PCM and USC push forward a pioneering satellite mission powered by the MAVERIC payloads, launching in June 2026.
PCM has greatly valued working alongside USC’s exceptional faculty, staff, and students. This partnership has inspired curiosity, exploration, and the practical application of satellite technology.”
— Peter Wokwicz, CEO of Positron Capital Management
LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, January 28, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Positron Capital Management (PCM), a technology and finance focused family office, is proud to announce the continuation of its strategic partnership with the University of Southern California (USC) Viterbi School of Engineering, a global leader in space technology and research. Together, PCM and USC are driving forward an ambitious satellite initiative centered on the successful completion of a 3U CubeSat known as MAVERIC.
This groundbreaking project integrates four distinct payloads, each designed to push the boundaries of satellite innovation and redefine future capabilities in space exploration. More than 60 students, faculty, and industry professionals over 2 years and multiple classes have contributed to the design, development, and testing of MAVERIC, making it a true collaborative achievement.
“PCM has greatly valued working alongside USC’s exceptional faculty, staff, and students. This partnership has inspired curiosity, exploration, and the practical application of satellite technology both within and beyond the university,” said Peter Wokwicz, CEO of Positron Capital Management.
“This collaboration has been instrumental in overcoming the challenges posed by these innovative payloads. It has provided USC Viterbi’s Astronautical undergraduate and graduate students with the rare opportunity to design, build, and operate a fully functional satellite,” added Prof David Barnhart, Director of the USC Space Engineering Research Center, integrating the effort.
The MAVERIC payloads are scheduled for launch in June 2026, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of academic-industry partnerships and the future of satellite technology.
About Positron Capital Management: Positron Capital Management (PCM) is the wealth management office for Peter Wokwicz. We focus on financial, scientific, and product innovation, all while doing good for the world. PCM brings together a distinguished team of leading quantitative analysts, researchers, engineers, scientists, and seasoned executives, united by a shared vision: to leverage our capital deployment and cutting-edge innovation to shape a better future.
About USC Viterbi’s Space Engineering Research Center: The Space Engineering Research Center (SERC) is dedicated to disruptive space engineering, research, and education for the second-generation workforce – including hands-on build, test and flight demonstrations of spacecraft and satellites. SERC seeks to challenge traditional methods of space R&D, manufacturing and exploration with approaches that dramatically reduce costs, enable novel capabilities, and support vital creation of space-to-space services and interactions. Located at both Campus and the Information Sciences Institute (ISI), the premier Institute at USC, projects include exploration of information technology and sciences applied to the space domain.
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The supper club brings its signature energy to WALL at W South Beach with its latest opening
MIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 29, 2026 / Today, the rapidly expanding hospitality and nightlife group from Palm Beach, Mama Hospitality , officially debuts the third location of their iconic supper club and entertainment epicenter with the arrival of Mary Lou’s Miami, which officially opens its doors to revelers tomorrow, Friday, January 30 th . Reviving the nightlife space within W South Beach for a seasonal residency, Mary Lou’s Miami will bring a new era of nostalgic nightlife to Miami Beach as the multi-hyphenate venue blends the vintage charm of the supper club with forward-thinking hedonism and sense of ridiculousness that continues to position the lavish concept uniquely into a category of its own.
Mary Lou’s Miami (credit: World Red Eye)
Mary Lou’s Co-Founders Joe Cervasio, Topher Grubb and Alex Melillo have joined forces with Jamie Reuben of the global luxury real estate group Reuben Brothers to breathe new life into the iconic space. The deal was brought forth through strategic Mama Hospitality partner, Myles Shear of Palm Tree Crew , who originally introduced Reuben to the co-founders – and the alignment was instant. Inspired by Mary Lou’s growth over the past year and their unwavering commitment to unmatched hospitality and unforgettable experiences, Reuben entrusted the trio with the resurrection of one of Miami Beach’s most coveted outposts, and Mary Lou’s Miami was born.
From transforming the historic Berto’s Bait and Tackle into Mary Lou’s flagship Palm Beach location, to bringing the concept out east – where Mary Lou’s Montauk became the most successful hospitality venture to date at 474 West Lake Drive – the driving forces behind Mama Hospitality possess the rare, adept ability to bring beloved cultural spaces of yesterday back to life through a modern lens. Grounded in a shared appreciation for considered hospitality and a keen understanding of nightlife’s ever-evolving landscape, their work bridges past and present with ease, and Mary Lou’s Miami will make no exception to this tradition.
The Muse:
An unapologetic force in the Palm Beach fashion scene, Mary Lou Curtis is the captivating muse behind the concept, and late grandmother of Co-Founder Alex Melillo. Her boutique, La Shack was celebrated along the East Coast for enchanting the likes of Jackie O., Elizabeth Taylor and Betty White with her bold, vibrant and feminine designs, cementing the iconoclast as the region’s resident style savant for decades. As the concept continues to expand, it remains centered around her influence and informed by her extraordinary life no matter the location – taking the scene by storm and inviting a new generation to expect the unexpected and revel in her ethos to “always have a sense of ridiculousness.”
The Venue:
Closed since 2020, WALL lounge at W South Beach was a mainstay in Miami’s nightlife and an integral part of the scene’s legendary lore – frequented by celebrities, a discerning Miamian crowd and a steady rotation of household global DJ names. With Mama Hospitality’s unprecedented ability to reanimate cultural spaces, and Mary Lou’s cult reputation as a modern-day Studio 54, Cervasio, Grubb and Melillo thought the concept the perfect arbiter to carry the torch and rekindle this storied space with their high-end cocktail lounge concept, offering world class design, hospitality and entertainment.
