc. (NGCG) Signs Consulting Agreement to Launch New AI Line of Business Targeting Immediate Revenue Opportunities

By Media News
2 min read • Published February 19, 2026
By Media News
2 min read • Published February 19, 2026

PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESS Newswire / February 19, 2026 / New Generation Consumer Group, Inc. ("NGCG" or the "Company") today announced that it has entered into a consulting agreement to support the development and launch of a new artificial intelligence ("AI") line of business designed to generate near-term revenue opportunities for the Company.

Under the terms of the agreement, the consultant will work closely with NGCG to identify, structure, and execute strategic AI initiatives. These efforts may include commercialization planning, customer and partner outreach, operational implementation, and go-to-market execution. The Company expects to provide additional updates as key milestones are achieved and specific revenue initiatives are finalized.

"NGCG is focused on building scalable, technology-enabled business lines capable of producing revenue on an accelerated timeline," said a Company spokesperson. "This consulting agreement supports our objective of rapidly developing an AI-focused business vertical while maintaining flexibility to pursue multiple high-probability revenue pathways."

Further details regarding the engagement, including initial initiatives under evaluation and progress toward commercialization, will be released as appropriate in the coming days.

About New Generation Consumer Group, Inc. (NGCG)

New Generation Consumer Group, Inc. is focused on identifying, developing, and scaling innovative business lines, with a strategic emphasis on technology-enabled and high-growth market opportunities.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the anticipated development and launch of a new AI line of business; the potential for immediate or near-term revenue generation; and the Company’s ability to identify, structure, and execute revenue-producing initiatives. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Such risks include, but are not limited to, the Company’s ability to execute its strategy, changing market and competitive conditions, customer adoption, regulatory considerations, and other risks described from time to time in the Company’s public disclosures. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required by law.

Contact:
Investor Relations
New Generation Consumer Group, Inc.
Phoenix, Arizona
Email: InvestorRelations@ngcg.com

SOURCE: Signature Apps

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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media-news

Aphrodite Media, Inc. Celebrates Its Launch as a Women-Led Platform Focused on Purpose-Driven Storytelling

By Media News
3 min read • Published February 19, 2026
By Media News
3 min read • Published February 19, 2026

Founded by Author, Entrepreneur and Publisher Rachael Eckles, Aphrodite Media, Inc. Positions Women’s Stories as Cultural, Commercial, and Creative Power Designed to Ignite Social and Personal Change

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / February 19, 2026 / Aphrodite Media, Inc., a new women-led media and publishing company, launches with a bold mission: to elevate women’s voices into lasting cultural and commercial assets while preserving creator autonomy. Founded by author, entrepreneur, and publisher Rachael Eckles, the company debuts with an initial publishing slate and plans for strategic expansion.

Publishing operations are led through Aphrodite Books, the company’s growing imprint which currently includes the genre-defying Celeste Donovan series and the Can a Frog Jog? children’s series. Additional acquisitions will be announced in the coming months, expanding a curated list spanning fiction, nonfiction, wellness, memoir, and children’s titles. Submissions are currently open for consideration.

Aphrodite Media operates on a boutique model centered on close author partnership and direct creative collaboration. "Aphrodite Media was built on the belief that memorable stories and the relationships behind them require time and attention," said Eckles. "I work closely with each Aphrodite author to develop work positioned to resonate well beyond its initial release."

While publishing marks its inaugural endeavor, the company is intentionally structured as a multi-platform media enterprise, with plans to expand into original audio programming, digital content, screen adaptations, and other formats that extend the reach of each story.

Philanthropy is embedded in the company’s operating model. Through its foundation, Aphrodite Gives, a portion of publisher revenues supports charitable initiatives aligned with both the author and the company, ensuring that creative success contributes to causes reflective of each project’s values.

"At Aphrodite, our guiding philosophy is simple: Women’s stories deserve both creative freedom and strategic infrastructure," Eckles added. "We support authors in producing standout work, maintaining authority over their voice and vision, and sharing in the long-term value their stories generate-using storytelling to entertain, spark change, and inspire lasting cultural impact."

The launch of Aphrodite Media reflects a broader shift in today’s media landscape where creators are building platforms of their own rather than waiting for permission.

The company is finalizing its 2026 slate, with new acquisitions to be announced throughout the year. Unsolicited submissions are considered on a rolling basis.

###

About Aphrodite Media Inc.
Aphrodite Media, Inc. is a boutique, women-led media and publishing company dedicated to editorial excellence, long-term intellectual property, and purpose-driven storytelling. Through its publishing imprint, Aphrodite Books, the company publishes commercial fiction, nonfiction, and children’s titles with an emphasis on craft, selectivity, and longevity. Aphrodite Media is structurally aligned with Aphrodite Gives, its philanthropic foundation, allowing publishing success to directly support initiatives aligned with its mission to empower women and girls.

About Rachael Eckles
Rachael Eckles is a New York-based author, publisher, and media entrepreneur known for her Celeste Donovan romantic suspense series and empowering women-driven storytelling. After earning her law and master’s degrees, she spent two decades in corporate affairs and litigation before turning fully toward storytelling and publishing. She has built a reputation for blending commercial appeal with bold, modern female narratives. Aphrodite Media Inc. represents the next evolution of her work-scaling storytelling into a fully realized media enterprise.

Media Contact
Rachael Eckles
Founder & CEO, Aphrodite Media, Inc.
rachael@aphroditemedia.co
https://aphroditemedia.co

SOURCE: Aphrodite Media, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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media-news

Berlin Hosts Private Premiere of Holiguards Saga with Kevin Spacey and Elvira Paterson

By Media News
2 min read • Published February 18, 2026
By Media News
2 min read • Published February 18, 2026

A private premiere screening of Holiguards Saga – The Portal of Force, the pilot installment of the planned Holiguards Saga franchise, was held on February 16 at ASTOR Film Lounge Berlin. The event took place in a closed format with invited industry guests, partners, and media representatives.

