Governor Threatens Teachers & More in Today’s News

State - Governor Cuomo is threatening to impose a teacher evaluation system if an agreement between the state Education Department and New York State United Teachers is not reached by today.  The state’s new teacher evaluation system is required by a federal $700 million Race to the Top grant.  It would establish a rating system, classifying teachers into four categories.  It would be used to fire and/or promote teachers in New York.

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Capital Region - The University of Albany will be upgrading the school’s football field.  After decades of wishful thinking, UAlbany announced details regarding the $24 million athletic and recreational complex Wednesday.  Construction will begin mid-April.  The three-phase project will include an $18 million football and soccer facility, a $5 million upgrade of the school’s track and field venue and a $1 million synthetic turf field. 

Saratoga Springs - Police arrested a 31-year Saratoga man earlier this week after they found over $40,000 worth of marijuana.  Jonathan Ching of Aletta Street was arrested Tuesday and charged with second-degree possession of marijuana, a felony.  According to police, they found 10 pounds of marijuana when they caught up with Ching and another eight pounds during their investigation.

Albany - U.S. Marshals caught up with a convicted felon in Albany this week.  41-year old Charles Brown was taken Tuesday night from his girlfriend’s home on Bradford Street.  Brown was wanted to skipping out on a sentencing hearing scheduled for last week.  Back in September, Brown pleaded guilty third-degree burglary for his role in a break-in at the Harlem Flow clothing store. 

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Schenectady - Three bartenders were arrested this week after an underage sting was conducted.  Each server faces a charge of allegedly selling alcohol to minors Thursday while working at Geppetto’s Restaurant on Nott Street.  The State Liquor Authority also suspended the liquor license of Geppetto’s.  55 of the 75 patrons in the bar at the time of the raid were underage.