For the breakout residency, the Mary Lou’s team tapped Jason Volenec, and the team at Struct Productions, to reimagine the space into Mary Lou’s Miami. Fusing the brand’s signature surrealist visual identity with the kind of seductive glamour synonymous with Miami Beach, bringing Mary Lou’s to life in the space through an unmistakable coalescence of sensuality and sophistication. Drenched in animal print, rich patterns, and lush textures, this takeover will blur the lines between reverie and reality – a wink to the Mary Lou’s that’s garnered regulars like Michael Jordan, Venus Williams and Baby Jane Holzer. Mary Lou’s Miami arrives as a demonstration of the brand’s adaptability to any market, and showcases their unique aptitude to create atmospheres that are refined as they are indulgent, capturing the city that lies outside of its walls – a testament to Mary Lou’s unfettered success.
The Experience:
A nod to the space’s previous inhabitant, Mary Lou’s Miami promises to be anything but ordinary, you never know who or what you may experience there. Reimagining Miami’s unabashed extravagance and the legendary parties of W South Beach’s storied past, a night at Mary Lou’s Miami is never as it seems. As the energy builds from dinner to dancing and the music plays to a feeling, the atmosphere lends itself to spontaneity – the experience becomes like no other in the scene.
No matter its backdrop, one thing remains constant at Mary Lou’s – hospitality takes center stage. In Miami, the outpost will be home to Mary Lou’s Society , a private members club that elevates the brand’s flippant flair for the fabulous. A rejection of the traditional members club, Mary Lou’s Society doesn’t subscribe to the rules of the private club, rather, enhances the experience of their members through a blend of carefully curated perks, benefits, priority access and preferred reservations. The society creates a haven for a thoughtful, like-minded crowd: friends of the house, members of the local community, and those who move through Miami with care. Mary Lou’s Society moves beyond the who’s who, and into the art of belonging.
For the first time in the concept’s history, Mary Lou’s extends beyond its interiors to Miami Beach’s coveted shoreline, transcending its opulent design and immersive sensibility to debut Mary Lou’s Beach. Reserved specially for members of Mary Lou’s Society, it’s a beach experience by way of Studio 54. Complete with 30 chairs retrofitted with the Mary Lou’s aesthetic, towel service & setup, and impeccable food and beverage offerings, this rare and extremely coveted piece of real estate in the Miami scene is redefining the beach-going as we know it. Exclusive, unexpected and meticulously designed for those who seek the acme of seaside indulgence, here, sun-soaked leisure meets impeccable hospitality, and every detail is engraved with an effortless sense of luxury.
With an atmosphere that’s exclusive, but never performative, the venue will offer an idyllic setting for unforgettable moments with an exhilarating lineup of talent and a commitment to the very playful irreverence and sense of “ridiculousness” that Curtis herself would celebrate. Mary Lou’s Miami refuses to be just a destination for a night out, rather, it will be the defining piece of a new era in Miami nightlife.
Mary Lou’s Miami (credit: World Red Eye)
The Menu Concept:
The Mary Lou’s Miami menu is supper club fare designed for sharing – elevated small plates, luxe bites, and nostalgic classic reimagined for grazing between cocktails and dancing. The cocktail program is ‘classic with a wink’: impeccably made martinis, spirit-forward icons, champagne moments and subtle notes that nod to Miami without feeling literal.
Music & Programming:
Music programming evolves with the night. Evenings begin with a live band during dinner hours, setting the tone, before transitioning to a DJ-led late night as the energy lifts and the room moves fully into dance. Expect a rotating line-up of live musicians, vocalists and DJs spanning disco, funk, soul, house and modern classics – curated to feel immersive, unexpected, and unmistakably Mary Lou’s.
Opening Hours & Reservations:
Mary Lou’s Miami will be open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., and on Sunday 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. Reservations available here.
L-R: Topher Grubb, Alex Melillo, and Joe Cervasio (credit: World Red Eye)
###
About Mary Lou’s
Mary Lou’s is a refined cocktail lounge and entertainment epicenter reimagining luxury hospitality through a modern lens of irreverence, style, and indulgence. Conceived by acclaimed hospitality innovators Joe Cervasio, Topher Grubb and Alex Melillo, the concept is an homage to the golden era of ’70s and ’80s Palm Beach opulence-and to its namesake, iconoclast, businesswoman, and grandmother of co-founder Alex Melillo – Mary Lou Curtis – Mary Lou’s blends vintage charm with forward-thinking hedonism to create a lush escape that defies expectations. From its flagship in Palm Beach, to Montauk, and now, Miami, each outpost is a sensuous sanctuary where light fare cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and world-class entertainment converge under one roof – every detail, every interaction is designed to feel warm, polished, and effortlessly elegant. An evening at Mary Lou’s – much like the woman who inspired it all -promises to be anything but ordinary, as you never know who or what you may experience. Embracing a philosophy that leans into the absurdly fabulous, Mary Lou’s programming can best be described as “expect the unexpected,” reinforcing a commitment to playful irreverence and a sense of “ridiculousness” that Curtis herself would celebrate.
Welcome to Mary Lou’s. Nothing is as it seems. For more information, please visit www.marylouspb.com . You can also find Mary Lou’s on Instagram @MaryLousPB and @MaryLousMtk.