BERLIN, DE / ACCESS Newswire / February 18, 2026 / The screening was organized as a formal black-tie occasion and took place in Berlin during the same period as the Berlin International Film Festival, when international filmmakers, producers, distributors, and investors traditionally gather in the city.

Project Background

Holiguards Saga – The Portal of Force is an independently developed film project intended to launch a multi-installment franchise. According to the producers, the project is structured as a long-term cinematic universe concept, with discussions currently underway regarding financing and production of subsequent chapters.

The film was directed by Kevin Spacey, who also portrays one of the central characters. This marks his first directorial work in approximately two decades.

The ensemble cast includes Dolph Lundgren, Tyrese Gibson, Brianna Hildebrand, Disha Patani, Swen Temmel, Lado Okhotnikov, Harry Goodwins, and Sonia Pim Couling.

Production was led by Elvira Paterson and Vadim Degtiarev. Elledgy Media Group, under Paterson’s leadership, supported both the production coordination and the international promotion strategy for the project.

Synopsis

Set in the near future, The Portal of Force presents a fictional universe in which two ancient ideological orders – the Holiguards and the Statiguards – engage in a covert struggle over humanity’s direction. The Holiguards advocate personal freedom and individual agency, while the Statiguards promote systemic order and centralized control.

The central narrative follows Jessica, portrayed by Disha Patani, the daughter of leaders representing opposing factions. Positioned between conflicting legacies, her decisions influence the balance of power surrounding a mysterious cosmic energy source known as the Portal of Force.

The pilot installment introduces the mythological framework of the saga and establishes the political and philosophical tensions intended to expand in future chapters.

Industry Engagement and Future Plans

Ahead of the Berlin premiere, the production team reported receiving formal inquiries from international sales agents, distribution representatives, and private investors regarding potential collaboration and participation in future installments.

Previous joint appearances by Elvira Paterson and Kevin Spacey were accompanied by private screenings and gala dinners in Cannes and Venice.

Following the Berlin premiere, a series of additional private screenings is planned in select international markets. Further announcements concerning festival participation, distribution strategy, and release scheduling will be made separately.

At this stage, no official worldwide theatrical or streaming release date has been confirmed.

Media Contact:

Antonina Lubchenko
Elledgy Media Group
Email: info@elledgymedia.com

For questions regarding this release or its content, please contact info@elledgymedia.com

SOURCE: Elledgy Media Group

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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Entertainment

The history and culture of casinos

The history and culture of casinos
By Catherine Montoya for Tachi Palace
9 min read • Published February 18, 2026
By Catherine Montoya for Tachi Palace
9 min read • Published February 18, 2026

unters play Faro at the El Rancho Vegas hotel and casino, the first resort hotel on the Strip, in July 1942 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Ivan Dmitri // Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

The history and culture of casinos

Like telling stories and making music, playing games and gambling are activities that humans in every corner of the world have enjoyed for thousands of years. But until relatively recently, people would only gamble between friends and family, or they would gamble in unlicensed institutions.

The introduction of casinos changed everything. From the spectacular setting and additional entertainment to the range of games and strict regulations, casinos allow people to enjoy gambling to the fullest.

However, casinos have changed since their inception, and are likely to evolve further. To explore the history and culture of casinos, as well as what the future may hold, Tachi Palace Casino Resort has put together this guide.

History of Casinos

An infographic showing the timeline history of casinos.

Tachi Palace

Since the first casino, these institutions have had a large impact on society. But the origins of casinos go back well before the first one was actually built.

Ancient Games

Evidence indicates that gambling was practiced thousands of years before casinos were invented. However, the games that these gamblers played may well have laid the foundations for the casinos we know today.

Some of the earliest records of gambling are evidence of tile games in China that date back to 2300 B.C. The ancient Greeks were known to play gambling games, too, which were often associated with social events and festivals.

In ancient Rome, the first emperor, Augustus Caesar, was known to hold raffles during banquets. He even played what may have been an early form of backgammon called Alea. Emperor Claudius was a known dice player, and Caligula enjoyed gambling so much that he converted his palace into a gambling house.

It wasn’t just the upper class who enjoyed gambling. The Romans may have invented an early form of craps, played by people of every station. Some historians believe that Roman soldiers would use shaved-down pig knuckles (hence knucklebones) as dice, and their shields as a table.

During ancient times, gambling houses were common in many societies, although these were unregulated and usually illegal institutions.

Medieval Times

While empires rose and fell, gambling games continued in various forms. Although the exact origins of playing cards are debated, the effect they would eventually have on gambling is undeniable. Games such as baccarat, blackjack and poker were invented in the following centuries, providing people with completely new games to gamble on.

It was during this time that gambling started to become more organized and written about. Alfonso X of Castile and León reigned in the 13th century, but his love of games led him to pen the first known guide to gambling. Titled “The Book of Games,” it mostly covered board games such as chess. However, it also described a game called Hazard, another early form of craps.

Birth of the Modern Casino

It wasn’t until 1638 that the first legal gambling house, known as a casino, was opened. This casino, Il Ridotto, was a result of the Venetian government’s goal to quell illicit gambling in the city and make a profit at the same time.

Besides the legality of the institution, Il Ridotto was different from the previous illicit gambling houses in many ways. This casino was opulent and glamorous and offered far more than just games. It also provided high-quality food and music, allowing patrons to enjoy the casino without having to gamble. It catered to the city’s elite, with all the games played with high stakes. All players were also expected to follow the casino’s dress code, adhere to its customs and even order certain items off the menu.

