Press Release On April 6, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the New York State Police responded to Upstate Correctional Facility on Bare Hill Road in the town of Malone for a report of a deceased male. An investigation determined that Michael J. Campbell, age 51, was found unresponsive under a sheet. Further investigation revealed signs of foul play, indicating that Campbell had been strangled with a shoelace by his cellmate, Andrew Hernandez, age 42. An autopsy was conducted at Glens Falls Hospital by forensic pathologist Dr. Michael S. Sikirica. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxia due to ligature strangulation, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office, and the New York State Attorney General’s Office are assisting with the investigation. This remains an ongoing investigation, and charges are pending.

The New York State Police are investigating a serious motor vehicle incident that occurred on Colony Park Drive in the town of Salina, Onondaga County. On April 11, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Uniform Force members responded to a report of a vehicle that had crashed into a residence. The investigation determined that Brendan M. Kearney, age 38, of Syracuse, NY, had transported Jamell L. Works, age 41, of Liverpool, NY, to his residence. Upon arrival, Works refused to exit the vehicle while seated in the driver’s seat. Both Kearney and the witness attempted to have Works exit the vehicle. During this interaction, Kearney reached into the driver’s side in an effort to remove the keys. At that time, Works accelerated the vehicle in reverse, dragging Kearney a short distance. Kearney was thrown to the pavement and sustained serious injuries. Works continued operating the vehicle in reverse, ultimately crashing into the living room of a nearby residence on Colony Park Drive. Kearney was transported to Upstate University Hospital where he is currently listed in critical condition with a reported brain bleed. A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation was conducted, and Works was determined to be impaired by drugs at the time of the incident. Works is charged with the following:    • Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (DWAI Drugs)    • Vehicular Assault    • Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the First Degree (AUO 1st)    • Additional Vehicle and Traffic Law violations The investigation is continuing. Contact Troop D, Source's: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigating-dwai-drugs-and-vehicular-assault-onondaga-county

Update:   On April 9, 2026, Mark Smith , age 41, of Bridgeport, NY, succumbed to injuries sustained in the residential fire that occurred on March 24, 2026. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is still ongoing. Original Press Release March 25, 2026 :  On March 24, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., New York State Police responded to 7905 Areopagitica Avenue in the town of Cicero for a reported structure fire. Mark Smith , age 41, of Bridgeport, NY, was inside the residence at the time of the fire and was transported to Upstate University Hospital in critical condition. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is ongoing. At this time, preliminary findings do not indicate foul play. New York State Police were assisted at the scene by the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Bridgeport Fire Department, Minoa Fire Department, Onondaga County Department of Emergency Management Fire Investigation Unit, Cicero Fire Department, Clay Fire Department, South Bay Fire Department, East Syracuse Fire Department, Fayetteville Fire Department, and North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The investigation remains ongoing.

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today announced construction is underway on a new roundabout and noise wall on State Route 825 in the City of Rome. The start of construction on the roundabout and noise wall are the latest milestones in support of Chobani’s future 2-million-square-foot dairy processing facility on the County-owned Triangle Site at Griffiss International Airport. A significant portion of site and infrastructure work at the Triangle Site is being completed by Oneida County using a combination of County and New York State funding. “This project represents another major step forward in preparing the Triangle Site for Chobani’s transformative investment in our community,” Picente said. “The construction of this roundabout and noise wall not only supports the infrastructure needs of this world-class facility and site, but also ensures we are doing so in a way that prioritizes safety, traffic efficiency and quality of life for nearby residents. We are proud to continue making strategic investments that position Oneida County for long-term economic growth and opportunity.” The new roundabout will connect State Route 825 to an enhanced Perimeter Road, which will serve as the primary access point to the Triangle Site and Chobani’s future dairy processing facility. The noise wall will act as a buffer between homes and the roundabout. Work is beginning with necessary tree removal. Traffic will be detoured starting in May. More information on the temporary detour will be released prior to activation. The roundabout and noise wall are expected to be completed this fall. “We appreciate Oneida County and New York State’s continued investment in infrastructure that supports the Chobani project and strengthens the long-term economic outlook of our region,” said Rome Mayor Jeffrey M. Lanigan. “Improvements like this roundabout will enhance traffic flow and safety while helping ensure that this development integrates smoothly with the surrounding community.” Other work spearheaded by Oneida County includes the construction of a 12-inch steel natural gas main, a sanitary sewer pump station and force main and the installation of a new electrical service that will provide an additional 50 megawatts of power to the Triangle Site. All work will continue to advance in phases throughout 2026 and in parallel with Chobani’s timelines.