About Mama Hospitality
Mama Hospitality is the rapidly expanding hospitality and nightlife group based in Palm Beach, co-founded by Joe Cervasio and Alex Melillo. Built on the foundation that “Mama Knows Best,” Mama Hospitality doesn’t just establish brands and operate venues, they conceive cult-favorites – bridging cultures, honoring golden eras and celebrating community in a way that hasn’t been done before. From intimate supper clubs and electric nightlife, to inspired culinary adventures and world-class food, beverage and hospitality programs, the visionaries create moments with local love and global influence – connecting people through experiences that are timeless, enduring and not soon forgotten. Mama Hospitality is home to three Mary Lou’s outposts in Palm Beach, Montauk and Miami, with more exciting concepts on the horizon in 2026. Bringing their world outside of their walls, the group also curates off-site events, taking over some of the scene’s most beloved cultural moments like Art Basel, or high-impact moments like Palm Tree Festivals, as well as creating meaningful partnerships with coveted brands like Saint James and Alice + Olivia. Mama Hospitality’s approach sets them apart from the rest as they usher in a new era of nostalgic nightlife and reshape popular culture on a local and global level.
About W South Beach
Located on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, W South Beach is a premier oceanfront destination and one of the W brand’s most celebrated U.S. properties. Following a $30 million renovation in November 2020, the hotel boasts 357 enhanced guest suites, a 9,540-square-foot AWAY Spa, and two signature pools-WET and Mini WET-accompanied by five private bungalows and poolside cabanas. Unique amenities include South Beach’s only rooftop basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts at THE COURTS, as well as an impressive art collection featuring works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, KAWS, Rachel Feinstein, and more. Culinary offerings range from THE GROVE, a vibrant New-American eatery, and LIVING ROOM BAR, a nightlife hotspot, to MR CHOW, serving authentic Beijing cuisine. Guests can enjoy weekly curated experiences such as live music, cigar tastings, cocktail workshops, and a robust schedule of fitness and wellness programming presented in partnership with Ahana Yoga and Ahana Fit, ranging from Pilates and restorative yoga to high-intensity training and sculpt classes. A leader in conscious luxury, W South Beach has earned a 4 Green Key Certification for its commitment to sustainable hospitality, implementing energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-forward design. The property also features a state-of-the-art, 360-degree projection-mapped ballroom and three versatile meeting studios. A dedicated W Insider is available 24/7 to personalize every aspect of the guest experience. For more information, visit www.wsouthbeach.com or follow on Instagram @wsouthbeach.
About Struct Productions
Struct Productions is a multifaceted, global production company specializing in event production, experiential design, custom fabrication, millwork, and hospitality focused construction. With fully integrated divisions for each, Struct delivers projects from initial vision through execution. The company is an industry leader in temporary exhibition design and fabrication, with deep roots in the world’s leading art fairs, while also producing world-class cultural experiences across music, sports, technology, and hospitality. Struct’s permanent buildout capabilities include bespoke retail, hospitality, and food and beverage environments, as well as mass-scale custom fabrication. Trusted by some of the world’s most recognized brands-including Nike, Google, Hulu, Frieze, live Nation, and Formula 1-Struct Productions brings ideas to life at any scale.
NAKNEK, AK, UNITED STATES, January 29, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As a new year begins, Cama’i Community Health Center is encouraging families in Naknek, South Naknek, and King Salmon to take proactive steps toward better health by scheduling their annual checkups. In rural Alaska, where specialty care is limited and health challenges are often more difficult to manage, preventive visits are essential for early detection, long-term wellness, and access to vital care.
Cama’i CHC offers comprehensive, community-based care for all age groups—from infants and adolescents to adults and elders. Annual wellness visits help patients stay current on vaccines, monitor chronic conditions, receive lab work and screenings, and build strong relationships with their care team.
Whole-Family Care Across the Lifespan
Preventive visits at Cama’i CHC are tailored to each life stage and are designed to support holistic health.
Children and Teens:
• Well-child checkups and vaccinations
• Vision and hearing screenings
• Behavioral health assessments
• Sports physicals and puberty education
Adults (20–65):
• Blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose screenings
• Pap smears, mammograms, and colon cancer screenings
• Mental health check-ins and stress management
• Lifestyle and nutrition support
Adults 65+:
• Fall risk and cognitive screenings
• Bone density and hearing tests
• Medication and chronic disease reviews
• Advance care planning and support services
Addressing Mental Health and Chronic Conditions
Cama’i CHC also emphasizes the importance of mental health evaluations as part of annual care. Behavioral health screenings are offered during routine visits, with referrals for therapy, telepsychiatry, and community-based support as needed. The clinic also helps patients manage diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses through personalized care plans and local access to labs and medications.
Accessible, Respectful, Local Care
Cama’i CHC serves a vital role in the Bristol Bay region, offering sliding scale fees, insurance assistance, and telehealth options to reduce barriers to care. The clinic creates a nonjudgmental space where patients, regardless of how long it’s been since their last visit, are welcomed with dignity and respect.
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Indy Auto Man is advising Indiana drivers to prioritize safety amid unprecedented snowfall, offering $500 discount for those with vehicles deemed a total loss.
We can’t do anything about the snow, but all together we can make driving safer. And on our end, we are ready to make it a little more affordable for drivers with total loss to get back on wheels.”
— Victor Figlin, GM for Indy Auto Man
INDIANAPOLIS, IN, UNITED STATES, January 29, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Snowdrifts, icy side streets, and white‑out bursts have turned everyday routes into a real challenge across Indiana, and Indy Auto Man car dealer is asking drivers to slow down, stay home when they can, and put safety first.
