Governor Hochul Announces Grow Therapy’s Continued New York City Expansion, Creating 123 New Jobs and Investing $9.9 Million in Research and Development

Fast-Growing Mental Health Platform Will Invest an Additional $15 Million for New Manhattan Office

Building on 2025 Expansion, Grow Therapy’s Total New York Commitment Reaches 309 New Jobs and $40.9 Million in Total Investment

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that Grow Therapy (Grow), a mental health platform delivering in-person and online therapy and psychiatric care, will expand again in New York City with a new office of more than 78,000 square feet at 145 Delancey Street on the Lower East Side. The latest expansion will see the company create 123 new full-time jobs, invest $9.9 million in research and development, and invest an additional $15 million to build out the new space. Empire State Development is supporting the project with up to $1.4 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits. Combined with the prior expansion project announced in November 2025, Grow has now committed to creating 309 new jobs, retaining 94 jobs, and investing $40.9 million in its New York operations.

“New York City continues to be where ambitious companies come to grow, innovate and build for the future,” Governor Hochul said. “Grow Therapy’s decision to deepen its roots here reflects the strength of our talent and innovation economy, and we are proud to support a company using technology to expand access to mental health care while creating new opportunities for New Yorkers.”

The new positions will span technology, marketing and operations, supporting Grow’s continued expansion and development of its mental health care platform. The project builds on Governor Hochul’s announcement in November 2025, when Grow committed to relocate its headquarters from SoHo to 100 Broadway, create at least 186 jobs over five years and invest $16 million in research and development.

Grow’s additional $9.9 million research and development investment will support continued development of technology and AI tools designed to assist clinicians and improve the delivery of care. 

DHS Highlights Worst Illegal Aliens Arrested Across the Country on Election Day

 

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement highlighting examples of the worst illegal aliens arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across the country on Election Day, including those convicted for such crimes as attempted murder, aggravated assault with a weapon, and child molestation.

“Every single day, DHS enforces the laws of the nation across the country. 365 days per year, the hardworking men and women of ICE law enforcement are targeting and arresting criminal illegal aliens to make America safe again—this includes on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and yes, Election Day,” said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “Just yesterday, ICE arrested more heinous illegal alien criminals with convictions including attempted murder, aggravated assault with a weapon, and child molestation. The Trump Administration will never apologize for putting the safety of the American people first.”

Here are just some of the illegal aliens ICE arrested on Election Day:

In Salt Lake City, Utah, ICE arrested Jaime Ramirez-Almaraz, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, whose criminal history includes convictions for burglary and aggravated assault with a weapon.

In Miami, Florida, ICE arrested Jesus Moreno-Lucio, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, whose criminal history includes convictions for attempted murder and aggravated battery in Naples, Florida.

In New Orleans, Louisiana, ICE arrested Daniel Martinez-Guerrero, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, whose criminal history includes a conviction for aggravated assault with a weapon in Nashville, Tennessee.

In Newark, New Jersey, ICE arrested Ezequiel Mendez-Mendez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, whose criminal history includes a conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon causing bodily injury.

In St. Paul, Minnesota, ICE arrested Kevin Ramirez-Gomez, a criminal illegal alien from Guatemala, whose criminal history includes a conviction for child molestation.

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DEC ANNOUNCES 22nd ANNUAL MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT POSTER CONTEST THEME: “WATER CONNECTS US ALL”

 

Department of Environmental Conservation

Poster Contest Submissions Accepted Through January 8, 2027

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton and the New York Water Environment Association (NYWEA) today announced the annual water conservation poster contest for middle school students. The 2027 “Water Connects Us All” poster theme challenges middle school students to learn about their role in the watershed they live in and what positive actions they can take to conserve, protect, and celebrate our water resources, now and for future generations.

“For two decades, the water conservation poster contest has helped inspire New York's next generation of environmental stewards,” Commissioner Lefton said. “This year’s theme encourages young people across New York State to become guardians of their watersheds and reminds all New Yorkers of the everyday actions each of us can take to protect and conserve precious water resources.”

"This poster contest is one of the things that makes NYWEA members proud of what we do,” NYWEA President, Vijesh Karatt Vellatt said. “I am even more proud of all of the teachers who have become our watershed champions who have inspired the students to participate over the years."

