Tag: PR Newswire

On Celebrate Trails Day, Rails to Trails Conservancy marks 40 years of impact, calling on Americans to lift up the ways that trails are essential infrastructure in our communities

WASHINGTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Rails to Trails Conservancy, the nation’s largest trails, walking and biking advocacy organization, is calling on Americans to get outside for Celebrate Trails Day, lifting up the role of America’s 42,500+ miles of multiuse trails as essential infrastructure in communities nationwide.

Taking place on April 25, 2026, Celebrate Trails Day is an annual festivity with events taking place in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. These community-led activities illustrate the direct impact trails have on people and places—from helping people navigate their communities to growing economic opportunities, and delivering quality of life for everyone. This year, the event takes on additional meaning as RTC’s marks its 40th anniversary. Activities will illustrate the grassroots activism at the origins of the trails movement and the transformative impact that this infrastructure delivers to the American landscape.

“2026 is a momentous year. The alignment of RTC’s 40th anniversary with America’s 250^th birthday puts into perspective the unique ways that trails have transformed our country in recent decades,” said Brandi Horton, RTC’s vice president of communications. “In 1986, there were only a handful of rail-trails nationwide. Today, trails connect communities in every single state and offer a powerful way to experience and honor America’s past, present and future.”

To prepare for the spring season and Celebrate Trails Day, RTC offers these five reasons to get outside on trails:

1. Time on the trail is joyful. Simply put, trails are fun! It’s hard not to have a good time when you’re on the trail, but that joy also translates to impact. In a recent poll, Americans shared that they primarily use trails for exercise (65%), enjoying a bike ride or walk (58%), connecting with nature (49%) and recreating (44%)—and that overall, trails contribute to community well-being (86%). The ways to enjoy trails are limitless, as are the benefits they bring to people and places.
2. Trails connect communities. Trails are gathering places nationwide, building community and bringing people together, creating literal and physical connections. One-third of people report that spending time with friends and family is a primary reason they use trails (32%), and the more than 150 trail networks that are in development nationwide are creating new ways for people in every state to use trails to connect to the places they want to go.
3. Trails tell vibrant stories of America’s history and heritage. Across the country, trails create pathways to the rich history and diverse heritage of regions they traverse. Whether honoring the nation’s industrial roots along railroad and canal corridors, or intersecting with important historical sites, trails create an intimate way to get to know the stories, cultures, people and places that make America special.
4. Your time on the trail makes a difference. When we’re out on the trail, we send a message that these spaces matter to the people who live in our communities. That’s especially important right now because decisions are being made about federal programs that invest in America’s trails, and there is serious concern that progress to create, connect and maintain this vital infrastructure will be derailed. Whether you’re enjoying a stroll, commuting to work, or finding respite in nature, it all uplifts the ways trails are essential infrastructure.
5. There are countless ways to participate! Celebrate Trails Day creates a moment to find new trails and new ways to get outside, illuminating the many ways trails make our communities stronger: better health, easier commutes, thriving businesses, quality of life and more. On April 25, hundreds of events are planned to get people outside across the country. Whether joining a large group or planning a solo day, going out with family or friends, people can find their perfect trail using RTC’s free trail-finder app, TrailLink.

“Spring is prime trail season. It’s the perfect time to plan a trail trip and celebrate what makes America unique,” said Horton. “From Hawaii to New York, every single trail experience is different, showing off a different slice of the American experience. But across the country, one thing is true—trails are essential to healthy, thriving communities.”

Find ideas and tips for getting outside, along with photo content for use with credit to RTC, at railstotrails.org and follow #CelebrateTrails on social media.

Celebrate Trails Day is the annual celebration of the spring trail season, recognized on the fourth Saturday in April and organized by Rails to Trails Conservancy. RTC is the country’s largest trails, walking and biking advocacy organization, with a grassroots community of more than 1 million. RTC is dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike, and be active outdoors. Connect with RTC at railstotrails.org and @railstotrails on social media.

RTC’s opinion poll was conducted online, Sept. 14–23, 2023, by the firm Stratalys Research, with a sample size of 1,200 adults over age 18, including an oversample of 200 Black and 200 Latino respondents.

CONTACT: Patricia Brooks, patricia@matchmapmedia.com, 202.351.1757 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/five-reasons-to-get-outside-and-celebrate-trails-this-spring-302726688.html

SOURCE Rails to Trails Conservancy

SAN ANTONIO, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — UT Health San Antonio, the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), has announced a $6.5 million gift from San Antonio philanthropist Harvey E. Najim to establish the Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program to support future pediatric-focused professionals in dentistry, medicine and nursing in San Antonio and the surrounding region.

The Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program will ease financial barriers during training, and will help attract and retain exceptional healthcare talent, expand access to pediatric specialty care and create lasting impact for children and their families in the San Antonio community.

The Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program will support education and advanced training for 36 pediatric dental residents, 24 pediatric medical subspecialists and 32 pediatric nurse practitioners, expanding the pipeline of highly trained clinicians prepared to serve children and families in high-need communities. In addition, the program will fund three scholarships annually, one each in dentistry, medicine and nursing for students engaged in community service.

“A strong health workforce begins with meaningful, hands-on education,” said Najim. “Through specialized training, the Pediatric Health Scholars Program prepares students to care for children while helping meet the growing pediatric health needs across our region. By strengthening the pipeline of skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals, the program supports lasting improvements in children’s health outcomes.”