With parts of central and northern Indiana digging out from more than two feet of snow, the dealership is reminding drivers that no errand, shift, or “super important” meeting is worth causing a crash or putting a human’s life at risk.
According to National Weather Service data, this January storm brought record snowfall and subzero wind chills to much of Indiana, with Indianapolis and nearby counties seeing the heaviest totals since 2014. These extreme conditions have resulted in treacherous road surfaces, reduced visibility, and a rising number of accidents across the state.
“Winter driving requires patience and respect for the other drivers in such difficult conditions,” said Victor Figlin, General Manager at Indy Auto Man. “We understand that Hoosiers depend on their vehicles to get to work or care for their families, but in extreme weather like this, the smartest decision is to be late but safer.”
Indy Auto Man, a well-known Indiana car dealership, has spent years helping Indianapolis drivers stay on the road, and the team knows that safe winter driving starts long before you turn the key. With so many crashes nowadays, the dealership is sharing a few winter driving habits everyone should keep in mind to stay safe: 1. Avoid unnecessary travel. If your trip isn’t essential, postpone it. Even if you’ve driven in snow for years, invisible ice under white‑outs can still surprise you. 2. Slow down and increase following distance. It can take several car lengths more to stop on a slippery surface, so give yourself more space between your vehicle and the one ahead. 3. Go easy on the pedals and steering wheel. Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly to maintain traction. Sudden movements can cause loss of control, even with stability systems active. 4. Clear snow and ice from your car completely. Before driving, remove accumulation from all windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof to prevent dangerous blind spots or snow from sliding onto yours and other vehicles. 5. Keep the gas tank at least half full. This prevents condensation from freezing in the fuel lines and ensures you have heat if you become stranded. 6. Check your tires. Proper tread depth and pressure are vital for grip. Schedule your switch to winter tires if you frequently drive during frost. 7. Know how to recover from a skid. If the back of your car starts to slide, look and steer where you want the car to end up, not where it’s drifting.
Above everything, Indy Auto Man is asking Hoosiers to stay off the roads during heavy snow emergencies. Getting there late is always better than not getting there at all.
Federal and state crash data show that snow and ice play a strong role in thousands of crashes each year in Indiana. According to data from the Indiana State Police and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), winter weather contributes to more than 16,000 traffic crashes each year in Indiana, with snow and ice factors in roughly 13% of all roadway incidents statewide. In just one recent winter storm, state police logged dozens of wrecks in a single afternoon around Indianapolis, including several cars that were total losses.
Indy Auto Man knows this storm has already upended a lot of lives, and the team is thinking of everyone who’s dealing with a wrecked car, injuries, or another loss. To help during recovery, the dealership is offering a $500 discount on any vehicle through February 2026 to customers whose cars were totaled in 2026.
“This is our way of supporting people who lost their vehicles and need to get back on wheels,” Victor added. “As a team, we’re going through this storm right alongside our customers, and we want to make it a bit easier to get back on the road after a total-loss accident.”
To claim the offer, drivers just need to bring paperwork from their insurance company showing the car was declared a total loss in 2026. The discount can be used on any vehicle on their Westfield and Indianapolis car lots, including a wide range of cars best suited for snow. Many models feature all-wheel drive, stability control, and advanced safety systems ideal for Indiana winters.
Winter Safety Tips for Drivers Who Must Be on the Road
For those who must drive during extreme conditions, Indy Auto Man recommends taking additional precautions to stay safe: – Stay informed. Check weather forecasts and road closures before departure. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security provides up-to-date travel advisories at in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory. – Prepare an emergency kit. Include blankets, water, high-energy snacks, a flashlight, jumper cables, a snow shovel, a phone charger, and first-aid supplies. – Keep headlights on. Visibility is critical, even during daylight hours in heavy snow. – Inform someone of your route. If you must travel, let a friend or family member know your departure and expected arrival times.
About Indy Auto Man Indy Auto Man is a pre‑owned car dealership with car lots in Indianapolis and Westfield that focuses on customer care and support. Serving thousands of satisfied customers across the state, the dealership offers a comprehensive selection of used cars, SUVs, and trucks from top manufacturers, all inspected and serviced by certified technicians. With a strong belief in community engagement and road safety, Indy Auto Man continues to support local initiatives that promote responsible driving and vehicle maintenance year-round.
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New Tourism Map and digital hub invite visitors to explore Macomb’s role in America’s story as planning begins for 2026.
To celebrate America 250… we’re inviting travelers to see Macomb not just as a place on the map, but as a setting where some the nation’s most interesting history has its roots.”
— Jock Hedblade, Executive Director of MACVB
MACOMB, IL, UNITED STATES, January 29, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As the nation commemorates America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia is proud to announce that Macomb and McDonough County, Illinois, will play a meaningful role in this once-in-a-generation celebration. The announcement coincides with the upcoming 200th anniversary of McDonough County, which was officially established on January 26, 1826, and the 100th anniversary of nearby Route 66, which was officially named in 1926.
Together, these milestones position Macomb and McDonough County as a destination where visitors can experience America’s story through authentic small-town history, culture, and community.
“To celebrate America 250 and McDonough County’s Bicentennial, we’re inviting travelers to see Macomb not just as a place on the map, but as a setting where some the nation’s most interesting history has its roots,” said Jock Hedblade, Executive Director of Macomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (MACVB). “This celebration provides the perfect opportunity to showcase that we are a destination—with deep history, one-of-a-kind experiences and attractions, and the latest resources today’s travelers and visitors want to plan an Unforgettable getaway.”
