BISMARCK, N.D., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Fall invites travelers to take the scenic route through North Dakota. Color spreads across the Turtle Mountains and the Sheyenne River Valley, while prairie towns and farms welcome visitors to pumpkin patches, corn mazes, markets and seasonal celebrations. Along the way, roadside art, local breweries and wineries give travelers reasons to linger beyond the overlooks.

Fall foliage typically begins changing mid-September and reaches peak color by mid-October, depending on location and weather. Travelers can use North Dakota Tourism's fall foliage guide and its prediction map to help plan a trip.

Take the Scenic Route

A fall drive through North Dakota can lead from wooded hillsides and river valleys to open prairie and the North Dakota Badlands, with a different view around each bend. In the Turtle Mountains, Lake Metigoshe State Park is surrounded by some of the state's most colorful fall scenery. Farther south, the forested hillsides of Fort Ransom State Park brighten the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway.

Near Bismarck and Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, changing leaves frame the Missouri River. In western North Dakota, trees along the Little Missouri River add fall color to the rugged landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

The drive becomes an attraction in its own right along the Enchanted Highway. Giant metal sculptures line the route between Gladstone and Regent, including Grasshoppers in the Field, Fisherman's Dream, Pheasants on the Prairie and Teddy Roosevelt Rides Again. The road ends in Regent, where the Enchanted Castle occupies the town's former high school.

Celebrate the Season Across the State

A fall weekend might mean finding a way through a corn maze, choosing a pumpkin, browsing a local market or catching a live event. North Dakota Tourism's events calendar offers more ways to plan around what is happening during your visit.

Upcoming fall highlights include:

- Minot Y's Men's PBR (Sept. 25–26, Minot): Professional bull riding returns to the Minot Municipal Auditorium for two nights of PBR Challenger Series action. Professional bull riding returns to the Minot Municipal Auditorium for two nights of PBR Challenger Series action.

- 22nd Annual Giant Pumpkinfest (Sept. 26, Walhalla): Giant pumpkins take center stage at this annual community celebration.

- AlKEMist Gravel Fest (Oct. 3, Mandan): Cyclists can take on gravel roads, prairie views and climbs above the Missouri River Valley, starting at Graner Park.

- The Market @ West Acres (Through Oct. 17, Fargo): Browse a seasonal market at West Acres.

- Papa's Pumpkin Patch (Through Oct. 25, Bismarck): Choose a pumpkin (or two) and spend time outdoors with activities for the family.

- Berry Acres Pumpkin Patch (Through Oct. 31, Minot): Explore the corn maze, pick your favorite pumpkins, and enjoy other seasonal activities.

- Lost Sheep Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch (Through Nov. 1, Nome): Navigate the corn maze, visit the pumpkin patch and meet the property's fiber animals.

- The Great Maze (Through Nov. 2, Fargo): Find your way through more than 1,000 wooden panels in a new maze layout.

Sip Your Way Across the State

A fall drive is also an opportunity to slow down and sample what North Dakota has been brewing and bottling. The state's breweries and wineries range from small-batch breweries to vineyards making wines with locally grown fruit and honey.

In Fargo, Drekker Brewing Company occupies a restored 1883 railroad shop and serves adventurous small-batch beers. Laughing Sun Brewing Company in Bismarck pairs its in-house brews with live music and local art. In Minot, Atypical Brewery & Barrelworks serves experimental beers and barrel-aged sour ales in a former service station.

Wineries offer another taste of the season. At Pointe of View Winery in Burlington, visitors can sample fruit, grape and honey wines and take in views of the Souris Valley. Viking Vines Vineyard in Buffalo makes wine from hybrid grapes grown in the Red River Valley, while Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery in Dickinson uses produce grown on the property, including grapes, cherries, haskap berries, apples, plums, chokecherries and pumpkins.

For fall travel ideas, foliage viewing locations and the latest event listings, visit NDTourism.com.

Follow North Dakota Tourism on Facebook at facebook.com/TravelND, on Instagram at instagram.com/northdakotalegendary/ or on X at x.com/NorthDakota and get tips on what to see and do all year long.

SOURCE North Dakota Tourism Division

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SHAKOPEE, Minn., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The article explains how businesses in Shakopee can evaluate golf outing venues for successful corporate events.

The article explains that planning successful corporate golf outings often requires more than reserving tee times. Businesses organizing Minnesota business events often seek a golf outing venue that supports networking, team engagement, and a positive experience for guests with varying levels of golf experience. According to the article, companies benefit from selecting courses with experience managing organized corporate tournaments and business golf outings.

What should businesses consider when selecting a golf course for corporate golf outings in Shakopee, MN? HelloNation has published an article that provides the answer, drawing on insights from Golf Expert Einar Odland of Stonebrooke Golf Club in Shakopee, Minnesota.

The HelloNation article describes how course layout and pace of play can directly affect the atmosphere of corporate golf outings. A golf outing venue that keeps groups moving efficiently helps maintain a relaxed environment while preventing delays throughout the event. The article notes that practice facilities, including driving ranges and putting greens, are often important features because they allow guests to prepare before play begins. These amenities can make business golf outings more comfortable for both experienced golfers and first-time participants.