Eventually, Il Ridotto closed due to the church’s influence and pressure, but it paved the way for the modern casino. Following the success of Il Ridotto, casinos began to appear elsewhere.

Casinos in the 21st Century

Thanks to new technology and evolving player habits, casinos have adapted their offerings since the turn of the century. Digital technology has been incorporated into modern casino culture to provide even more ways for customers to gamble, from virtual roulette to digital slot machines. Many casinos now offer online gambling, too, where their customers can often choose from dozens of games to play.

This increased accessibility has allowed casinos to grow globally. Today, there are more than 5,000 casinos in operation, over 1,000 of which are in the United States. This global expansion means the industry continues to grow, particularly online. In 2024, the casinos and online gambling industry reached $305.8 billion, and in the same year, the U.S. gambling industry had a record-breaking annual revenue of $71.92 billion.

The History of the Largest Global Casino Hubs

To fully appreciate the history of casinos, you need to know the history of the most famous casino hubs in the world.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is synonymous with casinos and gambling. Almost half of all American casinos are found in Nevada, and more than 150 of those are located in Las Vegas alone.

Gambling was legalized in Nevada in 1931, coinciding with the start of the Hoover Dam construction project. With thousands working on the project just miles away, Las Vegas benefited massively. Each month, thousands of workers would travel to Las Vegas to gamble their earnings, bringing revenue into the small town. During the Second World War, a magnesium plant opened and had a similar effect. Within a few years, the town’s population boomed, and it started to take shape as a gambling capital.

In 1941, El Rancho Vegas opened its doors. Widely regarded as the first hotel-casino in Vegas, it stood along Highway 91, which would later become known as the Strip. As the town expanded, it attracted mobsters like Guy McAfee, who helped shape its gambling industry. McAfee had a lasting impact on Las Vegas, as he’s credited with naming Highway 91 “the Strip” and opening the Golden Nugget casino.

Mobsters helped the town grow in other ways. Their national connections and influence meant they were able to bring celebrities and other high rollers to Las Vegas, helping boost the town’s reputation.

As other locations like Atlantic City began to compete, Las Vegas expanded its offering to nongambling attractions. Shows, sports events and luxury hotels continue to attract tourists today. Despite this, Vegas is still predominantly associated with gambling and takes the top spot on many gamblers’ bucket lists.

Macau

One of the largest gambling hubs in the world and the largest in Asia, Macau has a rich history of casinos and gambling. From the 16th century, tourists were able to visit Macau and gamble, although it wasn’t legalized. However, Hong Kong was transferred to Britain in 1842, after which it became a large trading hub that competed with Macau. To create a new revenue stream, Macau legalized gambling in 1847.

In 1930, the Hou Heng Company won exclusive gambling rights, giving it a monopoly in Macau. Over the following years, the company built opulent and modern casinos that offered more than just gambling. They held free opera performances and offered complimentary food, cigarettes and even ferry tickets. This casino revolution led to Macau gaining a reputation as the gambling capital of Asia.

In 1961, Macau decided to focus on tourism and gambling as its main source of revenue. It declared itself a low-tax region to encourage more visitors to the area.

At the start of the 21st century, the monopoly law was abolished. Other casinos soon opened, and today, dozens of casinos can be found in Macau. Between 2011 and 2013, 63% of Macau’s GDP came from gambling, highlighting how much of an influence casinos have on the area. In recent years, there’s been a push to diversify Macau’s revenue streams, with the top six gambling operators forced to collectively pledge $12.5 billion to develop nongambling infrastructure.

Monte Carlo

Situated in the tiny country of Monaco, Monte Carlo is one of the country’s four quarters and the place to go to gamble in Europe. Its most famous casino, the Monte Carlo Casino, was built in 1878 by Prince Charles III of Monaco. The casino faltered at first, struggling to entice gamblers.

However, after François Blanc, who had overseen one of the prince’s previous casinos, took over, the casino’s fortunes changed. Soon, it was so successful that the town of Monte Carlo sprang up around it and was named in honor of the prince and his casino.

From the 1960s, the government took over the casino company’s operations. Today, the gambling industry in Monaco is heavily regulated. A law from the 19th century banning residents of Monaco from gambling is still in effect, meaning only visitors to Monte Carlo can gamble in the casino. However, residents still benefit from the town’s gambling, as the revenue created by the industry means that the government doesn’t require residents to pay any income tax.

Culture of Casinos

The casino culture has both affected society and provided a reflection of it.

How Casinos Reflected Social Hierarchy

For many years, casinos were only accessible to wealthy patrons who could afford the high stakes set by the house. They also had to meet the dress code and be seen to order food and drink, all of which cost money too. As such, being seen in a casino was a sign that you were a person of wealth and success. Less wealthy gamblers would visit unlicensed gambling houses instead.

Today, this divide isn’t quite so obvious. Some casinos still have dress codes and higher minimum bets than others, but many casinos pride themselves on their inclusiveness, setting low minimum bets to cater to anyone with a few dollars to spend. Online casinos have made gambling even more accessible, allowing anyone with an internet connection to access casino games.

How Casinos Have Shaped Modern Entertainment and Nightlife

Casinos have had an impact on how we play games and enjoy nights out. They provide a luxurious space for people to socialize, enjoy a rush of adrenaline and perhaps even make a profit.

Millions of Americans visit casinos each year, with 53% of American adults visiting one in 2025. However, only 56.6% of those visitors gambled, highlighting how casinos can offer plenty more than just gambling. Shows, restaurants and entertainment are common in many casinos, giving visitors plenty to do.

