Celebrities, professional athletes, gaming creators, and fans gathered in Inglewood for an action-packed celebration featuring immersive gameplay, exclusive experiences, and a massive 12K LED dome.

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The worlds of gaming, entertainment, and action sports collided in spectacular fashion on October 23, 2026, as Monster Energy transformed Cosm Los Angeles into an immersive gaming destination to celebrate the launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4.

The event brought together celebrities, professional athletes, content creators, and enthusiastic gamers for an evening filled with competitive gameplay, interactive attractions, and exclusive experiences inspired by the popular video game franchise.

At the center of the celebration was Cosm’s impressive 87-foot-diameter, 12K+ LED dome, which surrounded attendees with larger-than-life visuals, creating an environment designed to bring the excitement of Call of Duty beyond traditional television and computer screens.

Hollywood Meets the Gaming World

The launch celebration attracted a diverse lineup of personalities from entertainment, sports, and gaming.

Among the notable attendees were actors O’Shea Jackson Jr., Trevor Jackson, and Khleo Thomas, rapper Symba, social media personality Lin Lamar, also known as Pinkchyu, and Monster Energy-sponsored UFC fighters Johnny Walker and Jalin Turner.

Khleo Thomas made a memorable entrance aboard a Polaris Slingshot, adding another element of excitement to an event already packed with high-energy entertainment.

The gathering demonstrated how major video game releases have evolved beyond traditional product launches into multimedia entertainment experiences that attract audiences from several industries.

Immersive Gameplay and Competitive Action

Fans lined up around the block to participate in the celebration, which featured a live edition of The Flank, hosted by ZooMaa and Ben Nissim.

The program included an interview with Infinity Ward developer Jacky Reynolds and the announcement of the Call of Duty League Launch Invitational groups.

Another highlight was a special gameplay showcase featuring Modern Warfare 4’s DMZ mode, presented by Infinity Ward game designer Roman Spazafumo.

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Competitive gaming took center stage as entertainers, athletes, and gaming personalities participated in two-versus-two matches.

Participants included gaming creators Jericho, Jaybroski, and Tyler Rizzi, UFC fighter Johnny Walker, and Los Angeles Football Club star Denis Bouanga.

Fans also had opportunities to test their gaming abilities during king-of-the-hill competitions.

Monster Energy’s professional skateboarders joined the action, with Ishod Wair, Filipe Mota, and Elliot Sloan temporarily trading their skateboards for gaming controllers.

Bringing the Battlefield Into the Real World

Beyond the virtual action, the event featured physical displays inspired by the Call of Duty universe.

Attendees encountered a real-world presentation of the Monster Energy Operator Skin, along with a collection of Polaris vehicles.

Among the vehicles displayed was the Polaris DAGOR, a military-inspired off-road vehicle featured in Modern Warfare 4.

The combination of real-world vehicles, interactive attractions, and Cosm’s enormous display helped create an atmosphere that connected elements of the game with tangible experiences.

“With Call of Duty, we’re always looking for ways to push the experience beyond the screen,” said Jordi Gayola, chief marketing officer of the Americas at Monster Energy.

Gayola explained that bringing the celebration to Cosm provided an opportunity to place fans, athletes, and creators directly into the action while combining gaming culture with Monster Energy’s broader entertainment partnerships.

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Gaming, Food, and Exclusive Experiences

The immersive celebration extended beyond competitive gaming.

Guests received exclusive merchandise giveaways and enjoyed interactive attractions throughout the venue.

Even the food reflected the event’s creative atmosphere.

The menu featured Korean-inspired selections, including kimchi mandu, Korean corn cheese nachos, and gochujang-glazed wings.

Complimentary Monster Energy beverages were also available throughout the event.

Together, the food, entertainment, and interactive activities helped create a festival-like atmosphere centered on gaming culture.

Monster Energy and Call of Duty Extend Their Partnership

The celebration also highlighted an ongoing promotional partnership between Monster Energy and Call of Duty, scheduled to continue through March 31, 2027.