Oneida County Hosts ‘Together We Can’ Breakfast to Raise Child Abuse Awareness Oneida County kicked off Child Abuse Prevention Month today by hosting an awareness breakfast that brought together community leaders, service providers and residents committed to protecting children and strengthening families. After gathering several years under a different format, this year’s inaugural breakfast event highlighted the importance of collaboration in creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive. The theme of “Together We Can” underscored the shared responsibility of individuals, families, public and private agencies and businesses to ensure the well-being of children across the community. “Nothing we do as a county is more important than protecting our children,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “Our caseworkers and investigators are on the front lines every day working to prevent abuse, hold offenders accountable and support victims through incredibly difficult circumstances. But this responsibility belongs to all of us. We each have a role to play in recognizing the signs, speaking up and being part of the solution. When we support children and strengthen families, we strengthen our entire community.” Speakers and participants emphasized that while Child Abuse Prevention Month acknowledges the serious harm and trauma caused by abuse and neglect, it also serves as a call to action. By fostering strong relationships and ensuring access to essential supports such as employment, housing, food, healthcare, childcare, transportation and recreational opportunities, communities can reduce stress on families and promote stability. Research shows that child abuse and neglect can have lifelong consequences, including mental health challenges, physical health issues, difficulties in relationships and increased risk of premature death. However, positive childhood experiences and nurturing, stable relationships can build resilience and improve long-term outcomes. Even one caring adult can play a critical role in helping a child overcome adversity and achieve a healthy, successful future. With more than 550,000 children being abused and 2,000 annual fatalities occurring nationwide each year, the event highlighted the ongoing need for awareness and intervention in Oneida County, where the following occurred in 2025: 3,543 reports of child abuse or neglect were received by the Department of Family and Community Services (DFCS). 198 petitions related to abuse or neglect were filed in Family Court. Preventive services supported 1,452 at-risk children living at home with their families. In partnership with community agencies, the County provided assistance to 575 vulnerable families. In 2025, the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center (CAC)­­ —a multidisciplinary team comprised of members of DFCS and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups­­­— investigated 1,020 cases of child abuse, serving 860 children. As a result of those efforts, 39 arrests were made, 39 medical exams were conducted and 419 children received counseling services. “Child abuse is not something that can be ignored,” said Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol. “It is something that must be addressed with every resource at our disposal. Every year, we bring attention to the need to protect our children. Not only do we need to be aware of the symptoms of child abuse, but we also need to educate the public on the steps they can take to help. This is critical to the mission of the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center.” “Safeguarding children from harm is among the highest responsibilities of the District Attorney’s Office,” said District Attorney Todd C. Carville. “During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we urge the community to stay vigilant, recognize the indicators of abuse and support law enforcement efforts to stop it. Our office remains committed to standing up for victims and holding offenders accountable through aggressive prosecution.” “April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month,” said Chief Deputy Derrick O’Meara, Director of the CAC. “Raising awareness is critical, but protecting children is a responsibility we all carry year-round. From teachers and parents to neighbors, healthcare providers and community members, everyone has a role to play in recognizing concerns and helping ensure children remain safe.” “Neglect is frequently tied to broader economic and social challenges that limit a family’s access to the resources needed to raise children in a safe and healthy environment,” said DFCS Commissioner Colleen Fahy-Box. “That’s why prevention requires a community-wide effort. Whether it’s offering support to a struggling family, staying attentive to the needs of children we interact with or getting involved in organizations that serve youth, even small, everyday actions can make a meaningful difference in reducing maltreatment and helping children grow up in stable, nurturing environments.” Common signs of child abuse to watch out for include: Unexplained injuries Negative changes in behavior Returning to earlier childhood behaviors Fear of going home Changes in eating Changes in sleeping Changes in school performance and attendance Lack of personal care or hygiene Risk taking behaviors Inappropriate sexual behaviors Anyone who is aware that a child is in immediate danger should call 911. If someone suspects that a child is the victim of sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect or maltreatment, it can be reported to the New York State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720.