The article also highlights the importance of clubhouse amenities when hosting Minnesota business events. Businesses planning corporate golf outings often include meals, networking sessions, and award presentations before or after the round. According to the article, companies typically look for clubhouse amenities that offer flexible dining arrangements, meeting areas, and event support staff who can adapt to changing schedules or attendance needs. Comfortable gathering spaces can help create a welcoming experience for employees, vendors, and clients attending business golf outings.

Tournament support is another major factor discussed in the article. Many corporate tournaments involve team-scoring formats, contests, sponsorship displays, and participant check-ins, all of which require coordination throughout the day. The article explains that a golf outing venue familiar with tournament support can help companies manage logistics more efficiently from registration through the final hole. Experienced staff members often help businesses maintain smooth operations and keep events running on schedule.

The HelloNation article further explains that accessibility is an important factor in businesses' evaluations of golf outing venues in Shakopee, MN. Companies often prefer locations with convenient access from nearby highways and business districts. Easy parking, organized arrival procedures, and clear communication can reduce stress for participants and improve overall attendance. Golf Expert Einar Odland notes in the article that convenience can significantly affect how guests experience corporate golf outings from the moment they arrive.

The article also examines how the atmosphere influences the success of Minnesota business events. Some corporate golf outings focus on client networking and relationship building, while others prioritize employee appreciation and team interaction. The article explains that golf courses that can adapt to different event styles often offer businesses greater flexibility during the planning process. Strong tournament support and experienced event staff can also help organizers prepare for weather changes, scheduling adjustments, and varying guest expectations.

Weather considerations remain especially important for business golf outings in Minnesota. The article notes that spring and fall conditions can sometimes disrupt outdoor events, underscoring the value of contingency planning in venue selection. Businesses often look for golf outing venues that offer indoor gathering areas, flexible scheduling, and clear communication about weather-related updates. These features can help companies avoid unnecessary interruptions during corporate tournaments and other Minnesota business events.

What Businesses in Shakopee Should Look for When Choosing a Golf Course for Corporate Outings features insights from Einar Odland, Golf Expert of Shakopee, Minnesota, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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3W Named Exclusive Title Sponsor of West Rim Lite at Trail Hero 2026

The brand's "Fit For Your Wild" campaign will bring custom-fit vehicle protection, interactive booth experiences and sponsored driver Brett Dickey to Sand Hollow's red sand dunes and slickrock trails

HURRICANE, Utah, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- 3W Auto-life, a multi-award-winning leader in premium custom-fit car floor mats, will join the 11th Annual Monster Energy Trail Hero Event powered by Greater Zion — an off-road gathering and charity event taking place Sept. 28 to Oct. 3 in Hurricane, Utah.

Trail Hero brings 3W to one of the country's most distinctive off-road landscapes, where the effectiveness of the brand's premium floor mats is put to the test. The custom-fit all-weather liners and truck bed mats are designed to protect off-road vehicles from the red sand, mud, water and gear-borne mess that drivers bring back from the trail.

During the weeklong off-road festival, 3W will serve as the exclusive title sponsor of the Level 4 3W West Rim Lite trail and sponsor of the Level 4 Toquerville Falls Day trail. The brand will welcome visitors at Booth D6 during the Vendor Show and support rising rock-crawling driver Brett Dickey in the BFGoodrich Tires Trail Breaker competition. Event attendees are invited to share their adventures through its "Show Us Your Wild" campaign.

"Trail Hero celebrates the connection between people, their vehicles and the raw landscape around them," said Angela Wang, co-founder of 3W. "Every driver arrives with a different rig and different goals in mind. 3W Auto-life's role is to provide dependable protection that lets them focus on the trail ahead."

Premium Vehicle Protection for Sand Hollow's Red-Rock Terrain

Sand Hollow's red-rock terrain is part of what makes Trail Hero memorable, but the same red sand and mud can quickly find their way into a vehicle's cabin, cargo area and truck bed.

3W uses high-precision 3D scanning and VigorMold™ injection molding technology to create a stable custom fit around the floor structure of each vehicle model. Its durable Thorex™ TPE material is waterproof, odor-free and easy to clean, allowing drivers to rinse away dirt and debris after a day on the trail. Select products incorporate metal pedals and removable carpet inserts for added underfoot stability and everyday comfort.

At Trail Hero, 3W will display all-weather floor liners and truck bed mats for popular off-road vehicles, including the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner, among others.

Visitors can check out 3W products alongside a pickup truck display vehicle at the brand's 20-by-30-foot Vendor Show space, Booth D6, at the Washington County Fairgrounds from Oct. 1 to 3.

Also at the booth, "Draw Your Wild" invites visitors to personalize a floor mat through a hands-on DIY art activity, while "The Wild Toss" challenges them to test their aim in a mat-tossing game. Attendees can also check in at the booth as part of the official Yukon Gear & Axle Trail Hero Go Scavenger Hunt and claim an on-site gift.

Two Trails, Two Sides of the Wild

3W's sponsored trails offer two different ways to experience Sand Hollow.

The Level 4 3W West Rim Lite trail will carry 3W's name throughout the week as an exclusive title sponsorship, with guided runs taking place Wednesday and Friday.

3W will also sponsor the Level 4 Toquerville Falls Day trail, known for its signature waterfall landscape. Guided runs will take place Wednesday and Friday.

The brand will extend its support to the people leading those experiences by sponsoring 250 Trail Guide T-shirts worn by volunteer guides.

Backing a Rising Rock-Crawling Driver

On Sept. 30, 17-year-old Brett Dickey will compete in the BFGoodrich Tires Trail Breaker as a 3W-sponsored driver. His No. 17 vehicle will carry 3W decals during the competition.

Dickey, the 2024 Trail Breaker champion and an up-and-coming off-roader, races with his family's Beast Buggy Motorsports team, with his father, Matt Dickey, serving as his spotter. He currently leads the W.E.ROCK Unlimited national points standings and shares updates through @sonuvabeast.

Trail Breaker is one of Trail Hero's most demanding and spectator-friendly competitions, bringing together approximately 20 leading drivers who advance through qualifying rounds. On top of backing Dickey, 3W will award products to the first-, second- and third-place finishers.

Dickey's partnership with his father and his rapid rise through the sport reflect 3W's philosophy behind "Fit For Your Wild": no two competitors reach the trail in quite the same way, and the equipment and people supporting them are part of every run.

3W will support the wider Trail Hero community with a $100 donation and product contribution to the Racing Anxiety charity raffle during the Sept. 28 opening party. The event's broader mission includes protecting motorized access to public lands and creating outdoor experiences for veterans and children with special needs.

Show Us Your Wild

Throughout Trail Hero, 3W is inviting attendees to share what the event looks like from their perspective. Participants can capture an in-cabin moment, a trail run or another event highlight, post it to Instagram with the caption "This is My Wild!", tag @3wautolife_official and include the hashtags #3WTrailHero, #3WAutoLife and #FitForYourWild. Visitors who show their post at the 3W booth can claim a gift.

During the Monster Energy Music Fest from Oct. 1 to 3, 3W will distribute glow items from a tent and display table at the entrance and inside the venue. Attendees can receive one by sharing an Instagram Story or feed post that tags 3W and mentions Trail Hero.

Visit 3W at Booth D6 at the Washington County Fairgrounds Vendor Show, Oct. 1 to 3, and follow @3wautolife_official for event updates.

3W customers can save 30% at 3wliners.com using code TRAILHERO30 from Sept. 21 to Oct. 7. Select 3W products are also available for 5% to 10% off through Amazon in North America from Sept. 21.

About 3W Auto-life

Founded in 2016, 3W Auto-life manufactures high-end floor liners for a wide range of vehicles. More than just an automotive interior accessory, 3W mats are a reflection of the rugged elegance and freedom of the great outdoors. The company is partnered with more than 30 global OEMs and has designed more than 600 custom-fit molds for vehicle floor mats. To date, 3W's floor mats have won more than 30 design awards, including the prestigious German Red Dot Award, and are trusted by drivers in the United States, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and beyond. Learn more at 3wliners.com.

Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE 3W Auto-life

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Nicole Ferrara, PhD, will investigate how social deprivation alters amygdala development and social behavior during adolescence

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nicole Ferrara, PhD, a neuroscientist and assistant professor of physiology and biophysics at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) secured a five-year, $2.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study how adolescent brains are affected by social disruptions such as COVID-19.

Dr. Ferrara's research project, "Social Experience Guides BMA Mediated Social Development," explores how significant social disruptions shape the neural processes that govern social behaviors. Her work is part of RFU's Brain Science Institute as part of the Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders.

"It's rare that people are in total isolation," Dr. Ferrara said. "More often, it's restricted or inconsistent contact, and we want to see how that affects the brain. What we're learning from the research during the COVID19 lockdown is that those breaks are connected to the rising rates of anxiety, depression, and social dysregulation."

Janice Urban, PhD, interim executive vice president of research and director of the Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, said Dr. Ferrara's research is important because it focuses on a critical period of brain development.

"Since many mental health disorders manifest during adolescence and early adulthood, the results of these funded studies will provide important information that can be utilized to develop therapeutic interventions that could lessen these maladaptive changes and ultimately mental health disorders," Dr. Urban said.

Some of the behaviors impacted by social disruption include withdrawal from friends and family, aggression or hostility, slowed social maturation, poor school performance and substance abuse. This work is timely given that the psychosocial aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic are a major driving force underlying the steep rise in the incidence of neuropsychiatric disorders, especially in adolescents who are now approaching early adulthood.

Dr. Ferrara and her team's future research will center on how social deprivation during adolescence and adulthood shapes amygdala function leading to negative consequences on mental health and social behavior. Her preliminary data demonstrate a strong scientific premise that the basomedial amygdala (BMA) is developmentally unique from other parts of the brain in the way it functions during the teen and young adult years, which may make it especially susceptible to social disruption.

Ferrara joined RFU in 2018 as a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology. She became an assistant professor in September 2022 and is a faculty member in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders.

About Rosalind Franklin University

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is committed to serving the global population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. Founded in Chicago in 1912, RFU embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA. Recognized for its research in the areas of neuroscience, brain related diseases, inherited disorders, diabetes, obesity, and gait and balance, the university includes Chicago Medical School, College of Health Professions, College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, and the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. Learn more at rosalindfranklin.edu.