Najim has a long history of support, commitment and volunteer leadership with UT San Antonio, demonstrated through the establishment of the Najim Center for Innovation and Career Advancement, support of UTSA Athletics, giving toward student success initiatives and a long-term commitment to meeting students’ basic needs through the Roadrunner Food Pantry.

“Harvey has always believed deeply in empowering young people to thrive through education,” said President Taylor Eighmy. “His incredible generosity — now expanded to support pediatric health scholars — will have a significant impact in so many lives. We are deeply grateful for the passion and care he shows our students who will go on to care for the children throughout our community. There is no more powerful gift than to invest in the education of pediatric health care providers.”

By strengthening the pediatric workforce pipeline at UT Health San Antonio, the program is designed to expand access to timely, high-quality care for children and families in Bexar County, especially for low-income and uninsured families. The program will also increase the number of trainees entering pediatric-focused specialty pathways and strengthen recruitment into high-need pediatric disciplines.

“Harvey Najim’s generosity reflects a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of children and families — they are our future,” said Francisco Cigarroa, MD, senior executive vice president for health affairs and health system. “This gift allows us to invest where it matters most, supporting the next generation of pediatric specialists who will care for our communities for decades to come. This transformational and innovative gift will make our children’s lives healthier and it will save lives.”

Across Texas, and especially in South Texas, shortages of pediatric dentists, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric nurse practitioners can delay care and place additional strain on families. The Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program will directly address this challenge by providing competitive, merit-based support to residents, fellows and advanced-practice nursing students during critical training years, when educational debt and lower compensation can discourage pediatric specialization.

“The Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program is a transformational investment in children’s health,” said Robert Hromas, MD, FACP, professor and dean of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine. “By supporting trainees in pediatric subspecialties, we are expanding access to expert care and strengthening the future of health for families across South Texas.” 

According to the leading health policy organization in the U.S., KFF — formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation — over 13% of Texas children were uninsured in 2024.

“Advanced Practice Registered Nurses help fill a need in the community to deliver pediatric primary care services to our most vulnerable children in Bexar County,” said Sonya R. Hardin, PhD, RN, APRN-BC, FAAN, dean of the School of Nursing. “This generous support removes barriers for nurses dedicated to pediatrict care, directly addressing the vital workforce needs for primary care across South Texas that helps change the lives of children.”

According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and analyses of Graduate Medical Education outcomes, 58.9% of physicians who completed residency or fellowship training (GME) in Texas remained in Texas to practice, and retention increased to 86.2% among those who completed both medical school and GME in Texas between 2000 and 2019.

UT Health San Antonio’s workforce outcomes indicate that 94% of nursing (BSN) graduates, 88% of doctoral-level nursing graduates, and 64% of dental graduates remain in Texas following completion of their training. This data demonstrates that investing in Texas-based pediatric specialty training will be a proven workforce strategy for the San Antonio region.

“This important investment expands opportunities for our pediatric dentistry residents who face significant financial pressures,” said Kenneth Hargreaves, DDS, PhD, professor and dean of the School of Dentistry. “By supporting residents during the critical years of advanced education and training, we are strengthening the pipeline of pediatric oral health specialists and ensuring greater access to high-quality care for children across San Antonio and South Texas.”

Financial support through the Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars program will enable the most promising candidates to train at UT Health San Antonio, strengthen the pediatric health workforce pipeline across dentistry, medicine, and nursing and measurably increase the likelihood that pediatric specialists will build long-term careers in San Antonio and surrounding communities.

Over time, graduates of the Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program are expected to care for hundreds of thousands of pediatric patients across their professional careers, multiplying the impact of this philanthropic investment across generations.

UT Health San Antonio is the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), offering a comprehensive network of inpatient and outpatient care facilities staffed by more than 1,500 providers including medical, dental, nursing and allied health professionals who conduct more than 2.5 million patient visits each year. It is the region’s only academic health center and one of the nation’s leading health sciences institutions, supported by the schools of medicine, nursing, dentistry, health professions, graduate biomedical sciences and public health that are leading change and advancing fields throughout South Texas and the world. To learn about the many ways “We make lives better®,” visit UTHealthSA.org.

Stay connected with UT Health San Antonio on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ut-health-san-antonio-announces-6-5-million-gift-to-strengthen-pediatric-health-workforce-through-new-harvey-e-najim-pediatric-health-scholars-program-302726409.html

SOURCE UT Health San Antonio

HOUSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On the evening of March 26, 2026, The Buzbee Law Firm, led by lawyers Tony Buzbee, Colby Holler, David Fortney, and Hall Sasnett, achieved a jury verdict of $1.1 billion dollars for a child who was the victim of a brutal assault in a case brought on behalf of the minor child B.S. by parents Madison Ball and Stephen Sampson against Charles Edwin Brooks, Jr. The case was tried in Dallas County state court. In the civil lawsuit, the parents alleged that on the night of April 22, 2021, Brooks, who at the time was married to Madison Ball, was babysitting the minor child B.S., when he called Madison Ball (mother) to report that the child was unresponsive. When Madison Ball expressed alarm and insisted that Brooks call 911, he refused. Ball called instead. When first responders arrived, they found the child beaten severely, with bite marks on his legs. The child was non-responsive. The brutal beating caused severe brain injury, resulting in the child being confined to a wheelchair and requiring 24-hour care. Brooks later plead guilty to injury to a child and was sentenced to forty years in prison. Brooks is the great grandson of Percy Turner, one of the original investors of Humble Oil.

