Mayor Mamdani, DYCD, New York City FC and City in the Community Launch New Sports and Technology Challenge for Young New Yorkers
New York City Sports and Technology Innovation Challenge will engage hundreds of young people through the City’s Summer Youth Employment Program
Students will design projects exploring the future of sports, technology and climate-resilient infrastructure
NEW YORK — As New York City celebrates the success of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), New York City FC and City in the Community today announced the launch of the New York City Sports and Technology Innovation Challenge, a new citywide initiative that will introduce hundreds of young people to careers at the intersection of sports, innovation and technology.
Offered through the City’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) the challenge brings students together in teams to develop ideas that expand access to soccer, improve public infrastructure and imagine the future of sports in New York City.
Over six weeks, participants will collaborate with industry leaders from government, education, technology and sports.
The challenge is part of the Mamdani administration’s broader effort to ensure the World Cup leaves a lasting legacy for New Yorkers. In recent weeks, the administration has announced plans to transform 50 school blocks into World Cup field days, add 4,000 hours of play on City athletic fields, open five soccer pitches overnight throughout the tournament and expand free opportunities for young people to play the game.
“The World Cup is inspiring our young people, not just to perfect their stepover but to imagine the next great sports stadium, design soccer fields that combat climate change, build new platforms to connect their friends to matches, and much more,” said Mayor Mamdani. “This new Summer Youth Employment Program will help create the next generation of architects, engineers, and scientists right here in New York City, kicking off lifelong careers that will change the world long after the final whistle blows.”
“SYEP is about helping young people see what is possible for their future, and especially in their city” said DYCD Commissioner Sandra Escamilla-Davies. “Through this partnership with New York City FC and City in the Community, SYEP participants will gain exposure to emerging industries, build workforce-ready skills, and apply their creativity to challenges that matter in their own neighborhoods. We are excited for them to be involved in such an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime event with the World Cup this summer.”
“New York City FC’s commitment to this city extends far beyond the pitch, and City in the Community is central to how we deliver on that commitment,” said Jennifer O’Sullivan, New York City FC COO. “Investing in young people is also an investment in the future of our industry. This Challenge gives SYEP participants the chance to build skills, think entrepreneurially, and explore real career pathways in sports, technology, live events, and community impact. We are proud to work alongside Mayor Mamdani and DYCD to help ensure this historic moment creates lasting opportunity for young New Yorkers.”
“City in the Community exists to turn the power of soccer into meaningful opportunities for young New Yorkers,” said Bailee Eaglin, Executive Director of City in the Community. “This challenge builds on our experience bringing together youth development, curriculum-based learning, academic and community partners, and workforce pathways. Our goal is to ensure young people across all five boroughs have the tools, access, and support to help shape the legacy of this moment.”
Funded and designed by City in the Community, the nonprofit foundation supported by New York City FC, and delivered in partnership with DYCD, the initiative began on July 6 and will run for six weeks.
Participants are working with New York City FC professionals and faculty from New York University’s (NYU) School of Professional Studies to explore topics including Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, the globalization of sports, artificial intelligence and careers across the sports industry.
Students will tackle projects such as:
- Smart Stadium of the Future: Design a stadium and transportation system that allows more than 50,000 fans to travel to games efficiently and sustainably.
- Sports for All: Create a digital platform connecting young people and communities to sports opportunities across New York City.
- Innovative Community Spaces: Design inclusive, climate-resilient public spaces that expand access to recreation and athletics.
Students may also propose projects of their own in coordination with their SYEP providers.
The New York City Sports and Technology Innovation Challenge is designed to become an annual SYEP initiative that connects young New Yorkers to internships, paid work experience and long-term careers in sports, technology, live events and community development.
SYEP is the nation’s largest youth employment program, providing paid summer work experiences and career exploration opportunities for young people across New York City. Research has linked participation in SYEP to improved school attendance, stronger workforce outcomes and lower rates of incarceration. A 2021 study found participation reduced the likelihood of arrest by 17% overall and felony arrests by 23%. Participants are also significantly less likely to be incarcerated in New York State more than five years after completing the program.
Playing soccer can score major goals for heart and brain health
Football fever can mean real-life benefits as soccer can help people of all ages get moving and stay healthy, according to American Heart Association
NEW YORK, June 25, 2026 — As the FIFA global championship captivates fans this summer, the American Heart Association says the excitement can translate into real-life health gains—because playing soccer is a powerful way to improve heart and brain health at any age.
“Staying active is essential for both heart and brain health, and soccer delivers a unique combination of endurance, strength and high-intensity exercise,” said Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, MBA, President of the New York City American Heart Association Board of Directors and Director of the Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York City. “The best part is that anyone can do it—no gym or expensive equipment required. From casual games to solo practice, soccer is an easy and engaging way to stay healthy at any age.”
Dr. Bhatt noted that, unfortunately, most people aren’t moving enough. According to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics, only 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 5 youths 6 to 17 years of age in the U.S. meet national recommendations for being physically active.
Physical activity is an important component to overall heart health by helping to: manage weight, lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
Regular exercise can also: improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety and lead to better sleep.
“With only a fraction of adults and youth meeting physical activity guidelines, we’re setting the stage for higher rates of heart disease and other chronic conditions,” said Dr. Bhatt. “These diseases develop over decades, but research shows that starting healthy habits early can change that trajectory. Soccer is uniquely accessible—it can be played anywhere, by anyone, and at any skill level.”
Soccer also offers the kinds of physical activity that can improve brain health, by boosting aerobic capacity and oxygen and blood flow to the brain.
In addition to its physical benefits, soccer offers important mental and social advantages. The team-based nature of the sport fosters connection, camaraderie and emotional well-being.
“Consistent physical activity plays a critical role in cardiovascular health by improving heart function, enhancing blood flow and reducing key risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and excess weight,” said Dr. Bhatt.
Throughout the championship, fans in New York are also getting the opportunity to learn a powerful, lifesaving skill. The American Heart Association is bringing its Nation of Lifesavers™ mobile CPR unit to the FIFA Fan Festival in Central Park. At the unit, people will be able to practice Hands-Only CPR, learn how to recognize cardiac arrest to respond quickly and build confidence to take action in an emergency. The initiative supports the Association’s goal to double the survival rates of cardiac arrest by 2030 by empowering more people to act in an emergency.
“Cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere, often at home with someone you love. Knowing Hands-Only CPR empowers you to act quickly and potentially save a life before emergency responders arrive.”
This summer, the American Heart Association encourages fans to turn inspiration into action—get moving, get playing and take a step toward better health. Learn more at Heart.org.
Mayor Mamdani, Governor Hochul, Gotham FC, New York City FC Announce Gotham FC Will Make Etihad Park in Queens its New Home Beginning in 2028
Reigning NWSL champions will play at New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium, bringing world-class women’s soccer to Queens
Renderings for new stadium can be found here
Builds on Mamdani administration’s efforts to make soccer, including Gotham FC and World Cup matches, accessible for all New Yorkers
NEW YORK – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Governor Kathy Hochul, Gotham FC and New York City FC announced today that Gotham FC — the two-time, reigning National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) champion — will make Etihad Park in Queens its permanent home beginning in 2028.
The move will bring one of the world’s premier women’s soccer clubs to New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium — creating a permanent home for professional women’s soccer in the five boroughs, giving supporters a world-class matchday experience, and putting three million people within a 75-minute bus, subway, or Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) ride of Gotham FC.
Today’s announcement builds on the Mamdani administration’s commitment to making the world’s game accessible to every New Yorker. Over the last year, the administration has expanded affordable access to Gotham FC and 2026 FIFA World Cup™ matches, created new opportunities for young people to play soccer in every borough and invested in public spaces where New Yorkers can gather to enjoy the game together.
“From Sam Kerr’s legendary four-goal comeback to Midge Purce’s championship-clinching heroics, Gotham FC has given us some of the greatest moments in women’s soccer. Now the next electrifying chapter of that story will be written in New York City,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Bringing Gotham FC to Queens means that the young girl kicking a ball around Jackson Heights, Jamaica or the South Bronx will be able to take the train and watch some of the best players in the world in her own city. It means more customers for neighborhood restaurants, more visitors filling our hotels and, most importantly, a permanent home for world-class women’s soccer in the greatest city in the world.”
“New York State is home to some of the world’s greatest sports teams, and we couldn’t be more excited to officially add the reigning NWSL Champions, Gotham FC, to our ranks,” said Governor Hochul. “Now residents and visitors alike will be able to experience our premier women’s soccer team right here in New York City at our first-ever soccer specific stadium — giving players and fans the world-class experience they deserve.”
“From day one, our ambition has been bigger than championships,” said Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, Gotham FC Governor. “We are building one of the world’s most iconic clubs and helping define the future of women’s sports. Our move to Etihad Park reflects that ambition, and we are deeply grateful to New York City FC for their vision and commitment to helping make this historic moment possible. World-class athletes deserve world-class environments, and this move allows us to keep raising the standard for our players, supporters and the game itself. Gotham FC is showing what is possible when you invest boldly in women’s soccer, and we are committed to building an experience worthy of the fans who have believed in this club from the beginning.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Gotham FC to Etihad Park as both of our clubs enter an exciting new chapter. New York City FC and Gotham FC share a belief in what soccer can mean to this city, and with Gotham FC making their home alongside us in what will be a truly world-class soccer stadium in Queens, we have an extraordinary platform to help shape the future of the game in New York City together,” said Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO. “Etihad Park will be a place where the world’s game comes to life in the world’s city for our players, our supporters, our communities, and the next generation of fans. We are proud to call Gotham FC our partner and excited for the future we will build together.”
“The Queens Classic is exactly the kind of world-class sporting event that showcases New York City’s unmatched energy and brings visitors and New Yorkers together,” said NYC Tourism + Conventions President & CEO Julie Coker. “As the global spotlight remains on our region during an extraordinary summer of soccer, opportunities like this help introduce new fans to the excitement of women’s sports while reinforcing New York City as one of the world’s premier destinations for major sporting events.”
The agreement reflects a shared commitment by Gotham FC, New York City FC and the Mamdani administration to establish New York as a global capital for professional soccer. For Gotham FC, the move follows the club’s first continental title and a second NWSL championship in three seasons; for New York City, it comes amidst the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ and the Mamdani administration’s efforts to expand access to soccer to every New Yorker. Earlier this year, Mayor Mamdani and Gotham FC released 1,000 tickets priced at $5 each to the club’s May 9th match against the Boston Legacy, offering the public affordable opportunities to watch professional women’s soccer.
Opening in spring 2027, Etihad Park will be New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium as well as the country’s first all-electric outdoor sports venue. Privately funded by City Football Group and being built entirely with union labor, New York City FC will begin playing at Etihad Park during the 2027 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with Gotham FC joining in 2028. In addition to MLS and NWSL matches, the stadium is expected to host international soccer matches, Olympic soccer matches in 2028, concerts and other major events, further elevating New York City’s status a global soccer capital.
Gotham FC supporters can place season ticket deposits beginning at $28 today at gothamfc.com/nyc for Gotham FC’s inaugural season at Etihad Park in 2028. Existing season ticket members who renew for the 2027 season will retain priority access, while new supporters can join the list beginning today. Additional information on seat selection, premium hospitality and season ticket member benefits will be announced in the coming months.
The 25,000-seat stadium will feature dedicated spaces for Gotham FC, including a permanent locker room and club merchandise throughout the venue. Fans will also enjoy the Five Boroughs Food Hall, featuring gathering spaces and local small businesses representing each borough.
Gotham FC supporters will get their first look at the team’s future borough next Wednesday during The Queens Classic at Citi Field, when Gotham FC faces the Washington Spirit in a rematch of the NWSL Championship before an expected crowd of more than 40,000.
This summer marks the club’s largest infrastructure advancement to date, delivering on its ambition to become one of the world’s leading women’s soccer clubs and bolster New York City’s future.
“To the reigning NWSL champions, welcome home. We couldn’t be prouder to call Gotham FC our newest neighbors here in Queens, as we continue to bring world-class soccer to The World’s Borough and its families who maintain an unmatched passion for the beautiful game,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. “With Gotham FC’s coming move to Etihad Park, we can’t wait to see generations of young girls across Queens grow up idolizing Rose, Tierna, Bruninha and the countless inspirational superstars that will come after them. In bringing yet another elite professional sports team to Queens, the soccer capital of the country, we have scored a remarkable goal for New York City and the sport of soccer.”
“Gotham FC’s move to Etihad Park is another milestone in the continued evolution of our league,” said Jessica Berman, National Women’s Soccer League Commissioner. “As our clubs create permanent homes that are both world-class and easily accessible, they are strengthening the connection with existing supporters while making it easier for new fans to experience the excitement of the NWSL firsthand. This announcement reflects Gotham FC’s ambition, reinforces New York’s role as one of the world’s premier soccer markets, and demonstrates how infrastructure can help grow the game for generations to come.”
“Moving into Etihad Park is a defining moment for this organization. Our players compete at the highest level in the world every single time they step on the pitch, and our matchday will reflect that standard,” said Yael Averbuch West, Gotham FC President of Soccer Operations. “Access to dedicated facilities, permanent infrastructure and a modern stadium built for soccer in the world’s most famous city creates the environment our players need to sustain and build on their excellent on-field performance.”
“Etihad Park and this historic agreement provide us with a foundation to further establish Gotham FC as a premier global club. This is a pivotal moment that drives our commercial expansion, fan and partner engagement, and our capacity to create a matchday environment befitting our elite players and supporters,” said Mark Zarthar, Gotham FC President of Business Operations. “The support of the New York-New Jersey community has propelled this club to two championships, and this is the world-class matchday experience our players, fans and partners deserve.”
“This is a very important moment for Gotham FC because it reflects the commitment of the club to keep investing in the team and in the future we are building together. The players and staff work incredibly hard every day to create a team that competes at the highest level. For the club, for the players and especially for our supporters, Etihad Park is going to bring another level of energy,” said Juan Carlos Amorós, Gotham FC head coach. “We want it to become a place where our fans can push us, where people feel proud to come and where Gotham FC can continue showing what this team and this club can be.”
“Our move to New York City is a statement by our club leadership that they know we have something special at Gotham FC, and they are committed to ensuring we have the resources and environments to support our continued success,” said Tierna Davidson, Gotham FC defender and club captain. “That means everything to the players at this club, and we are looking forward to playing in a world-class stadium and sharing this next chapter with our supporters.”
“Being a part of this club’s journey for more than a decade, I know how much this moment means. So many people have poured everything into helping Gotham FC get here, from the players and staff to the supporters who believed in us long before the championships and the big moments,” said Mandy Freeman, Gotham FC defender and longest-tenured player. “To know where we started and see where we are going now is really special. This move reflects what this club has become, and I’m most excited for everyone who has been with us every step of the way to experience it with us.”
“This club has such a special group of people and such amazing fans, and this move, along with the new training center, is a big step in our journey together,” said Rose Lavelle, Gotham FC midfielder and leadership group member. “As a player, you want to play in world-class facilities that feel like home, and it’ll be really exciting to do that in New York City at Etihad Park.”
“From the earliest days of planning Etihad Park, our vision was for it to be more than the home of New York City FC,” said Marty Edelman, New York City FC Co-Vice Chairman. “We set out to create a venue that would bring the world’s game to the world’s borough and showcase soccer at the highest level, including women’s soccer. Welcoming Gotham FC to Etihad Park is an important step in delivering on that promise and building a world-class home for the game in New York City. We are grateful to Carolyn and the entire Gotham ownership group for their partnership in making this moment possible, and we look forward to working together to elevate the game, inspire the next generation, and shape the future of soccer in New York City and beyond.”
New York Knicks Capture 2026 NBA Championship
By Sports Staff Writer
NEW YORK, June 14, 2026 — After more than five decades of waiting, the New York Knicks are once again NBA champions.
The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94–90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, winning the series 4–1 and capturing their first NBA championship since 1973. The historic victory ended a 53-year title drought and sparked celebrations across New York City.
Led by Finals MVP Jalen Brunson, the Knicks displayed resilience and determination throughout the postseason. Brunson delivered an unforgettable performance in the championship-clinching game, scoring 45 points and leading a fourth-quarter comeback that sealed the victory.
The championship run was fueled by key contributions from Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and the rest of a roster that embraced the toughness and grit long associated with New York basketball.
As the final buzzer sounded, fans poured into the streets of Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island. Cheers echoed through neighborhoods as generations of Knicks supporters celebrated a championship many thought they might never see.
The victory places the 2025–26 Knicks among the most beloved teams in franchise history, joining the championship squads led by legends such as Walt Frazier and Willis Reed in 1970 and 1973.
For lifelong fans, the championship represents more than just a basketball title. It is the reward for decades of loyalty through rebuilding seasons, playoff disappointments, and near misses. The phrase “New York Forever” has become a rallying cry for a city finally celebrating basketball’s ultimate prize.
A championship parade is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans as New York honors a team that brought the Larry O’Brien Trophy back to Madison Square Garden and restored the Knicks to the top of the basketball world.
Finals Result: Knicks 4, Spurs 1
Finals MVP: Jalen Brunson
Championships: 1970, 1973, 2026
New York is once again the center of the basketball universe. 
POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE KIDS CELEBRATED SUMMERTIME FUN AND GAMES AT BRONX REGIONAL DAY
On July 25th, PAL’s New South Bronx Center, at 991 Longwood Avenue, hosted the Police Athletic League’s Bronx Regional Day, an exciting day of games, music and community, for young people in grades K-5 and their families. Over 70 children participated in the high-energy event, featuring classic favorites — 3-Legged Races, Tug of War, Relay Races and more. Children lined up for fresh popcorn and snow cones while others held dance competitions with PAL staff and NYPD Community Affairs. PAL’s Bronx Regional Day also included an educational component with the FDNY’s simulations truck teaching children about home fire safety. PAL’s Bronx Regional Day builds strong connections between kids, the community, and first responders—through teamwork and friendly competition. Bronx Regional Day was hosted by PAL in partnership with the NYPD and FDNY, with support from NYC’s Department of Youth & Community Development.
Founded in 1914, New York City’s Police Athletic League is a nonprofit organization that provides recreational, educational, cultural and social activities to 15,000 children and teens annually. For more information, please visit www.palnyc.org.
YOUNGSTERS FROM THE BRONX CELEBRATED POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE PLAYSTREETS SUMMER OPENING 2025
On July 9th, the Police Athletic League held its city-wide opening of Summer Programs with hundreds of children from PAL centers in the Bronx enjoying summertime fun and games, including double dutch jump rope, nok hockey, hopscotch, face-painting, crafts, sports, board games, rock climbing and more, at PAL’s Harlem Center. Carlos Velazquez, Executive Director of the Police Athletic League, welcomed guests, PAL youngsters and families, and honored PAL’s partnership with the NYPD. Special guests at the ceremony included NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch, NYC Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan, and FDNY Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker.
Bronx youngsters cooled off under a fire hydrant opened by the distinguished guests and took part in traditional street games and activities provided by the NYPD and FDNY.
The PAL kids were excited to try the portable rock-climbing wall and gaming truck provided by the NYPD. In addition, young people had hands-on access to an FDNY fire truck, and FDNY activities included CPR and first aid simulations and a visit from a Canine Unit dog and FDNY robot dog.
Youngsters from the Bronx spoke about the event and what PAL meant to them.
Fatima, 8, from PAL’s Webster Center in the Bronx said, “I enjoy the water day. It’s so hot out, so it’s fun and refreshing. I like to dance, make a lot of friends and laugh. My counselors, Ms. Susan and Ms. Amaya, are the best!”
Destiny, 9, from the Bronx said, “I’ve been coming to PAL for about three years. My favorite counselor is Ms. Amaya. They always have fun things to do like trips, lots of art, and drawing. I’d come back next year. It’s really cool to be here.”
PAL Summer programs take place throughout the five boroughs, providing Playstreets, sports leagues including Cops & Kids teams and day camps. In PAL Summer Day Camps, children develop their creativity through arts and crafts, explore the city on trips to museums and other sites, enjoy sports activities, and learn from a wide range of educational, recreational and cultural arts specialists. PAL Playstreets is the signature summer program of the organization. Playstreets program uses parks and other public areas throughout New York City to give children safe, supervised places to play. Playstreets operate at locations in all boroughs, Monday through Thursday, 11a.m. to 4 p.m., and are free to all New York City children.
Founded in 1914, New York City’s Police Athletic League is a nonprofit organization that provides recreational, educational, cultural and social activities to 15,000 children and teens annually. For more information, please visit www.palnyc.org.
Kid Scoop Celebrates the Newest Federal Holiday—Juneteenth
by Vicki Whiting, Founder, CEO, and Creative Director, Kid Scoop
The history of America is complex. Our founding fathers wrote of freedom for all in principle, but in reality, many people lacked basic freedoms. We know that the Constitution of the United States originally did not permit voting for women, white males without property ownership, and Black Americans which included millions of enslaved men and women. Constitutional Amendments and other laws corrected these omissions, but there is still work to be done to ensure full freedom and access to the blessings of American democracy.
As a former third-grade teacher and mother of two, I created Kid Scoop to bring civic engagement and historically accurate information to children as they learned to read and write—two skills that were denied to enslaved men, women, and children. The joy of reading is discovery. All children deserve to experience the magic of reading. The future of our nation depends on an informed and well-educated electorate.
In that spirit, Kid Scoop has created this Juneteenth page for children—and entire families. We offer this to share in the miracle of American democracy, a system constantly changing with opportunities to right the wrongs of the past and present.
We suggest that your newspaper sponsor this special historical page as professional newspapers are the basic element of a free society.
Winter Olympics Family Fun!
