John,

Summer is in full swing, and it’s time for New Yorkers to get offline and get outside! Whether you’re relaxing with friends and family, firing up the grill for a barbecue, or hiking or swimming in one of our amazing State Parks, it really is the best time of the year in New York.  

When I was growing up in Western New York, summer meant getting outside, playing sports and games, and going swimming with friends — not staying inside held captive to a cell phone.  

Like so many parents across the state, I want all New York kids to have that opportunity. I want to help kids be kids. This summer, that’s exactly what we’re doing.   

In June, I signed nation-leading legislation to protect New York kids on social media and combat the addictive algorithms that are harming their mental health. But we know that supporting the physical and emotional well-being of our kids goes beyond what happens on their smartphones.

That’s why we launched Get Offline, Get Outside — a new effort to help New Yorkers, and especially our kids, put down those phones and have fun this summer. It includes:  

• Launching NY SWIMS, a historic, $150 million investment to expand access to safe swimming across New York by building pools in underserved communities, helping recruit more lifeguards, expanding swim lesson opportunities, and more.  
• Expanding access to State Parks by opening the Big Bend Preserve at Moreau Lake State Park and making sure everyone, regardless of their access to a credit card, can access the breathtaking sites across New York.
• Waiving admission fees at State Park pools so that more families can have a fun, safe swimming experience this summer.  
• Supporting youth sports teams in New York City and making it easier for our kids to make lifelong memories.  

And along with these actions, we're spreading the word about other ways that New Yorkers can get out and enjoy the outdoors. With our work, we’re not just fighting for the mental health of all of our children — we’re bringing families closer together starting this summer.   

I want to hear from you: Let me know how you’re getting offline and getting outside!

Ever Upward, 

Gov. Kathy Hochul 

P.S. Can’t decide what to do first? Our “Ask the Gov” lightning round can help you out.