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Gov. Cuomo Really, Really Loves #TeamUSA

by Nuzha Nuseibeh

You wanted an excuse to get away to watch the U.S.-Germany game. U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann gave you that excuse to watch the game, and now, that excuse has officially been heard: New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has given every New York state employee an extra hour over lunch to watch the match. So get on out there, New Yorkers, and root for Team USA! (Or at least, feel those patriotic vibes as you grab that extra-large second lunch and down that cold beer.)

The game officially started 12 pm EST, and if you're not already watching it, you should be. If the U.S. wins — or even ties Germany — that'll mean the team has the chance to go on to the round of 16 at the World Cup. Right now, we're at 0-0, but tensions are high.

Luckily for some New Yorkers, Cuomo sent a letter officially granting state workers the lunch extension to Klinsmann on Thursday, saying: "The State of New York stands strongly behind Team USA. Therefore, I am approving an extra hour for an extended lunch today for every New York State employee, beginning at 12:00 PM, so they can root Team USA on to victory."

He added: "On behalf of all New Yorkers, I wish you and the entire team the best of luck. New York believes that we will win." He also tweeted it, 'cause he's just that cool.

Other state governors have not been that compassionate to their local soccer-lovers. Texas Gov. Rick Perry tweeted his support, as did Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon, but sadly neither extended any lunch hours (in spite of pleas from their constituencies via Twitter.)

So what are you waiting for, New Yorkers? It's #IBelieveThatWeWillWin time.