How Casinos Have Influenced Popular Culture and Entertainment

Casinos have another, less direct impact on how we have fun. The high stakes of a casino make it the perfect setting for a story, which is why they often feature in popular culture.

From books like “Casino Royale” by Ian Fleming and “The Gambler” by Fyodor Dostoevsky, to films such as “Rain Man” and “Ocean’s Eleven,” these media are still widely known and loved years after they were made. Other notable films involving casinos and gambling include:

  • “Casino”
  • “The Cincinnati Kid”
  • “The Sting”
  • “21”
  • “The Hangover”
  • “Now You See Me”

While casinos may only feature briefly in some of these films, their inclusion as a place of splendor and high stakes is what makes them so effective in storytelling.

What Is the Future of Casinos?

An infographic listing six innovations that might reshape casinos.

Tachi Palace

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what future innovations might reshape casinos. What is certain is that as technology advances, casinos are likely to create new and improved ways to gamble.

It’s also expected that casinos will focus more on millennial and Gen Z gamblers. As such, incorporating digital and online aspects into the casino experience is increasingly important. It may also mean adapting casinos to be more friendly to casual gamblers by offering different types of games to bet on, such as esports.

Casinos may also have to offer more:

  • Games that rely on skill as well as luck.
  • Opportunities for social interaction on the casino floor.
  • Personalized experiences.
  • Responsible gambling tools.

A Rich History and Culture

Casinos have a history dating back to the 17th century, although many of their features date back millennia. Since the first casino, pioneers have evolved the way we enjoy them, making them more accessible and affordable for a larger audience. Today, just about any adult can gamble in a casino, either in person or online. This has led to an increased impact on global culture.

The future of casinos is unclear, but since they continue to grow in popularity, it’s likely they’ll successfully cater to gamblers for years to come.

This story was produced by Tachi Palace and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Topics:

Entertainment
media-news

Host of "The Schaftlein Report" on Patriot.TV Delivers Urgent Warning to Trump: 2026 Midterm Course Correction Needed Now

By Media News
5 min read • Published February 18, 2026
By Media News
5 min read • Published February 18, 2026

Anti-Trump messaging by legacy media from Disney (DIS), Paramount Global (PARA), Comcast (CMCSA), Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), is resonating with more Americans than positive messaging from Newsmax (NMAX), Sinclair (SBGI), and Fox Corp. (FOX)

ATLANTA, GEORGIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 18, 2026 / Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc. (OTCID:CBMJ) In a compelling opening segment of "The Schaftlein Report" on Patriot.TV, host Mark Schaftlein delivered an urgent message to the Trump administration: "a strategic course correction is needed immediately to avoid significant losses in the 2026 midterm elections". Drawing on extensive polling data and economic analysis, Schaftlein outlined the challenges facing the administration and provided a clear-eyed assessment of the political landscape heading into a critical election cycle.

To see the entire segment watch at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AQq-o0336k&t=56s

Warning Signs in the Polls

Schaftlein began his analysis by highlighting concerning polling numbers that should serve as a wake-up call for the administration. According to Rasmussen Reports, one of the most accurate polling organizations over the past three election cycles and notably precise in 2024, Trump’s current approval rating stands at 46%. This figure places him in dangerous territory historically, both President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama held slightly lower approval ratings at this stage of their presidencies, and both subsequently lost control of Congress in their respective midterm elections. While Insider Advantage, another highly accurate polling firm, shows a somewhat stronger position at 48%, the overall trend demands serious attention.

Perhaps even more troubling is the comparative data emerging from recent surveys. Schaftlein highlighted a striking statistic: 48% of respondents now believe that Joe Biden did a better job as president compared to 40% who favor Trump’s performance, with 8% perceiving no meaningful difference between the two administrations. This represents a significant shift in voter sentiment that Republican strategists cannot afford to ignore. It is not all TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome).

The directional polling presents equally challenging news. Only 33% of Americans believe the country is currently on the right track, a remarkably low figure that historically correlates with electoral difficulties for the party in power. Furthermore, 58% of respondents do not perceive the arrival of Trump’s promised "Golden Age" economy, suggesting a significant gap between the administration’s messaging and voters’ lived experiences.

The K-Economy Problem: "It’s the Economy, Stupid"

Schaftlein devoted substantial attention to what he identified as the core challenge facing the administration: a "K-shaped economy" that is failing to deliver broad-based prosperity. This economic pattern, which benefits asset holders while leaving wage earners behind, represents a fundamental obstacle to sustaining the coalition that delivered Trump’s electoral victory. While stock markets continue to reach record highs, Schaftlein noted that this prosperity remains concentrated among those with significant investment portfolios, primarily benefiting the top half of the K-economy.

The household debt picture is particularly sobering. American households added $188 billion in debt during January alone, pushing total household debt to an unprecedented $18.8 trillion. Additionally, 9.6% of student loan debt is now more than 90 days delinquent, signaling that the student debt crisis continues to weigh heavily on younger Americans’ financial prospects and spending power.

Schaftlein acknowledged that middle-class wage growth of 3.7% year-over-year outpacing inflation at 2.7% should represent positive news. However, he emphasized that persistent high prices have created a powerful affordability narrative that overshadows these nominal gains. Americans may be earning more in dollar terms, but their purchasing power at the grocery store, gas station, and housing market tells a different story, one that voters carry with them into the voting booth.

The employment situation presents mixed signals that Schaftlein unpacked with characteristic analytical rigor. January saw 130,000 jobs created and the unemployment rate falling to 4.3%-numbers that any administration would typically celebrate. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics made downward adjustments of 500,000 jobs for 2025, resulting in an average of just 15,000 jobs per month being created when accounting for these revisions. This dramatic recalibration suggests the labor market may be considerably softer than initial reports indicated.

Foreign Policy Flash Points

Turning to international affairs, Schaftlein addressed several critical developments. The situation with Iran remains tense as Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House while a second ceasefire negotiation team headed to the Middle East. The President’s stern warning that "jets will be in the air if nuclear talks fail" underscores the high-stakes diplomatic situation unfolding in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to exact a devastating toll, with Russia losing approximately 1,000 soldiers per day-killed or wounded-and now devoting half of its national budget to sustaining the war effort. On a more positive note, Schaftlein highlighted developments in Venezuela, where oil revenue is beginning to materialize as a meaningful reality. Additionally, the Greenland situation has receded from the headlines with the status quo maintained-a development Schaftlein characterized as favorable for reducing diplomatic distractions.

The Bottom Line: A Clear Call to Action

Schaftlein’s message was unambiguous: "the administration must address the economic concerns of everyday Americans before the 2026 midterms approach. The combination of softening approval ratings, persistent inflationary pressures, and a K-shaped economy that leaves too many voters behind creates a perfect storm that could cost Republicans control of Congress. Historical precedent shows that presidents with approval ratings in the mid 40s routinely suffer significant midterm losses".

The solution, according to Schaftlein, lies in pivoting from celebrating stock market records to addressing the lived economic reality of working Americans. This means tackling the affordability crisis head-on and ensuring wage growth translates into real improvements in purchasing power. The "Golden Age" narrative must become more than a slogan, it must become the lived experience of voters who will determine the balance of power in Washington come 2026. Democrats are highly motivated to vote due to their disdain with the President and independents may vote Democrat simply on their dissatisfaction for the administration.

About Patriot TV: Patriot TV is a conservative media network (and a wholly owned subsidiary of Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc.) dedicated to defending liberty, faith, and the Constitution. Through original programming, investigative reporting, and unapologetic commentary, Patriot TV provides an alternative to corporate media narratives and serves a growing audience seeking truth without compromise. With a cutting-edge, multi-platform distribution strategy, Patriot TV reaches viewers via its website, social channels, and streaming apps, monetizing content through sponsorships, advertising, e-commerce, and subscriptions.

About Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc. (OTCID:CBMJ): Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc. (CBMJ) is a publicly traded media and digital broadcasting company focused on delivering conservative and faith-based content. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Patriot TV, serves as a premier destination for news, commentary, and original programming that reflects traditional American values. CBMJ’s portfolio also includes online news sites, e-commerce properties, and other media assets aligned with its America-first, pro-freedom mission. For more information, visit Patriot.TV.

Media Contact:
Mark Schaftlein – CEO, Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism
(877) 704-6773

SOURCE: Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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media-news

DealMaker and Dolphin Partner to Unlock Community Capital for Celebrity and Influencer Brands

By Media News
3 min read • Published February 18, 2026
By Media News
3 min read • Published February 18, 2026

Strategic Partnership Pairs the Market Leader in Equity Crowdfunding With Entertainment Industry’s Premier Marketing Consortium

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / February 18, 2026 / DealMaker, the leading online capital raising platform, and Dolphin (NASDAQ:DLPN), the premier entertainment marketing and content development company, today announced a strategic partnership designed to expand access to growth capital for celebrity, influencer, and entertainment-led consumer product and lifestyle companies.

The partnership brings together DealMaker’s power and experience as the clear market leader in online capital raising with Dolphin’s extensive marketing capabilities and deep relationships across the Creator economy, traditional Hollywood, and the broader entertainment industry. Together, the companies aim to help founders not only raise capital, but also expand audiences, grow customer bases, and build engaged communities – transforming investors into passionate users and users into long-term stakeholders-while building the awareness, credibility, and cultural relevance required to scale successful consumer-facing businesses.

Under the partnership, Dolphin and DealMaker will source opportunities both within Dolphin’s own roster as well as across Dolphin’s expansive network of talent, creators, managers, agents, ambassadors, and entertainment entrepreneurs. The collaboration is designed to support capital raises across a range of asset types, including consumer products and lifestyle brands, primarily at growth and expansion stages, as well as established businesses pursuing their next phase of scale.

Bill O’Dowd, CEO of Dolphin, said, "Celebrity and influencer-led businesses have been creating successful consumer brands for decades. What’s fundamentally different today is that modern capital formation tools allow companies to directly align capital, customers, and community in a single, integrated model. This partnership brings together two leaders in their respective fields to help entertainment-driven companies raise capital while building brands with real cultural and commercial momentum."

Rebecca Kacaba, CEO of DealMaker, added, "We’re thrilled to partner with Dolphin Entertainment to support the next generation of celebrity-backed consumer brands. Dolphin’s ability to turn cultural relevance into market impact makes them an ideal partner as we expand access to capital for entertainment- and celebrity-led companies."

DealMaker is the dominant force in this category. Its platform streamlines the entire capital-raising lifecycle, including automated compliance, investor onboarding, payments, and ongoing investor engagement.

Dolphin, which was named #1 on the 2025 Observer Power List, is an award-winning entertainment venture studio surrounded by a collection of best in class PR and marketing agencies. Collectively, the Dolphin team brings decades of experience developing and marketing the launch, scaling, and sustaining of culture-defining brands across film, television, music, influencers, food, hospitality, fashion, sports, consumer products and lifestyle brands. Its integrated marketing platform spans earned media, influencer marketing, live events, experiential, and digital storytelling, helping transform creative ideas into category leaders.

About DealMaker
Headquartered in New York City, DealMaker is the future of capital raising. With more than $2.4 billion raised, DealMaker’s platform enables companies to own their end-to-end capital raising lifecycle-from investor acquisition and conversion to compliance, payments, and engagement. Its white-label approach allows companies to retain ownership of their data and investor relationships while building lasting investor communities around their brands. For more information, visit dealmaker.tech.