Investigator Patrick J. Hogan became a member of the New York State Police on January 8, 1996. He entered into service retirement from the New York State Police after 22 years of service on May 30, 2018. On April 13, 2023, Investigator Hogan died as a result of metastatic lung cancer stemming from his assignment to the World Trade Center site, following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. In response to the events of 9/11, Investigator Hogan was assigned to aid with the search and recovery efforts in New York City, as part of the New York State Police Detail. Investigator Hogan is survived by his wife and three children.

The New Hartford Police Department has arrested three individuals following an investigation into multiple retail larcenies that occurred at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store located at 4699 Middle Settlement Road. On March 23, 2026, officers responded to Lowe’s for a report of several thefts occurring over multiple days. An investigation determined that a male suspect entered the store on several occasions and stole power tools by concealing them in a reusable shopping bag before exiting without paying. After a review of surveillance footage, investigative databases, and follow-up interviews, officers identified those involved and determined that the incidents occurred on March 18, March 19, March 21, and March 24, 2026. The total value of the stolen merchandise was approximately $1,120. The investigation further revealed that stolen items were pawned and resold locally, police were able to recover several of the stolen tools during the course of the investigation. The case was thoroughly investigated by the New Hartford Police Officers, whose efforts led to the identification of the involved parties and the recovery of stolen property. As a result, the following individuals were arrested and charged: ARRESTED: William Miller, age 62, of New Hartford. • Charge: NYS PL 155.30- Grand Larceny in the 4th Degree (Class E Felony) Warren Jones, age 60, of New Hartford. • Charge: NYS PL 155.25- Petit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor) Lauren Lopez, age 47, of Utica. • Charge: NYS PL 165.40-Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 5th Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) All three individuals voluntarily surrendered themselves to the New Hartford Police Department, were processed, and released on Appearance Tickets returnable to the Town of New Hartford Criminal Court at a later date. The New Hartford Police Department continues to collaborate closely with regional loss prevention partners through the Department’s area loss prevention coalition to address all forms of retail theft—particularly coordinated, organized theft rings and illegal pawn operations. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0CaxPkvf56ZQb2tzowkhP8Mfp6U256bMSjAfPU1QTjnuYYPyXSnXrcaLjbnFWNU8Rl&id=100064364722662

Media Release: Investigation into death at Town of New Hartford Municipal Offices. This evening at approximately 8:15pm New Hartford Police responded to a 911 call reporting a gun shot being fired and an injured person in the public parking lot area of The Town of New Hartford Municipal Offices located on Clinton St. At the time of the call a New Hartford Police Officer was at The New Hartford Police Department, also located at The Municipal Office Building. The officer immediately responded to the public parking lot area and found a deceased adult male nearby a pick up truck in the parking lot. Initially that police officer along with additional responding New Hartford Police Officers checked the interior of the truck to determine if there were any other individuals present, quickly determining that there was not. New Hartford Police Investigators were also on scene and conducted interviews of people in the area at the time. Police evidence technicians along with The Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office further investigated the scene. This included the securing of multiple pieces of evidence, including video evidence, that was recovered at this scene. While the investigation remains ongoing and no formal conclusions have been finalized, based on the information currently available, The New Hartford Police Department believes this tragic incident to be self inflicted. We recognize that incidents of this nature are deeply distressing to the community. However, investigators are confident that this was an isolated event and that the deceased did not intend harm to others. Next of kin have been notified. Out of respect for the family’s privacy and the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time. The presence of this individual at this location was unrelated to any police matter, and other town offices were closed at the time this incident occurred.

Pair faces additional charges after second incident uncovered. Frank Gonzalez-Guzman, 31, of Utica, and Edinson Salcedo-Rivas, 25, also of Utica, have been additionally charged in connection with the theft of oil from a second business located in the Town of New Hartford. After charging the pair with Petit Larceny in relation to the initial incident uncovered on March 27th, police were alerted to a similar theft from The Castlewood Cafe, located at 8548 Seneca Turnpike. Police were able to determine that Gonzalez-Guzman and Salcedo-Rivas allegedly completed an additional theft of oil from Castlewood Cafe, also on March 27th, minutes prior, and in the same manner as when they were later interrupted during the theft at Fresco Fish. In both cases, the pair used tools and altered a run-down cargo van. The pair has now been formally and additionally charged with added counts of Petit Larceny in connection with this matter. Original Media Release: Seneca Turnpike Waste Oil Theft Interrupted. In the early morning hours of Friday, March 27, 2026, New Hartford Police interrupted the theft of waste oil from a local business on Seneca Turnpike. At approximately 2:00 a.m. New Hartford Police observed a suspicious vehicle near Fresco Fish, a restaurant located at 8483 Seneca Turnpike. Upon further investigation, officers determined that the vehicle, occupied by two individuals, was equipped with tools used to extract waste oil from a secured container on the property. The container is used by the business to store oil for later sale and collection by an authorized recycling service. The individuals, identified as Frank Gonzalez-Guzman, 31, of Utica, and Edinson Salcedo-Rivas, 25, also of Utica, were taken into custody without incident and transported to the New Hartford Police Department. The vehicle involved in the incident was impounded pending further investigation. Both individuals have been charged with the following offense: 1) One count each of Petit Larceny (New York State Penal Law §155.25), a misdemeanor Gonzalez-Guzman and Salcedo-Rivas were released on appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear in the Town of New Hartford Court on April 16, 2026. The investigation remains ongoing. Waste oil is commonly sold by local businesses to licensed recyclers as part of environmentally responsible practices. The unauthorized removal of such materials constitutes theft and is subject to criminal prosecution. https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02Rwh3uRr7WxZpenidH4m3F361uHTkLbDAdiGr35ug3T4sVKxwP5YNm8FEG7HxnbfJl&id=100064364722662

Nearly one million youth reached in first year as ESPN expands access from April 13 - May 1, with increased storytelling and community impact across ESPN platforms “Youth Sports Week”, a three-week initiative from April 13 – May 1 is dedicated to celebrating the positive impact of youth sports on young athletes, families and communities. As part of ESPN’s Take Back Sports initiative, powered by Disney, the effort will spotlight the people, programs and organizations working to ensure sports remain accessible, positive and impactful for the next generation. “Sports have the power to shape confidence, character and community at an early age, but with only 38% of kids playing sports on a regular basis, ESPN recognizes the critical need to build systems that make those opportunities accessible to more young athletes,” said Kevin Martinez , Vice President, Corporate Citizenship, ESPN. “Through Take Back Sports and ‘Youth Sports Week’, we’re working alongside partners and communities to ensure youth sports remain a positive and meaningful experience for families across the country.” Throughout the initiative, ESPN will present content and storytelling across ESPN platforms, including SportsCenter , ESPN Digital, the ESPN App and ESPN social platforms, amplifying voices across the youth sports landscape while driving awareness around the importance of participation, coaching and community engagement. Take Back Sports Impact Report In its first year, Take Back Sports has reached nearly one million individuals nationwide, including 935,000 youth reached through grants, 125,000 supported through sports-based mental wellness programs and 96,000 provided access to multisport play. The initiative has also trained 67,000 coaches and strengthened 2,300 recreational leagues nationwide. Additional details can be found in the Take Back Sports Report . Take Back Sports Ambassadors As part of Youth Sports Week, ESPN will expand its Take Back Sports ambassador roster, a growing group of athletes and voices— Stephen Curry , Peyton and Eli Manning , A’ja Wilson , Lamar Jackson and Francisco Lindor , among others—committed to improving the youth sports experience, beginning with newly announced athlete ambassadors: Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar Aaron Donald, NFL Legend and Super Bowl Champion J. Terrell, Atlanta Falcons Cornerback Kerri Walsh Jennings, American beach volleyball player and three-time Olympic gold medalist JesserCo and Bucketsquad Founder, Jesser , will also join the initiative as its first Creator Ambassador, expanding the program’s reach to new audiences through digital storytelling. Additional details on the full ambassador lineup can be found here . YMCA Community Partnership ESPN is deepening its commitment to community-based programming through a collaboration with the YMCA of the USA. Select YMCA locations in eight markets across the United States will host multisport sampling events designed to encourage participation and introduce young athletes and their families to a variety of sports experiences. Additional partnerships and activations, including youth-focused programming with the NFL, will be featured throughout the initiative. Public Service Campaign In partnership with Good Karma Brands, multiple Take Back Sports PSAs will air across ESPN platforms throughout Youth Sports Week, featuring athletes Peyton and Eli Manning and Stephen Curry, as well as ESPN host Scott Van Pelt . The PSAs reinforce the importance of ensuring youth sports remain positive, accessible and impactful for young athletes nationwide. Digital Resources ESPN has also introduced a youth sports parenting quiz designed to help families identify their parenting style and provide actionable guidance to support a more positive and effective youth sports experience. Expanded tools from the Positive Coaching Alliance will be available on  TakeBackSports.org  for parents, coaches and communities, including Spanish-language resources launching during Youth Sports Week. The Spanish version of the website,  TakeBackSports.org/es , will further the reach and impact of the Take Back Sports initiative. The website also will provide Spanish speaking parents and coaches with access to information, videos, a sports parent quick quiz and Spanish resources, including  Five Tips for Sports Parents  (“Cinco Consejos Para Padres Deportivos”) to help bring more joy, and less pressure, to youth sports communities everywhere. Content and Programming Throughout Youth Sports Week, ESPN will present dedicated content across ESPN platforms, including SportsCenter features and interviews, ESPN Radio coverage and additional storytelling initiatives to be announced. -30- About ESPN Corporate Citizenship:  ESPN believes that, at its very best, sports uplift the human spirit. Its corporate citizenship programs use the power of sport to positively address society’s needs through strategic community investments, cause marketing programs, collaboration with sports organizations and employee volunteerism, while also utilizing its diverse media assets. For more information go to www.espn.com/citizenship . About  Take Back Sports:  Take Back Sports  is a youth sports initiative led by ESPN and powered by Disney, designed to get and keep kids playing sports. With only 38% of kids playing sports on a regular basis, ESPN and The Walt Disney Company are helping parents, coaches and caring adults take back sports and make it fun again. Together with its league, business and community partners,  Take Back Sports  is working to make the youth sports system more accessible so that kids across the country have the opportunity to play sports. Media Contact: Beatrix.Panitz@espn.com Bea Panitz I joined ESPN in 2022 as a member of the communications department working on SportsCenter , ESPN Social and Digital. ESPN PRESS RELEASE Sources: https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2026/04/espn-presents-youth-sports-week-as-part-of-take-back-sports-initiative/