The verdict in the case included $291 million in compensatory damages for minor child B.S., along with $810 million in punitive damages for the child along with his parents. This verdict is the largest in U.S. history for the abuse of a child. According to lead counsel Tony Buzbee: “We claim to value children in our society. This Texas jury stepped up and showed that. Don’t mess with Texas children. I hope that through this verdict this precious child gets all the care he will need and hopefully make his life as good as it can be made under the circumstances.”

Brooks was defended by lead counsel Daniel Karp and the law firm Fee, Smith, and Sharp, LLP from Dallas. The case was styled Madison Ball, on behalf of minor child, B.S. v. Charles Edwin Brooks, Jr. and was tried in the 134^th District Court in Dallas County.

The Buzbee Law Firm is located in downtown Houston, Texas and occupies the top floor of the tallest building in Texas. The Firm has been involved in the most high-profile sexual assault cases in the United States and has recovered more than $10 billion for its clients.

Inquiries:      

Attorney Tony Buzbee: tbuzbee@txattorneys.com; 713-223-5393.

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SOURCE THE BUZBEE LAW FIRM

BOSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The newly established Dr Le Thu Grant for Environmental Conservation is proud to announce its official opening for the 2026 award cycle in Boston, Massachusetts.

Inspired by the legacy of a physician in Boston, Massachusetts, who dedicated her life to healing others, this unique grant shifts the focus from human medicine to environmental stewardship.

The Dr Le Thu Grant honors the spirit of Dr Le Thu, MD, a trailblazing emergency medicine physician in Boston, Massachusetts, whose four-decade career was defined by crisis management, education, and a deep-seated belief in the power of dedicated action.

Scholarship Purpose and Impact

The Dr Le Thu Grant is designed to remove financial barriers for students in Boston, Massachusetts, who have a clear vision for environmental conservation. Whether it involves scientific research, community education, habitat restoration, or advocacy, the grant is intended to turn ideas into reality. Eligibility and Application Criteria

To be considered for the $1,000 award from this Boston, Massachusetts-based fund, applicants must submit a detailed project proposal outlining goals and methodology, provide evidence of prior experience in environmental science, and include a response to the required essay prompt.

Essay Prompt: In 500-700 words, describe a personal experience that deepened your commitment to environmental conservation and explain how receiving this grant from the Boston, Massachusetts, committee will help you advance your goals in preserving the planet’s future.

Important Dates

The application deadline for candidates in Boston, Massachusetts, is October 15, 2026, and the winner announcement will be made on November 15, 2026.

About the Namesake: Dr. Le Thu, MD

The grant is established in Boston, Massachusetts, in recognition of Dr. Le Thu, MD, whose career in emergency medicine spanned over forty years. A graduate of Northwestern University and Rush Medical College, Dr. Le Thu’s career included serving as an attending physician in high-volume emergency departments in Boston, Massachusetts, and as an instructor at prestigious institutions like Harvard Medical School and Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Her legacy of teaching and crisis leadership in Boston, Massachusetts, serves as the foundational inspiration for this conservation grant.

For complete details on eligibility and the application process in Boston, Massachusetts, please visit https://drlethugrant.com/.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dr-le-thu-md-of-boston-massachusetts-launches-2026-nationwide-grant-for-environmental-conservation-initiatives-302726396.html

SOURCE Dr Le Thu Grant

New platform supports grades K–6 with project-based, standards-aligned curriculum across six learning domains

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Educators across the country work tirelessly to support students during the school day. When the bell rings, however, millions of children lose access to structured learning opportunities. According to the Afterschool Alliance, 52% of children in the United States do not have access to quality afterschool programming (Afterschool Alliance, 2023).

The hours after 3 PM represent one of the most significant opportunities in education.

Learning Beyond Paper created Learning Beyond the Bell to help close that gap.

Parents want to know their children are learning and growing after school, not simply waiting for pickup. Program providers need resources that work within the realities of afterschool environments. Most importantly, students deserve engaging experiences during the hours between school and home.

Learning Beyond Paper today announced the official launch of Learning Beyond the Bell, the first fully digital, bilingual curriculum platform built specifically for afterschool, out-of-school time (OST), and camp programs serving students in grades K–6.

Developed by the educator-led team behind Learning Beyond Paper, a platform trusted by more than 100,000 teachers, administrators, and families nationwide, Learning Beyond the Bell extends that same mission into the hours after the school day ends.

Learning Tools Designed for Afterschool Programs

Afterschool environments are dynamic. Programs frequently operate with flexible schedules, mixed-age groups, and staff members who care deeply about children but may not have formal teaching backgrounds.

Learning Beyond the Bell was designed with those realities in mind.

The platform delivers project-based, play-centered activities across six learning domains:

• Creative Arts & Expression
• STEAM
• Language & Literacy
• Physical Play & Wellness
• Social Studies & Civic Engagement
• Soft Skills & Life Skills

All curriculum content is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. Grade-banded units are available for K–2, 3–4, and 5–6 learners.