About Dolphin
Dolphin (NASDAQ:DLPN) is where cultural creation meets marketing execution. Founded in 1996 by Bill O’Dowd, Dolphin operates as both a venture studio-developing and investing in content, products, and experiences-and a marketing consortium featuring leading agencies across every communications discipline.

Dolphin’s collective includes 42West, The Door, Shore Fire Media, Elle Communications, Special Projects, and The Digital Dept., delivering expertise across film, television, music, influencers, sports, hospitality, fashion, consumer brands, and purpose-driven initiatives. Dolphin marketing has received numerous industry honors, including being named the #1 Agency of the Year by the Observer, as well as inclusion on the PR Net 100 and the PR News Elite 120.

Media contacts:
Dolphin – Lois@dolphinentertainment.com

DealMaker – press@dealmaker.tech

Investor contact for Dolphin:
James Carbonara – james@haydenir.com

SOURCE: Dolphin Entertainment

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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media-news

Authors Unite Reaches New Milestone, Supporting Thousands of Authors

By Media News
4 min read • Published February 18, 2026
By Media News
4 min read • Published February 18, 2026

MIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / February 18, 2026 / Tyler Wagner, founder of Authors Unite, recently announced that his company hit a new milestone of having helped 4,000 authors land on prestigious bestsellers lists. In an increasingly saturated and competitive market for books of all genres, this latest milestone serves as validation that the company’s systems have been delivering results for its authors.

Many authors dream of becoming best-sellers – but with millions of books published each year, it can be incredibly difficult for authors to find an audience and stand out. Technology has helped remove many barriers to publishing, but challenges with marketing and discoverability remain an issue throughout the industry. Though the numbers are often disputed, it’s been reported that over 90% of books sell less than 1,000 copies.

With the Authors Unite framework, an increasing number of authors have been able to break through to bestseller status, achieving the mainstream success and visibility they aspire to.

Identifying and Solving the Challenges With Publishing

For Wagner, Authors Unite began with his own experience as an author.

"After I wrote my first book when I was 19, I realized that most publishers don’t put in the heavy lifting to help authors market their work. Authors often put years into crafting their work, and then it just kind of disappears. That can be really disheartening," he explains.

"That served as a big part of my motivation to found Authors Unite in the first place – to help create a framework that would allow authors to actually sell their books and hit major bestseller lists like they’ve always dreamed of. To go from that initial dream to having accomplished the feat for over 4,000 authors has been incredibly rewarding."

Wagner is also quick to note just how important that "bestseller" label can be for any author.

"It’s more than just a vanity statement. For one thing, it means you’re selling more books – in many cases, enough to make the book a way to contribute to growing your own business, or to make being an author more financially viable," he explains. "It also builds powerful social proof. Being able to market yourself as a bestselling author instantly brings a level of credibility that encourages more people to pick up your book, or to look into your business."

A Customizable Approach Tailored to Each Author

Wagner credits much of his organization’s success, including the pathway to reaching 4,000 bestsellers success stories, to their custom-tailored approach that focuses on the journey of each author.

"We’ve worked with people who are at the absolute beginning. They have an initial idea for their book, but they have no idea how to write it or get it published," he says. "We also work with authors whose books have been published for years, but haven’t been able to get sales traction. What’s most important for us is that one-on-one approach – getting to understand where authors are currently and what their publishing goals are."

From individual guidance and coaching to targeted marketing campaigns, Authors Unite has been able to help aspiring authors not only complete their books, but land on bestseller lists such as USA Today and the Wall Street Journal, as well as achieve bestseller status with online retailers like Amazon and Kobo.

Taking the Big-Picture Approach

While hitting a bestseller list has been the ultimate goal for many of the authors Wagner has worked with, many of Authors Unite’s clients have had additional goals beyond one-time bestseller status. "Many authors, especially in the non-fiction space, want their book to serve as a funnel to drive clients to their own business," he explains.

"Others want to see consistent traffic for their book or business through ongoing initiatives like blog features, podcast interviews or getting more reviews to build credibility for their book. The strategy may differ for these and other long-term goals, since each book and author is unique. The marketing and press outreach tactics that work for one book may not work for another. But by working alongside the author with their top priorities in mind, we’ve been able to find what works across niches and goals."

As the company’s milestone of 4,000 bestsellers illustrates, this adaptable author-focused approach has clearly paid dividends for Wagner and his clients – and is likely to continue to do so, even as the publishing landscape continues to change.

About Authors Unite

Founded in 2011, Authors Unite is a unique hybrid publishing and marketing company that helps authors become profitable and maximize their impact. The company’s services include ghostwriting, editing and publishing for aspiring authors, while marketing services include bestseller campaigns, book funnels to support business growth and features to drive consistent traffic. The company has served thousands of authors to date and helped clients collectively sell millions of books.

Media Details

Company Name: Authors Unite
Contact Name: Lisa Krohn
Email Address: lisa@authorsunite.com
Website URL: https://authorsunite.com/

SOURCE: Authors Unite

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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media-news
media-news

Specificity (OTCID: SPTY) Launches Strategic Expansion into $600B Home Services Market with Proprietary Human-Only, Intent-Driven Advertising Platform

By Media News
3 min read • Published February 17, 2026
By Media News
3 min read • Published February 17, 2026

SARASOTA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / February 17, 2026 / Specificity (OTCID:SPTY), a full-service advertising agency powered by proprietary AI-driven fraud prevention and real-time intent technology, today announced its strategic expansion into the U.S. home services sector – a market exceeding $600 billion annually.