Under the promotion, consumers can earn in-game rewards by purchasing qualifying Monster Energy beverages.

According to Monster Energy, eligible purchases include Monster Energy Original Green, Zero Sugar, and Zero Ultra.

Each qualifying can provides 15 minutes of Double XP, while additional rewards available through the first five qualifying cans include:

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• An exclusive Large Decal
• Two weapon blueprints
• Two Operator Skins

The partnership also includes four Monster Energy and Polaris vehicle sweepstakes at participating 7-Eleven, Hy-Vee, QuikTrip, and RTG retail locations.

Eligible consumers can enter through retailer-specific QR codes displayed in participating stores. Promotion rules, eligibility requirements, and restrictions apply.

Fans interested in learning more about the promotion can visit the official Monster Energy and Call of Duty promotional website.

A New Era of Immersive Gaming Entertainment?

The Cosm Los Angeles celebration illustrates an increasingly important trend in the entertainment industry: the convergence of video games, professional sports, celebrity culture, and immersive technology.

Gaming events are no longer limited to conventions, competitive tournaments, or traditional launch parties.

Venues featuring advanced visual technology, such as Cosm’s massive LED dome, provide new opportunities for publishers and entertainment brands to create shared experiences that bring digital worlds into physical spaces.

For fans, these events offer something that cannot easily be replicated at home: the opportunity to experience their favorite games alongside celebrities, professional athletes, gaming personalities, and fellow enthusiasts.

As gaming continues to influence mainstream entertainment, events like the Monster Energy and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 launch celebration could offer a glimpse into the future of interactive entertainment.

Whether through immersive venues, live competitions, or collaborations between major brands, the line separating video games from traditional entertainment continues to evolve.

And for the fans who gathered in Inglewood, the celebration provided an opportunity to experience that convergence firsthand.

About Cosm Los Angeles

Located in Inglewood, California, Cosm Los Angeles is an immersive entertainment venue featuring a massive dome-shaped LED display designed for shared viewing experiences.

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Its technology allows audiences to experience sports, entertainment, and other visual presentations in a panoramic environment that creates the sensation of being surrounded by the action.

About Monster Energy

Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy is a global energy drink brand known for its partnerships with athletes, musicians, motorsports organizations, action sports personalities, and gaming communities.

The company regularly sponsors events and experiences connecting fans with entertainment, sports, and popular culture.

https://callofduty.monsterenergy.com/en-us

Source: Monster Energy press release, October 25, 2026.

Photo Credit: Randy Shropshire/Getty Images for Monster Energy.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on information provided by Monster Energy in its October 25, 2026, press release. Event details and promotional offers are attributed to the company.

STM Daily News — News You Can Use This Moment!

Country music superstar Miranda Lambert will headline the Dallas Cowboys’ Thanksgiving halftime show, celebrating 30 years of music, football, and charitable giving.

FRISCO, Texas — October 26, 2026 — Three-time Grammy Award-winning country music star Miranda Lambert will take center stage at AT&T Stadium this Thanksgiving as the Dallas Cowboys host the Philadelphia Eagles, helping kick off The Salvation Army’s 136th annual Red Kettle Campaign.

The nationally televised halftime performance will mark the 30th anniversary of the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving partnership with The Salvation Army, a tradition that combines football and entertainment to raise awareness and support for families facing financial hardship.

The Thanksgiving Day game is scheduled for November 26, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. Central Time (4:30 p.m. Eastern)and will air on FOX.

Three Decades of Music and Giving

Since its introduction in 1997, the Red Kettle Kickoff has become a Thanksgiving tradition, featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment.

Country music legend Reba McEntire performed at the inaugural event. Over the years, performers have included Destiny’s Child, Carrie Underwood, the Jonas Brothers, Selena Gomez, Dolly Parton, Lainey Wilson, and Post Malone.

According to The Salvation Army, the annual campaign has raised more than $3.4 billion over the past three decades, supporting essential community services nationwide.

Lambert, a Texas native, expressed excitement about participating in the event.