Oneida Indian Nation Homelands (March 2, 2026) Turning Stone Resort Casino is bringing another comedic powerhouse to Central New York this spring. Record-breaking comedian Sebastian Maniscalco will be performing at Turning Stone Resort Casino as part of his 2026 'Sebastian Maniscalco Live' Tour on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in The Event Center at Turning Stone Resort Casino at 8 p.m. Tickets for Sebastian Maniscalco’s performance at Turning Stone go on sale Wednesday, March 4th for Artist Presale, Thursday, March 5th for local presale, and to the public Friday, March 6th all starting at 10am EST. Known for his impeccable timing, relatable anecdotes, and one-of-a-kind physicality, Maniscalco blends observational humor with his unique take on everyday life. On the 'Sebastian Maniscalco Live' tour, he invites fans to laugh along as he humorously dissects today’s absurdities, from nonexistent manners and soaring prices to the chaos of social media. With his trademark wit, Maniscalco unpacks the shamelessness of modern life, promising a night of laughter at the world’s many wrongs. “I took a little time off, but I’m back and I’m fired up,” said Maniscalco. “This run is taking me to some of the nicest casinos in the country, and we’re going all in. There’s nothing like spending time at the tables and then ending the night with a laugh.” Maniscalco earned the #1 Comedy Tour of 2025 in Billboard’s Midyear Boxscore report , ranked #25 among all global tours , and appeared in Pollstar’s Top 20 Global Concert Tours across all genres . He finished the year as one of the top ten highest-grossing comedy tours in both 2024 and 2025 , making him one of the few comedians to achieve consecutive years of chart dominance. His It Ain’t Right special, filmed at the United Center, became Hulu’s #1 title within 24 hours , with Maniscalco diving into family chaos, aging, and the little things that drive us all nuts—delivered with his one-of-a-kind comedic bite. Maniscalco has set multiple records across major venues in North America, cementing his status as a comedy juggernaut. In New York City, Maniscalco made history at Madison Square Garden with five consecutive sold-out shows, setting records for most consecutive performances, most lifetime performances, highest grosses, and most tickets sold by a comedian on a single tour—selling a staggering 91,336 tickets and marking ten total shows at MSG since 2019. To celebrate, comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld guest-opened, praising Maniscalco’s unique comedic “magic.” On April 18, audiences at Turning Stone Resort Casino can expect another powerhouse performance from one of the biggest names in comedy — an arena-level entertainer bringing his energy to an unforgettable night in The Event Center. ABOUT SEBASTIAN MANISCALCO Sebastian Maniscalco is a record-breaking comedian who has led one of the highest-grossing comedy tours in history, selling out multiple consecutive nights at Madison Square Garden, United Center, and other major venues across the U.S. He has appeared in films such as the Oscar-nominated crime epic The Irishman , the Oscar-winning comedy-drama Green Book , and About My Father , and hosts the podcast The Pete and Sebastian Show . Maniscalco's comedy specials have been featured on major streaming networks like Hulu, Netflix, and Showtime, and he is a best-selling author of the memoir Stay Hungry . FOR MEDIA USE: To download a media approved photo of Sebastian Maniscalco, click Here .   About Turning Stone Resort Casino A renowned, award-winning destination resort in Upstate New York, the Oneida Indian Nation’s  Turning Stone Resort Casino features world-class amenities including five hotels, two luxurious spas, five golf courses, more than 20 dining options, a 125,000 square foot Las Vegas-style gaming floor, TS Sports, a state-of-the-art sports betting lounge, The Showroom, an intimate concert venue, a 5,000 seat arena, and several nightlife venues, including NY Rec & Social Club. Conveniently located 30 miles east of Syracuse at NYS Thruway exit 33, Turning Stone was named the #1 Best Gaming Resort in New York by Casino Player Magazine and the #1 Best Overall Dining in 2023. Turning Stone has also earned the prestigious Forbes Four-Star Award for The Lodge, Wildflowers restaurant, TS Steakhouse, and Skʌ:nʌ́: Spa, and, for more than a decade, the AAA Four Diamond Award for The Lodge, The Tower Hotel, and Wildflowers restaurant.  For more information and reservations, call (315) 361-7711 or (800) 771-7711.   Media Contact: Kathleen Shaffer; Head of Public Relations Turning Stone Enterprises 315.569.8193 kathleen.shaffer@turningstone.com   Sebastian Maniscalco PR Align PR TeamSebastian@align-pr.com Sources: https://www.turningstone.com/press/news/entertainment/sebastian-maniscalco-to-bring-national-tour-to--turning-stone-resort-casino-april-18th