Professional learning is embedded through Learning Beyond University, allowing staff members to deliver high-quality programming from their first day, regardless of experience level.

Programs can implement Learning Beyond the Bell immediately. The platform is fully digital, accessible from any device, and requires no printing or specialized hardware. Many programs can begin using the curriculum the same day they enroll.

Teachers using Learning Beyond Paper platforms report saving an average of three hours per week on lesson planning (Learning Beyond Paper, 2025). A straightforward pricing model eliminates hidden costs, printing expenses, and unexpected fees.

Built by Educators, for Educators

Learning Beyond the Bell was developed by a team with more than 300 years of combined experience in early childhood and elementary education. The team includes former Department of Education leaders, Early Learning Coalition directors, and classroom teachers.

Each activity and professional learning resource was designed for the real conditions of out-of-school time programs. These conditions include flexible schedules, mixed-age groups, and staff members who need to implement programming quickly.

The result is a curriculum grounded in classroom experience and shaped by the voices of educators who understand afterschool programs.

Quotes

Peter Smith, CEO/President, Learning Beyond Paper

“Afterschool programs play an important role in advancing educational opportunity, yet they have historically lacked dedicated curriculum resources. These programs are not simply childcare. They are learning environments that deserve tools designed specifically for their needs.”

“We did not convert a paper curriculum into a digital format. We built something new that works within the realities of out-of-school time programs. At the same time, we maintained the bilingual support and professional learning educators expect from Learning Beyond Paper.”

“We encourage program directors to experience the platform firsthand by scheduling a demonstration and seeing how a curriculum designed for their environment can support afterschool learning.”

Dr. Corinne Muller, COO, Learning Beyond Paper

“We worked directly with afterschool directors, teachers, and students throughout development. Their feedback shaped every unit, activity, and design decision in Learning Beyond the Bell. The curriculum reflects the voices of the people who know these programs best.”

Availability

Learning Beyond the Bell is available now.

Afterschool programs, school districts, Head Start programs, YMCA chapters, Boys & Girls Clubs, 21st CCLC programs, and camp providers can learn more or schedule a demonstration at:

www.learningbeyondthebell.com

For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact Suzanne Adinolfi, Ph.D.

About Learning Beyond the Bell

Learning Beyond the Bell is a fully digital, bilingual curriculum platform designed for afterschool, out-of-school time (OST), and camp programs serving students in grades K–6. Developed by educators with more than 300 years of combined experience in early childhood and K–12 education, the platform delivers project-based, standards-aligned learning across six domains: Creative Arts & Expression, STEAM, Language & Literacy, Physical Play & Wellness, Social Studies & Civic Engagement, and Soft Skills & Life Skills.

Designed to be affordable, accessible, and easy to implement, Learning Beyond the Bell supports meaningful learning experiences during the hours after the school day ends.

Learn more at www.learningbeyondthebell.com

About Learning Beyond Paper, Inc.

Learning Beyond Paper is an education technology company based in West Palm Beach, Florida. The company’s mission is to close the equity gap in early childhood and elementary education through affordable, accessible digital curriculum.

Serving more than 100,000 active users across the United States, Learning Beyond Paper platforms align with all 50 state early learning standards, Head Start ELOF, and CLASS indicators. The company provides 52 weeks of research-based lesson plans, more than 4,000 daily activities, embedded professional development, and ELBY, an AI-powered instructional coach available in 36 languages.

Learn more at www.learningbeyondpaper.com

References
Afterschool Alliance. (2023). America After 3PM: Demand grows, opportunity expands. Afterschool Alliance. https://afterschoolalliance.org/AA3PM/landing/

Learning Beyond Paper. (2025). Platform impact and educator outcomes report. Learning Beyond Paper, Inc. https://www.learningbeyondpaper.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/learning-beyond-paper-launches-learning-beyond-the-bell-the-first-fully-digital-bilingual-curriculum-designed-for-afterschool-and-out-of-school-time-programs-302726378.html

SOURCE Learning Beyond Paper, Inc.

New lineup of multifunctional hair tools and accessories brings salon-quality results home.

HOUSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Firstline Brands, the leading textured hair accessory company in the U.S., announces its NEW Texas Heat Collection is now available at select retailers nationwide. This comprehensive lineup features innovative styling tools and protective accessories designed to deliver professional-quality results at home.

The collection takes its name from the hero product, the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush ($14.99), a curved thermal paddle brush engineered specifically for heat-based styling routines. The brush features a contoured paddle that follows the natural curve of the scalp, an ionic plate that supports even heat distribution and frizz control, and an easy-grip handle designed for comfort during extended styling sessions.

“We’ve been making hair tools for 40 years, and we’re still learning from the people who use them every day,” said Joni Odum, President and CEO of Firstline Brands. “This collection came together because our team listens to our consumer; they tell us what’s frustrating, what’s missing, what actually works. From there we’re able to create thoughtful solutions with intentional design that help them achieve their desired look.”

Firstline Brands offers a mix of hairstyling tools and maintenance essentials across its five-brand portfolio, Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, Camryn’s BFF®, DriSweat®, and Sleek®, with products tailored for women, men, tweens, fitness enthusiasts, and budget-conscious shoppers.