A Destination Worth Discovering
Located in Western Illinois, Macomb offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and hands-on experiences tied to the American story. Macomb is located near the historic Route 66, offering a natural stop on a Midwestern road trip—connecting travelers to the people, places, and stories that shaped a nation.
Visitors can explore:
Macombopoly, the World’s Largest Monopoly Game, played across Macomb’s historic Downtown Courthouse Square. The experience honors Macomb native Elizabeth Magie, creator of The Landlord’s Game—a 1904 invention that served as the foundation for what later became Monopoly. Through a custom mobile app, participants move through real-world spaces that mirror the game board, blending history, storytelling, and playful exploration while highlighting one of America’s most iconic cultural products.
Abraham Lincoln history, as Macomb and McDonough County are recognized through the National Park Service as Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Areas. Visitors can explore documented sites connected to Lincoln’s legal work, his 1858 Senate campaign, one of the first photographic images of the future president ever taken, and landmarks made in his honor, including the nation’s only Living Lincoln Topiary Monument, a roadside attraction which brings history into the public landscape.
Underground Railroad and Civil Rights history, which highlights McDonough County’s pivotal role in assisting freedom seekers traveling north and earned the county’s designation as a National Underground Railroad Network To Freedom Area. This legacy continued into the 20th century through C.T. Vivian, a Macomb native and key pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, who worked shoulder-to-shoulder with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Historic Downtown Macomb, centered around a traditional Midwestern Courthouse Square, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area features preserved 19th-century architecture, locally owned businesses, public art, murals and a famed Courthouse as a centerpiece that reflect the community’s history and character.
Music heritage, rooted in the legacy of saxophonist “Big” Al Sears, a Macomb native who performed with Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton, as well as other legends including Little Richard and Chuck Berry. His famed career reflects the region’s connection to early jazz through the foundations of Rock & Roll and is demonstrated annually at the Al Sears Music Festival in September.
A full overview of what visitors can experience can be found at www.visitforgottonia.com, including a curated list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Macomb, Illinois.
In conjunction with this announcement, Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia has released a new Tourism Map using tech from Wayward Travel, which is designed to help visitors begin planning future trips. While winter is not peak travel season, the map serves as a valuable planning resource—highlighting attractions, dining, accommodations, attractions, historic sites, and more throughout Macomb and McDonough County.
Visitors can find the Tourism Map, curated itineraries, and planning resources at www.visitforgottonia.com, reflecting the region’s dedication to welcoming guests in every season.
America 250 Hub Launches for 2026 Planning
To support the upcoming anniversary, Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia has also launched a new digital hub at www.visitforgottonia.com/a250, which will serve as the central resource for America 250 activities and events in Macomb. The site will feature historical context, attractions, self-guided experiences, and planning tools leading into and throughout 2026.
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and McDonough County’s Bicentennial, Macomb invites travelers to step into a destination where the nation’s past comes to life through authentic places, stories, and experiences.
For trip ideas, planning tools, and to explore America 250 in Macomb, visit www.visitforgottonia.com
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They describe their sound as “Texican rock & roll,” blending rock and roll with Texas blues, country, and Tejano influences.
Hailing from San Angelo, Texas, brothers Henry, Jojo, and Ringo Garza rose to national prominence in the early 2000s with their breakthrough album Los Lonely Boys. Their rise accelerated when a demo caught the attention of Willie Nelson’s nephew, leading to a Farm Aid appearance and recording sessions at Nelson’s studio.
The band’s self-titled debut featured the chart-topping hit “Heaven,” which reached No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart, cracked the Top 40, earned a Grammy Award, spent 76 weeks on the Billboard Top 200, and sold more than two million copies.
Los Lonely Boys’ impressive catalog includes “More Than Love,” “Senorita,” “Diamonds,” and “How Far Is Heaven.” Over the years, the band has collaborated with legendary artists including Carlos Santana and Willie Nelson, performed at iconic venues, and supported charitable causes worldwide. For tickets: visit soboba.com/entertainment or call (866) 476-2622. Show is 21 & over.
About Soboba Casino Resort:
The all-new Soboba Casino Resort property, opened in 2019, is nestled against the stunning backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, and is a premier gaming, hospitality, and entertainment destination located near San Jacinto and Hemet, California. Spanning 474,000 square feet across more than 200 acres, the resort features over 2,000 slot machines, a wide variety of table games, and a six-story hotel with 200 upscale rooms and suites. Guests enjoy multiple dining and bar options, live music, nightlife, and year-round entertainment featuring top national acts. Beyond the casino, amenities include the PGA-rated Soboba Springs Golf Course, 21 pickleball courts, and a robust calendar of concerts, comedy shows, and sporting events.
Owned and operated by the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians, Soboba Casino Resort blends cultural tradition with modern luxury, serving as both a community landmark and the Valley’s leading destination for gaming, relaxation, and world-class entertainment.
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Emerging biotech firm debuts “Science & Shield” initiative, bridging the gap between advanced medical research and immediate humanitarian relief for the Ozarks.
BRANSON, Mo., Jan. 27, 2026 / PRZen / Metavalis, a biotechnology innovator developing a proprietary Stealth Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) platform, is proud to announce the launch of its “Science & Shield” humanitarian initiative. To mark this milestone, the company has partnered with community organizers to host a massive winter aid event in Branson.
While Metavalis is pioneering a new generation of stealth delivery systems to tackle rare and challenging diseases, the company’s leadership maintains that advanced science must be paired with immediate community care.
“Our stealth LNP technology is designed to go where other treatments can’t, solving the hardest problems in medicine,” said Jordan Bekemeier, Founder and CEO of Metavalis. “But while we engineer solutions for the future, we also have to solve the problems right in front of us. That is why we are deploying resources today not just in the lab, but in the parking lot, handing out supplies to neighbors who are struggling.”
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST
Location: 993 Branson Hills Parkway, Branson, MO (Parking lot)
A Dual Layer of Support The event is a coordinated effort to provide comprehensive winter protection:
The Davis Family will be distributing a massive supply of winter coats, hats, and heavy weather gear to protect against the cold.
Metavalis will be distributing “Shield Kits” care packages containing non perishable food, first aid supplies (band aids, sanitizers), and hygiene essentials.
About Metavalis Metavalis is a biotechnology company focused on the treatment of rare and challenging diseases through its novel Stealth LNP platform. By engineering delivery vehicles that evade immune detection, Metavalis aims to unlock new possibilities in genetic medicine. The “Science & Shield” program represents the company’s commitment to protecting human life at every level from the cellular to the community.
For more information, visit the Metavalis website.
Contact Jordan Bekemeier (Founder & CEO) Metavalis (417) 243-9965 jordan@metavalis.com
A Cinematic Journey Told Through the People and Passion that Fuel Professional Baseball in Japan
LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, January 28, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — In a country where devotion to the game is measured in generations, Homecoming: The Tokyo Series arrives as a cinematic tribute to baseball’s enduring spirit and global soul. Coming to theaters nationwide February 23 and 24 with tickets now on sale and an exclusive clip released today, the documentary event from BD4, Supper Club, Fathom Entertainment, and MLB Studios journeys through Japan to reveal how America’s national pastime became a cultural art form shaped by ritual, discipline, and an unbreakable bond between sport and identity.
Homecoming: The Tokyo Series celebrates the intersection of culture and global sport, illuminating how the game unites beyond borders. Produced by Supper Club, the film explores how baseball mirrors Japan’s values of craft, discipline, and devotion, while revealing the emotion, pride, and artistry that define the country’s deep connection to the game. In a moment unlike any in modern baseball, Opening Day of the 2025 MLB World Tour also became a cultural homecoming as Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki of the Dodgers joined Seiya Suzuki and Shōta Imanaga of the Cubs— uniting fans across Japan in a shared celebration of pride, legacy, and national identity.
Directed and produced by EMMY® Award-winning filmmaker Jason Sterman, the vérité-style documentary offers an intimate, ground-level portrait of the people who make baseball a living tradition: Little League players and coaches, superfans, master craftsmen, journalists, and families watching from home. Through these perspectives, the film reveals how Japan infused the game with its own values and rituals, shaping a form of devotion rooted in discipline, pride, and daily practice. As the Tokyo Series unfolds, these human stories build alongside the anticipation and emotion of the games themselves.
Tickets for the Homecoming: The Tokyo Series are now available at Fathom Entertainment and participating theatre box offices (theatre locations are subject to change).
For Homecoming: The Tokyo Series artwork/photos, please visit the Fathom Entertainment press site.
Producers for Homecoming: The Tokyo Series are Jason Sterman and Brian McGinn; Executive Producers are Dan Silver, Nick Trotta, Jamie McBriety, and Sarah Regan.
ABOUT FATHOM ENTERTAINMENT Fathom Entertainment is the leading global specialty distributor of content to movie theatres. For more than 20 years, Fathom Entertainment has pioneered theatrical distribution of events and special engagements across various genres and formats, including feature films, episodic content, documentaries, concerts, and live events. Fathom consistently ranks among the top 10 theatrical distributors in North America, and distributes content to cinemas worldwide. Fathom Entertainment is owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC), Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), and Regal Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L). For more information, visit FathomEntertainment.com.
ABOUT MLB STUDIOS MLB Studios creates original content inspired by the stories and personalities of baseball. Its multi-platform slate spans film, television, audio and digital, drawing on MLB’s extensive media archive. Recent titles include the Emmy-winning The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox, The Turnaround, The Clubhouse: A Year with the Red Sox, Fight for Glory: 2024 World Series, Once Upon a Time in Queens, Moneyball and 42.
ABOUT SUPPER CLUB Supper Club is the independent production company founded by filmmakers Jason Sterman and Brian McGinn who are behind multiple award-winning films and series including Chef s Table, 13TH, Amanda Knox, Sketchbook and Wolfgang. They produced Olivia Rodrigo: driving home 2 u, as well as the official Stan Lee documentary for Marvel Studios. They recently released the Netflix documentary Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds and are currently in production on a documentary series with All-Pro athletes Blake Griffin, Ryan Kalil, Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle following their ownership of an American rules football team in Mexico’s professional football league. On the scripted front, Sterman and McGinn have served as Co-Executive Producers on the acclaimed Emmy-winning FX series The Bear.
ABOUT BD4 BD4 is the premium documentary label within Banijay Americas, dedicated to culturally resonant, audience-centered storytelling that bridges art, innovation and global impact. Under the leadership of Dan Silver, BD4 develops and produces original documentaries that redefine contemporary nonfiction, blending cinematic craft with cultural relevance.
Banijay Entertainment – Let’s Show the World Launched in 2008, content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment is home to over 130 production companies across 21 territories and delivers over 17,000 hours of content each year across the globe. An innovative creative leader, in 2024, it launched 250+ new non-scripted titles, an average 110+ scripted titles, 80 shows on streaming platforms, and produced 33 formats in more than 3+ territories. Imagining and delivering high-quality, multi-genre IP that was born locally and travels globally, the business offers the best stories told the best way, and represents some of the biggest global brands in the market including Survivor, Big Brother, Peaky Blinders, MasterChef, Let’s Play Ball, Rogue Heroes, Half Man, Mr Bean, Black Mirror, Falling, Football Island, and Shaolin Heroes among others.
Built on independence, creative freedom, collaborative entrepreneurialism, and commercial acumen, Banijay Entertainment and live events business, Banijay Live, operate under the direction of Chief Executive Officer, Marco Bassetti. It is under his leadership the collective businesses have grown to reach €3.348m in revenues and €528m in EBITDA for 2024.
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Nicole Marostica
Banijay Americas
+1 818-653-0304 email us here
Homecoming: The Tokyo Series Exclusive Clip
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New leadership anchors a curated two-night itinerary featuring immersive city experiences, elevated dining, and time to savor Rwanda’s capital.
With Kevin and Bernard at the helm, we are redefining that mindset, inviting guests to immerse themselves in Kigali’s culture, cuisine, and creativity”
— Sheila Kyarisiima, Owner
KIGALI, RWANDA, January 28, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Following its January 2026 opening to the international market, The Pinnacle Kigali, Rwanda’s newest luxury hotel and private Members Club, announces two key leadership appointments that signal a new chapter for the ultra-luxury retreat: Kevin Githinji Mbugua as General Manager and Bernard Garth Hartzenberg as Executive Culinary Director. Together, they will shape an immersive on-property experience designed to encourage global travelers to slow down, stay longer, and fully experience Kigali before journeying to Rwanda’s famed mountain gorillas. In addition, the property has joined XO Private and appointed Karoo Consulting for trade representation, strengthening its presence within the high-end travel advisor and luxury consortia community.
Perched high in the tranquil Rebero Hills—just 10 kilometers from Kigali International Airport—The Pinnacle Kigali is conceived as more than a city hotel. It is a serene urban sanctuary that bridges the vibrancy of Rwanda’s capital with the country’s extraordinary wilderness. With only nine exquisitely designed rooms, the property offers rare intimacy alongside world-class amenities, making it the ideal base for a curated two-night stay in Kigali.
“Travelers coming to Rwanda for gorilla trekking often treat Kigali as a brief transit point,” said Owner Sheila Kyarisiima. “With Kevin and Bernard at the helm, we are redefining that mindset, inviting guests to immerse themselves in Kigali’s culture, cuisine, and creativity while enjoying a deeply personalized luxury experience that feels both restorative and inspiring.”
— A Kigali Hospitality Leader Takes the Helm —
As General Manager, Kevin Githinji Mbugua brings over 15 years of leadership experience across East Africa and the Middle East, most recently serving as Hotel Manager at Hemingways Retreat Kigali (formerly The Retreat by Heaven). Known within Kigali’s luxury scene for his hands-on leadership, Kevin will focus on delivering a highly tailored experience for local and international VIP clientele, raising the bar for service and on-property programming while connecting guests to the city’s best restaurants, art, and cultural experiences.
— A Visionary Chef to Lead Four Distinct Dining Venues —
Joining Kevin is Bernard Garth Hartzenberg, newly appointed as Executive Culinary Director. With a global career spanning Cape Town, the Maldives, Tanzania, Cambodia, Bhutan, and now Rwanda, Bernard brings a refined and adventurous culinary perspective to Kigali.
He will oversee The Pinnacle’s four distinct dining concepts, each designed to make the hotel a true gastronomic destination:
-Afro-Asian fusion dining
-Pan-European and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine
-A refined teppanyaki experience
-A rooftop bar and restaurant with sweeping views of Kigali
Complementing the culinary program is an extensive wine cellar featuring more than 1,000 bottles, as well as intimate Champagne and whiskey lounges for private tastings and late-evening conversations. Beyond hotel guests, The Pinnacle is also home to The Pinnacle Members Club, a private social and business club for Kigali’s entrepreneurs, creatives, and cultural leaders. Members enjoy exclusive access to the property and reciprocal privileges at more than 40 global clubs through partnerships including Onda and Sonato.
— The Ultimate Two-Night Kigali Experience —
The Pinnacle Kigali is intentionally positioned as the ideal two-night city retreat before or after gorilla trekking, combining restorative time on property with curated explorations of Rwanda’s capital. The hotel’s team gladly arranges tailored city experiences, including visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt House Museum, and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, as well as deeper immersion in Kigali’s creative life through the Kigali Cultural Village and Niyo Arts Center.
Guests can also discover local culture via guided walks in Nyamirambo, a visit to Kimironko Market, or contemporary Rwandan design at Wear Made in Rwanda. For more relaxed moments, The Pinnacle can organize strolls along Imbuga City Walk or sunrise and sunset excursions to the Rebero and Mount Kigali viewpoints. Together with the hotel’s spa, infinity pool, rooftop dining, and private cinema, these curated experiences make a compelling case for spending at least two nights in Kigali before heading to the mountains.