HERKIMER COUNTY, N.Y. — The Herkimer County Fair will return this summer with a full slate of traditional attractions, family-friendly entertainment, and community pride, as organizers announce the 2026 fair theme: “Celebrating America’s 250 Years!” The fair is scheduled to run August 18 through August 23, 2026, bringing six days of agricultural showcases, motorsports, pageantry, and youth competitions to the fairgrounds. The patriotic theme aligns with the nation’s semiquincentennial, highlighting American history, heritage, and local traditions that have long defined the Herkimer County Fair. Signature Events and Schedule Highlights Fair week will open on Tuesday, August 18, with pageantry taking center stage. The Little Miss & Mister Pageant begins at 6:30 p.m., immediately followed by the Queen, Prince, and Princess Pageant, a longstanding fair tradition that celebrates youth involvement and community leadership. Motorsports fans will have multiple opportunities to enjoy crowd-favorite events throughout the week. A Demo Derby (Cars, Trucks, and Vans) is scheduled for Thursday, August 20, at 7:00 p.m., followed by a Cars-Only Demo Derby on Friday, August 21, at 7:00 p.m. Pulling events round out the action, with a Truck Pull on Saturday, August 22 (weigh-ins from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.) and a Tractor Pull on Sunday, August 23, at 11:00 a.m. Equestrian events will also be a major feature of the fair. The Youth & Open Horse Show takes place Saturday, August 22, at 9:00 a.m., while the Horse Gymkhana is scheduled for Sunday, August 23, at 9:00 a.m., showcasing local talent and horsemanship across age groups. More Than Entertainment In addition to headline events, the fair will once again include agricultural exhibits, fair departments, scholarships, and daily schedules highlighting youth programs, local organizations, and regional agriculture. Ticket information, full schedules, and updates will be made available through official fair channels as the event approaches. Organizers say the 2026 fair is shaping up to be both a celebration of American history and a continuation of the community-centered traditions that have made the Herkimer County Fair a summer staple for generations. https://www.herkimercountyfair.org/fair-events The Herkimer County Fair runs August 18–23, 2026, and is open to all ages.