Looking for a special way to honor all the fathers and father-figures in your town? Have children create Father’s Day flags! Kid Scoop shows children how to create these celebratory flags while they practice reading, writing, and vocabulary skills. Publish the flags the kids create!
Any caring man in your community can provide fatherly caring and supportive guidance to young girls and boys. These special men also include grandparents, the local candy store owner, an uncle, a veteran, brothers, volunteer coaches, spiritual leaders, and other men in the lives of children in your town.
There are many prospective sponsors for weekly Kid Scoop pages that throughout the year celebrate dads, moms, grandparents, and amazing leaders. Sponsors include family retailers, education non-profit organizations, and service clubs. Each sponsor’s logo will appear prominently at the bottom of each Kid Scoop page, communicating their support of families and education.
Kid Scoop has been appearing in hundreds of community newspapers for nearly 40 years. Created by a third-grade teacher, Vicki Whiting, Kid Scoop connects young readers to their local newspaper and provides lively reading and math activities that teachers often use for homework assignments. Kid Scoop may look like just plain fun. Actually, each Kid Scoop activity has an important learning purpose. Did you notice the “Standards Links” in small letters? These are important required skills that teachers focus on.
Kid Scoop offers complimentary help in finding sponsors to its newspaper subscribers. Contact Dan “Daddy” Dalton at 909-793-9890 or patiodan@kidscoop.com … and Happy Father’s Day!
Winter Olympics Family Fun!
Use your pencil to ski down the Cortina mountain! Practice math with 10 Olympics skating and skiing pictograms! Have fun with 2026 Winter Olympics geography, history, and vocabulary, too!
Reach out to women who lead foundations at local corporations and local women’s groups. Education-minded Kid Scoop sponsors are looking for ways to motivate children to read and write more—especially after learning loss during the years of COVID. National reading scores have dropped significantly. Future news readers are at risk!
This specific Kid Scoop page is designed to inspire children to write. Every week Kid Scoop brings high-interest, educationally-sound reading and writing (and math, history, biography, science and geography) activities to extend the school day. Teachers know children need to read much more than just during the school day. The more kids read, the more they succeed.
Revenue today and into the future is at stake. To learn more about Kid Scoop, contact Dan “Patio” Dalton at patiodan@kidscoop.com or 909-793-9890.
Katherine G. Johnson—Making History for Women and African American Culture
Discover Obscure Facts About American Presidents
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Which president had the most children?
What sport did our 16th president excel in?
Final Installment of New York State Parks’ Interactive Digital Timeline Looks to the Future of New York State Parks and Historic Sites
Educational tool to be used as a lasting legacy of
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today announced the release of the final installment of the interactive, online timeline, ‘Blazing a Trail: A History of New York State Parks and Historic Sites’, completing a project begun in 2024 in celebration of New York State Parks’ Centennial. This comprehensive project employs photographs, illustrations, paintings, documents, archival footage, maps, and narrative to tell the story of the development of the New York State Parks system. A banner exhibit based on the digital timeline will launch in fall 2025 and travel to locations across the state.
“This final installment of ‘Blazing a Trail’ is a powerful statement of our goals as an agency,” said OPRHP Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. “Throughout this inspiring journey, we’ve explored the effect of major historic events like the Great Depression and World War II on the development of our system. Here, we share how our agency intends to contribute to shaping the future: uniting New Yorkers by interpreting Our Whole History; protecting our public lands in the face of climate change; meeting the recreational needs of new generations. I’m excited to announce the completion of this ambitious project and look forward to furthering our mission in the future.”
The eighth and final installment of ‘Blazing a Trail’ discusses
‘Blazing a Trail’ is the first time the agency has told its own story in a comprehensive narrative shared with the public. Fragments of the story of New York State Parks and Historic Sites had been told in visitors centers, on interpretive trails, at conferences, and in state publications. ‘Blazing a Trail’ brought them together using a format available to anyone with an internet connection, to learn about the people who shaped the system and to view New York State and American history through the lens of New York’s state park system. As the enduring legacy of the Parks Centennial celebration, it will be a useful tool for years to come.
The project is organized into eight eras of system development. In the first era, users learned about the drive to conserve natural spaces during the rapid development of the late 1800s and the shift in focus from preservation to recreation. In the second era, they met the leaders who created and developed the system of parks and historic sites we know today. The third era took users into the Great Depression, New Deal, and World War II years, exploring how this challenging time for the nation became a watershed moment for the park system with the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps, and examining the role of the park system during World War II. In the fourth era, users got a look at the seismic societal shifts in the post-war period through the lens of the park system, which developed more recreational opportunities to accommodate the pent-up demand from wartime rationing, the needs of the burgeoning population of young families, and the advance of technology that made modern car camping popular. The fifth era explored the maturation of the system in the 1960s and the passing of the torch from Robert Moses to the Rockefeller brothers. The sixth era covered the close of the twentieth century, with trends towards urban and linear parks and an increased interest in historic preservation sparked by the nation’s bicentennial. The seventh era traced the ups and downs of the twenty-first century, as the system faced budget cuts due to the dot-com bust and the Great Recession, but forged strong community partnerships with advocacy groups and Friends groups to help weather the crises and prevent park closures.
‘Blazing a Trail’ was one of several initiatives celebrating the Parks Centennial. Others included an exhibit in the New York State Capitol’s State Street Tunnel; the Share Your Story project; and the launch of the documentary “From Land to Legacy,” produced by PBS affiliate WMHT. Throughout 2024, many parks and historic sites in the system hosted special Centennial events, including guided hikes and paddles, parties, exhibits, and talks.
About New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
New York State Parks Announces Community Historic Preservation Grant Awards
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) announced today that six local governments will receive a combined $180,000 in grant funds to support community historic preservation projects. This funding comes from the federal Certified Local Government (CLG) program.
“The Certified Local Government program is a critical asset for communities working to strengthen their historic preservation efforts,” said OPRHP Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser. “These CLG grants provide funding for targeted training, community education and expanded historic research – helping communities better understand and confidently use preservation resources.”
Established by a 1980 Amendment to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the Certified Local Government program is a nationwide initiative that directly links a community’s historic preservation goals to state and federal preservation programs. Each State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) administers the CLG program through services designed to help communities protect, preserve, and celebrate their historic resources. Grant application requests this round far exceeded available funding. Six CLGs have been selected to receive grants from the FFY 2025 funding for community preservation projects. Project descriptions and award amounts follow:
City of Kingston, Ulster County – Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan & Design Guidelines
Grant Amount: $50,000
Project Description: The City of Kingston will hire a nationally accredited consultant to concurrently develop its first Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan and City-Wide Historic Design Guidelines. Kingston’s rich cultural and architectural history make these plans critical and prudent tools for city planners, commissioners, policy makers, residents, and local historic property owners. For this reason, the consultant will engage residents, the local government, and SHPO to craft an equitable short-and-long-range vision with clear guidance on projects and treatments to protect, promote, and enhance local historic and cultural resources.
Village of Cooperstown, Otsego County – 2026 Statewide Preservation Conference
Grant Amount: $40,000
Project Description: The Village of Cooperstown will partner with the Landmark Society of Western New York to host the 2026 Statewide Preservation Conference at the Otesaga Hotel & Resort.
City of New Rochelle, Westchester County – Historic Design Guidelines
Grant Amount: $40,000
Project Description: New Rochelle is committed to historic preservation, with more than a dozen locally landmarked sites and one historic district. To advance these efforts and better serve the community, the city will update its historic district design guidelines and manual of styles. The existing documents, from 1988 and 2009, no longer meet current needs. Lacking sufficient in-house resources, the City requires an experienced consultant to complete the updates. Grant funds will support consulting services.
Village of Greenport, Suffolk County – Survey and National Register Nominations
Grant Amount: $25,000
Project Description: The Village of Greenport will utilize grant funds to expand the existing National Register nomination for the Greenport Village Historic District. The original nomination leaves out many properties that may be eligible for inclusion, and this project supports the Village’s goal to maintain a thorough inventory of historic properties that warrant preservation.
Village of Springville, Erie County – Public Education Project
Grant Amount: $20,000
Project Description: The Springville Public Education Project will raise public knowledge and acceptance of local historic preservation programs by leading public information and outreach sessions tailored to the public, elected officials, and to homeowners and commercial property owners in historic districts. The workshop series will highlight Springville’s historic assets and demystify the historic preservation board process through updated brochures and website info. This initiative responds to the demonstrated lack of knowledge about the role of historic preservation in maintaining a healthy community.
City of Syracuse, Onondaga County – Landmark Preservation Board Training Series
Grant Amount: $5,000
Project Description: The City of Syracuse will present a training series for the members of the Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board and members of other CLG commissions statewide would be welcome to attend. The series has general topics including board operations (legal and procedural), preservation law, interpretation of design standards, and enforcement. It will also include Syracuse-specific topics regarding city history and the local preservation program. The training will be presented by the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, CLG staff, and local experts. The goal of the training is to provide local commission members in Syracuse and statewide with the tools necessary to fulfill its mission and ensure consistent and defensible decision-making.
New York State Parks Announces the Release of a Newly Redesigned Park and Historic Site System Map Updated map design provides new information on affordable recreation opportunities
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) today announced the release of an updated New York State Parks and Historic Sites map highlighting affordable options for outdoor recreation and culturally enriching experiences. The first update to a statewide overview of facilities since 2017, new additions to the map include recently opened and renamed parks Sojourner Truth State Park in Ulster County and Shirley Chisholm State Park in Brooklyn, as well as the 750-mile Empire State Trail which spans the entire state. In addition to new facilities, more direct information about recreation opportunities like camping, wildlife encounters and swimming have been added, making it easier for New Yorkers to discover new ways to engage with state parks and state historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches, and more.
“The statewide map continues to be a popular resource for our visitors to plan their next trip,” State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said. “As a public resource that informs our visitors on where they can find affordable recreation opportunities, and as an agency that continues to grow and evolve, it was essential to update the map to provide visitors with the most current information. Our hope is that this updated map will make it easier for New Yorkers to unplug from their devices, participate in activity that improves their mental and physical wellness and find the recreation and cultural destinations that matter to them.”
Utilizing a modern minimalist design that presents important information more clearly, the map focuses on the details important to New Yorkers like the location of state parks, state historic sites, boat launches, DEC campgrounds, recreationways and their proximity to major routes of travel. These updates reaffirm the state park and historic site map as an important tool for New Yorkers and out-of-state and international visitors to plan their visits and discover exciting new ways to engage with all the agency has to offer.
In addition, the 2025 New York Camping Guide is now available online and in print. Filled with details about close-to-home campgrounds, the 2025 New York Camping guide features more than 100 photos, a comprehensive listing of all state sites, park descriptions, maps and information on fees, campground amenities and reservation instructions. The guide is also available on the NYS Parks website.
Found at all state park and historic site visitor centers as well as many local and regional tourism centers across the state, the New York State Parks and Historic Sites map is a free publication available to all. Members of the public can request a map or camping guide by e-mailing notes@parks.ny.gov or by calling 518-474-0456.
New York State Parks Explorer App
Supplementing the new map, information about all state parks and historic sites can be found on the New York State Parks Explorer app. Available for iOS and Android, the Parks Explorer app acts as a digital atlas, featuring trail maps, real-time alerts, park contact information, hours of operations, and amenities for all State Park and Historic Site properties. The app also provides ideas for various thematic activities at state parks and historic sites by making use of the Discover section on the homescreen.
About New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 88 million visits in 2024. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.
AS “WE OUTSIDE SUMMER” CONTINUES, MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES START OF OUTDOOR POOL SEASON AND CELEBRATES OPENING OF NEW GOTTESMAN POOL IN CENTRAL PARK
City’s Newest Outdoor Pool Opens at Davis Center in Harlem Meer
Outdoor Public Pools Open Citywide Starting Friday, June 27, Will Remain Open Until Sunday, September 7
City Has Hired 680 Lifeguards This Year, Increase of Nearly 10 Percent From This Time in 2024; Lifeguard Certification Will Continue Through Mid-July
City Announces Return of Adult Lap Swim, Expansion of Free Learn to Swim Programming
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa today continued New York’s “We Outside Summer” by celebrating the opening of city public pools starting tomorrow, Friday, June 27. Adams administration officials were joined by Central Park Conservancy President and CEO Betsy Smith and community members to celebrate the start of the citywide outdoor pool season at the city’s newest outdoor pool, the Gottesman Pool at the Davis Center in Central Park. The Adams administration announced that New York City now has 680 lifeguards as of today, an increase of nearly 10 percent from this time in 2024, and a number that is expected to continue to grow as lifeguard certification continues through mid-July. Finally, Mayor Adams announced the return of Adult Lap Swim and the expansion of free Learn to Swim programming.
“New York City’s pools are incredible places for New Yorkers to come together, learn to swim, and beat the heat. During days of extreme heat, like this week — the need for public pools is greater than ever,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re diving into summer and continuing our ‘We Outside Summer’ by opening the new Gottesman Pool at the Harlem Meer and 64 other public pools across the five boroughs. During a heat wave, one of the greatest responsibilities we have as a city is to provide access to resources that keep our most vulnerable New Yorkers cool and safe — and that means opening our public pools and giving our children access to free swim lessons and trained lifeguards, so they are protected in and around the water this summer. This is just another way we are making our city safer, more affordable, and the best place to raise a family.”
“Our free outdoor pools are synonymous with summer for so many New Yorkers — they’re incredible amenities that allow people to cool off, have fun, and stay fit,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Rodriguez-Rosa. “We’re thrilled to welcome people, for the first time, to the Gottesman Pool, a new crown jewel for the Harlem community, which will serve as a dynamic and welcoming space for recreation and public programs. In addition, this administration continues to prioritize investments in public pool infrastructure and increase access to free swim instruction for young people. We’re looking forward to seeing New Yorkers make a splash this summer at our pools citywide!”
“The Central Park Conservancy is proud to welcome New Yorkers to the Davis Center’s new, state-of-the-art public pool for the 2025 season,” said Central Park Conservancy President and CEO Smith. “This $160 million investment in the park’s north end, the most significant and complex project in our organization’s history, exemplifies how public parks can evolve to better serve their communities. The Davis Center will provide much-needed, year-round access to swimming, skating, and nature for Harlem and northern Manhattan. We are deeply grateful to the city for its partnership in bringing this transformative space to life.”
Outdoor pool hours are from 11:00 AM through 7:00 PM daily, with a break for pool cleaning between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM. NYC Parks operates 53 outdoor pools throughout the five boroughs. New Yorkers can visit the city’s Outdoor Pools page for more information and the Cool It! NYC map for cooling features in every neighborhood — including pools, spray showers, drinking fountains, and more.
This summer, NYC Parks is pleased to expand free Learn to Swim programming from six to 10 outdoor pools throughout the city, furthering the Adams administration’s commitment to increasing access to free classes that help New Yorkers develop critical water safety skills; this includes a new program at Gottesman Pool due to the generous support from Central Park Conservancy. The registration lottery will be available on the NYC Parks website.
Additionally, NYC Parks is pleased to bring back Adult Lap Swim this summer. One pool per borough, including at Van Cortlandt Park pool in the Bronx, Kosciuszko pool in Brooklyn, Thomas Jefferson Park pool in Manhattan, Astoria Park pool in Queens, and Lyons Pool Recreation Center on Staten Island, will allow fitness-minded New Yorkers to take to the water without interruption from other swimmers. Senior Splash will continue at one pool per borough, including at Van Cortlandt Park pool, Kosciuszko pool, Thomas Jefferson Park pool, Astoria Park pool in Queens, and Lyons Pool Recreation Center. All programming will run from July 7 to August 29, 2025.
Last month, Mayor Adams announced the newly named “Elyjha Chandler and Christian Perkins Swim for Life” class at Erasmus High School in Flatbush, Brooklyn in honor of two teenagers who drowned off the coast of Jacob Riis Beach in the summer of 2024. The Adams administration has also invested $5.5 million more to expand free swim safety classes to a total of 18,000 second graders, as first announced in Mayor Adams’ 2025 State of the City address earlier this year.
In June 2024, Mayor Adams and NYC Parks announced “Let’s Swim NYC,” a $1 billion capital investment over five years to improve and expand the city’s public pool network over the course of five years.
The new Gottesman Pool — part of the recently opened Davis Center at the Harlem Meer, which opened in April — was a $160 million project led by the Central Park Conservancy and was funded with $60 million in city funding, in addition to private donations. Replacing the Lasker Pool and Rink, which was beyond repair, the new elongated oval pool measures 285 by 120 feet, larger than an Olympic-size pool and among the largest public pools in New York City. Built into the site’s natural topography, the pool will transform into an ice rink in the winter and a multi-use turf field in the spring and fall, called the Harlem Oval, ensuring year-round use.
The Davis Center was designed by Susan T Rodriguez | Architecture & Design and Mitchell Giurgola Architects as part of larger re-envisioning of the site by the Central Park Conservancy’s landscape architecture team and is managed seasonally in partnership with NYC Parks.
New Yorkers can be notified about the status of their local pools and beaches by signing up for New York City Emergency Management’s Notify NYC system, and then selecting which pools and beaches they are interested in to be notified by text and/or email of significant updates or temporary closures.
MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEW YORK YANKEES’ AND NEW YORK METS’ HOME GAMES PROJECTED TO GENERATE OVER $900 MILLION IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY FOR NEW YORK CITY DURING 2025 MLB REGULAR SEASON
As Yankees and Mets Prepare for First Home Games, Both Teams Continue to Generate
Hundreds of Millions of Dollars for Local Economy, Create Good-Paying Jobs
Announcement Highlights Continued Economic Growth Under Adams Administration
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) today announced that New York Yankees’ and New York Mets’ regular home games combined are expected to generate $909 million in economic impact for New York City over the course of the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season. As baseball season kicks off and both teams prepare for their first home games, the Yankees and Mets continue to drive the local economy in New York City and create local jobs. Today’s announcement highlights the ongoing resurgence and economic growth under the Adams administration since coming into office three years ago.
“Today’s numbers show that our hometown teams continue to be a home run for our local economy. Whether you are a Mets or Yankees fan, when our teams play in New York City, we all win,” said Mayor Adams. “Both teams combined will generate over $900 million in economic impact the regular season alone for the five boroughs — creating good-paying jobs and supporting small businesses. This season, New Yorkers should take themselves out to the ballgame, root for your favorite team, visit their local business, and continue to spend money. Best of luck to the Mets and Yankees this year — I just wish I had a hat that could celebrate both teams. Let’s bring home a championship!”
“New York City’s economy is stronger than ever, and as we gear up for baseball’s opening day, the city will see an estimated $900 million in economic impact from our home teams on top of our already record-setting jobs numbers,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Adolfo Carrión, Jr. “No matter what happens on the field this season, we’ll all be rooting for our hometown and New York City’s economy is a winner thanks to the Yankees and the Mets. GO NYC!!”
“With baseball returning to the Bronx and Queens, New York City will receive a significant economic boost of over $900 million,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “Baseball is a key driver of our local economy — creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and encouraging both New Yorkers and visitors to spend money in our city.”
“The Yankees take great pride in being an integral part of the fabric of New York City,” said New York Yankees President Randy Levine. “The significant impact that our home games have on the economic well-being of our city is a tribute not only to our local fans but to those who visit Yankee Stadium from around the world.”
“New York’s sports culture is a huge part of New York City’s appeal, and the Mets are a vital part of that widespread sports fandom,” said New York Mets President of Business Operations M. Scott Havens. “Through ticket sales, merchandise, job creation and other stadium services, we help generate a significant economic impact for the city and state annually.”
Today’s analysis accounts for direct impacts from visitor spending, including tickets, concessions, merchandise, transportation, and lodging for overnight visitors. Additionally, the analysis accounts for stadium employee payrolls and indirect impacts from additional spending by stadium companies and employees. New York Yankees’ home games are expected to generate an economic impact of $594 million over the course of the 2025 regular season, while New York Mets’ home games are expected to generate an economic impact of $315 million over the course of the 2025 regular season. The economic impact of Yankees home games is estimated to be higher than the economic impact of Mets homes games because of higher ticket prices and higher expected attendance. While prices are based on current pricing for the 2025 season, expected attendance is based on historical averages for a normal season and should not be viewed as a projection of a team’s performance in 2025. Game attendance is estimated based on home-game averages from 2018, 2019, 2023, and 2024.
Today’s announcement is another significant milestone highlighting the city’s near-full economic and tourist recovery post-pandemic thanks to the Adams administration’s leadership. Local sports have been proven to be a major contributor to New York City’s economy. Last October, the 2024 Yankees, Mets, and Women’s National Basketball Association New York Liberty’s postseasons alone in New York City generated nearly $200 million in economic activity from the home games of their respective playoff runs.
Last December, Mayor Adams announced a new end-of-year tourism forecast that shows the city’s continued strong economic growth and reputation as a global tourist destination. In 2024, nearly 65 million visitors came to New York City — the second-highest figure in city history and a 3.5 percent increase from the previous year. The city is on pace to surpass pre-pandemic levels and mark a new high in city history in 2025, marking a full economic recovery. Today’s announcement is another significant milestone highlighting the city’s near-full economic and tourist recovery post-pandemic.
Earlier this month, Mayor Adams celebrated that New York City has, once again, set another record for an all-time high total number of jobs in the city’s history, with 4,861,813 total jobs, according to new data released by the New York state Department of Labor. This is the 10th time the Adams administration has broken the all-time high jobs record since Mayor Adams entered office. Included in the all-time high jobs number is an all-time high private-sector job record with 4,258,376 jobs.
“The projected $900 million in economic activity presents a powerful opportunity to uplift communities like ours — by ensuring that funding and investment reach the people who call District 35 home,” said New York State Assemblywoman Larinda C. Hooks. “That means creating real jobs, supporting local businesses, and ensuring vendors near our stadiums benefit from this growth. We’re excited to work together on economic strategies that prioritize equity, opportunity, and community-first growth.”
