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Bobby Kotick’s lawyers sent me a bad email (and later apologized)
The message I had received was unsettling—for a moment. Then it was just really confusing. Back on January 20 of this year, at 5:15pm ET, I received an email with the subject line “Legal Correspondence re Bobby Kotick.” It was from the law firm Clare Locke, a firm I’d heard had been emailing reporters in recent years about their coverage of Kotick, the former, longtime CEO of Activision Blizzard. The letter was threatening. A lawyer from the firm introduced themselves as “defamation counsel to Bobby Kotick.” They issued a “demand” that I “correct” a Game File article I’d published a week prior. The article that had irked them had been a scoop of sorts. I’d written about a a 2022 lawsuit brought by a Swedish pension fund, AP7, over Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard. The suit wasn’t news, but I was first to review and report about Kotick’s extensive pushback to the fund’s claims. The pension fund’s core contention was that the sale had been rushed by Kotick to avoid the consequences of sexual misconduct scandals swirling around the company in 2021. (He’d not been accused of misconduct himself in those suits, to be clear.) As I wrote at the time, Kotick had denied the allegations of the rushed sale. Beyond that, Kotick used a December 2025 reply to the Swedish fund’s lawsuit to assign blame for those workplace scandals, the bad press and even for the AP7 lawsuit. I’d found Kotick’s arguments novel and newsworthy. Across nearly 3,000 words, I explained Kotick’s take: that a Swedish gaming company was behind the Swedish fund’s lawsuit (the Embracer group; they denied it); that the Microsoft-Activision deal was not rushed and was secured at what Kotick felt history had proven to be an optimal price for shareholders; that he believed a conspiracy of people at unions government agencies, PR firms and the media had spun up claims of widespread workplace misconduct at Activision Blizzard in 2021. The article gave context for all of this, letting readers assess the claims and weigh their credibility. As I’d later write to Kotick’s lawyers: I would be surprised if you could point to any news article about Bobby Kotick in the last five years that has spent more of its wordcount articulating his point of view. He is welcome to do an interview with Game File any time. Nonetheless, there they were in my inbox that Tuesday evening: Clare Locke, the law firm that secured a $787.5 million settlement from Fox News over false statements about voting machines. They were emailing me, threatening that failure to comply with their demand could support a claim of “actual malice,” a legal standard for libel. Unless… Unless, they said, I added a key paragraph to my article. This was a paragraph that I already knew Kotick’s lawyers had been emailing reporters about for at least a year, and it was a paragraph that was already in my article. The paragraph they wanted is from a 2023 settlement that California’s Civil Rights Department struck with Activision Blizzard. The settlement had closed a two-year-old lawsuit over alleged sexual discrimination at the game maker. The paragraph basically said that claims of systemic or widespread sexual harassment—or of execs like Kotick tolerating such behavior—had never been proven. I’d already seen proof that Kotick’s lawyers had pushed for the settlement’s language to be added to reports about 2021 sexual discrimination and misconduct lawsuits brought against Activision Blizzard by California and, separately, by the U.S. federal government (both suits were since settled). I knew that Kotick and his lawyers felt that the California settlement language should be mentioned in the same breath as references to an article he hated and denied, a November 2021 Wall Street Journal article claiming Kotick knew “for years” of sexual misconduct at Activision Blizzard. So, in the Game File article that Clare Locke emailed me about, in the interest of ensuring I was being fair and balanced regarding the person I was covering, I had already included the following excerpt from the California settlement [emphasis added in bold]: (Kotick has repeatedly pushed back against that November article in the Wall Street Journal, citing among other things, language from a court-approved consent decree as part of Activision’s 2023 $54 million settlement over the California suit. It states: “no court or any independent investigation has substantiated any allegations that: there has been systemic or widespread sexual harassment at Activision Blizzard [or] that Activision Blizzard senior executives ignored, condoned, or tolerated a culture of systemic harassment, retaliation, or discrimination.”) On the evening of January 20, I was incredulous. How do you write a four page legal threat about a week-old article and miss this? While scrambling to also make my kids dinner, I wrote a lengthy reply to Clare Locke’s lawyers, basically asking them to cool it with the threats and to start making sense. In part, I wrote: I hope you can understand why I am having trouble understanding what you’re asking for, when the statement you’re demanding to see in Game File’s article already appears in Game File’s article. Actual malice, as you know, refers to a reckless disregard for the truth. I’m not sure what your argument is when my article already states your client’s position. Here is where I should remind you, the reader, that I am an independent journalist. I publish on Substack, and have availed myself of the Substack Defender program that provides writers on the platform with legal support. But I’m no Wall Street Journal or New York Times, nor even IGN or GameSpot when it comes to such things as, well, having a legal department. There are more fun things for me to do as an independent journalist than writing back to a powerful law firm representing a very rich person. On the evening of January 20th, I was just trying to cook some pasta, broccoli and chicken nuggets for hungry twins. Nevertheless, I wrote back to them. Two hours later, I got a reply. Summarizing: A lawyer for Clare Locke said they’d “reviewed an incomplete version” of my article and they “apologize for the confusion.” (My guess: Someone didn’t read past the piece’s paywall, even though they’d had a full week to scrounge up the funds to do so. What I’d published above the paywall was balanced, as was what came after.)1 That was almost that, but something about the situation bothered me. The letter had been marked “confidential.” I hadn’t agreed to that, and I disliked the idea that powerful people on the beat that I cover would act like they could unilaterally control what I might tell my readers about. On the morning of the 21st, having already gotten the powerful law firm to back off, I oh-so-wisely re-approached them with just one more thing. I thanked them for clearing things up the night before but noted that I’d never agreed to keep their letter confidential. I’m all for agreeing with a source to keep things off the record, but that’s the thing. We have to agree. You can’t just declare it. I’m not bound by that. I wrote to Clare Locke’s lawyer and said, in part: I trust the matter is resolved. It was disappointing to have to spend less time with my kids last night in order to address your legal letter. Family time’s precious. I will add, for clarity’s sake, that, while your letter stipulated that it was confidential, I did not agree to those terms. In the future, should you wish to communicate with me confidentially, I am happy to agree to classifying our communication as “off the record” prior to the actual communication—as is standard with any professional journalist. The firm’s lawyer replied, not directly addressing the confidentiality issue but asserting that the matter was resolved. Why I didn’t write about this until now In May, I told this story on an episode of Simon Parkin’s podcast My Perfect Console, but I held off on sharing it directly with Game File readers. I held off to avoid stepping on the toes of another reporter, the journalist Mikhail Klimentov. He’d interviewed me in the spring of 2025 about an investigation he was working on regarding Bobby Kotick lawyers pressing the media to add the California settlement language to stories referencing the 2021 lawsuits. And about how some outlets had changed their stories and how some simply deleted them. Initially, I was a third-party source for Klimentov’s reporting, providing on-the-record context about the state of the games media. I’d heard about the letters but hadn’t put the time into pursuing the story. I thought it was interesting, and I was glad he was covering it. When the outlet that Klimentov was going to run his reporting in dropped the story, I began talking to him about potentially publishing his reporting on Game File. This was tentative. Then, in January, when I got my own Clare Locke letter, I told Klimentov that I didn’t think it would make sense for me to publish him, not with me now being part of the story. I had my own version of this situation to tell. But I wished him well and said I’d refrain from telling my tale until he could get his reporting out there. Last Friday, Klimentov finally ran his investigation, in a nearly 48-minute video report for People Make Games. It covers various Clare Locke letters, how media outlets reacted to them and what to make of all this. His video weighs the merits of Kotick’s request and looks at some of the articles that were changed (one of which had a glaring error). I highly recommend watching it: (Note, I did some editorial consulting for a People Make Games video last year but nothing to do with this report.) While many outlets haven’t left any public evidence that they updated their Kotick coverage at Kotick’s counsel’s request, at least one has. Back in October 2025, the mainstream outlet Reuters applied the most transparent article update I’ve seen. On the 3rd of the month, they published an article about the state of the Swedish pension fund’s lawsuit. Days later, they added this: In an October 7 letter sent after publication of this article, Kotick’s defamation counsel disputed claims of widespread harassment at Activision. “Not a single investigation, court finding, verdict, or ruling ever concluded that there was any merit” to the allegations of widespread harassment at Activision, Tom Clare and Nick Brechbill of Clare Locke wrote. I’ve never added a statement to my article on Game File, because none was needed. Not for fairness’ sake, nor to meet any demands of Kotick’s lawyers. I’ve nevertheless wanted to be transparent with Game File readers. If someone powerful is questioning my reporting, is threatening a lawsuit over it… if that threat is part of a pattern involving other games media outlets and if, in my case, the whole thing ran into a ridiculous ditch, I want you to know about it. I also share this as a real example of how I handle threats to Game File. I stand up for my own reporting, even when it’s not comfortable to do so. (In that same category of standing up for the work I do, I’ll point to an incident in late August. Asocial media post I published to X/Twitter regarding reporting I did about Take Two and GTA VI was hit by bogus copyright claim by a firm working for the publisher. I pushed back and got it reversed; even while a bigger games media outlet let themselves be censored. This is the other reason I’m sharing this story: To emphasize that dealing with threats from powerful people is one of the costs of covering the video game industry independently and as fearlessly as possible. This is where you come in. Your support, through free and paid subscriptions (sign up here!), can help me keep doing that. It can ensure that I’ve got the back-up I need. And it can help make fiascoes like this even less of a worry, so I can spend my evenings dealing with more important things, such as making sure I steam the kids’ broccoli just right. 1 That pension fund lawsuit I wrote about in January has all but gone away. In May, the fund and Activision Blizzard owner Microsoft agreed to settle. Lawyers for the fund brokered a $250 million settlement for former Activision Blizzard shareholders. In the settlement, the fund’s lawyers changed their rhetoric. Where once they’d questioned the meaning of the California settlement language, they adopted a version of it for themselves. Several weeks ago, while seeking to get a court to sign off on the terms of the settlement, they proposed their fee for their work in the case: $60 million.
Allegheny County’s paid parental leave approved by health board, moves to council
Allegheny County's Board of Health voted to approve a county-wide paid parental leave mandate Monday. The matter now heads back to County Council for deliberation.
JBU enrollment hits new record
John Brown University recently said its enrollment has risen to a record 473 new students. The incoming class includes a record 401 freshmen, 60 transfer students, and 12 students returning...