The Pinnacle features nine individually designed guest rooms, each appointed with bespoke furnishings, deep soaking tubs, smart lighting, and curated pan-African art. The hotel’s amenities are extensive for its scale: a rooftop bar and restaurant overlooking the city, a saltwater infinity pool, a full-service spa and wellness center, and a modern fitness facility. For entertainment and relaxation, guests can enjoy a 21-seat Dolby Atmos private cinema, a four-lane bowling alley, a games lounge, and a library for quieter moments of reflection.
Guests traveling to Rwanda’s gorilla highlands can return to the property on departure day through a complimentary “Departure Amenity,” granting full access to hotel facilities to refresh, dine, or relax in the spa before their flight. Guests also have the option to book a Day Use rate for access to a private room before their departure.
In addition, each stay includes a suite of bespoke services and amenities valued at $1,400 for Room reservations and $1,800 for Suite reservations, based on double occupancy. These include VIP airport meet-and-greet and expedited clearance, private transfers to and from the hotel, and dedicated personal butler service. Guests also receive a 30-minute massage per person for Room reservations (60 minutes for Suite). Laundry and post-trek shoe care are also included as part of the experience.
Nightly rates start at $3,090, while day-use rates begin at $1,545. Reservations for 2026 are available at www.thepinnaclekigali.com or by email stay@thepinnaclekigali.com.
About The Pinnacle:
The Pinnacle Kigali is a nine-room ultra-luxury boutique retreat perched on Rebero Hill, overlooking Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Following a celebrated soft opening and the launch of its Members Club, The Pinnacle Kigali welcomed international guests in January 2026, positioning itself as one of East Africa’s most distinctive luxury destinations. The property redefines exclusivity in Kigali with world-class design, panoramic views, and curated experiences for a maximum of just 18 guests. Beyond its infinity pool, private cinema lounge, and four-lane bowling alley, the retreat features a spa and wellness sanctuary, fitness center, and courts for tennis, padel, and basketball. Culinary offerings include a teppanyaki counter and Afro-Asian fusion dining, complemented by a refined selection of international wines. Designed as both a sanctuary and a destination, The Pinnacle Kigali blends modern sophistication with Rwandan warmth, serving as the perfect city hotel pairing for those in Rwanda, whether visiting for mountain gorilla trekking or to immerse themselves in Kigali’s cultural vibrancy.
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Dr. Jo-Anne Bright to Present “Why Not Ys? Probabilistic Interpretation of Y-STRs”
Since its introduction in 2012, STRmix™ has proven to be a highly effective tool in producing usable, interpretable, and admissible DNA results in more than 700,000 criminal cases worldwide. ”
— Dr. Jo-Anne Bright
WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES, January 28, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — STRmix™ co-developer Dr. Jo-Anne Bright will be a featured speaker at the 78th Annual Scientific Conference of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, AAFS 2026, the largest annual meeting of the world’s forensic science community.
AAFS 2026, whose theme is “Back to Basics: The Fundamentals of Forensic Science,” is expected to draw thousands of attendees from all 50 states and more than 70 other countries to the New Orleans, LA Ernst N. Morial Convention Center from February 9-14.
Dr. Bright will present “Why Not Ys? Probabilistic Interpretation of Y-STRs” on Thursday, February 12. Her presentation will focus on the work the STRmix team is doing on the development of approaches to the interpretation of Y-STR DNA mixtures.
Dr. Bright is a Senior Science Leader within the STRmix team at the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science Limited (PHF Science), where she has worked since 1999. PHF Science is a New Zealand government research organization, of which STRmix Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary, founded to better serve international users of STRmix™ software.
The co-author of numerous papers and a regular speaker at major conferences around the world, Dr. Bright co-developed STRmix™ – sophisticated forensic software capable of resolving mixed DNA profiles previously regarded as too complex to interpret – with Dr. John Buckleton (PHF Science) and Dr. Duncan A. Taylor (Forensic Science South Australia – FSSA).
Since its introduction in 2012, STRmix™ has proven to be a highly effective tool in producing usable, interpretable, and admissible DNA results in more than 700,000 criminal cases worldwide. It has been particularly effective in helping to resolve violent crime and sexual assault cases, as well as cold cases in which evidence was originally dismissed as inconclusive.
When used with two other applications developed by the STRmix team – FaSTR™ DNA (which rapidly analyzes raw DNA data generated by genetic analyzers and standard profiling kits and assigns a number of contributors estimate) and DBLR™ (which allows forensic laboratories to undertake extensive kinship analysis, carry out rapid database searches, visualize the value of their DNA mixture evidence, and carry out mixture-to-mixture matches) – STRmix™ completes the full workflow, from DNA analysis to interpretation and database matching.
A new version of STRmix™, 2.13, was introduced in September 2025. Like its predecessors, 2.13 builds on previous versions of STRmix™ while adding significant new features including enabling forensic labs to set up multiple PDF report templates for the different report types and automatically generate more than one report at a time for a given calculation. STRmix™ 2.13 also includes new functionality in the Batch Maker module which allows analysts to set up replicate inputs for interpretations.
Dr. Bright received her Bachelor of Science degree at Victoria University of Wellington in 1998 and her Master of Science degree in Forensic Science at the University of Auckland in 2000. She was awarded her PhD in 2015 after studying advanced DNA profile interpretation topics.
Dr. Bright recently presented a day-long workshop, “Supporting Your Laboratory through Legal Challenges to the Use of Probabilistic Genotyping,” at the 36th International Symposium on Human Identification (ISHI).
STRmix – A global leader in forensic DNA interpretation, trusted by more than 120 forensic laboratories worldwide.
Ray Weiss
Pugh & Tiller PR
+1 4103035019 email us here
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