“Juan Soto said it himself that New York is a Mets town, and Queens couldn’t be more excited for the baseball season to get underway this week,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Not only because the Mets are going to bring a World Series title home to The World’s Borough this year, but because we know how much of a home run the team is for Queens’ local economy. With the historic redevelopment of Willets Point next to Citi Field on deck, it has never been a better time to be a fan of the Mets or a resident of Queens. Looking forward to another thrilling and economically beneficial baseball season in The World’s Borough!”
Parks & Trails New York commends Governor Hochul's proposed budget increases for parks and public lands
[Albany, NY] – Parks & Trails New York, the leading statewide advocate for parks, trails and public lands since 1985, commends the proposed investments in New York’s public lands announced by Governor Kathy Hochul yesterday in the FY2026 Executive Budget.
The Governor’s budget puts forward increases to critical programs that support visitation and activation of New York’s public lands, including increasing the Park & Trail Partnership Grant program by $500,000 to $2.5 million, and increasing the Connect Kids program by $500,000 to $3.5 million. Both of these programs ensure that New York’s rich, diverse parks, trails and open spaces are able to welcome and captivate a growing number of visitors each year.
The Park & Trail Partnership Grant program empowers grassroots nonprofit groups to enhance and sustain parks, trails, and outdoor spaces across the state. In recent grant cycles $5 million in requests went unmet. An increase to $4 million–$1.5 million more than proposed–would support additional shovel-ready projects and master plans, enhance public access to recreation, and upgrade infrastructure to meet growing visitation demands.
Connect Kids has introduced nearly 800,000 students to New York’s parks and historic sites since 2016. The program funds necessary transportation and outdoor education, but 250,000 students missed out on transformative outdoor experiences in 2024 due to lack of funding. A more substantial increase will come closer to meeting the tremendous demand for this program that allows students to participate in outdoor recreation and its educational and wellbeing benefits, creating more equality and access in New York’s public lands.
The budget proposal also maintains critical capital funding for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation at $200 million per year and for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at $90 million per year. This funding would strengthen the nearly $2 billion already spent revitalizing New York’s public lands over the past decade. These critical investments have caused state visitation to nearly double over that time period. Despite record visitation and improved accessibility efforts, funding for the DEC has remained stagnant since before the pandemic. We look to the Governor to recognize the increasing popularity of the DEC’s sizable 5 million acres of land and accordingly allocate funds for the agency to meet its growing responsibilities.
Increased visitation and continued investment in our public lands directly strengthens local economies, with every $1 million invested generating $10 million in sales, $4 million in labor income, and $7 million in state GDP.
Funding for public spaces not only boosts local economies, it greatly improves the accessibility of outdoor recreation within neighboring communities and beyond. Public lands are for everyone, and with the right level of state investment, we can ensure they remain vital anchors of health, equity, and history for generations to come.
Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White said, “Though short of what we hope to win in the final version, we commend Governor Hochul for submitting a budget that gets us closer to realizing the full potential of our cherished public lands. Open spaces are essential to New York’s climate strategies, safeguarding critical habitats, enhancing local resilience, and improving quality of life for millions. It’s our responsibility to ensure these spaces remain welcoming, inclusive, and accessible for all who need them.”
About Parks & Trails New York
Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) is the state’s leading advocate for public lands. In the 40 years since our founding, we have been the leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving our health, economy, and quality of life through the use and enjoyment of green space. With thousands of members and supporters across the state, PTNY is a leading voice in the protection of New York’s magnificent state park system and the creation and promotion of more than 2,000 miles of greenways, bike paths, river walks, and trails. PTNY’s trail programs, which aim to transform unused transportation and other corridors into vibrant public places, have furthered dozens of trail projects and hundreds of miles of trail. For more information, visit www.ptny.org
Stadium Update: Introducing City Square!
Today, New York City FC is excited to introduce to you City Square, a truly unique space in our stadium. Click here to see the new renderings!
City Square will be a flexible area both on matchdays and non-matchdays alike, located at street level at the south end of the stadium. On a matchday, fans with a ticket to the match will be able to access the area right as they enter our stadium through the iconic Cube entrance. On non-matchdays, the area will be open to the public and accessible via garage doors that open out onto the sidewalk.
Among its many functions, City Square will be home to the “Five Boroughs Food Hall.” We are passionate about and committed to bringing the diverse flavors of Queens – and all of New York City – to City Square, and we look forward to working with some of the best local vendors and suppliers from around the five boroughs as we get further along in the process to opening our stadium.
Our plan is for City Square to be a multi-functional space for both our fans and the local community. In addition to its matchday functions, City Square can hold events such as farmers’ markets and food festivals, community events, and even live music performances!
Be part of this exciting new era in NYC and Club history. Place your deposit now for a spot in the new stadium, for as low as $25.
JetBlue Soars into New Partnership with UBS Arena & the New York Islanders
of UBS Arena and the New York Islanders
and a ‘Light Up Long Island’ Activation
- John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) Terminal 5 Takeover – Starting at 11 a.m., New York Islanders Legend and four-time Stanley Cup Champion Butch Goring along with the Islanders mascots Sparky and Nyles and the New York Islanders Hype Team will bring the energy of Islanders games and events at UBS Arena to JetBlue’s Terminal 5. Music, giveaways and special surprises are in store for JetBlue customers during their stopover at JFK on September 4.
- Light Up Long Island – At 7 p.m. EST on September 4, the UBS Arena lanterns and the Nassau County Executive & Legislative Building’s Dome will light up blue to welcome JetBlue to the New York Islanders’ home on Long Island.
Photo Credit: Dennis DaSilva/New York Islanders
Video Credit: New York Islanders & UBS Arena
Front Office Sports Announces Inaugural Most Sustainable List
leveraging their reach, influence, and resources to safeguard the planet
- GOAL (Green Operations & Advanced Leadership) (Other)
- UBS Arena (Venue)
- World Surf League (League)
- WM (Brand)
- Moda Center (Venue)
- Spectrum Center (Venue)
- Gillette Stadium (Venue)
- Liverpool FC (Team)
- SailGP (League)
- NC State Athletics (Team)
New York State Parks Encourages Empire Pass Holders to Renew their Pass for the 2025 Season Renew Online and Save for the Season
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced that online renewals for the 2025 Empire Pass are now available through March 31, 2025. By renewing online, customers can now enjoy greater convenience by keeping their card and will receive a special savings of $8 per card for the 2025 season.
The Empire Pass program provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to New York State Parks, state boat launch sites, arboretums, park preserves and Department of Environmental Conservation Forest preserves. When renewing online, Empire Pass-holders will keep their existing physical card or digital pass and not have to wait for the pass to be mailed or wait in line to purchase a new pass during peak season.
“We continue to offer options that make it easier and quicker to connect with the outdoors,” said New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. “Our goal is to encourage people to visit state parks, and opting to renew online or go digital provides for a savings and convenience for New Yorkers to take advantage of the Empire Pass and enjoy the parks next season.”
Existing passholders can now renew for next season at shop.parks.ny.gov/renew/, saving $8 off the standard price. The special renewal savings is good through March 31, 2025, and applies to the single-season pass, as well as three- and five-season passes. Cards become activated 24-48 hours after purchase.
New customers can purchase Empire Passes for $80 online at shop.parks.ny.gov/ or by phone 518.474.0458. Three- and five-season Empire Passes are available to new customers for $205 and $320 respectively. The Lifetime Empire Passport can be purchased for just $750. With no expiration date, people who love the outdoors can use the lifetime pass to enjoy the parks forever. There is also a digital version of the Empire Pass that is available to purchase at a discounted price. You can keep and use a digital copy of your pass in the wallet section of the NY State Parks Explorer App.
State Parks also encourages New York’s seniors age 62 and older to take advantage of the Golden Park Program, which provides them free entry into state parks on weekdays (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) simply by showing their driver’s license or state-issued non-driver I.D. when they enter a park.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (
New Installment of New York State Parks’ Interactive Digital Timeline Explores the Great Depression and Civilian Conservation Corps Era
Educational Tool Part of Multi-Faceted, Yearlong Centennial Celebration
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today announced the release of the third installment of the interactive, online timeline ‘Blazing a Trail: A History of New York State Parks and Historic Sites’ in celebration of New York State Parks’ Centennial. This project employs photographs, illustrations, paintings, documents, archival footage, maps and narrative to tell the story of the development of the New York State Parks system. The newest installment, “Depression and A New Deal,” is available here, along with previously released eras.
In the first two eras, users learned about the drive to conserve natural spaces during the rapid development of the late 1800s and the shift in focus from preservation to recreation. They met leaders who were instrumental in creating the system of parks and historic sites we know today and guiding its development. The third era, split in two parts, will take users into the Great Depression and New Deal years, exploring how this challenging time for the park system became a watershed moment with the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). More than 220,000 CCC members built key park infrastructure from bridges to cabins that is still in use today. At New York State Parks, an all-Black unit with Black leadership was deployed at Newtown Battlefield State Park, and a lesser-known women’s version, Camp Tera, was piloted at Bear Mountain State Park.
This era’s initial section explores the period between 1930 and 1945. The second section will cover 1940 to 1945 and will explore the effect of World War II on the park system. Additional eras launching throughout the year will cover the development of the system under the post-World War II Rockefeller administration, the creation of the modern Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), efforts to expand the agency’s diverse portfolio of parks, and more. Future eras include 1945-1959, 1960-1971, 1972-1999, 2000-Today, and Tomorrow and Beyond. Each era includes the individual histories of the parks and sites added in the timeframe.
Commissioner Pro Tempore of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Randy Simons said, “An anniversary such as the Centennial is a time to recognize and appreciate our whole history, celebrate our people today and plan for the next 100 years. Like so many, the Great Depression was a moment of great adversity our young park system. It’s inspiring to learn how such difficult times produced such unity and determination, and sowed the seeds for the tremendous social change that was to come. All year long, we’ve been inviting each and every New Yorker to share their parks stories. We’re pleased to be sharing our own through this project.”
‘Blazing A Trail’ is one of several initiatives celebrating the Parks Centennial. Other initiatives include an exhibit in the New York State Capitol’s State Street Tunnel currently on view; the Share Your Story project, which invites people to tell their own stories relating to Parks and Sites; the Centennial Challenge, which encourages people to win prizes by participating in various activities at parks and sites; and the release of the Centennial Collection merchandise. Centennial events and exhibits will take place at individual parks all summer long, ranging from parties to special hikes and programs. Additional initiatives will be announced throughout 2024.
Inspired by USA hockey, Skenes has another gold in mind
BRADENTON, Fla. — The images on the TV screen in the Pirates’ clubhouse at LECOM Park were instantly iconic. In the aftermath of one of the greatest gold medal hockey games ever played Sunday, there were the members of Team USA, draped in American flags and forever bonded by what they had just accomplished together in a 2-1 overtime win over Canada.
Pirates ace Paul Skenes watched as the Americans celebrated the country’s first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey since the famed “Miracle on Ice” in 1980 — 22 years before he was born.
Pirates single-game tickets for 2026 season are on sale now!
“It’s pretty cool,” Skenes said, eyes glued to the screen. “It’s what we’re walking into.”
Skenes, the former Air Force cadet turned Cy Young winner, altered the trajectory of the American entry in the 2026 World Baseball Classic when he committed to the cause early.
2026 World Baseball Classic
• How to watch games live
• Schedule
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• Rosters
• Players by MLB team
• Complete coverage
After Team USA won the global baseball event in 2017, manager Mark DeRosa’s squad had no trouble recruiting some of the best position players in the game in 2023. But the country’s top pitchers were a tougher sell … until Skenes became the 2026 club’s pitching pillar. Tarik Skubal, Logan Webb and other All-Star arms followed in line, and now Team USA has one of the best baseball rosters ever assembled.
WBC Roster Reveal: United States
Feb 5, 2026 · 3:34
WBC Roster Reveal: United States
With multiple family members having served in the military, the 23-year-old Skenes takes his commitment to his country seriously. And those Olympic images only intensify his excitement for the World Baseball Classic, which for Team USA formally begins with pool play against Brazil on March 6 in Houston.
Though admittedly no hockey expert (and somewhat reluctant to root against a Canadian team that had Penguins hero Sidney Crosby on its roster), Skenes knows what that moment meant to the Americans on the ice.
“I watched the movie ‘Miracle,’ and I’ve watched the Olympics and the 2017 WBC when Team USA won,” said Skenes, who has donned a belt with a small image of the American flag and red, white and blue cleats during this camp. “And I’ve also gotten the chance to play for Team USA a couple times. We haven’t won the gold yet. It’s not a good feeling to go to another country and lose to them. We’re looking to change that.”
Come March 1, Skenes will be departing the Pirates’ Grapefruit League grounds and head off to Arizona to train with Team USA. Those images he saw Sunday only intensified his desire to return to the Buccos in March with the gold-medal goal accomplished.
“It’s bigger than all of us,” he said of representing the U.S. in the World Baseball Classic.
And it starts soon.
USA's hockey gold medal had some Blue Jays thrilled. Others not so much
DUNEDIN, Fla. — For three hours, baseball didn’t matter. Sunday morning was for hockey, the Blue Jays’ complex divided between Canadians, Americans and those who were just trying to figure out what all the fuss was about.
Moments after Jack Hughes scored in overtime to win Team USA the gold medal in men’s Olympic hockey over Team Canada, George Springer burst out of the Blue Jays’ clubhouse. He’d already been wearing his Team USA jersey and hat all morning.
Blue Jays single-game tickets for 2026 season are on sale now!
A half hour later, he was digging in for at-bats against Kevin Gausman, jersey still on with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. He might sleep in it tonight.
It’s a heartbreaking morning for millions of Canadian hockey fans, many of whom are still getting over the Blue Jays’ Game 7 loss to the Dodgers in the 2025 World Series. Just days after the Canadian women’s team lost 2-1 in the gold medal game to the United States, the men’s team met the same fate. Inside the Blue Jays’ clubhouse, though, and on the fields nearby, you could find everything from heartbreak to elation to confused curiosity.
Inside the clubhouse, Springer and Ernie Clement are the Blue Jays’ hockey guys. Before Springer arrived earlier in camp, photos of Team Canada beating Team USA over the years were taped all over Springer’s locker. Naturally, it was done with hockey tape. Clement is the resident Miracle on Ice historian, famously breaking out the Herb Brooks quote — “We are a team of uncommon men” — after Game 4 of the World Series in L.A.
Manager John Schneider, on the other hand, aligned himself with Canada. Smart man.
“I’m an honorary Canadian. I want them to win, not the U.S. I said it,” Schneider said earlier in camp. “I don’t like U.S. hockey. I think Canada has the best hockey in the world, so I want Canada to win the Olympics. I said it. I’m sorry.”
A Team Canada jersey hung on the door of Schneider’s office Sunday, with No. 14 and “Schneider” across the back, a gift from Canada head coach Jon Cooper.
“It was already hanging in George’s locker today,” Schneider said midway through the first period. “He wasn’t thrilled.”
While Canadian media watched the first period in the clubhouse, which included a roar from all of the American players for USA’s first goal, some other players gave it only a passing glance. MLB clubhouses aren’t exactly overflowing with hockey guys. Andrés Giménez said that he knew there were three periods and that those periods were 20 minutes each, but that’s about it.
Ernie Clement discusses joining Team USA for the WBC
Feb 21, 2026 · 3:27
Ernie Clement discusses joining Team USA for the WBC
Inside the media workroom for the remainder of the game, members of the Japanese media quickly learned just how serious this was for the Canadians around them. When one member of the Japanese media suggested that it wasn’t the end of the world after Hughes scored in overtime, we quickly assured them that it was actually very close. Canadian stereotypes were only deepened here Sunday morning.
It was fascinating to see all of this come together. There were hockey-crazed Canadians, including many of the Blue Jays’ full-time staff, some of whom were wearing jerseys around the clubhouse this morning. The American players ranged from Springer, who may still be howling into the Dunedin skies, to those who chose to take BP during the third period. Around 10:15 a.m., when Clement’s group finished taking ground balls, he bolted for the clubhouse doors to watch the end of the game.
If he runs like that this season, he’ll steal 70 bags.
Then, there were many of the Latin players and members of Japanese media, all learning in real time just how important this game was to these stressed and cursing Canadians. When Clement told Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that the score was 1-0, Vladdy asked, “For you guys?” Vladdy isn’t just Canadian-born, but he knows his audience.
Game 7 of the 2025 World Series was watched by 18.5 million Canadians, which is roughly 45% of the country’s population. It was the biggest audience since the 2010 Olympic gold medal game, when Sidney Crosby scored the golden goal. Sunday morning’s game could land in that neighborhood, too.
These moments are so rare. You can add in the 1992-93 World Series and The Tragically Hip’s final concert in 2016, which was broadcast nationally on CBC. It’s a short list of moments that have truly brought Canada together like this.
The Blue Jays hold the power to do it again, and at this point, Canada is due.
New York Knicks Headed To The NBA Finals!
The New York Knicks are headed to the NBA Finals after an incredible playoff run that has excited basketball fans across New York and beyond.
The Knicks dominated the Eastern Conference Finals, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in four straight games. Their strong teamwork, tough defense, and outstanding performances helped them earn a spot in the championship series.
Throughout the playoffs, the Knicks have shown determination and resilience. Players stepped up in key moments, and the team worked together to overcome every challenge. Their fans have filled the arena with energy and support, creating an exciting atmosphere for every game.
This marks one of the most successful seasons in recent Knicks history. Many longtime fans have waited years to see their team return to basketball’s biggest stage. The city’s excitement continues to grow as the team prepares for the NBA Finals.
The Knicks will now face the winner of the Western Conference Finals. Coaches and players are focused on preparing for the championship series and bringing an NBA title back to New York.
As the Finals approach, fans everywhere will be watching to see if the Knicks can complete their remarkable journey and capture the championship trophy.
Go Knicks!
Yankees just running it back in '26? Cashman begs to differ
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Why move to Mets could unlock the best of Bichette
Thomas Harrigan
Mets introduce Bo Bichette
Jan 21, 2026 · 2:30
Mets introduce Bo Bichette
Bo Bichette has a new team, a new position and (likely) a new lineup spot. The question now is whether those changes will bring out an even more valuable version of the two-time All-Star than the one we saw with the Blue Jays.
After seven seasons with Toronto, Bichette signed a three-year, $126 million deal with the Mets on Jan. 20. The longtime shortstop is moving to third base for the first time in his professional career, and he’s expected to bat third, right behind Juan Soto — a spot that could do wonders for his offensive production.
Mets Spring Training Tickets are on sale now!
Conventional wisdom has long held that a hitter’s performance can be impacted by who comes after him in the lineup, based on the idea that having a better hitter behind you will get you better pitches to hit. But many studies have debunked that notion, showing that who bats behind a player likely has little measurable effect on the pitches he sees.
Who bats before you, though, can matter a lot.
Batting behind Soto, who has drawn more walks (896) and posted a higher on-base percentage (.417) than anyone else since the outfielder debuted in the Majors, should give the 27-year-old Bichette plenty of chances to bat with runners on.
Just look at former Mets first baseman Pete Alonso, who spent much of 2025 following Soto in the Mets’ lineup. Nearly 51% of Alonso’s plate appearances came with at least one runner on base, the highest rate in MLB (minimum 300 PAs).
Highest % of plate appearances with a runner on base, 2025
Min. 300 PAs
1. Pete Alonso: 50.8%
2. Drake Baldwin: 50.4%
3. Vinnie Pasquantino: 50.1%
4. Cody Bellinger: 50.0%
5. Danny Jansen: 49.9%
Bichette, meanwhile, has never batted with runners on base more than 45% of the time in a season. Last year, 43% of his plate appearances came with men on.
In general, hitters tend to perform better with runners on base than they do with the bases empty. The disparity for Bichette is bigger than most.
During his career, Bichette has been an MVP-caliber hitter with runners on base, posting a 144 wRC+. With the bases empty, he’s been only slightly above league average, recording a 107 wRC+ (100 is considered average). That 37-point gap is one of MLB’s largest since Bichette’s first season in 2019.
Biggest difference in wRC+, runners on – bases empty
Since 2019, min. 1,000 PAs with runners on base
1. Salvador Perez, +45
2. Ozzie Albies, +40
3. Bo Bichette, +37
4-T. Eddie Rosario, +36
4-T. Kyle Tucker, +36
That pronounced difference in his production illustrates why batting behind a player like Soto could be especially beneficial for Bichette. Alonso, for what it’s worth, had a 176 wRC+ with men on last year, compared to a 105 wRC+ with the bases empty.
Carlos Mendoza, David Stearns on Bo Bichette signing
Jan 21, 2026 · 3:22
Carlos Mendoza, David Stearns on Bo Bichette signing
The defensive switch could also have a positive impact on Bichette’s overall value.
Bichette hasn’t played third base since high school, so the Mets are taking a risk here. At the same time, he has never been a particularly strong defender at short. In fact, his fielding run value of -27 ranks third worst among shortstops going back to 2019.
Lowest fielding run value at shortstop, since 2019
1. CJ Abrams: -37
2. Amed Rosario: -28
3. Bo Bichette: -27
4. Jorge Polanco: -19
5. Luis García Jr.: -15
In 2025 specifically, he was worth -10 runs, ranking last at the position. Merely performing as an average third baseman in 2026 would still be a notable improvement over his showing last year. Of course, the Mets are banking on him being much better than that, viewing him as a key part of the club’s plan to improve its run prevention.
His defensive flaws aside, Bichette was already a superb contributor with the Blue Jays. He’s a lifetime .294/.337/.469 hitter with a 122 wRC+, and he’s produced at least 3.8 fWAR in each of the four years in which he’s played more than 81 games.
