Good morning, Schenectady.

A federal order reclassified marijuana as a Schedule III drug to ease medical research while keeping recreational use unchanged; New York dispensaries may benefit from a 75% tax cut and improved market safety as fewer unregulated sellers are expected.

The DMV introduced Gold Star Family license plates on Friday, Dec.

19 to help families honor fallen loved ones; standard plates cost $60 with an annual fee under $32, while personalized plates cost nearly $92 with an annual fee just under $63.

St. Peter’s & Capital District Physician Health Plan are still in contract talks that may affect care for more than 100,000 patients; the dispute shows ongoing challenges in our health system.

Section 2 reached a deal in principle with hockey officials to end a dispute that had caused high school hockey game cancellations.

Officials from Section 3 had stepped in for games until a new agreement was confirmed.

New Year's Eve Celebration at Rivers Casino

9 p.m. — Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady — Price varies — Celebrate the arrival of 2026 with live music, dinner, and a chance to win exciting prizes.