The second service dog sponsored by Koozie Group (PPAI 114187, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 9 supplier, through 4 Paws for Ability has graduated from training.

• The dog, Daphne, was matched with siblings Sophia and Wesley in Kentucky to help the children manage their health issues. Koozie Group has been supporting 4 Paws for Ability since 2022; the giveback was started by IMAGEN Brands before it integrated into the Koozie Group portfolio.
• Three dogs from the sponsored litter are still in advanced training, and four are now “Fabulous Flunkies,” the term of endearment given to dogs who don’t master the skills needed to become service dogs and are adopted out.

“We’re honored to have played a small part in Daphne becoming a service dog and are thrilled to know what a positive impact she’ll make for Sophia and Wesley,” says Trisha Joyce, employee engagement and communications manager at Koozie Group. “We love supporting organizations such as 4 Paws for Ability as part of our Keep It. Give It. program.”

Crystal D (PPAI 112326, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 88 supplier, has added industry veteran Ray Rodriguez to its sales leadership team and promoted Tawauna Garner to solutions manager.

• Rodriguez, who has been consulting with Crystal D for the past six months, joins the company as its vice president of sales. He brings more than 30 years of experience in sales management roles within promotional and premium businesses, and his career includes roles at top suppliers and distributors. He has also owned and managed his own real estate brokerage firm.
• In addition to his role at Crystal D, Rodriguez will continue to operate 5Ppromo, his consultancy for suppliers and distributors, and navigate the Mexico market with AmeriMex, a division of 5Ppromo.
• Garner, who has been with Crystal D since 2016, has held several roles with the company’s customer service and sales teams, earning accolades from both inside the company and within the industry. In her new position, Garner will manage the inside sales team and will continue making the project idea, design and quoting process simple, easy and fast, while building a team that consistently delivers a memorable experience.

Image Source (PPAI 195193, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 47 distributor, recently partnered with Promotional Products Education Foundation (PPEF) to launch The Brian Haner Scholarship honoring the former CEO and founder of Image Source who passed away in April 2024.

• Created by his longtime business partner, Thomas Goos, the scholarship reflects Haner’s tireless dedication to mentorship and professional growth, and his passion for helping students pursue meaningful careers.
• As a testament to Haner’s impact, industry leader Harry Ein, owner of Perfection Promo and a friend and colleague of Haner, contributed $5,000 to the scholarship fund.
• PPEF provides college scholarships to promo industry employees and their children.

“Brian had a passion for mentoring and growing students and professionals in our industry, so what could be better than creating a legacy of paying it forward by creating the Brian Haner Scholarship with PPEF,” Goos says.

Ein adds, “I made this donation in honor of my deep respect and admiration for Brian Haner. I had the privilege of working with Brian for eight years and was consistently inspired by his kindness and approachability. His focus extended beyond just sales numbers; he genuinely cared about getting to know individuals personally and was always willing to discuss various strategies in promotional product sales. I believe that the scholarships provided by PPEF are a wonderful way to celebrate and preserve Brian’s legacy within our industry.”

Gold Bond (PPAI 113974, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 23 supplier, has launched its newly redesigned website featuring a modern look and enhanced functionality, including a real-time freight estimator, inventory availability and live chat support.

• The Real-Time Shipping Estimate instantly retrieves live shipping rates based on order weight, dimensions and destination. Customers can also compare UPS and FedEx shipping options to find the best price and fastest delivery time.
• The new Live Chat Support instantly connects customers with a dedicated representative during business hours to assist with questions, product recommendations and order details.
• The real-time inventory feature gives customers instant visibility into stock levels across the product catalog.

“At Gold Bond, we are always looking for ways to enhance our customer experience, and this website update is a reflection of that commitment,” says Mark Godsey, president of Gold Bond. “With real-time freight calculations and instant support, our customers have the tools they need to make informed purchasing decisions quickly and efficiently.”

Fort Wayne, Indiana-based distributor JH Specialty (PPAI  358272, Silver) has added five new faces to its growing team.

• Lou Henry has joined the company as an account manager focused on new acquisition. He brings more than 15 years of experience in beer distribution and sales, and also honorably served in the United States Army, including a deployment to Afghanistan.
• Steve Kruze, also an account manager, will serve clients in the Indianapolis, Indiana, area. He has more than 25 years of sales and leadership experience, having held key positions at Nextel, Sprint and T-Mobile. Beyond his professional expertise, Kruze is also an actor who has performed in numerous civic theatre productions.
• Luke Hilty has been named sales project manager supporting two senior account managers. Based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he brings valuable experience from his previous roles as an inside sales representative and corporate purchasing agent at Alro Steel.
• Lady Mae Alipusan joins as a sales coordinator based in the Philippines. With a strong background in the promotional products industry, she will focus on ensuring order entry accuracy and delivering high-quality service to both the team and clients.
• Mollie Middleton, the new project manager, will support account managers with product ideation, client presentations and project management. She brings a strong background in effective communication and strategic thinking.