Media Contact:

Lisa Baer, Sr. AVP for Marketing and Communications

Office of Marketing and Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

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Phoenix additions span treatment, group facilitation, admissions and referral relationships

PHOENIX, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nirvana Recovery Center has named Casey Strauss executive director and introduced five additional team members at its Joint Commission-accredited Phoenix treatment center. The appointments bring new staff to roles that shape how people learn about treatment, enter into care, and participate in recovery programming.

Individuals, families, and referral professionals can learn more about Nirvana Recovery Center's programs and contact its admissions team confidentially at (480) 764-2335.

Strauss joins President Michael Trychon on Nirvana's leadership team. The other additions are Daniel Melendez, director of business development; Andrew Angichiodo, clinician; Joshua Byrum, group facilitator; and Vanessa Curley and Shannan King, admissions coordinators.

"People often meet a treatment center at a difficult moment, when they need clear answers and a team they can trust," said Trychon. "These appointments bring together the leadership, program, and admissions roles involved in that experience. Our priority is to make each step understandable and responsive to the person seeking help."

Nirvana provides substance use treatment in Phoenix, with residential treatment for Arizona locals as well as for clients from across the nation, alongside a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program with day and evening services offered, and aftercare support for alumni.

The admissions process begins with a no-obligation conversation about a person's circumstances and treatment needs, followed by discussion of program options and insurance verification.

The new team members hold the following roles:

- Strauss, executive director: leads the center's overall operations and direction.

- Melendez, director of business development: serves in the center's business development role, including relationships with prospective referral sources.

- Angichiodo, clinician: joins the treatment team in a clinical role.

- Byrum, group facilitator: joins the team responsible for group programming.

- Curley and King, admissions coordinators: join the team that speaks with people considering care and helps them understand the admissions process.

"Our work starts by listening carefully to what someone needs and explaining the available next steps," said Strauss. "That applies whether the first conversation is with a prospective client, a family member, or a referral professional. I look forward to working with this team to carry that approach through the treatment experience."

About Nirvana Recovery Center

Nirvana Recovery Center is a Phoenix, Arizona, behavioral health treatment provider offering substance use treatment across residential and outpatient levels of care. The center describes its approach as tailored to each client's needs and focused on building trusting relationships with clients and families. Learn more at nirvanarecoveryaz.com.

Shannan King

Admissions

(480) 764-2335

SOURCE Nirvana Recovery Center Arizona

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Three-day national conference, themed "Solar for All, Y'all," to bring together solar professionals, researchers, and advocates October 19–21

BOULDER, Colo., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) today announced the full conference program for SOLAR 2026, its national conference taking place October 19–21 at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas. The conference is held in partnership with the Texas Solar Energy Society (TXSES), which is celebrating its landmark 50th anniversary this year.

Under the theme "Solar for All, Y'all," SOLAR 2026 will spotlight innovations, strategies, and actions across three subthemes: Advancing Access for All, Expanding Education for All, and Addressing New Challenges Affecting All, including data centers, artificial intelligence, and accelerating weather extremes.

"Celebrating 50 years of the Texas Solar Energy Society during a national gathering like SOLAR 2026 is a tremendous milestone for our state and our community," said Patrice "Pete" Parsons, SOLAR 2026 Co-Conference Chair and Executive Director of TXSES. "Texas has long been a leader in solar innovation and adoption, and we are honored to welcome renewable energy professionals, students, and advocates from across the country to Austin."

Conference Highlights

The three-day program includes keynote and plenary sessions featuring Bill McKibben, author of Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization, who will explore lessons from Texas's rapid solar growth. Additional plenary panels will examine how data centers are reshaping energy demand and how Texas is integrating supply and demand at scale.

Attendees can also expect:

- Oral presentation sessions and poster sessions covering topics from grid modernization and agrivoltaics to solar education and building resilience

- NABCEP-accredited courses on PV, the National Electrical Code, and energy storage, led by instructor Sean White

- The ASES Awards Luncheon, Women in Solar Energy (WISE) Luncheon, and Fellows Reception honoring leaders across the solar industry

- A Career & Networking Fair connecting students and professionals with employers across the renewable energy sector (free & open to the public).

- The ASES Shine on Solar Gala, a fundraising dinner and live auction supporting ASES's solar education and equity programs

- A special TXSES 50th Anniversary celebration honoring five decades of solar advocacy in Texas with the TXSES 50th Anniversary Award Ceremony, and a very special country band!

The conference venue, the Palmer Events Center, holds LEED Gold certification, operates on 100% renewable energy through Austin Energy's Green Choice Program, and features a 185 kW on-site PV array.

Registration and Hotel Information

Register for SOLAR 2026 at ases.org/conference. Tickets are also available for purchase on the day of the event. Discounted conference hotel rates are available through September 28. Please contact [email protected] with any questions!

- Hampton Inn & Suites Austin Downtown

[SOLD OUT]

- Renaissance Austin Hotel

259/night

Last Day to Book: Monday, September 28, 2026

- Hilton Austin

$289/night

Last Day to Book: Monday, September 28, 2026

About ASES

Founded in 1954, the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating equitable solar adoption and sustainable living through education, research, advocacy, and community-building. ASES connects professionals, students, policymakers, and renewable energy enthusiasts through its National Solar Conference, National Solar Tour, publications such as Solar Today magazine, and educational programs to advance a just transformation to a 100% renewable energy future.

About TXSES

The Texas Solar Energy Society is a state chapter of ASES, celebrating 50 years of solar advocacy, education, and community in Texas in 2026. Today, TXSES remains the state's leading independent, nonprofit solar education organization, providing trusted, fact-based resources that inspire innovation, share best practices, and inform decision-makers about the importance of strong, forward-looking solar policies. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, TXSES works to grow the solar industry, protect clean air, strengthen healthy and resilient communities, support local well-paying jobs, and help build the foundation for a 100% clean energy future for Texas — one community at a time.

SOURCE American Solar Energy Society

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Wolfbox Puts Off-Road Visibility to the Test With Blockout Challenge at Trail Hero 2026

The brand will also title two Sand Hollow trails and showcase its two new innovative auto devices — the FlexPilot mirror dash cam and NomadPixel 5, the world's first programmable off-road pixel lighting system.

HURRICANE, Utah, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Wolfbox, a leader in off-road dash cams and automotive electronics, will debut its Blockout Challenge at the 11th Annual Monster Energy Trail Hero Event powered by Greater Zion. The weeklong event takes place Sept. 28 through Oct. 3 in Hurricane, Utah.

During the challenge, drivers will tackle a closed obstacle course with all exterior views blocked, relying solely on the Wolfbox FlexPilot camera system to navigate the terrain. The top eight teams will advance to a final at The Chute, one of Sand Hollow's most recognizable rock-crawling obstacles.

Wolfbox will also serve as sponsor of the Wolfbox Top of the World Trail and Wolfbox The Fallen Trail, meet visitors at two event locations, and unveil the new NomadPixel 5 off-road pixel lighting system during one Night Ride on the Wolfbox Top of the World Trail.

"Trail Hero isn't where equipment gets admired from a distance — participants are on actual terrain where visibility, judgment and trust really matter," a Wolfbox representative said.

"The Wolfbox Blockout Challenge gives drivers and spectators a memorable way to see what FlexPilot can do, and also reflects something larger about this community. Nobody takes on these trails entirely alone — drivers rely on spotters, guides, teammates and equipment. It's the idea behind Wolfbox's theme for this year's event: The Trail Makes Heroes | Heroes Are Made Together."

Putting FlexPilot to the Test

Qualifying rounds for the Wolfbox Blockout Challenge run from 1 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 1 and 2, with 10 teams competing each day on a scored obstacle course; the top eight advance to the Oct. 3 final at The Chute. During the Oct. 1 and 2 afternoon sessions, members of the public can ride shotgun with a Wolfbox driver to experience the challenge firsthand.

FlexPilot replaces a vehicle's rearview mirror with a bright touchscreen fed by up to four cameras: sharp 4K views at the front and rear, plus two additional cameras that can be positioned inside the cab, along the flanks or low on the body to provide multi-angle visibility of terrain and obstacles around the vehicle. At Sand Hollow, steep climbs and red-rock obstacles can block a driver's view of the tires and terrain immediately ahead, making the location a proving ground for the FlexPilot.

From Scenic Trails to Technical Terrain

Wolfbox's two sponsored trails represent very different sides of the Sand Hollow experience. The Level 4 Wolfbox Top of the World Trail offers panoramic overlooks of the surrounding red-rock cliffs and reservoir, and includes the special Thursday Night Run on Oct. 1 for up to 30 vehicles. The Level 9 Wolfbox The Fallen Trail, built by local veterans in memory of fallen service members, is known for its extreme rock gardens and near-vertical rock face.

Wolfbox will also sponsor 250 Trail Guide T-shirts worn by volunteer guides throughout the event, creating strong on-trail visibility while recognizing the volunteers who help lead and support participants. Wolfbox representatives and trail guides will meet drivers at both trailheads, where participants can also learn about the brand's off-road product lineup through interactive QR codes placed at landmark stops.

Up Close With Wolfbox Products

Trail Hero will also see Wolfbox debut its new NomadPixel 5 off-road pixel lighting system, the world's first off-road auxiliary driving lights with programmable pixel displays. Drivers can customize text, graphics and animated content from their phones and project it outdoors with 8,850 raw lumens of illumination from each of the two five-inch lights.

Visitors can check out Wolfbox products at the brand's Washington County Fairgrounds Vendor Show booth, where a FlexPilot-equipped display vehicle will be on display alongside hands-on product demonstrations and giveaways. Guests who share their Wolfbox experience on social media will also have the opportunity to receive limited-edition gifts.

A second Wolfbox display will be set up at the Water Tank parking lot from Sept. 29 through Oct. 3, beside the Blockout Challenge course and near the Top of the World trailhead.

A Continuing Trail Hero Partnership

Wolfbox's Trail Hero partnership extends beyond the event. In May, the brand served as title sponsor of Trail Hero Expeditions Season Two, a six-episode overlanding series filmed across Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. Season Two is scheduled to air in October on SPEED SPORT 1, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming platforms.

Trail Hero also marks the official kickoff of Wolfbox's seventh anniversary campaign, which runs throughout October under the theme "SHIFT INTO 7TH — Miles to go. More to explore."