In addition to the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush, the full product range includes:

• Evolve® Wash Day Bestie ($15.99) – A 3-in-1 brush with three distinct sides designed to support cleansing, detangling, and curl definition. The scalp side helps lift buildup while massaging, flexible detangling pins support slip and reduced tension, and the defining side helps redistribute product and revive curls.
• Evolve® XL Mane-Tain Shower Cap ($13.99) – An extra-roomy, satin-lined shower cap designed to protect length, volume, and protective styles from steam and moisture.
• Evolve® Mini & Me Detangler Set ($9.99) – A two-brush detangling set offering flexibility at home and on the go.
• Evolve® Bonni Reversible Satin Beauty Cap ($14.99) –Double-sided satin provides two looks in one, with adjustable ties for a customized fit and lightweight construction for extended wear.
• Evolve® Scoop & Swoop Edge Brush ($4.99) – A foldable 2-in-1 edge tool with a built-in edge gel scoop and boar-bristle edge brush. The built-in scoop supports hygienic use, while the compact design makes it perfect for travel.
• Evolve® Carbon Rat Tail Comb Set ($6.99) – A 2-pack of heat-resistant carbon combs designed for precise parting and sectioning. Carbon construction holds up to heat tools, while the fine tail supports clean, sharp parts ideal for stylists, braiders, and silk-press enthusiasts.
• WavEnforcer® Flex Detangler ($9.99) – A detangling brush for men with longer hair styles, designed to move with the hair. Flexible rows help reduce snagging, ideal for wet or damp detangling with conditioner.
• WavEnforcer® Dually Twist Sponge ($9.99) – A dual-sided sponge designed to define twists and curls on short to medium hair. Features two textures for varied twist results in a compact size perfect for on-the-go grooming.
• WavEnforcer® Loc Headband ($7.99) – An adjustable headband designed to comfortably hold locs, braids, and protective styles. The adjustable fit supports volume and length, while soft material helps avoid root tension.
• WavEnforcer® Braided King Turban ($13.99) – A satin-lined turban designed to protect waves, curls, braids, and locs while looking polished.

“These new items represent our commitment to creating tools that work as hard as we do as consumers,” said Landria Jordan, Sr. Director of Innovation and Marketing at Firstline Brands. “Each product solves a real styling challenge, whether it’s achieving a sleek blowout or silk press, protecting styles overnight, or shortening your wash day routine. We’ve engineered these tools to make quality hair care simpler and more accessible.”

The Texas Heat Collection is now available at H-E-B, with additional retailers including Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, Walgreens and Amazon carrying select products throughout 2026. All products are crafted with high-quality, durable materials designed to support healthy hair care routines.

About Firstline Brands
Firstline, Incorporated is a leading textured hair accessory company with 40 years of experience and a deep commitment to embrace and accommodate the often-overlooked haircare needs of multicultural groups and hair types. Firstline offers a masterful mix of hairstyling and maintenance essentials from hairbrushes, combs, satin sleep maintenance items, and styling accessories across its brand portfolio that includes Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, DriSweat®, Sleek® and Camryn’s BFF® for girls and tweens. Firstline’s product assortment can be found nationwide at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, Target, Sally Beauty, Amazon, and more. Learn more at FirstlineBrands.com and join the conversation online @FirstlineBrands everywhere.

CONTACT: Firstline@hos-pr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/firstline-brands-launches-texas-heat-collection-302725634.html

SOURCE Firstline Brands

New lineup of multifunctional hair tools and accessories brings salon-quality results home.

HOUSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Firstline Brands, the leading textured hair accessory company in the U.S., announces its NEW Texas Heat Collection is now available at select retailers nationwide. This comprehensive lineup features innovative styling tools and protective accessories designed to deliver professional-quality results at home.

The collection takes its name from the hero product, the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush ($14.99), a curved thermal paddle brush engineered specifically for heat-based styling routines. The brush features a contoured paddle that follows the natural curve of the scalp, an ionic plate that supports even heat distribution and frizz control, and an easy-grip handle designed for comfort during extended styling sessions.

“We’ve been making hair tools for 40 years, and we’re still learning from the people who use them every day,” said Joni Odum, President and CEO of Firstline Brands. “This collection came together because our team listens to our consumer; they tell us what’s frustrating, what’s missing, what actually works. From there we’re able to create thoughtful solutions with intentional design that help them achieve their desired look.”

Firstline Brands offers a mix of hairstyling tools and maintenance essentials across its five-brand portfolio, Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, Camryn’s BFF®, DriSweat®, and Sleek®, with products tailored for women, men, tweens, fitness enthusiasts, and budget-conscious shoppers.

In addition to the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush, the full product range includes:

• Evolve® Wash Day Bestie ($15.99) – A 3-in-1 brush with three distinct sides designed to support cleansing, detangling, and curl definition. The scalp side helps lift buildup while massaging, flexible detangling pins support slip and reduced tension, and the defining side helps redistribute product and revive curls.
• Evolve® XL Mane-Tain Shower Cap ($13.99) – An extra-roomy, satin-lined shower cap designed to protect length, volume, and protective styles from steam and moisture.
• Evolve® Mini & Me Detangler Set ($9.99) – A two-brush detangling set offering flexibility at home and on the go.
• Evolve® Bonni Reversible Satin Beauty Cap ($14.99) –Double-sided satin provides two looks in one, with adjustable ties for a customized fit and lightweight construction for extended wear.
• Evolve® Scoop & Swoop Edge Brush ($4.99) – A foldable 2-in-1 edge tool with a built-in edge gel scoop and boar-bristle edge brush. The built-in scoop supports hygienic use, while the compact design makes it perfect for travel.
• Evolve® Carbon Rat Tail Comb Set ($6.99) – A 2-pack of heat-resistant carbon combs designed for precise parting and sectioning. Carbon construction holds up to heat tools, while the fine tail supports clean, sharp parts ideal for stylists, braiders, and silk-press enthusiasts.
• WavEnforcer® Flex Detangler ($9.99) – A detangling brush for men with longer hair styles, designed to move with the hair. Flexible rows help reduce snagging, ideal for wet or damp detangling with conditioner.
• WavEnforcer® Dually Twist Sponge ($9.99) – A dual-sided sponge designed to define twists and curls on short to medium hair. Features two textures for varied twist results in a compact size perfect for on-the-go grooming.
• WavEnforcer® Loc Headband ($7.99) – An adjustable headband designed to comfortably hold locs, braids, and protective styles. The adjustable fit supports volume and length, while soft material helps avoid root tension.
• WavEnforcer® Braided King Turban ($13.99) – A satin-lined turban designed to protect waves, curls, braids, and locs while looking polished.

“These new items represent our commitment to creating tools that work as hard as we do as consumers,” said Landria Jordan, Sr. Director of Innovation and Marketing at Firstline Brands. “Each product solves a real styling challenge, whether it’s achieving a sleek blowout or silk press, protecting styles overnight, or shortening your wash day routine. We’ve engineered these tools to make quality hair care simpler and more accessible.”

The Texas Heat Collection is now available at H-E-B, with additional retailers including Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, Walgreens and Amazon carrying select products throughout 2026. All products are crafted with high-quality, durable materials designed to support healthy hair care routines.

About Firstline Brands
Firstline, Incorporated is a leading textured hair accessory company with 40 years of experience and a deep commitment to embrace and accommodate the often-overlooked haircare needs of multicultural groups and hair types. Firstline offers a masterful mix of hairstyling and maintenance essentials from hairbrushes, combs, satin sleep maintenance items, and styling accessories across its brand portfolio that includes Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, DriSweat®, Sleek® and Camryn’s BFF® for girls and tweens. Firstline’s product assortment can be found nationwide at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, Target, Sally Beauty, Amazon, and more. Learn more at FirstlineBrands.com and join the conversation online @FirstlineBrands everywhere.

CONTACT: Firstline@hos-pr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/firstline-brands-launches-texas-heat-collection-302725634.html

SOURCE Firstline Brands

WASHINGTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In AAUW’s report, The (Not So) Simple Truth About the Gender Pay Gap, new analysis makes clear that pay inequity is not abstract — it affects women’s earnings in every congressional district across the country and costs women, families, and the economy.

Women working full-time in the United States earn just 81 cents for every dollar earned by men, leading to an estimated $542,800 in lost earnings over a 40-year career. While the size of the gap varies, women earn less than men in nearly every congressional district. Those losses make it harder for women to pay bills, build wealth, support families, save for retirement, and achieve economic security. For women of color, mothers, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, the gaps are even wider.

AAUW’s research shows that the pay gap is driven by many factors, including occupational segregation, unequal access to high-quality jobs, caregiving responsibilities, and persistent discrimination. The report also highlights the role education plays in women’s economic mobility. Women with higher levels of education earn more over their lifetimes, yet pay gaps remain even among college graduates and those with advanced degrees.

“The data shows that women’s economic security depends on more than individual choices — it depends on policy choices,” said Gloria L. Blackwell, AAUW CEO. “If we want to close the pay gap, we need to protect pathways to education, enforce fair pay and anti-discrimination laws, and remove the barriers that keep too many women from being paid what they deserve.”

Equal Pay Day illustrates the gender pay gap and the reality that women, on average, are paid less than men. Additional Equal Pay Days throughout the year highlight the even deeper inequities experienced by many communities of women, including Black women, Latina women, Native women, and others.

Read The (Not So) Simple Truth About the Gender Pay Gap, and explore pay gap data for every state and congressional district here.

AAUW (American Association of University Women) is one of the nation’s leading organizations for equity in higher education and women’s economic empowerment. Founded in 1881 by women who defied society’s conventions by earning college degrees, AAUW has since worked to increase women’s access, opportunity, and equity in higher education through research, advocacy, and philanthropy of over $146 million, supporting thousands of women scholars. Learn more at aauw.org.

Contact: media@aauw.org 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-aauw-data-shows-gender-pay-gap-in-every-congressional-district-on-equal-pay-day-302726259.html

SOURCE American Association of University Women

The Largest Commercial Organic Fertilizer Manufacturer on the West Coast Expands into Premium Soils, Launching Seven Specialized Blends at Retail Locations Across the Western U.S.

MONTEREY, Calif., March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — True Organic™, the industry leader in high-performance organic plant nutrition, is proud to announce the launch of the True Organic Potting and Planting Collection. Founded in 2003, True Organic is the largest organic fertilizer company on the West Coast, built on a foundation of high-performance nutrients that have been trusted by professional farmers for more than twenty years. By combining this legacy of agricultural excellence with a new premium line of soils, True Organic ensures that every home gardener – from apartment dwellers to backyard gardening hobbyists – now has access to the same nutrient-dense foundations used by the world’s largest organic farms. The collection joins True Organic’s existing lineup of retail products, building on the success of the fertilizers and soil amendments first introduced in 2021. It is debuting at select retail locations across the Western U.S. including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

“If you’re committed to growing organic food, the integrity of your harvest begins long before the first sprout,” says Ray Sidey, Business Development Manager for True Organic. “You can’t build a truly organic life on a synthetic foundation, and we believe that if the seed is organic, the soil must be too. We’ve spent two decades working with the country’s largest organic farms, and now we’re bringing that same uncompromising organic standard to every home with our ready-to-use soils.”

Distinctly Different: Innovation Inside and Out

The True Organic Potting and Planting Collection offers ethically sourced, upcycled ingredients that prioritize soil health as the root of all vitality. The collection integrates True Organic’s fertilizers directly into specialized soil blends that are engineered for immediate, farm-quality success featuring:

• Eco-Friendly Ingredients: True Organic uses high-quality Coco Coir (coconut husk) as a sustainable alternative to peat moss. Unlike peat, which is harvested from environmentally sensitive bogs, Coco Coir is a renewable resource that provides superior aeration and moisture retention.
• Biochar for Healthy Root Development: Select blends incorporate biochar, a naturally porous carbon that improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and creates habitat for beneficial microbes.
• Pre-Fertilized for a Strong Start: Every mix is infused with True Organic’s world-class organic fertilizer, providing plants with the essential nutrients they need to thrive from the moment they are planted.
• Modern, Stand-Out Packaging: The collection features bold, modern packaging designed to stand out in garden centers while clearly displaying ingredients and soil composition. The approach reflects True Organic’s commitment to helping gardeners understand exactly what goes into the soil that grows their food.

Blends for Every Pot, Planter and Garden

Seven specialized blends are tailored for various types of plants, from indoor houseplants to professional-grade outdoor garden beds, eliminating the need for complex feeding schedules or DIY mixing. New products include:

• Indoor & Outdoor Potting Mix: Perfect for containers and ideal for houseplants, vegetables, and seedlings; enriched with eco-friendly coco coir.
• Vegetable & Herb Potting Mix: For tomatoes, peppers, and herbs; includes gypsum and coco coir for strong, healthy growth.
• Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix: Fast-draining blend ideal for cacti, palms, citrus, and succulents.
• All Purpose Planting Mix: Improves native soil for in-ground planting of trees, shrubs, and flowers while boosting moisture retention.
• Vegetable & Flower Planting Mix: Formulated to boost soil moisture and nutrients for all vegetables and flowering plants and trees.
• Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron Planting Mix: Specialized blend for acid-loving plants like berries, ferns, and gardenias.
• All Purpose Compost: Adds vital organic matter, improving soil structure and moisture in garden beds.

Accessibility, Safety and Integrity

At the core of the Potting and Planting Collection is a commitment to the same “source-to-soil” transparency that has defined True Organic for two decades. As the only fertilizer brand with globally recognized ISO 22000 food safety certification, True Organic ensures every bag is tested for pathogens, providing unparalleled peace of mind for families growing their own food. The new collection is made in America, verified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), and officially registered with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), meeting the highest regulatory standards in the country.

In addition to its product transparency, True Organic believes that high-performance organic gardening should be accessible to everyone, which is why this collection offers a premium entry point without the luxury price tag. Designed to fit a realistic budget for every grower, the collection starts at $7.99, with available volumes ranging from 8 quarts up to 1 or 1.5 cubic feet. Pricing may vary by retailer.

The True Organic Potting and Planting Collection is now available at independent garden centers and major retailers across the Western U.S. Visit the website for retailers.

About True Organic™: True Organic™ is a family-owned producer of premium organic plant foods and soils founded on the belief that soil shouldn’t be treated like dirt. True Organic leverages more than 20 years of agricultural expertise from its parent company, True Organic Products, the West Coast’s largest manufacturer of commercial organic fertilizer. By using these professional roots, the brand brings farm-grade performance directly to home gardeners through its retail fertilizers and newly launched organic soil blends.

Driven by a mission to restore the planet’s soil, True Organic specializes in ethically sourced, certified organic products that are free of synthetic chemicals, fillers, and additives. As the only fertilizer brand with the globally recognized ISO 22000 food safety certification, the company ensures every bag and bottle is rigorously tested for pathogens, offering a source-to-soil transparency that is unsurpassed in the industry. By upcycling agricultural waste into nutrient-rich fertilizers, True Organic helps gardeners grow bountiful, healthy food while supporting a circular economy and a more sustainable future. trueorganic.earth

Product Images

Contact: 
Keelin Marcoux
411159@email4pr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/true-organic-announces-new-potting-and-planting-collection-bringing-farm-grade-excellence-to-the-home-garden-302725605.html

SOURCE True Organic

The Largest Commercial Organic Fertilizer Manufacturer on the West Coast Expands into Premium Soils, Launching Seven Specialized Blends at Retail Locations Across the Western U.S.

MONTEREY, Calif., March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — True Organic™, the industry leader in high-performance organic plant nutrition, is proud to announce the launch of the True Organic Potting and Planting Collection. Founded in 2003, True Organic is the largest organic fertilizer company on the West Coast, built on a foundation of high-performance nutrients that have been trusted by professional farmers for more than twenty years. By combining this legacy of agricultural excellence with a new premium line of soils, True Organic ensures that every home gardener – from apartment dwellers to backyard gardening hobbyists – now has access to the same nutrient-dense foundations used by the world’s largest organic farms. The collection joins True Organic’s existing lineup of retail products, building on the success of the fertilizers and soil amendments first introduced in 2021. It is debuting at select retail locations across the Western U.S. including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

“If you’re committed to growing organic food, the integrity of your harvest begins long before the first sprout,” says Ray Sidey, Business Development Manager for True Organic. “You can’t build a truly organic life on a synthetic foundation, and we believe that if the seed is organic, the soil must be too. We’ve spent two decades working with the country’s largest organic farms, and now we’re bringing that same uncompromising organic standard to every home with our ready-to-use soils.”

Distinctly Different: Innovation Inside and Out

The True Organic Potting and Planting Collection offers ethically sourced, upcycled ingredients that prioritize soil health as the root of all vitality. The collection integrates True Organic’s fertilizers directly into specialized soil blends that are engineered for immediate, farm-quality success featuring:

• Eco-Friendly Ingredients: True Organic uses high-quality Coco Coir (coconut husk) as a sustainable alternative to peat moss. Unlike peat, which is harvested from environmentally sensitive bogs, Coco Coir is a renewable resource that provides superior aeration and moisture retention.
• Biochar for Healthy Root Development: Select blends incorporate biochar, a naturally porous carbon that improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and creates habitat for beneficial microbes.
• Pre-Fertilized for a Strong Start: Every mix is infused with True Organic’s world-class organic fertilizer, providing plants with the essential nutrients they need to thrive from the moment they are planted.
• Modern, Stand-Out Packaging: The collection features bold, modern packaging designed to stand out in garden centers while clearly displaying ingredients and soil composition. The approach reflects True Organic’s commitment to helping gardeners understand exactly what goes into the soil that grows their food.

Blends for Every Pot, Planter and Garden

Seven specialized blends are tailored for various types of plants, from indoor houseplants to professional-grade outdoor garden beds, eliminating the need for complex feeding schedules or DIY mixing. New products include:

• Indoor & Outdoor Potting Mix: Perfect for containers and ideal for houseplants, vegetables, and seedlings; enriched with eco-friendly coco coir.
• Vegetable & Herb Potting Mix: For tomatoes, peppers, and herbs; includes gypsum and coco coir for strong, healthy growth.
• Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix: Fast-draining blend ideal for cacti, palms, citrus, and succulents.
• All Purpose Planting Mix: Improves native soil for in-ground planting of trees, shrubs, and flowers while boosting moisture retention.
• Vegetable & Flower Planting Mix: Formulated to boost soil moisture and nutrients for all vegetables and flowering plants and trees.
• Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron Planting Mix: Specialized blend for acid-loving plants like berries, ferns, and gardenias.
• All Purpose Compost: Adds vital organic matter, improving soil structure and moisture in garden beds.

Accessibility, Safety and Integrity

At the core of the Potting and Planting Collection is a commitment to the same “source-to-soil” transparency that has defined True Organic for two decades. As the only fertilizer brand with globally recognized ISO 22000 food safety certification, True Organic ensures every bag is tested for pathogens, providing unparalleled peace of mind for families growing their own food. The new collection is made in America, verified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), and officially registered with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), meeting the highest regulatory standards in the country.

In addition to its product transparency, True Organic believes that high-performance organic gardening should be accessible to everyone, which is why this collection offers a premium entry point without the luxury price tag. Designed to fit a realistic budget for every grower, the collection starts at $7.99, with available volumes ranging from 8 quarts up to 1 or 1.5 cubic feet. Pricing may vary by retailer.

The True Organic Potting and Planting Collection is now available at independent garden centers and major retailers across the Western U.S. Visit the website for retailers.

About True Organic™: True Organic™ is a family-owned producer of premium organic plant foods and soils founded on the belief that soil shouldn’t be treated like dirt. True Organic leverages more than 20 years of agricultural expertise from its parent company, True Organic Products, the West Coast’s largest manufacturer of commercial organic fertilizer. By using these professional roots, the brand brings farm-grade performance directly to home gardeners through its retail fertilizers and newly launched organic soil blends.

Driven by a mission to restore the planet’s soil, True Organic specializes in ethically sourced, certified organic products that are free of synthetic chemicals, fillers, and additives. As the only fertilizer brand with the globally recognized ISO 22000 food safety certification, the company ensures every bag and bottle is rigorously tested for pathogens, offering a source-to-soil transparency that is unsurpassed in the industry. By upcycling agricultural waste into nutrient-rich fertilizers, True Organic helps gardeners grow bountiful, healthy food while supporting a circular economy and a more sustainable future. trueorganic.earth

Product Images

Contact: 
Keelin Marcoux
411159@email4pr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/true-organic-announces-new-potting-and-planting-collection-bringing-farm-grade-excellence-to-the-home-garden-302725605.html

SOURCE True Organic