Joseph McCulloch hired to oversee business outreach in St. Clair County
Joseph McCulloch will return to the Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County as vice president of business services on Oct. 1.
Stony Brook University Professor Daniel Klein Receives a 2027 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Psychological Science (APS)
STONY BROOK, NY—September 28, 2026—The State University of New York (SUNY) at Stony Brook (Stony Brook University) Distinguished Professor in the Department of Psychology Daniel Klein has been awarded a 2027 Association for Psychological Science (APS). “Mentor Award.” This award recognizes APS members who have significantly helped foster the careers of others, honoring those who
Detroit Pistons Release 2026 Training Camp Roster
The Detroit Pistons have released their 2026-27 training camp roster, featuring Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson and John Collins, but not Jalen Duren.
In Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the GOP
Johnson is an ally of President Donald Trump and is in no apparent danger of securing a sixth term in Congress. But high prices, the war in Iran and the dim economic mood provide a snapshot of the grim outlook for the party in power.
Ohio economists wrestle with data centers and abatements
As the battle over data centers continues, even economic experts see mixed messages.
Lindsay Lohan officially reunites with “Mean Girls” director for new movie
Lohan will make the new project with her “Mean Girls” and “Freaky Friday” filmmaker, Mark Waters.
Ana Navarro tried using Matt Damon to set up Ben Affleck and Shakira after actor’s 2nd Jennifer Lopez split
“I want better for Shakira though. From a dating standpoint, he seems a little messy,” Navarro’s “View” cohost Alyssa Farah Griffin added.
As Methodist Healthcare seeks new trauma center, city leaders want to protect BAMC military mission
While leaders at Methodist Healthcare pitch a Level II trauma center, city officials say it could hurt the mission at Brooke Army Medical Center.
Politics and Film: American Factory (2019), Sept. 30
Come and join the Political Science Department on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 5:30 p.m. in Wehr Chemistry 002 for a showing of the film American Factory (2019), a documentary about a Chinese firm setting up a factory in Ohio. Refreshments are provided. Register online here.
City Council majority warns Johnson: No head tax in 2027 budget
Mayor Brandon Johnson is expected to deliver his 2027 budget plan in mid-October.
Experts spotlight financial strategies to advance sustainability
Financial strategies can advance sustainability goals, but only if environmental trade-offs can be measured and incorporated into decisions, a panel of experts said at a Climate Week NYC 2026 event co-hosted by the SC Johnson College and Cornell Atkinson.
John Mayer maps Sphere shows with innovative format
John Mayer will hit the Las Vegas Sphere in the spring for shows that showcase his music in three forms.
John Cusack sets the record straight on longtime rumor he turned down starring in ‘Breaking Bad’ as Walter White
A rumor has long persisted that John Cusack passed on playing Walter White on ‘Breaking Bad,’ and the ‘Say Anything’ actor admits he had to double-check if that was the case.
In Ohio, a Humbling Question For Senator Jon Husted: Are You the Incumbent?
Even some devoted conservatives know more about Sherrod Brown, the Democratic challenger, than the Republican incumbent, who needs the MAGA base to turn out.
GOP senator says buildings shouldn't be named after living politicians
Sen. John Kennedy says politicians should not have buildings named after them while alive. "I think that would settle a lot of this controversy."
GOP senator says buildings shouldn't be named after living politicians
Sen. John Kennedy says politicians should not have buildings named after them while alive. "I think that would settle a lot of this controversy."
Ohio gas tax holiday is easy politics. Paying for it isn't
Ohio's gasoline tax is 38.5 cents a gallon. I can do the math standing at the pump. Fifteen gallons, $5.78. That's the most a driver could save on a fill-up. It isn't a promise.
Ohio gas tax holiday is easy politics. Paying for it isn't
Opinion: Ohio gas tax holiday sounds great. The math doesn't.
Chilean Minister of Health elected President of PAHO’s 63rd Directing Council
Washington, D.C., 28 September 2026 (PAHO) – Chile’s Minister of Health, Dr. May Chomalí Garib, was elected today as President of the 63rd Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) during the opening session of one of the Organization’s governing bodies.Dr. Chomalí assumes the leadership of PAHO’s Directing Council for the Americas, succeeding Lisa Cummins, Minister of Health and Wellness of Barbados.
See inside Oheka Castle, a 127-room estate headed to auction
Oheka Castle, which helped inspire "The Great Gatsby," is the second-largest private home in the US — and soon it can be yours.
Speaker Mike Johnson on Trump-Xi agreements, AI regulation
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson joins FOX Business to discuss President Donald Trump's agreements with Xi Jinping. He also outlines his upcoming meeting with tech CEOs on AI oversight and analyzes a new Fox News Poll on the cost of living.
Ohio elections are secure ahead of midterms, officials say
The Buckeye State is under more intense scrutiny than usual this election, with several close races.
Karl Rove says John Cornyn, not Paxton, could beat Talarico
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Fund Run Glow Lights Up the Night to Support Local Health Programs
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A 72-year-old photo is revealing news clues about 'Meretneith,' a powerful woman who may have ruled Egypt 5,000 years ago
An ancient Egyptian woman named Meretneith had a lavish tomb, and on it her name was written the same way as a pharaoh.