Since 2004, DEC’s annual poster contest has encouraged thousands of middle school students across New York State to learn about their role in protecting local watersheds and how to conserve and safeguard water resources. Previous themes include "Create a Watershed Superhero", "We All Live in a Watershed", "Conserve and Protect our Watersheds", and "The Importance of Wastewater Treatment." 

New York State teachers, schools, and clubs are encouraged to visit DEC's website for more information about participating in the 2026-27 school year contest. Posters will be accepted through January 8, 2027. The 14 winning posters will be featured in DEC and NYWEA's 2028 Annual Calendar.

The poster contest helps raise awareness of the importance of natural resources and the DEC programs that help reduce water pollution and improve water quality. DEC is one of several New York State agencies funding projects that protect and restore water quality through statewide grant funding opportunities.

To see if your area is covered by a Clean Water Plan, check out DECInfo Locator under the Environmental Monitoring layer category or visit DEC’s Clean Water Plans page. To learn more about positive actions New Yorkers can take to protect and conserve New York's waters, visit DEC's Keep Water Clean and Water Quality Management webpages.

Playoff Soccer for $12: Mayor Mamdani and Gotham FC Offer Discounted Tickets

Discounted tickets will give fans the chance to cheer on Gotham FC against Seattle Reign FC this Sunday 

Tickets will be released on a first-come, first-served basis this Thursday at 10 a.m.   

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Gotham FC today announced a limited offer of 3,000 $12 tickets for the team’s upcoming quarterfinal match against Seattle Reign FC this Sunday, November 8.

The discounted tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Thursday, November 5 at 10 a.m. New York City residents can visit www.gothamfc.com/twelve to claim their tickets.

The $12 ticket drop gives New Yorkers the chance to show up for Gotham FC as its “12th player,” bringing thousands of fans into the stands for one of the biggest matches of the season. The announcement builds on Mayor Mamdani’s continued commitment to making major sporting and cultural events more accessible and affordable for New Yorkers. Earlier this year, the administration offered $15 tickets for The Queens Classic, which broke the attendance record for a women’s sporting event in New York City. The Mamdani administration has also made free and discounted tickets available for FIFA World Cup matches, the US Open, the TCS New York City Marathon Grandstands, Broadway performances, the Met Opera, and more.

“This Sunday, Seattle’s reign will come to an end as Gotham FC storms the field for their quarterfinal match, and we’re giving thousands of New Yorkers the chance to cheer them on with discounted tickets,” said Mayor Mamdani. “From the World Cup to the US Open, we’re unlocking the doors of major sporting events for all New Yorkers to enjoy and reaffirming, once again, that sports belong to the people — not just those who can afford the price of admission.”

“We’re grateful to Mayor Mamdani and his administration for helping more New Yorkers experience Gotham FC playoff soccer,” said Mark Zarthar, President of Business Operations, Gotham FC. “Our fans have been a driving force behind this club’s success, and as we pursue another championship, we want more people to be part of that journey. Through this initiative, we’re making it easier for families and fans across the city to join us and be part of an unforgettable playoff atmosphere.”

Gotham FC will take on the Seattle Reign FC this Sunday, November 8, at 12:30 p.m. at Sports Illustrated Stadium in the opening round of the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Playoffs.

Gotham FC secured the No. 1 seed in the NWSL postseason after winning the first NWSL Shield in club history earlier this week, earning home-field advantage for the quarterfinals and semifinals. The team enters the postseason following a historic regular season, setting club records for points, wins and shutouts.

Today’s ticket announcement builds on a historic year for soccer in New York City. Earlier this summer, Gotham FC and New York City FC announced that Gotham 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 and establish a permanent home for professional women’s soccer in the five boroughs.

Statement from NYGOP Chair Ed Cox on Tonight's Results

"While Republicans fielded one of the best statewide tickets in living memory, we were not able to overcome the national political environment. Midterm elections are historically difficult for the party holding the Presidency, especially in a second term.

"Bruce Blakeman ran a flawless, issues-based campaign, articulating the multitude of failures under Kathy Hochul and one-party Democrat rule.

"A political star was born in Saritha Komatireddy, who drew national attention to a State Attorney General race.