Through its partnership with Trail Hero, Wolfbox continues to support the off-road community while strengthening charitable connections across the industry. This commitment has long been central to the brand and connects to Trail Hero's broader work with organizations including 4 Wheel to Heal, the Utah Public Lands Alliance, and the Utah 4 Wheel Drive Association, which help protect motorized access to public lands and create meaningful outdoor experiences for veterans, children with special needs, and the wider trail community.

Find Wolfbox at:

- Booth D5–D7 at the Washington County Fairgrounds from 3 to 7 p.m., Oct. 1–3

- The Water Tank parking lot from Sept. 29 through Oct. 3

Blockout Challenge qualifiers run Oct. 1–2, with the final at The Chute on Oct. 3.

Between Sept. 26 and Oct. 4, Wolfbox customers can receive an extra $15 off orders over $100 by using code TRAILHERO15 on the Wolfbox website.

Follow Wolfbox on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Reddit, and join the conversation with #Wolfbox #BlockoutChallenge #Wolfboxhero.

About Wolfbox

Since 2019, Wolfbox has provided more than 2.5 million drivers across 94 countries with reliable dash cam technology and automotive solutions. Winner of awards from SEMA and TWICE, the brand has also expanded its driving ecosystem with the new GEARS line, bringing rugged bed covers, power steps, and high-output lighting to off-road enthusiasts.

For more information, visit wolfbox.com and gears.wolfbox.com.

SOURCE Wolfbox

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Gourmia Brings New Extra-Large 12-Slice Stainless Steel Air Fryer Oven to Costco

Gourmia's largest air fryer oven pairs family-size capacity with a new top-mounted digital touch display and CookFlow™ progress bars for easier everyday cooking

BROOKLYN, N.Y., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Gourmia®, a leading innovator of countertop kitchen appliances, is launching its new 12-Slice Stainless Steel Digital Countertop Oven Air Fryer available exclusively at Costco. Gourmia's largest air fryer oven combines extra cooking space, 13 one-touch functions, and smart features that simplify meals throughout the week and when entertaining. This new oven is available in-store at Costco and online at Costco.com.

"Kitchen appliances earn their place on the counter when they make everyday cooking easier, and this oven was created to do exactly that with more capacity and intuitive features," said Heshy Biegeleisen, Founder of Gourmia. "From family meals to entertaining, it gives home cooks the flexibility to prepare more food at once and the tools to stay on top of every step."

New for this oven is a sleek, top-mounted Easy-Reach Control Panel that positions the digital touch display above the cooking cavity, where settings are easy to see and access. Also new is CookFlow™, with on-screen progress bars that visually track preheating and cooking, so users can see how a meal is progressing at a glance.

More Room to Cook, More Ways to Use It

With a spacious 43-liter capacity, the oven accommodates a 15-inch pizza, a 20-lb turkey, or a 15' x 13" baking pan and features five rack positions. The extra room means fewer batches when cooking for a family and valuable additional oven space when entertaining or preparing a larger meal.

Its 13 one-touch cooking functions bring a wide range of cooking options into one countertop appliance, including air fry, bake, roast, slow cook, dehydrate, popcorn and more. Whether it's breakfast, pizza night, crispy air-fried favorites or a family dinner, the oven is designed to move easily from one meal to the next.

Built for making healthy meals at home delicious and easy, key features include:

- New Top-Mounted Easy-Reach Control Panel - Places the digital touch display within easy view and reach for simple operation.

- New CookFlow™ Progress Bars - Tracks preheating and cooking progress on screen, providing an easy visual cue throughout the cooking process.

- 43L Extra-Large Capacity - Fits a 15-inch pizza or 12 slices of toast and offers five rack positions.

- Patented FryForce 360™ Technology - Circulates heated air above and around food for fast, even cooking and crispy air-fried results.

- Quartz Heating Elements - Deliver fast, even heat for better crisping while helping reduce cooking time.

- Temperature Probe - Monitors internal food temperature and automatically shuts the oven off when the selected doneness is reached.

- Dual Cook - Automatically transitions between two cooking functions or temperatures, simplifying recipes that require multiple cooking stages.

- Everyday Convenience - Includes an interior light, optional preheat and mute option, plus an oven rack, baking pan, air fry basket, crumb tray and cord wrap.

The combination of capacity and versatility makes the Gourmia 43L Digital Countertop Oven Air Fryer the ultimate addition to your kitchen. Families can air fry larger portions with fewer batches, make a pizza without heating the main oven, or gain additional cooking space when preparing meals for a crowd.

Pricing and Availability

The Gourmia 43L Digital Countertop Oven Air Fryer (GTF7890) will be available in-store at Costco and Costco.com for $159.99.

About Gourmia

Headquartered in Brooklyn, NY, Gourmia is passionate about all-things cooking as they believe it is one of the key pillars of a healthy lifestyle. With decades of small appliance expertise, Gourmia's founders know that cooks are looking for dependable, easy-to-use tools to make their lives easier. Gourmia is one of America's leading air fryer brands and one of the fastest-growing kitchen electrics brands. From air fryers to multi-purpose cookers, coffee and tea makers, juicers, and more, the team at Gourmia has taken input from chefs and consumers to make their products the best in their category. All of the company's products are designed to deliver a higher standard of innovation, performance, and value. For additional information, please visit http://www.gourmia.com. 