“There’s something special about how music brings people together, especially when it’s to spread joy and hope to families who need it most,” Lambert said in the announcement.

Supporting Communities Beyond the Holidays

Although the familiar red kettles are most visible during the holiday shopping season, donations help support The Salvation Army’s year-round programs.

These services include emergency food assistance, temporary housing, eviction prevention, addiction rehabilitation, disaster relief, and youth development programs.

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The organization reports providing more than 28 million service touchpoints in 2025, operating through nearly 7,600 centers across the United States.

One important aspect of the Red Kettle Campaign is its local impact. According to The Salvation Army, donations collected in a community remain in that community to support residents facing difficult circumstances.

A Thanksgiving Tradition With a Purpose

The Cowboys’ partnership with The Salvation Army began through the efforts of Charlotte Jones, the team’s chief brand officer and co-owner.

Jones helped transform the team’s nationally televised Thanksgiving halftime show into an opportunity to encourage charitable giving.

Thirty years later, the tradition continues to connect millions of football viewers with opportunities to support their neighbors.

Commissioner Merle Heatwole, national commander of The Salvation Army, emphasized the campaign’s community mission.

“The Red Kettle Campaign gives people a simple way to spread joy and support their neighbors in need,” Heatwole said.

How to Help

As the holiday season approaches, The Salvation Army encourages individuals and families to participate by donating, volunteering, or supporting local assistance programs.

Those interested in contributing or seeking assistance can visit the organization’s official website.

Learn more: The Salvation Army

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The 2026 Red Kettle Kickoff serves as a reminder that Thanksgiving is not only about football, family gatherings, and entertainment. It is also an opportunity to support people in our communities who need a helping hand.

Editorial note: The $3.4 billion fundraising figure and the 2025 service statistics are attributed to The Salvation Army. The 28 million figure represents service touchpoints, not necessarily 28 million unique individuals.

Source and related links

Original announcement: The Salvation Army’s October 25 press release

Official charity website: The Salvation Army USA

Multimedia release: Miranda Lambert Red Kettle Kickoff announcement

About STM Daily News — Community

At STM Daily News, we believe that strong communities are built through compassion, service, and people making a positive difference.

Our Community section highlights nonprofit organizations, charitable initiatives, volunteers, and everyday individuals working to improve lives.

Stay connected with stories that inform, inspire, and strengthen our communities at STM Daily News.

Source: The Salvation Army, October 25, 2026, official news release.

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Forgotten Genius Friday | The Knowledge | STM Daily News

Octavia E. Butler: The Woman Who Reimagined the Future

When we think about science fiction, we often picture spaceships, robots, alien civilizations, and futuristic technology. But what happens when science fiction becomes a way to explore racism, inequality, human survival, and the consequences of our choices?

That is exactly what Octavia E. Butler brought to the genre.

Long before Afrofuturism became a widely recognized cultural movement, Butler was creating extraordinary stories that placed Black characters—especially Black women—at the center of imagined futures.

Her work challenged conventional ideas about who could be a hero, whose experiences mattered, and what science fiction could accomplish.

A Young Girl With a Powerful Imagination

Octavia Estelle Butler was born on June 22, 1947, in Pasadena, California.

Raised primarily by her mother and grandmother after her father’s death, Butler grew up shy and found comfort in books and storytelling.

Her mother worked as a domestic employee, and Butler sometimes accompanied her to work. Those experiences exposed her to the racial and economic inequalities that would later influence her fiction.

As a child, Butler loved science fiction, but she noticed something missing: people who looked like her.

Rather than accepting that absence, she began creating stories of her own.

She would eventually become one of the most influential writers in speculative fiction.

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Breaking Barriers in Science Fiction

During the 1970s, mainstream American science fiction was largely associated with white male writers and protagonists.

Butler entered that literary world with a different perspective.

Her first published novel, Patternmaster, appeared in 1976. It introduced readers to a world shaped by extraordinary mental abilities, social hierarchies, and struggles for power.

Butler continued developing complex stories that explored humanity’s relationship with authority, identity, biology, and survival.