Even if he largely remains the same player, he’ll be an impactful addition for the Mets. However, as he starts this new chapter in Queens, it’s not hard to imagine him taking his game to another level in 2026.
Belli glad his road led back to Bombers: 'Grass ain't always greener'
Bryan Hoch
Yankees discuss return of Cody Bellinger
Jan 28, 2026 · 4:00
Yankees discuss return of Cody Bellinger
NEW YORK — There is a belief within the Yankees’ clubhouse that if they could somehow replay the American League Division Series, the outcome would be different. Aaron Judge said as much minutes after the final out, when he said the club would like to “run ‘em back and see what happens.”
They are going to have that chance, or at least something close to it.
Yankees single-game tickets for 2026 are on sale now!
The 2026 Yankees will not be identical to last year’s club, but they’ll have striking similarities, highlighted by a move that is expected to be their offseason capper: re-signing Cody Bellinger to a five-year, $162.5 million contract.
“I feel really good with that,” Bellinger said Wednesday on a Zoom conference. “Obviously, it might not be what everyone wants to hear, but I really do love the group that we had. We had a special, special unit. We had great chemistry that I don’t think can be understood unless you’re inside the clubhouse.
“We all play for each other and, on top of that, we have some important pieces coming back. I’m excited to run it back with those guys.”
Bryan Hoch on Yankees re-signing Bellinger
Jan 22, 2026 · 7:04
Bryan Hoch on Yankees re-signing Bellinger
Beyond Bellinger, the Yankees retained several familiar faces this winter, including Trent Grisham ($22.025 million qualifying offer), Tim Hill ($3 million), Amed Rosario ($2.5 million), Ryan Yarbrough ($2.5 million) and Paul Blackburn ($2 million).
Their most notable external addition was left-hander Ryan Weathers, acquired from the Marlins on Jan. 13. Weathers is expected to help stabilize the rotation early in the season until Carlos Rodón and Gerrit Cole return from their respective injury rehabs.
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“I disagree that it’s the same team, running it back,” general manager Brian Cashman said. “It’s going to be some differences, and the competition is going to be different, too. In some cases, some teams got better. Some teams, you could argue, maybe got a little bit worse.
“Our division is the best in baseball. But long story short — one [playoff] series, make or break, is not going to define what we think our capabilities are.”
Keeping Bellinger in pinstripes for another run was a priority, according to Cashman, who publicly thanked managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner for “allowing us to stay in it in a very significant way.”
Bellinger and agent Scott Boras were said to be seeking six or seven years, with the Yanks unwilling to exceed five. Ultimately, the sides compromised on a contract that included a pair of opt-outs and front-loaded salaries.
“We were negotiating with a titan in Scott Boras,” Cashman said. “It took me and Hal and [team president] Randy Levine to figure out a solution that would make sense for everybody involved and try to outpace the market.”
There was a point, Bellinger acknowledged, that he began to wonder if his time in the Bronx would be a one-and-done.
“When you get into a locker room where it’s about winning and doing it for each other, you don’t really want to leave it,” Bellinger said. “Grass ain’t always greener on the other side.”
The 30-year-old was a productive fit in pinstripes after being acquired from the Cubs in a December 2024 salary dump, enjoying a bounce-back campaign that saw him bat .272/.334/.480 (125 OPS+) with 25 doubles, 29 homers and 98 RBIs across 152 games.
Bellinger’s versatility was an asset for manager Aaron Boone, who used him at all three outfield positions and first base. His return projects to complicate the outlook for Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones, who were in line to compete for left-field reps this spring.
“Belli is that true, versatile player that can go be really successful all over the diamond,” Boone said. “So we’ll see how everything plays out. The reality is, we have a lot of really good players. And Jasson and Spencer are part of that.”
Three years ago, Judge declined to play in the World Baseball Classic, citing a busy winter that finished with a nine-year, $360 million contract and being named the Yankees’ first captain since Derek Jeter.
Bellinger expressed a similar mindset on Wednesday, saying that while he’d like to play in the Classic at some point, his priority now is preparing for the season ahead.
“I just want to focus on what’s here and the task at hand,” Bellinger said. “I owe it to the Steinbrenner family and the Yankee organization to go and get my best foot forward and try to win a championship.”
DEC REMINDS OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS TO SHARE THE WOODS SAFELY THIS SEASON
New York City FC can today confirm that their final two home matches of the MLS Regular Season are scheduled to take place at Red Bull Arena. Due to the MLB Playoffs schedule, both Yankee Stadium and Citi Field are currently unavailable.
Additionally, New York City FC’s match against Nashville SC, originally scheduled for Saturday, October 5, has been moved to Sunday, October 6 at 4pm ET.
In the event Citi Field or Yankee Stadium become available, the Club will make every effort to play these matches at one of these two venues.
Wednesday, October 2
New York City FC vs. FC Cincinnati
Red Bull Arena
7:30pm ET kickoff
Sunday, October 6
New York City FC vs. Nashville SC
Red Bull Arena
4pm ET kickoff
Save the Date!
Stadium Update: “The Cube,” Coming 2027
New York City FC is excited to share new renderings and a short fly-through video of the main entrance for our proposed stadium project in Queens! We believe our stadium’s entrance, “The Cube,” will be the most dynamic entrance of any MLS stadium. Click here to see the new renderings and video! As the main entrance to our stadium and the first thing you’ll see as you arrive at the stadium from the south, The Cube will be integral to the matchday experience. We’re confident that it will give our fans a real sense of pride and its uniqueness will naturally draw people in. The Cube also serves as a symbol, representing two things. First, the cube represents stability and permanence; this is our home and we’re here to stay. Second, its equal dimensions will represent equality and fair play – two values that are at the heart of our club. Standing at over 7 stories high, The Cube will be an immersive experience, lined with 11,000+ square feet of LEDs. It will be an everlasting, experiential installation capable of projecting incredible video, photography, and graphic elements. To secure your spot in New York City FC’s new proposed stadium, sign up for a membership today! |
Earlier today, New York City FC’s stadium project reached a significant milestone: the New York City Council voted to approve the construction of the next phase of the Willets Point development project, including our stadium! Following today’s vote, the only step left to complete the ULURP process is for Mayor Adams to review and sign off on the project, which is expected in the coming days.
This is a long-awaited moment in our club’s history. New York City FC’s new stadium will be the first-ever soccer-specific stadium in New York City, opening in 2027 in Willets Point, Queens. Click here to sign up to get the latest news about New York City’s new stadium and to find out how to become a member and gain priority to reserve your seat in the future!
New York City FC
| New York City Football Club fans, the first look at your new planned STADIUM is finally here. Yesterday, NYCFC presented early renderings of the proposed Willets Point project. Inclusive of that project is what one day will be the best soccer-specific stadium in North America. This public-private partnership with the City of New York will not only include New York City’s first-ever soccer-specific stadium, but it will also feature:
Click here to become a member and secure your spot in NYCFC’s new planned stadium! |
MLB makes initial CBA proposal to address competitive balance
7 K's, 6 zeros, a pass interference call: Cole's latest outing had it all
By Bryan Hoch
CHICAGO — Gerrit Cole’s evening began with a tongue-in-cheek call of pass interference and a smattering of verbal fireworks directed toward the umpiring crew. It concluded with high fives throughout the Yankees’ dugout.
Cole struck out seven over six scoreless innings on Tuesday, continuing to pick up momentum in his return from Tommy John surgery in a 3-2 victory over the White Sox at Rate Field. Yankees manager Aaron Boone said his ace seems to have “his competitive sea legs” under him now, and Cole agrees.
Yankees Bucket Hat Giveaway is Aug. 4!
“My instincts are sharper, my reads are better,” Cole said. “I’m in the flow of things. I’m getting pitch ideas or pitch locations that are proving to be the right ones. That comes with sharpening up all facets of the game, and our catchers have been great. They deserve a lot of credit for the run prevention.”
Backed by Anthony Volpe’s deep RBI double and Max Schuemann’s two-run knock, Cole made the early support hold up for New York’s seventh victory in 11 games since the All-Star break. That includes the most replayable moment of his outing — Colson Montgomery’s second-inning popup to the mound.
Cole and catcher Austin Wells converged upon the ball, but Cole’s call of, “I got it!” didn’t prevent Wells from stepping on the pitcher’s foot. Cole fumbled the ball at first, flipping it into the air with his glove before snagging it in his bare right hand.
“It was a tough sky tonight, no doubt,” Cole said. “I was just aggressive to the ball. I didn’t feel [third baseman Amed] Rosario on me, and I didn’t feel Wells on me until late. I figured I could make the play. I started to work back into the ball after I called it, and Austin stepped on my foot.”
With the out recorded, Cole mimicked a football referee, jokingly flagging Wells for pass interference.
“I thought I was cooked,” Cole said with a grin. “I thought I was going down, but luckily I made some juggling act and saved it.”
The sequence shifted when Cole was called for a pitch-timer violation; Cole was asking to use one of New York’s mound visits, but Boone said Wells “didn’t go assertively enough; he was asking, as opposed to, ‘Let’s just get out there.’”
That prompted a lengthy discussion at home plate, and after the inning concluded, television replays caught Cole barking toward home-plate umpire Roberto Ortiz. Cole seemed in a cooler frame of mind after the game.
Gerrit Cole yells at umpires in the 2nd
Jul 28, 2026 · 0:29
Gerrit Cole yells at umpires in the 2nd
“We tried to call a mound visit around two or three seconds. It wasn’t granted,” Cole said. “Ultimately, it was our mistake that we didn’t play with more pace there.”
The outburst had little effect on Cole’s performance. He hit bumpy ground in the fourth, when he threw 32 pitches — his highest total in any start this year. Munetaka Murakami opened with a double, and Cole walked Miguel Vargas on five pitches before retiring the next two hitters.
Braden Montgomery then walked on six pitches, but Cole got Tristan Peters to lift an inning-ending popup to Rosario. As Boone put it, Cole “didn’t break — he just made some pitches and righted the ship.”
“Maybe I got a little fortunate,” Cole said. “I ended up making just enough good pitches to get out of it.”
It was the third scoreless start of Cole’s season, and his first since back-to-back scoreless outings on May 22 and May 27 against the Rays and Royals, respectively — his first starts since being activated from the injured list.
Gerrit Cole’s six scoreless innings, seven strikeouts
Jul 28, 2026 · 1:00
Gerrit Cole’s six scoreless innings, seven strikeouts
“I think it’s just a testament to the work he puts in, and just the person he is,” Volpe said. “It’s fun to watch, and it’s fun for me to see every progression of it, from the beginning of this year until now. I think we’re all just going to keep getting better.”
Anthony Kay held the Yankees down after the second inning, but New York’s bullpen answered the call again. Angel Chivilli continued to impress with a perfect eight-pitch seventh, and Brent Headrick worked around an eighth-inning single.