The initiative marks a focused vertical rollout of the company’s hybrid AdTech + MarTech model designed to eliminate invalid traffic, remove bot-driven ad waste, and deliver verified, high-intent homeowners actively seeking services such as HVAC, plumbing, roofing, electrical, window replacement, siding and restoration.

Unlike traditional digital agencies or SaaS marketing platforms, Specificity operates as a performance-driven, human-verified advertising partner combining managed services with proprietary fraud mitigation infrastructure.

Solving a Billion-Dollar Problem in Local Advertising

Digital advertising fraud continues to drain billions of dollars annually from businesses across industries. Home services companies – many of which rely heavily on paid search, social, and programmatic display, are particularly vulnerable to:

  • Click fraud

  • Bot-driven traffic

  • Competitor click abuse

  • Non-human impressions

  • Low-intent lead generation

Non-exclusive leads, PPC campaigns with errant data and bot traffic, leads that never answer the phone and extremely high costs per lead campaigns are the thrust of what home services businesses deal with. Specificity’s proprietary AI stack identifies and filters invalid traffic in real time while leveraging first-party intent data to target verified homeowners actively searching for specific services.

"Home services businesses operate in highly competitive, high-CPL (cost per lead) and CPA (cost per acquisition) environments where wasted ad spend directly impacts profitability," said Jason Wood, Founder and CEO of Specificity "Our technology and managed service model were built to ensure that marketing budgets reach real humans with real intent- not bots, not fraud, and not artificial traffic. The home services space is a market within which our tech has real, material impact for brands that is illuminated immediately in campaign analytics. In other words, the revenue increase impact is undeniable from the very beginning of campaign launch."

Vertical-First Growth Strategy

The company has initiated a structured rollout targeting mid-market home services operators as its first expansion phase. This includes:

  • Dedicated home services campaign infrastructure

  • Proprietary intent data activation

  • Cross-channel execution (Search, Display, Social, CTV)

  • Human-only traffic verification protocols

  • Conversion pipeline optimization

Specificity has begun outbound acquisition efforts supported by automated CRM systems and scaled cold outreach to accelerate case study development within the vertical.

The company expects this targeted expansion to generate repeatable proof-of-performance campaigns before expanding into larger enterprise accounts.

Building Shareholder Value Through Execution

Specificity’s expansion into home services aligns with its broader strategic vision to become a global leader in clean, performance-driven advertising infrastructure.

The company believes that vertical dominance, measurable ROI lift, and documented fraud reduction metrics will provide:

  • Recurring client relationships

  • Stronger operating revenue visibility

  • Enhanced market awareness

  • Improved liquidity and trading interest for SPTY shares

"Our objective is disciplined execution," Wood added. "We are focused on building real revenue, real results, and real proof that our human-only advertising model materially outperforms traditional digital marketing approaches."

About Specificity

Specificity is an OTCID-listed advertising technology company delivering intent-driven, AI-powered digital marketing solutions. The company combines full-service agency execution with proprietary fraud prevention technology designed to eliminate invalid traffic and maximize return on advertising spend.

For more information, visit:
www.specificityinc.com

Investor Relations:
Chris Gruening
VP, Client Services
Info@specificityinc.com
Specificity

SOURCE: Specificity Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Topics:

media-news
media-news

Dolphin Partners With Vaneast Pictures To Bring Sports Drama Youngblood to Berlin for International Sales

By Media News
4 min read • Published February 17, 2026
By Media News
4 min read • Published February 17, 2026

Well Go USA will release the film in the US and Photon in Canada on March 6th

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / February 17, 2026 / Dolphin (NASDAQ:DLPN) announced today that it has closed with Vaneast Pictures to serve as the international sales agent for the upcoming sports remake, Youngblood. Vaneast will present the title to international buyers at the European Film Market (EFM) at the Berlin International Film Festival, which runs from February 12 – 22.

Courtesy of Well Go USA – (L:R) Henri Picard as Denis Sutton and Ashton James as Dean Youngblood

The cast includes Ashton James (Boxcutter, Revenge of the Black Best Friend) in the title role of Dean Youngblood, Blair Underwood (Longlegs, Deep Impact, LA Law) as his father Blane Youngblood, Shawn Doyle (The Expanse, Fargo, Big Love) as Coach Chadwick, Alexandra McDonald (Night Blooms, Testament) as Jessie Chadwick, Henri Picard (The Dishwasher, For Those Who Don’t Read Me) as Denis Sutton, Donald MacLean Jr. (Workin’ Moms, Nurses) as Carl Racki, Olunike Adeliyi (The Expanse, Workin’ Moms) as Ruby Youngblood, Emidio Lopes (Painkiller, The Changeling) as Kelly Youngblood and Tamara Podemski (Outer Range, Reservation Dogs) as Ms. McGill.

A contemporary adaptation of the beloved 1986 MGM classic, YOUNGBLOOD follows hockey prodigy Dean Youngblood, who travels from Detroit to Canada to join the Hamilton Mustangs in pursuit of his professional hockey dreams. Raised on a strict diet of toughness and discipline by his father, Dean arrives with undeniable talent – and an arrogance that quickly earns him enemies. As he confronts toxic behavior both on the ice and within himself, Dean is forced to decide what kind of man and player he wants to become.

"Vaneast couldn’t be more thrilled to launch international sales on Youngblood. It’s a powerful, emotional story with genuine global appeal, and we’re excited to partner with Dolphin Entertainment to bring the film to audiences worldwide," said Danielle Gasher, Vaneast Pictures.

"YOUNGBLOOD is a contemporary reimagining that speaks to both legacy fans and a new generation of audiences. Danielle and Vaneast bring a sharp understanding of the international marketplace and a clear vision for how to position the film globally, and we’re excited to have them leading sales as the film heads into Berlin," shared Bill O’Dowd, CEO at Dolphin.