In 1979, she published one of her best-known novels, Kindred.

The book follows Dana, a Black woman living in 1970s California who is repeatedly transported back to a Maryland plantation before the Civil War.

Through Dana’s experiences, Butler forced readers to confront the brutality of American slavery and its continuing influence on the present.

Rather than treating history as something safely confined to the past, Kindred makes that history immediate and deeply personal.

Imagining the Future—and Warning Us About It

In 1993, Butler published Parable of the Sower, a novel set in a collapsing American society struggling with economic inequality, environmental destruction, violence, and weakened institutions.

Its central character, Lauren Olamina, is a young Black woman who develops a philosophy called Earthseed while searching for a way to survive and build a community.

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The novel takes place beginning in 2024, making its imagined future particularly striking to modern readers.

Butler followed it with Parable of the Talents in 1998, continuing her examination of social instability, religious extremism, authoritarianism, and the struggle to create a better future.

Her novels were not literal predictions. They were works of speculative fiction that used recognizable social trends to ask difficult questions about where humanity might be headed.

Octavia Butler and Afrofuturism

Afrofuturism brings together African and African diasporic experiences with science fiction, technology, history, mythology, and imaginative visions of the future.

While artists such as Sun Ra and George Clinton explored cosmic identity through music, performance, and futuristic imagery, Butler used literature to investigate power, history, and humanity’s possible futures.

Her novels frequently placed Black women in situations where they had to navigate extraordinary challenges and reshape the societies around them.

Butler’s work is widely discussed within Afrofuturist scholarship, although her literary contributions also extend beyond any single cultural label.

She demonstrated that Black people did not have to remain secondary characters in someone else’s vision of the future.

They could be the architects of entirely new worlds.

Recognition and a Lasting Legacy

Butler received some of science fiction’s most significant honors, including Hugo and Nebula Awards.

In 1995, she became the first science-fiction writer to receive a MacArthur Fellowship, often called a genius grant.

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Her work also included the Xenogenesis trilogy, later collected as Lilith’s Brood, which explored humanity’s encounter with an extraterrestrial species and raised questions about consent, adaptation, identity, and survival.

Butler died on February 24, 2006, at age 58.

Yet her influence has continued to grow.

Her novels are studied in classrooms, discussed by scholars, and embraced by new generations of readers and creators interested in science fiction, social justice, and Afrofuturism.

A Genius Who Made Us Think Differently About Tomorrow

Octavia E. Butler was more than a science-fiction author.

She was a visionary storyteller who understood that imagining the future also meant examining the past and questioning the present.

Her stories asked readers to consider how power operates, how communities survive, and how human beings might change.

And perhaps her greatest contribution was demonstrating that the future belongs in the imagination of everyone.

Why Octavia E. Butler Belongs in Forgotten Genius Friday

At STM Daily News, our Forgotten Genius Friday series celebrates extraordinary individuals whose ideas, innovations, and accomplishments helped shape our world, even if their stories aren’t widely known. Octavia E. Butler fits that mission perfectly. Although she received prestigious literary awards and recognition during her lifetime, her influence extends far beyond science fiction. Like the inventors, scientists, and trailblazers we’ve featured in this series, Butler challenged barriers, defied expectations, and opened doors for future generations. Through her imagination, she helped redefine who could tell stories about humanity’s future—and who could be at the center of those stories. Her inclusion in Forgotten Genius Friday reminds us that genius isn’t limited to laboratories and inventions. Sometimes, it begins with a pen, a powerful imagination, and the courage to envision a different world.

Sources and fact-checking

The Huntington Library holds Butler’s literary archive and confirms the chronology of her major novels, awards, and career. The MacArthur Foundation independently documents her 1995 fellowship. 

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• Official Octavia E. Butler biography
• The Huntington — Octavia E. Butler Papers
• MacArthur Foundation — Octavia Butler
• The Huntington — Telling My Stories exhibition

For more stories about overlooked innovators, writers, scientists, and visionaries who changed our world, explore The Knowledge and Forgotten Genius Friday at STM Daily News.