PR Contact:

Susan van Barneveld

Copernio

(714) 891-3660

[email protected] 

All products/services and trademarks mentioned in this release are the properties of their respective companies.

© 2026 Gourmia. All rights reserved.

SOURCE Gourmia

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Byron Allen Comes to DPAA Global Video Everywhere Summit with Opening Keynote Conversation: Your Brand's Best Storyteller is Video

Founder of One of the Largest Independent Studios in the World to Talk about the Future of Media and Advertising on October 13th in NYC

DPAA to Bring Together Allen, Anthony Scaramucci, Leading CMOs and Agency Executives Around the Theme "Real Connections" and to Discuss the Value of Digital OOH to Brands

NEW YORK, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Byron Allen - founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group, will be taking the stage in the opening keynote conversation at the 14th annual DPAA Global Video Everywhere Summit. Allen will talk about the power of video as the primary storytelling tool for brands looking to meaningfully connect with consumers.

Digital screens and video are now prolific and growing aggressively outside the home, from Times Square and Piccadilly to movie theaters, office buildings, airports, highways plus retail and transit centers. These screen advertising and storytelling opportunities will be showcased and discussed, attracting media and marketing decision makers to the Summit — October 13th in Chelsea Piers, NY.

Curated around the theme of Real Connections, this year's Summit intentionally brings together influential voices who would not ordinarily share the same stage. From Byron Allen and former White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci to agency leaders from Mediahub and Stagwell and CMOs representing American Eagle Outfitters, Major League Soccer, Expedia and more, the lineup spans media, culture, brands, business and public conversation — different worlds connected by a shared understanding of how to earn attention, build trust and ultimately move people to action.

Scaramucci, founder and managing partner of SkyBridge Capital, will join the Summit following the release of his new book, All the Wrong Moves, for a keynote fireside conversation just weeks before the U.S. midterm elections. His appearance alongside Allen and some of the world's leading marketing and agency executives reflects the Summit's broader ambition: bringing different perspectives into one room to explore how influence, attention and real connections are created today.

"We are intentionally putting the people shaping media, culture and public conversation in the same room as the key decisionmakers across brands, commerce and investment," said DPAA President & CEO Barry Frey. "True to this year's theme of Real Connections is bringing together people who have a deep understanding of how to turn attention, influence, and trust into action."

While the Summit is designed to provide attendees with perspectives, relationships, and ideas they can apply to their advertising, marketing, media and technology businesses, DPAA also believes that in order to engage and educate you also need to entertain. As previously announced, the Broadway cast of The Book of Mormon will be performing live at the event. (Click HERE for the full lineup for the October 13 event at Pier 60 in New York City.)

The Built-in Connection of Entertainment and Brand Engagement

Byron Allen is one of the most influential media moguls in today's entertainment and technology space. Among his portfolio are The Weather Channel and its Local Now streaming service, 13 network-affiliated broadcast television stations, cable television networks, a theatrical and digital movie production and distribution arm, and a majority stake in Buzzfeed, at which he is chairman and CEO. Allen Media Group is the largest supplier of first-run syndicated programming and network television in the industry.

Having begun his career as a performer - including being the youngest stand-up comic on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson - Allen is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his original show, Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen, which in May replaced The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in the 11:30 p.m. hour, and airs weeknights on CBS, followed by his comedy game show, Funny You Should Ask. This unique life experience has given him an intimate understanding of what it takes to stay engaging as a brand, and is one factor that makes him a much sought-after speaker at leading industry conferences.

"The media industry is going through an enormous transformation," said Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group and Chairman/CEO of Buzzfeed, Inc. "The disruption is creating both a massive demise and extraordinary opportunities. Without hesitation, this is the moment you must decide – are you a victim or a pioneer? I've chosen pioneer."

Added Frey, who will be moderating the keynote conversation, "We are really looking forward to talking with Byron Allen about how his growing media empire thinks about the state and future of advertising, and why video is key to forming real connections between brands and consumers – although I'd be lying if I didn't admit to being a little worried that he will ask me to be on Comics Unleashed as I'm not sure my comic repertoire is ready just yet. That said, by adding a pioneer in media to the lineup, we will bring a new dimension of insights to those attending the Summit, which will feature one of our most influential and impactful groups of brand, agency and industry leaders to date."

About Byron Allen

Byron Allen founded Allen Media Group in 1993. Headquartered in Los Angeles, it has offices in New York and Atlanta. Allen Media Group owns/operates 13 ABC-CBS-NBC network affiliate broadcast television stations in 11 U.S. markets and ten 24-hour HD television networks serving nearly 315 million subscribers: THE WEATHER CHANNEL, PETS.TV, COMEDY.TV, RECIPE.TV, CARS.TV, ES.TV, MYDESTINATION.TV, JUSTICECENTRAL.TV, THEGRIO TELEVISION NETWORK, and HBCU GO. Allen Media Group also owns the digital streaming platforms HBCU GO, SPORTS.TV, THEGRIO, THE WEATHER CHANNEL STREAMING APP, and LOCAL NOW--the free-streaming AVOD service powered by THE WEATHER CHANNEL and content partners, which delivers real-time, hyper-local news, weather, traffic, sports, and lifestyle information. In 2026, Allen's family office acquired a majority of the outstanding shares of the digital media platform BuzzFeed, Inc., with Byron Allen assuming the role of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer with a vision to build on the iconic foundations of BuzzFeed, HuffPost, and Tasty by expanding into free-streaming video, audio and user-generated content. Allen Media Group also produces, distributes, and sells advertising for 80 television programs, making it one of the largest independent producers/distributors of first-run syndicated television programming for broadcast television stations. With a library of over 10,000 hours of owned content across multiple genres, Allen Media Group provides video content to broadcast television stations, cable television networks, mobile devices, and digital platforms. Our mission is to provide excellent content to our viewers, global platforms, and Fortune 500 advertising partners. For more information, visit: www.allenmedia.tv