YOUNGBLOOD made its world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, where it received a rapturous response from audiences – particularly the festival’s passionate hockey community – and earned strong critical acclaim. The film includes scenes shot in collaboration with the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, while renowned hockey technical advisor Christopher V. Nelson (Miracle, The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers) choreographed the film’s dynamic and highly authentic on-ice action.

YOUNGBLOOD was adapted by screenwriters Josh Epstein & Kyle Rideout, Seneca Aaron and the late Charles Officer. Dolphin Entertainment’s Bill O’Dowd and Emerson Davis serve as Executive Producers, alongside Allan Fung and Photon Films and Media’s Mark Slone and Zanne Devine. Aircraft Pictures’ Anthony Leo and Andrew Rosen produced the film. The film is produced with the financial participation of Telefilm Canada and the Talent Fund, Ontario Creates and the Shaw Rocket Fund.

ABOUT DOLPHIN
Dolphin (NASDAQ:DLPN) is where cultural creation meets marketing execution. Founded in 1996 by Bill O’Dowd, Dolphin operates as both a venture studio-developing and investing in breakthrough content, products, and experiences-and a marketing consortium, featuring leading agencies across every communications discipline.

At its core, the venture studio creates, produces, finances, markets, and promotes new businesses and cultural ideas – ranging from acclaimed film, television, and digital content to consumer goods, live events and partnerships that define entertainment and lifestyle. Surrounding this entrepreneurial engine, Dolphin’s marketing prowess brings together best-in-class firms including 42West, The Door, Shore Fire Media, Elle Communications, Special Projects and The Digital Dept. Together, this collective delivers unmatched cross-marketing expertise and relationships across every vertical of pop culture – from film, television, music, influencers, sports, hospitality, and fashion to consumer brands and purpose-driven initiatives. Dolphin marketing has been the recipient of many accolades, including #1 Agency of the Year on the Observer PR Power List in 2025, The PR Net 100, and the PR News Elite 120.

Follow us on Instagram here.

VANEAST PICTURES
Vaneast Pictures is an independent sales, financing, and production company founded by Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Danielle Gasher, a seasoned film executive who previously led acquisitions and international sales at Gravitas Ventures and served as Vice President of International Sales at Voltage Pictures. Vaneast’s slate includes the comedy Jacob Beats Up Nate starring Justin Long and Lamorne Morris; the action-comedy Hellhound starring Marisa Tomei, Sam Rockwell, and Chris Messina; the TIFF-selected thriller Little Lorraine starring Stephen Amell and J Balvin; the horror thriller The Cure starring David Dastmalchian and Ashley Greene; and the mystery thriller What We Hide starring McKenna Grace and Dacre Montgomery.

James Carbonara
HAYDEN IR
(646)-755-7412
james@haydenir.com

###

SOURCE: Dolphin Entertainment

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Topics:

media-news
media-news

Greg Laurie to Host Harvest Crusade in Ohio, Bringing a Message of Hope to Canton

By Media News
2 min read • Published February 17, 2026
By Media News
2 min read • Published February 17, 2026

Free, one-night evangelistic event comes to Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in June 2026

CANTON, OHIO / ACCESS Newswire / February 17, 2026 / Pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie has announced a Harvest Crusade in Ohio, a large-scale, one-night evangelistic event coming to Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio on June 13, 2026. The event is free and open to the public and will feature live worship led by Chris Tomlin and Jeremy Camp, followed by a gospel message from Laurie and an invitation for attendees to make a personal commitment to Jesus Christ.

The Harvest Crusade is designed to bring hope to individuals and families across Ohio through the clear presentation of the gospel. Attendees are encouraged to invite friends, neighbors and loved ones to experience an evening of worship and community. In addition each Harvest Crusade is supported by local churches and volunteers, and the June 13 event was scheduled at the invitation of Ohio pastors and church leaders.

"We’re seeing a remarkable openness to spiritual things among this generation," Laurie said. "My prayer is that the Harvest Crusades add fuel to the fire, so to speak, of the spiritual awakening we’re seeing across our nation."

What Is a Harvest Crusade?
Started in 1990, Harvest Crusades are large-scale evangelistic events led by Pastor Greg Laurie that combine worship music, gospel preaching and a call to faith in Jesus. Over 35 years and with 125 events across the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, Harvest Crusades have seen over 6 million in attendance. Cumulatively, more than 600,000 individuals have made professions of faith through these outreach events.

These events are intentionally designed to be accessible, welcoming and free to attend, with a focus on inviting those who may not regularly attend church to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Recent Harvest Crusades held at Angel Stadum in Anaheim, CA and Utah Valley University in Orem, UT have filled venues to capacity and overflow.

Harvest Crusade Ohio Details

  • Event: Harvest Crusade Ohio with Pastor Greg Laurie

  • Location: Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, Canton, OH

  • Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026

  • Speaker: Greg Laurie

  • Guest Artists: Chris Tomlin and Jeremy Camp

  • Admission: Free

  • More Details: harvest.org/ohio

  • Live-streaming: Available on harvest.org and the Harvest+ app

About Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries
Greg Laurie is the founder and main speaker of the Harvest Crusades, senior pastor of Harvest Church, host of nationally syndication radio and television programs, bestselling author and inspiration for the 2023 "Jesus Revolution" film from Lionsgate. Through events, broadcast media, and films, Laurie and Harvest Ministries have seen over 1 million people make a profession of faith.

For press inquiries, email media@harvest.org or contact Harvest Ministries at https://harvest.org/contact-us/.

SOURCE: Harvest Ministries with Greg Laurie

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Topics:

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