Working for the fourth time in five days, David Bednar surrendered Chase Meidroth’s two-run homer in the ninth, snapping his 24-inning scoreless streak that dated to May 22. But Bednar got the job done, striking out Everson Pereira to notch his 22nd save.
“He’s been awesome,” Boone said of Bednar. “You talk about command, he’s had that. It feels like he’s been pretty much ahead of everyone.”
Sánchez finally slugs the homer he's been waiting 6 years to hit
By Bryan Hoch
Ali Sánchez’s first career home run
Jul 27, 2026 · 0:40
Ali Sánchez’s first career home run
CHICAGO — For a few seconds, Ali Sánchez said he “felt nothing” as he tracked the flight of his first Major League home run. It was when he began to run, a trot around the bases that the Yankees’ catcher had pictured for his entire life, that he felt everything.
Sánchez’s three-run blast highlighted a late surge as the Yankees rallied for a 9-5 victory over the White Sox on Monday evening at Rate Field. As he rounded the bases, Sánchez said he pictured a younger version of himself, taking similar steps on dusty ballfields back home in Venezuela.
Yankees Bucket Hat Giveaway is Aug. 4!
“I thought about it in my mind a lot,” Sánchez said. “You always dream to play in the big leagues. Having your first homer with a Yankees uniform and getting the ‘W,’ it’s special.”
Sánchez proudly displayed the keepsake ball on the top shelf of his locker, already encased in a plastic cube. The trade had come easily; he said he’d signed a few items and posed for photographs with a young fan, leaning into a microphone to emphasize, “Thank you, Santiago.”
Ali Sánchez talks his first career homer
Jul 28, 2026 · 0:43
Ali Sánchez talks his first career homer
The drive off Sean Newcomb was a moment that once seemed like a long shot for the 29-year-old Sánchez, who made it to the Majors with the Mets in 2020, then spent the next several years bouncing around: the Cardinals, Marlins, Blue Jays and Red Sox.
“Everyone’s journey is different,” manager Aaron Boone said. “There’s so many tremendous stories to tell about different guys, and Ali is one of those.”
When the Yankees offered Sánchez a Minor League contract this past winter, it contained no guarantees of playing time; he began the year with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, producing modest offense. When he was called up in June, he expressed surprise at the promotion.
But he has made the most of the opportunity, combining a reputation as a solid defender with some pop, including nine hits in 27 at-bats against left-handed pitching (.333).
“He works his tail off behind the plate,” said Yankees left-hander Max Fried. “He puts together real quality at-bats. For him to get in that spot and handle a fastball from a really good pitcher, I was really happy for him. It’s a long time coming, but I’m really glad he was able to celebrate that. He deserves it.”
The Yankees have not squeezed much offense out of the catching position, which general manager Brian Cashman has called “an issue” as the Aug. 3 Trade Deadline approaches. Entering Monday, their .550 OPS at catcher ranked 29th among the 30 clubs.
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But while the Yankees continue to poke around for upgrades, connected to the Twins’ Ryan Jeffers and the Reds’ Tyler Stephenson, Austin Wells says he’s seeing the ball better. Wells has four hits in 12 at-bats (.333) since returning from the All-Star break, and Sánchez hopes he’s doing his part, too.
“I’m thankful that I’ve been getting opportunities, and I’m just trying to do my part to win games,” Sánchez said.
Sánchez’s swing provided a highlight in an otherwise sloppy contest, one that prompted Boone to dig out a rallying cry used by the 1983 White Sox: “Winning ugly.”
The box score showed two Yankees errors among several examples of less-than-crisp defensive play, including Anthony Volpe dropping a ninth-inning pop-up that forced closer David Bednar to enter for the final out.
But Volpe also participated in one of the Yanks’ best plays of the night, a sharp relay that cut down Colson Montgomery at home plate to end the seventh inning as he attempted to score what would have been the tying run.
Yankees relay to nab Colson Montgomery at home
Jul 27, 2026 · 0:34
Yankees relay to nab Colson Montgomery at home
“We’ve got to play cleaner than that, but it was a really gritty effort by a lot of different people in that room,” Boone said.
Making his second start since returning from the injured list, Fried threw 66 pitches over three-plus innings, continuing to build his stamina. A 32-pitch first spelled a short evening as Fried surrendered three early runs.
“I wish I would’ve been sharper to be able to get some more innings, but I came out of it well, especially with some high-stress innings,” Fried said.
Down early, the Yankees capitalized on a bases-loaded, none-out opportunity in the fourth inning, building a four-run frame highlighted by Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s two-run double. Chisholm also had a well-executed bunt in the eighth that set up that frame, which included Sánchez’s homer.
“It just shows,” Chisholm said, “that we’re never going to give up.”
Trade rumors: Alcantara, Abrams, Blue Jays, Mets
MLB.com
Sandy Alcantara fans seven over six innings
Jul 17, 2026 · 1:57
Sandy Alcantara fans seven over six innings
The Trade Deadline is fast approaching — eight days to go and counting.
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Saturday brought the first major trade of the summer, as the Red Sox sent pitcher Connelly Early to the Nationals for infielder Curtis Mead. Meanwhile, Washington is said to be willing to listen to offers for another infielder — All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams.
More on that below, plus additional Trade Deadline updates on the Marlins, Blue Jays and Mets.
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Marlins’ losing streak could increase chances of Alcantara trade
On the morning of July 10, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported that the Marlins intended to keep ace Sandy Alcantara and strategically add to its roster at the Trade Deadline, “barring an utter collapse.”
At the time, Miami was riding high amid a 26-8 stretch that put the club a season-high 10 games above .500 (52-42). Since then, the Marlins have lost 12 straight games, setting a franchise record. Their playoff odds, which were 51.5% (per FanGraphs) through July 9, have dropped below 10%, raising new questions about their Trade Deadline plans.
“They are heading toward sellers-ville, I believe, on their journey to the Trade Deadline,” MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi said Wednesday, when the Marlins’ losing streak was at eight games. “They’ve got the pieces, especially in the rotation, to really capitalize on what is a fairly shallow supply of elite talent out there. I think this tips toward selling and they can really do a great job of building for a future when they can win the division against teams like the Phillies and Braves.”
Fellow MLB Network insider Joel Sherman echoed that opinion.
“In some ways, this is a well-timed losing streak, because they should probably be playing for the future, for as early as next year,” Sherman said. “If they’re winning, they’re kind of forced to go for it, and they’re probably not a team that’s good enough right this second to go for it. But they have a lot of things in place, and they have some pieces — Alcantara, for example — to add more pieces to go for it [next year]. This is not a rebuild for ’29, ’30, ’31. They could be real factors next year.”
Much of the Marlins’ roster is controllable well beyond 2026, so even if they do opt to sell, it’s unlikely they’ll have a long list of outgoing players. But Alcantara, whose name has been floated in trade rumors going back to last season, is a prime candidate to be dealt. The 2022 National League Cy Young winner has one year left on his contract — a $21 million club option ($2 million buyout) for ’27.
Miami could also shop relievers Anthony Bender, Michael Petersen, Lake Bachar and John King, all of whom are 31 or older.
Nats willing to listen on Abrams
The Nationals appear open to the idea of dealing Abrams prior to the Trade Deadline. According to a report from The Athletic, people briefed on the club’s thinking said that while the Nats aren’t shopping Abrams, they are at least willing to listen to offers. Washington anticipates that the talks will be more serious than they were over the winter, with Abrams in the midst of a career year.
The Nationals did trade another infielder on Saturday night, sending Mead to the Red Sox for Early, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Abrams or fellow trade candidate Luis García Jr. are off the table.
Read more here.
CJ Abrams slugs 25th homer in Nationals’ 5-3 victory
Jul 25, 2026 · 3:15
CJ Abrams slugs 25th homer in Nationals’ 5-3 victory
Blue Jays ‘already wading into sell waters’
While many teams on the playoff bubble are still evaluating their Trade Deadline options, the perception among some rival executives is that the Blue Jays “already were conceding and wading into the sell waters,” according to MLB Network insider Joel Sherman (New York Post subscription required).
Toronto won Saturday behind another gem from Dylan Cease but has gone 9-18 since June 23. The reigning American League champs are currently in last place in the AL East and 5 1/2 games out in the race for the third AL Wild Card spot.
The Blue Jays have a number of pending free agents who could be of interest to contenders, including Kevin Gausman, Daulton Varsho, George Springer, Shane Bieber and Max Scherzer. Toronto could also look to capitalize on the demand for relievers by shopping Jeff Hoffman, who is in the second year of a three-year, $33 million deal.
Hoffman struggled earlier this season and lost his closer job, but he has pitched to a 1.47 ERA since the beginning of June and has some intriguing peripherals.
The biggest Trade Deadline variable for Mets
The Mets are clear sellers, and Rosenthal expects their activity to be extensive prior to the Trade Deadline. With few untouchables on their roster, Rosenthal said he believes the Mets will make at least six trades.
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Pending free agents Freddy Peralta, A.J. Minter, Brooks Raley and Tyrone Taylor are the most likely to be traded, and Clay Holmes will probably be moved as well. Holmes, who is currently on a rehab assignment as he works his way back from a fractured right fibula, is expected to decline his 2027 player option to become a free agent at the end of this season. He said Friday that he hasn’t had substantive extension talks with the Mets to this point.
Center fielder Luis Robert Jr. has been generating interest, too, after returning from the injured list on July 20. Robert has a $20 million club option ($2 million buyout) for 2027.
In Rosenthal’s view, the big question for the Mets is not whether superstar shortstop Francisco Lindor will be traded — it’s unlikely — but whether they’ll deal reliever Luke Weaver.
The Mets have Weaver signed through 2027 and want to compete next season, but the demand for relievers could force them to consider moving the right-hander.
BYLINE: By Ryan A. Berenz
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1. In 1980, who did Major League Baseball commissioner Bowie Kuhn present with lifetime passes to any major or minor league baseball game?
2. Which team was set to join the American Basketball Association in 1975, but played only three exhibition games before being expelled from the league due to financial woes?
3. He won a Super Bowl XXXVII ring as a running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His son, a wide receiver from USC, was chosen by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Who are they?
4. Where was the 1942 Rose Bowl played after being relocated from California in the wake of the Pearl Harbor attack?
5. Name the Australian tennis player who won the 1987 Wimbledon gentlemen’s singles championship.
6. In 1943, brothers Max, Doug and Reg Bentley played together on the same line for what NHL team?
7. Long-distance runner Emil Zatopek won three gold medals at the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics competing for what country?
Answers
1. The 52 hostages freed by Iran.
2. The Baltimore Claws.
3. Michael Pittman and Michael Pittman Jr.
4. Duke Stadium in Durham, North Carolina.
5. Pat Cash.
6. The Chicago Blackhawks.
7. Czechoslovakia.
Sports Quiz Answer
Answers
1. AVUS (Automobil-Verkehrs- und Ubungsstrabe).
2. Diamond Vision.
3. South Africa.
4. Jack Dempsey.
5. Greg Pruitt.
6. The Memphis Grizzlies.
7. The San Diego Chicken.