In brief: '9 to 5' headed back to theaters and more
Pour yourself a cup of ambition and head out to your local movie theater. 9 to 5 is headed back to movie theaters for a special, weeklong run starting on Oct. 9. This will be a newly restored version of the classic satirical workplace comedy starring the late Dolly Parton. Additionally, Disney is set to donate net proceeds from each ticket purchased for the rerelease in the U.S. to the Dollywood Foundation in support of its flagship program, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Disney is the parent company of ABC News ...Off Campus star Ella Bright has found her next gig. The actress confirmed she will star opposite Mason Thames in the movie Narcs in a post shared to her Instagram Story. This marks Bright's first major studio feature role. The upcoming coming-of-age comedy will be made for Sony Pictures. While the movie's plot is being kept under wraps, it will serve as the directorial debut of John Phillips, the writer of No Hard Feelings, Good Boys and Dirty Grandpa ... TNCMS.AdManager.render({region: 'fixed-big-ad-top-asset', slot: 1, fold: "above"}); Did you miss Evil Dead Burn in theaters? Not to worry. The film is set to make its global streaming debut on HBO Max on Oct. 2. Souheila Yacoub, Tandi Wright, Hunter Doohan, Luciane Buchanan, Erroll Shand and Maude Davey star in the film that was directed by Sébastien Vaniček ...Copyright © 2026, ABC Audio. All rights reserved. Thank you for reading kmaland.comAt KMA, we attempt to be accurate in our reporting. If you see a typo or mistake in a story, please contact us by emailing kmaradio@kmaland.com.
New UMSOM Research Shows Promising Results for Health Care Professionals Using Ketogenic Diet Therapy to Treat Mental Illness
Specialized high-fat, low carbohydrate diets, known as ketogenic metabolic therapy, are showing promising therapeutic benefits for certain mental illnesses in emerging research. Now, a new study from researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s Maryland Psychiatric Research Center (MPRC) shows that an immersive training program can improve health care provider confidence in using a ketogenic dietary treatment plan for their patients.
In GOP Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the party in power
SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) — The GOP's “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out in different ways across U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district — from steakhouse servers getting a tax break on tips to a community center where people line up for a free hot lunch as SNAP benefits are being cut.
In Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed
Legislation the GOP called its “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out different ways in Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district.
In GOP Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the party in power
Legislation the GOP called its “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out different ways in Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district. Steakhouse servers are getting a tax break on their tips, but there's a...
In GOP Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the party in power
Legislation the GOP called its “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out different ways in Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district.
In GOP Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the party in power
Legislation the GOP called its “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out different ways in Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district.
In GOP Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the party in power
The GOP's “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out in different ways across U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district — from steakhouse servers getting a tax break on tips to a community center where...
In GOP Speaker Mike Johnson's district, the political mood is mixed for the party in power
Legislation the GOP called its “Big Beautiful Bill” is rolling out different ways in Speaker Mike Johnson’s home district.
John Blackwell Is Going To Be Popular With His Teammates
Sounds like John Blackwell is going to be well-liked by his Duke teammates.
How do Ohio Indian Americans feel about Vivek Ramaswamy?
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Shelby County commission divided early; Cohen pushes for Trump impeachment
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E.l.f. jams to second music album under entertainment marketing arm
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Columbus hospitals are spending billions on buildings. See what's new in 2026
All four health systems have repeatedly pointed to central Ohio's population growth as a key consideration in their construction over the years.
Long-Time Columbus Blue Jackets Goaltender Lists House For Sale
Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins’ future has been in doubt for quite a while, and now there’s another piece to the complicated puzzle.Earlier this week, Brian Hedger of the Columbus Dispatch reported that the 32-year-old goaltender had listed his home in New Albany, Ohio for sale. The 6,026 square foot, 5 bedroom home was […] The post Long-Time Columbus Blue Jackets Goaltender Lists House For Sale appeared first on HEAVY.
Donald Trump’s Warm Zohran Mamdani Meetings Come With a Political Catch
President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani walked out of Gracie Mansion together after an hour-long sit-down. They also traded compliments in front of cameras even though their poli...
The Boyz's New signs with Only New Entertainment
New debuted as a member of The Boyz, which now operates under 78 Records following a contract dispute with its previous agency.
Ohio farmers are getting crushed by our politicians’ failure to fight for us
I’m Joe Stimmell. I am a lifelong resident of Ashland County and farmer of more than 20 years, where I raise 25 head of beef cattle and farm about 700 acres of corn, soybeans, and small grains with my...
Commentary: Ohio farmers are getting crushed by our politicians’ failure to fight for us
I’m Joe Stimmell. I am a lifelong resident of Ashland County and farmer of more than 20 years, where I raise 25 head of beef cattle and farm about 700 acres of corn, soybeans, and small grains with my brother and uncle. I am unaffiliated with any party or candidate. I’ve been through tough times, […]
Newcastle eye highly-rated Morocco international Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal
The Magpies are tracking Rennes’ breakout defensive star as they plot a long-term backline overhaul, facing stiff competition for the imposing Mohammed VI Academy graduate.
Sen Kennedy says no living politicians should have buildings named after them after Trump's moves
Sen. John Kennedy has proposed barring living politicians from having buildings named after them as Trump pushes to rename the Kennedy Center.
Phillies Broadcaster John Kruk Gets Postseason Assignment
It took 162 days, but the Philadelphia Phillies were able to clinch their spot in the playoffs. They’ll be the No. 6 seed, just barely making it in the field, which means they’re opening with the Atlanta Braves, who earned the No. 3 seed.It’s also a time when the games are going to move to […] The post Phillies Broadcaster John Kruk Gets Postseason Assignment appeared first on HEAVY.
Around the Big Ten: Dylan Raiola shines after vicious hit on Dante Moore
Sports writer Connor Krumme looks at each Big Ten school after most of them made their yearly football conference debut. He looks at Ohio State, Oregon, USC, Washington, Maryland and more as they prepare for the full conference slate and the College Football Playoffs.
John D. Rockefeller Is a Cautionary Tale for Today’s Business Titans
The oil tycoon was celebrated as a pioneer before the public turned on him.
TVXQ's Max Changmin and 2NE1's Minzy announce solo music releases
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Juwan Johnson makes two trips to the end zone
New Orleans Saints TE Juwan Johnson has eight grabs, two TDs in loss to Raiders
Newly Identified Frog-like Creature Named by Student Scientists After Their Moms
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Taylor Swift debuts ‘Patient Zero’ music video at VMAs starring Dakota Johnson and Colin Farrell
The pop star and actress play women who have dated the same man — who secretly poisoned both of them the whole time.
Taylor Swift premieres music video for ‘Patient Zero’ at the VMAs
Dakota Johnson and Colin Farrell star in this track off the encore edition of Swift’s 12th album, “The Life of a Showgirl.”
Travis Etienne Injury Update is Key News for Saints
Travis Etienne hasn’t gotten his New Orleans Saints career off to a great start. It might be getting worse in Week 3. He appears to have sustained an injury. While the Saints were in the midst of throwing four touchdowns to tight ends (two to Juwan Johnson, two to Noah Fant), Etienne left the field […] The post Travis Etienne Injury Update is Key News for Saints appeared first on HEAVY.
Chamber hosts Women in Business luncheon - Sent-trib
FINDLAY — The Ohio Star Quilters of Findlay will meet on Monday at 9:30 am at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1701 Tiffin Ave.
Quentin Johnston finishes with 40 yards
Los Angeles Chargers WR Quentin Johnston snags three passes in Week 3
WHO recognizes healthy, innovative cities across the Western Pacific Region
Nine Healthy City champions from across the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region received special recognition at an awarding ceremony during the 11th Global Conference of the Alliance for Healthy Cities in Sydney, Australia.The WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific has presented the Healthy Cities Recognition Awards every two years since 2004 to celebrate innovative and impactful city-led initiatives that improve the health and well-being of urban populations.Eight cities received awards for their best practices, and one National Forum received the WHO Regional Director’s Special Award in recognition of its long-standing leadership in advancing the Healthy Cities movement.Awardees were selected through a rigorous evaluation process and recognized for demonstrating measurable, innovative and sustainable approaches to health challenges faced by cities.Remarking on the significance of the awards, Dr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control at the Regional Office, said that, “There is no single blueprint for a healthy city. What works in one context may need to be adapted to another. But by sharing our experiences, including what worked, what was challenging, and what we learnt along the way, we can help one another move faster and further.”Award-winning cities and initiativesThis year's awards recognize outstanding city-led initiatives that have demonstrated measurable impact, innovation and sustainability in advancing health initiatives for urban populations.Baguio City (Philippines) – Data for equity: informing action, improving healthDr Donnabel Tubera-Panes, City Epidemiologist – Medical Officer IV of the Health Services Office accepted the award on behalf of Baguio City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisBaguio City was recognized for developing a pioneering Livability Index that provides village-level data across all 128 barangays (villages), enabling evidence-based planning and more equitable allocation of resources. By integrating community participation and institutionalizing the index within city planning and budgeting processes, the city has demonstrated how data can drive action to reduce health and social inequities.Eunpyeong-gu (Seoul, Republic of Korea) – Communities living in vulnerable situations: advancing health equity through community engagementVice Mayor Honourable Ahn Hyoung Jun accepted the award on behalf of Eunpyeong-gu. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisEunpyeong-gu was recognized for its inclusive health equity programme supporting vulnerable populations, including isolated older adults and LGBTQI+ communities. Through peer-led community networks, social cooperatives and inclusive service design, the district has strengthened access to care, promoted social inclusion and advanced community ownership of health initiatives.Madiun City (Indonesia) – Adapting and mitigating climate-related crises: building heat resilience and preventing flood-related health risksMs Yuni Dwi Purwani, Secretary General of the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies, accepted the award on behalf of Madiun City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisMadiun City was recognized for its SUPERMIE (Sustainable Public Environmental Management Initiative) – a community-based environmental governance model that addresses urban flooding, climate resilience and environmental sustainability. The initiative contributed to reductions in flood-prone areas, greenhouse gas emissions, diarrhoeal disease and dengue fever, while at the same time improving food security through neighbourhood food gardens. The programme has already been replicated in 15 cities and regencies across Indonesia.Macao Special Administrative Region (China) – Protecting communities from tobacco and alcohol-related harms: tackling commercial drivers of riskDr LO Iek Long, Director of the Health Bureau, Macao SAR, China accepted the award on behalf of Macao. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisMacao SAR was recognized for implementing a comprehensive and integrated approach to tobacco and alcohol control. Through legislation, monitoring systems, enforcement, public awareness campaigns and multisectoral partnerships, the programme has strengthened protection against major risk factors for noncommunicable diseases and established a model that is highly transferable to other urban settings.Phnom Penh Capital City (Cambodia) – Safe, active and health-enabling transport: advancing health and reducing inequities in urban mobilityH.E. Khoung Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh Capital City accepted the award on behalf of Phnom Penh Capital City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisPhnom Penh received the award for its Safe School Zone Project, which combines infrastructure improvements, speed management, enforcement, education and stakeholder engagement to protect children and communities. The initiative has demonstrated measurable reductions in crashes and vehicle speeds while providing a scalable model for safer urban mobility across the country.Quezon City (Philippines) – Transforming food environments: addressing policy, market and urban design drivers of health and nutritionMs Jirah Asa M. Sideco, Chief of the Nutrition Section of the Quezon City Health Department accepted the award on behalf of Quezon City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisQuezon City was recognized for its public food procurement policy that promotes healthier diets through government-run institutions and feeding programmes. Supported by strong policy frameworks and monitoring systems, the initiative improves access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations while serving as a benchmark for other local governments.Samarinda City (Indonesia) – Preventing violence and promoting gender equality: transforming urban systems, norms and spaces Mrs Rinda Wahyuni, Chairperson of Samarinda Healthy City Forum accepted the award on behalf of Samarinda City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisSamarinda City was recognized for its multisectoral approach to preventing violence and advancing gender equality. Responding to local evidence on violence against women and children, the city has positioned violence prevention as a public health priority, bringing together health services, schools, social welfare institutions, law enforcement, civil society and community leaders to strengthen prevention, reporting, survivor-centred support and legal protection. Through inclusive policies, community engagement and sustainable city financing, Samarinda has developed a locally owned and scalable model for creating safer, more equitable and inclusive urban communities.Singapore – Age-friendly cities: transforming systems to bridge generations for a healthier tomorrowDr Tan Weng Mooi, Director, Integrated Health Promotion, accepted the award on behalf of Singapore. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisSingapore received recognition for its Healthy Precinct Framework, which translates national healthy ageing priorities into neighbourhood-level action. The initiative integrates preventive care, social support, service coordination and age-friendly environments while actively engaging older persons, caregivers and community organizations. Its expansion across multiple precincts demonstrates its scalability and long-term sustainability.WHO Regional Director’s Special AwardNational Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies (Indonesia)Ms Yuni Dwi Purwani, Secretary General of the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies, accepted the award on behalf of the National Forum. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisThe WHO Regional Director's Special Award was presented to the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies (FKKSI) in recognition of its long-standing leadership in advancing the Healthy Cities movement across Indonesia. As a national platform bringing together local governments, communities, academia and civil society, FKKSI has played a critical role in promoting collaboration, capacity-building, knowledge exchange and advocacy. Its efforts have strengthened and institutionalized healthy urban development nationwide and established a model for multisectoral engagement in the Region. Healthy Cities for allThe 2026 Healthy Cities Recognition Awards highlight how cities can lead transformative action on health by addressing climate change, inequity, ageing, nutrition, mobility, social inclusion, violence prevention and the commercial determinants of health. The recognized initiatives demonstrate that local governments, communities and partners can work together to create healthier, safer and more resilient urban environments for everyone. As urban populations continue to grow across the Western Pacific Region, WHO remains committed to supporting cities in advancing health, equity and sustainable development through the Healthy Cities approach and the Alliance for Healthy Cities. ###Note to editorsSince 2004, the WHO Healthy Cities Recognition Awards have provided a platform for cities to share innovative and effective approaches to improving health and well-being. The awards recognize achievements in areas including climate resilience, healthy ageing, health equity, gender equality, tobacco and alcohol control, urban mobility, nutrition and data-driven governance. In 2026, more than 150 submissions were received from cities and local governments across the Western Pacific Region. The titles and affiliations of awardees are presented as they were at the time the photo was taken.______________For more information, or to arrange media interviews, contact: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific: wprocom@who.int
Sen. John Fetterman speaks with Major Garrett about midterms, political future
Art that serves others: How a Harnett County muralist is making a lasting mark in her community
Van Goat Studios, which has been operating since 2019, has allowed Johnson to express herself and reflect the spirit of local communities through murals. Photo provided by Elyse Johnson.Elyse Johnson of Van Goat Studios in Dunn wants to spread her artistry and make a lasting mark in her community. Van Goat, which has been operating since 2019, has allowed Johnson to express herself through murals and decorating electrical boxes in the urban landscapes of North Carolina. On top of traditional mural painting, Johnson offers what she calls “portable murals,” an option tailor-made for structure owners who do not want to commit to a design for their wall.“A contractor builds a framed piece of wood, and then they can frame the ‘mural’ onto the wood, whether it’s into their building, whether it’s interior or exterior,” Johnson said. The beginnings of Johnson’s journey into establishing Van Goat Studios reflect the teachings she wants artists to take away today: everything is a learning opportunity. When she started Van Goat, she shared it was a joint venture with a business partner. “I mainly did that because I didn’t feel like I was ready to go and do this on my own,” Johnson said. Her business partner eventually dropped out of the project, deciding she wanted to pursue other forms of art. That is when Johnson was thrust into growing her business on her own during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I had built up my confidence enough to go out and reach new heights,” she said. “And I was probably one of the few that benefited from COVID.”The moment presented a silver lining for Johnson. One of her first projects was a Farmers Day mural for the town of Coats. “When COVID-19 hit, Coats was not able to hold their annual festival, so they had a little bit of savings. They decided they wanted to do something for their community without getting anyone sick,” Johnson said.From there, word of mouth spread. Now, Johnson has an organic way of approaching projects. “Like a lot of muralists, if I feel inspired by a building, I will just go up and talk to that building owner and tell them a mural is something they should consider,” Johnson said. But above all, Johnson says she wants art to be accessible to everyone. Johnson said she is trying to stick to projects that benefit “the little guys.” “I’m not trying to go for a project in downtown Raleigh to get the eight-foot-tall building,” Johnson said. “I’m not trying to go to those major cities and get those huge buildings for two reasons: one, I don’t want to go that high; two, my passion really lies with the small guys.” But due to financial constraints and the material reality of art commerce, that requires open communication, she added. “I don’t want to just snowball you with this huge price, and then you just shut me down because it wasn’t what you were thinking,” Johnson said. “At the same time, I am an advocate for the arts, so I’m not going to give you a $10,000 mural when you’re only going to pay $5,000.” There is a healthy balance in explaining the artistic process and working with clients and the surrounding community, Johnson said.“Your municipality invested this, and this is why they invested this, and this is how it’s going to help and improve your community,” she noted. “Same thing when I’m talking to a small business. You asked for me to come at you with this that is outside your budget. How do we make this still your same exact goal, but within your budget lines?” Johnson also provides lessons to aspiring artists. She does so with a mission: how do you master the balance between being a great artist and a competent business owner? “We still do art lessons, but I’m also going to give you business scenarios,” she noted.One of the scenarios she has come up with for her students is a T-shirt competition. “The kids have to think about ‘okay, I can’t just draw whatever I want on a T-shirt. I need to think about what colors Miss Elyse likes. What does Miss Elyse’s logo look like? What would Miss Elyse like?’” Johnson said. “So the design needs to be around that kind of concept.” As Johnson looks toward the future of Van Goat Studios, she is thinking of time, longevity and succession. Johnson is a new mom, which she said has shaped how she sees the future of the studio.“I still want my name and my business out there continuing, so that when my daughter is of age and she can be more independent, then I can be out there doing more and more,” Johnson said. “I would love to get a student to pass this on to, or an intern. I would love for this business to be passed on to the next generation and let them go.”
Trump to travel to Ohio to stump for Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican faces competitive challenge
President Donald Trump plans to visit Ohio on Saturday in support of Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican tries to fend off a competitive challenge from Democratic former Sen. Sherrod Brown.
Trump to travel to Ohio to stump for Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican faces competitive challenge
President Donald Trump plans to visit Ohio on Saturday in support of Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican tries to fend off a competitive challenge from Democratic former Sen. Sherrod
Trump to travel to Ohio to stump for Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican faces competitive challenge
President Donald Trump plans to visit Ohio on Saturday in support of Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican tries to fend off a competitive challenge from Democratic former Sen. Sherrod Brown.
Trump to travel to Ohio to stump for Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican faces competitive challenge
President Donald Trump plans to visit Ohio on Saturday in support of Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican tries to fend off a competitive challenge from Democratic former Sen. Sherrod Brown.
Trump to Travel to Ohio to Stump for Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican Faces Competitive Challenge
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump plans to visit Ohio on Saturday in support of Sen. Jon Husted as the Republican tries to fend off a competitive challenge from Democratic former Sen. Sherrod Brown. The trip to Vandalia, just north of Dayton, is scheduled to come after stops in Oklahoma on ...
John Healey to promise 'new age of industrialisation' for UK in conference speech
The chancellor will unveil policies aimed at boosting British shipbuilding in his speech to Labour's annual conference on Monday.
Johua Kimmich admits Germany ‘way off’ the top
Germany needs to find itself again. But it has not done so in over a decade now.
‘Goonies’ cast were Ke Huy Quan’s first friends: ‘They didn’t treat me like an outsider’
Ke Huy Quan says his fellow ‘Goonies’ stars — including Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen, and Corey Feldman — were his first real friends.
Fetterman Says Democratic Senate Takeover Is Possible, Puts Off His Own Political Plans
Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman said Democrats could retake the Senate in the midterms, but he's holding off on his own political plans.
New Laird Law Expands Access to Long-Acting HIV Prevention Medicine
Official website of Senator John Laird, representing California Senate District 17.
John Oliver Mocks Paramount Boss David Ellison and His 'Business Daddy' Larry
John Oliver joked about David Ellison's potential control of HBO.
Republican senator criticizes White House for taxpayer-funded Trump ads
John Kennedy pushes back against such spending as pro-Trump ‘public service announcements’ air before midterms
John Fetterman accidentally calls himself a 'lifelong Republican' at Texas Tribune Festival
John Fetterman accidentally called himself a "lifelong Republican" at the Texas Tribune Festival, sparking laughs before clarifying his Democratic ties.
South Texas Health System (@stxhealthsystem)
0 likes, 1 comments - stxhealthsystem on September 27, 2026: "Support Recovery, Strengthen Your Future: South Texas Health System, the Rio Grande Valley's largest integrated healthcare network, is seeking passionate physical therapy professionals to join its nationally recognized inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation teams at STHS McAllen, STHS Edinburg and STHS Heart. Physical therapists play a vital role in helping patients regain strength, mobility and independence following illness, injury or surgery. If you're passionate about empowering patients on their road to recovery, STHS offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact every day. Join a collaborative team dedicated to exceptional patient care and helping individuals return to the activities and quality of life they value most. Ready to move your career forward? View current openings and apply today at the link in our bio.".
“SNL”’s Ashley Padilla debuts ‘totally normal’ take on Trump aide Natalie Harp in cold open
“She’s like the girl from ‘Obsession,’ but blonde,” James Austin Johnson as Trump quips.
Facing up to the threat that Reform poses to our democracy
Letters: Readers respond to an article by John Harris in which he urges Labour to offer hope and change
Last Of Us Game Stars Laura Bailey And Ian Alexander Cast In New HBO Roles For Season 3
Laura Bailey and Ian Alexander, who voiced Abby and Lev in the games, join John Goodman in HBO's Last of Us season 3, in new roles.
Kennedy suggests ‘rule’ that no politician should have a building named after them while alive
GOP Sen. John Kennedy (La.) said Sunday that public officials should not have buildings named after them while they are alive, as President Trump fights to rename the Kennedy Center after himself.&…
‘All of Us’ Block Party brings health care, resources directly to local residents
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Nearly 70 organizations brought health care and other resources directly to Columbus’ Near East Side Saturday as part of the second annual “All of Us” Block Part…
Phone-free school year: How schools are adjusting to new law
This summer, a new California law required all school districts in the state to have policies either limiting or prohibiting the use of cellphones in school.
Mohamed Diawara’s Knicks contract deserves a real rotation test
The Knicks brought Mohamed Diawara back on a multiyear contract after their championship season. Now comes the part that matters […]
Mohnen’s Darboy Family Restaurant in Appleton sold after 33 years in business
APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – After 33 years in business, the long-time owners of Mohnen’s Darboy Family Restaurant have announced the sale of their beloved community eatery. In a heartfelt s…
Senator Tillis: President Trump ‘made a colossal mistake’ by not supporting Senator John Cornyn
No. 7 Buckeyes beat Illinois 42-19
Another home game, another record for Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith.
Arch Manning discusses close wins against Tennessee, Ohio State
Arch Manning discusses winning close games at Tennessee and Ohio State.
In Focus: Wisconsin Community Services talks about societal reentry from jail
Clarence Johnson, president and CEO of Wisconsin Community Services, shared more about the mission behind the organization.
Sen. John Fetterman says it's "entirely possible" Democrats take back Senate, says "let's revisit after the midterm" on his plans
Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania said that it's "entirely possible" his party wins control of the Senate in the midterm elections, while leaving the door open on his own political future.
Power & Politics: NJ Lt. Gov. Caldwell resigns following probe into allegations of sexual harassment, state ethics violations
Republican State Sen. Declan O'Scanlon, former State Rep. John Wisniewski and Republican Rep. Jefferson Van Drew join the show.
Power & Politics: NJ Lt. Gov. Caldwell resigns following probe into allegations of sexual harassment, state ethics violations
Republican State Sen. Declan O'Scanlon, former State Rep. John Wisniewski and Republican Rep. Jefferson Van Drew join the show.
Labour is nostalgic for two-party politics. That cosy, simple time is over
Our fragmented political model will endure for the foreseeable future – and Reform will benefit from it until Burnham learns that cooperation is key, says Guardian columnist John Harris
Martin McDonagh Says ‘Wild Horse Nine’ Is His Most Political Film
Martin McDonagh revisits his past at Zurich Film Festival and explains why John Malkovich starrer 'Wild Horse Nine’ is his most political film yet.
‘Science-based approach essential to address environmental hazards’
TEHRAN – Environmental health plays a key role in preventing hazards and safeguarding public health; addressing environmental health challenges requires scientific, evidence-based decision-making, enhanced intersectoral collaborations, and benefiting from the country’s scientific capabilities, Health Minister Mohammad-Reza Zafarqandi has stated.
The Shade Room (@theshaderoom)
3,982 likes, 285 comments - theshaderoom on September 26, 2026: "Deiondra Sanders is servin' baddie who means business in her @FashionNova ✨ #FashionNovaPartner".
Nationwide Children’s adds dental care, expands access to West High School health center
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Nationwide Children’s Hospital has expanded its school-based health center at West High School, increasing its capacity and making services available year-round to stu…
Nursing Homes Have Become Last-Resort Housing
Finding the right care for older adults facing homelessness could be part of a broader rethinking of long-term care, writes Michele Cohen Marill.
Winner and Loser of the Week in Florida politics
Marva Johnson earns her bonus, Kevin Anderson faces resignation calls, and Fabián Basabe keeps digging deeper.