About the DPAA Global Video Everywhere Summit

Each year in the heart of New York City, DPAA's flagship Summit brings approximately 1,000 industry leaders direct access to the people who influence the future of omnichannel marketing. There, people from brands, agencies, media platforms, and technology companies around the world network with others in this vibrant community; discuss marketing trends, challenges, and opportunities; and hear from CMOs, newsmakers, and agency executives. One Day. Real Connections. Year-Round Impact. The people shaping what's next in DOOH, including real-life experiences, retail media networks, sports marketing, and more, come together at the Summit for conversations that shape the future of advertising for brands and agencies.

Over the years, speakers have included leaders representing companies ranging from Colgate-Palmolive, General Motors, Mastercard, McDonald's, PepsiCo, Kroger, Danone, Warner Bros., Paramount+, and H&R Block, to WPP, Dentsu, Omnicom, and more.

For more information, or to register to attend the Global Summit – part of Out of Home Week New York – please visit www.dpaasummit.com/global.

About DPAA

DPAA (www.dpaaglobal.com) is the global trade marketing association, driving the growth and digitization of out-of-home (OOH) advertising and its growing role in the Omnichannel mix. Membership in the DPAA community includes many business acceleration benefits and access to a wide array of products. It offers members an extensive database of research, best practices and case studies; tools for planning, training and forecasting; social media amplification of news; insights on software and hardware solutions; and further integration into the advertising ecosystem by connecting DOOH networks, brands, agencies, ad tech, and others – including through its podcast, Launchpad of Innovation. DPAA's Video Everywhere Summit, the largest one-day media/marketing event of its kind, is October 13, 2026, at Pier 60 in New York City.

SOURCE Digital Place Based Advertising Association (DPAA)

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Insurance attorney and former EPIC claims leader joins to serve as an advocate for Vouch clients with insurance carriers.

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Vouch Insurance, the AI-enabled insurance broker built for technology companies, today announced the appointment of Brandon Kaufman as Head of Claims.

Kaufman's arrival extends the leadership expansion Vouch announced in July, when Steve Kenning joined as Chief Operating Officer, Jim Loughlin joined as Head of Client Management, and Tyson Stevenson was promoted to Chief Revenue Officer. Where those appointments strengthened how Vouch advises and serves its more than 6,000 clients day to day, Kaufman leads the moment a policy stops being a document and becomes a payout.

As Head of Claims, Kaufman leads Vouch's claims advocacy function, guiding clients through the full lifecycle from first notice to resolution. His remit includes building tailored action plans for complex, high-exposure claims, applying data and analytics to shape claims strategy, and serving as a dedicated advocate among clients, carriers, and third-party administrators.

He joins from EPIC, where he was Vice President of Claims, advising clients on resolving complex, high-exposure claims and reducing loss ratios across entire risk management portfolios. Earlier in his career, Kaufman served as in-house counsel at an ad tech startup and as in-house legal counsel for a mobility startup, where he built global insurance programs and ran litigation and claims management. He also consulted at a global insurance brokerage, advising clients on contractual insurance requirements and insurance program design, and began his career on Capitol Hill as legal counsel on federal transportation issues. Kaufman is a graduate of the University of Florida and earned his Juris Doctor from Syracuse University.

His appointment underscores Vouch's investment in the quality of brokerage and risk advisory services. Claims are a core part of the client experience rather than a back-office function. At Vouch, clients get a skilled claims advocate who serves as the single point of contact with insurers and claims handlers, builds strategy around clients' priorities, and provides regular updates through resolution. By having an in-house specialist with deep expertise, clients have a resource squarely in their corner to fight coverage disputes and stay on top of state-specific regulatory requirements.

"Clients judge a broker on their hardest day, not their easiest one," said Tyson Stevenson, Chief Revenue Officer of Vouch. "The day you file a claim is that hard day. Brandon joins a client service organization that values quality and delivering tech-specific expertise paired with human intelligence, and he extends that same standard into the crucial moment where coverage is triggered."

About Vouch

Vouch is the AI-enabled insurance broker for ambitious companies that deserve sophisticated guidance, from start to scale. Through human expertise and modern technology, Vouch makes insurance easy and scalable. Its advisors understand each client's industry, guide them through risk decisions, and design coverage that stands up to scrutiny, without painful transitions or costly gaps. Trusted by more than 6,000 companies in a wide range of tech verticals, Vouch is headquartered in San Francisco and licensed in all 50 states. Learn more at www.vouch.us.

Media Contact

Clark Kays

[email protected] 

SOURCE Vouch Insurance

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