"Joseph Hernandez did more to shed light on Albany Democrats' squandering of taxpayer dollars on his X feed than Tom DiNapoli has done in 19 years in office.

"The people of Nassau County are fortunate to have an outstanding executive in Bruce Blakeman. Saritha Komatireddy and Joseph Hernandez have bright political futures ahead of them.

"I want to personally thank all of our Republican candidates for office around the state this year. You carried our banner with passion and distinction.

"Kathy Hochul and Albany Democrats have been put on notice. They were able to hide behind the national tide this cycle, but that will not be the case forever. They will have to answer for their record of New York leading the nation in outmigration as the most taxed, least affordable, least free state in America. Republicans will continue to fight for a New York that is affordable for families, friendly to businesses and puts the wellbeing of our citizens first."

HERNANDEZ STATEMENT ON ELECTION RESULTS

 

Joseph Hernandez, the Republican nominee for State Comptroller, released the following statement:

 

"Tonight, I called Tom DiNapoli to congratulate him. 

 

New Yorkers have spoken, and I respect their decision.

 

In 1776, George Washington lost New York. Seven years later, on Evacuation Day, he rode back down Broadway into a free city. 

 

Losing a battle is not the same as losing the cause.

 

Our cause hasn't changed: every dollar Albany spends belongs to the people who earned it.

 

To my family, our volunteers, and every voter who trusted us: thank you. 

I came here at seven on a fishing boat, and I learned that in America, you get back up.

 

This is not my last word."

New York State Parks Launches Park Ranger Recruitment Campaign Park Rangers Assist Visitors, Safeguard Landscapes, Protect Wildlife, and Preserve Cultural Sites

 Applications accepted through 12/31/26

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) today launched a recruitment campaign for Park Rangers to help preserve New York State’s beautiful landscapes, wildlife, cultural sites, and recreational spaces.

New York State Park Rangers serve as ambassadors and safety representatives for State Parks and Historic Sites. Responsibilities range from patrolling campgrounds, beaches, and trails to responding to calls for assistance and helping with general security.

“Park Rangers play an essential role in helping visitors safely enjoy everything our parks have to offer – whether they are hiking a trail, paddling on the water, or camping in the great outdoors,” said Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser. “We look forward to recruiting a new class of candidates who will work alongside our dedicated staff and Park Police across New York’s more than 250 state parks and historic sites. Our Park Rangers are vital to protecting the people, places, and experiences that make our state park system so extraordinary.”

OPRHP is seeking individuals who are committed to public service and ensuring parks and sites remain safe and welcoming for everyone. Park Rangers respond to calls for assistance and alert emergency responders as needed. In addition, Park Rangers may have other responsibilities including assisting with light duty maintenance at their assigned facilities and supporting public safety efforts and traffic control at large events. Park Rangers are not law enforcement officers and are not subject to the same requirements as peace or police officers. 

Park Rangers are generally hired to work seasonally from mid-May through Labor Day. Employment may be extended at select locations. Visit the Park Ranger webpage for more information.  

Park Rangers work closely with the public and are trained to respond to various emergencies including medical events, missing persons and property, traffic-related issues and various other safety issues or hazards. Park Rangers are usually on foot when interacting with visitors, but also navigate parks and sites in vehicles, UTVs, and on bikes.

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, and welcomes over 86 million visitors annually. 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.

Sioux City Woman to Federal Prison for Meth Distribution Conspiracy

Nikkel and another distributed meth near Fairmount City Park

April Nikkel, 37, from Sioux City, Iowa, was sentenced to 168 months’ imprisonment. Nikkel pled guilty on May 18, 2026, in federal court in Sioux City to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distributing methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a protected location.

Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed Nikkel was involved in a conspiracy from January 2025 through November 2025 that distributed more than three pounds of methamphetamine.  On at least three occasions Nikkel distributed and helped another distribute a total of over 190 grams of pure methamphetamine to individuals cooperating with law enforcement.  These distributions occurred within 1,000 feet of Fairmount City Park and Cecillia City Park in Sioux City.  

United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand sentenced Nikkel to 168 months’ imprisonment and eight years of supervised release.  There is no parole in the federal system.  Nikkel remains in custody of the United States Marshal until she can be transported to a federal prison. 

The case was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde.