Paul Ryan Tenney, who admitted back in September that he stole more than $106,000 from his employer, Elcon, Inc., has still not been sentenced for his crime.

He remains in jail without bail. This afternoon, Judge Robert Noonan gave the 39-year-old Tenney until Dec. 8 to find and secure financing for an in-patient drug-addiction treatment program. If he fails, the judge said he may be forced to "warehouse" Tenney in prison.

The one-time high school athletic star claims he's already completed an in-patient program as required. Trouble is, no one can find any proof of it. His attorney, Gary Horton, said he has no documentation, other than the statements of Tenney's friends and relatives.

Noonan said Tenney was stonewalling, and expressed a great deal of frustration with this case.

"I've tried to figure out how to wake you up to take charge of your life," Noonan said. "You've shown no backbone."

He said Tenney needs to stop making excuses and relying on his relatives for help.

"I could sentence you to five years in prison, but you'd just be five years older," Noonan said.

Tenney's criminal record certainly justifies doing that, the judge said, but numerous people in the community have vouched for Tenney and say he can be redeemed. He just needs to show the judge he is willing make the effort.

I'm Riley and I'm sweet. Here are just some of my many attributes: good with other dogs; good with children; good on a leash; crate trained; loves walks; and loves hanging out outdoors.

That's a pretty dang good report card, wouldn't ya say? I can be a bit nervous about my surroundings at first, but I warm up to people quickly and then get along famously.

I'm an adult, neutered male and a hound mix. Find me in Kennel 15.

My name is Kestrel and my fur is softer than even feathers (maybe even a chinchilla)! I am another of those sweet girls who lived outside in the cold world and can truly appreciate the warmth of a nice home. 

I love to be stroked or brushed, and once I get to know you, I'll roll onto my back and let you scratch my belly and under my "wings" where I love it the most! I like other cats so I don't mind sharing your home. I can seem shy with people at first, but I always come around. I am just a lovely girl if you have patience, give me time and a quiet place to settle into. I am about 6 months old and am in Cage 65.

Note: Kestrel is diagnosed with mild gingivitis which may at some time actually clear up, possibly secondary to a calicivirus in her youth. As long as the gingivitis remains, it's important to keep the gums and teeth as healthy as possible. It is suggested that a daily dental care product such as chlorhexidene or zinc-based oral cleanser be used. Many can be purchased without a prescription online, at the veterinarian's office or a pet supply store. 

Denise R. Montgomery, who is charged with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine after agents allegedly found a small lab in the basement of her house at 135 Jackson St., Batavia, was released from federal custody Monday.

The charges pending against her stand. Assistant Attorney General Mary C. Kane, who is handling the case, was not available for comment and no one at federal detention facility in Buffalo could or would release bail information.

Her release came following a 1 p.m. hearing in a federal judge's chambers. According to neighbors, Montgomery spent Monday night at home.

Sheriff's Chief Deputy Jerome Brewster said he was told this morning that Montgomery was released.

It's unknown if she was required to post bail. If no bail was required (as one caller to The Batavian suggested), Brewster said that does not necessarily indicate a reduction in charges or reflect a change in the status of her case.

"I'm sure the feds use a formula like we do to make a determination about release -- like whether there's a prior record, ties to the community and if the numbers add up, they get released," Brewster said.

If convicted of the initial charges, the 41-year-old mother, who's son is 10, could face sentencing enhancements because a child lived in the house and guns were reportedly found in the residence.

Previously:

• Two men suspected of manufacturing meth busted at house in Alabama
• Jackson Street mother named third suspect in meth ring

Genesee Youth Bureau is starting an intergenerational project that will bring together underserved groups in our community. Teams of youth assisted by Genesee County RSVP volunteers will create and care for an indoor garden to help supplement the diets of the senior population in Genesee County.

Youth will take responsibility for building and caring for the garden. They will also learn about and in turn educate the community about how to make the produce part of a healthy diet during tough economic times. Youth will also gain understanding about the environment and the needs of the community while learning more about themselves and building their self-esteem. Youth will have a chance to interact and bond with the senior population.

The bureau is looking for youth between the ages of 5 to 18 to take part in this project. This is a great way for youth to get involved in their community and earn community service hours.

To get involved and learn more, call 344-3960.

The Muckdogs are always looking for community events to strengthen community ties and be good citizens. The baseball team wants schools, businesses and charitable and civic organizations to take advantage of its outreach efforts.

“It’s important for us to assist with area charitable initiatives and give back to the community that supports us,” said Muckdogs General Manager Travis Sick. "This year, the Muckdogs continued to strengthen their community ties by helping local charities raise money, and being a conduit through which $1,600 was raised this past season.  The Muckdogs continue to field requests during the off-season."

Call the Muckdogs office at 343-5454 to find out how your group or event may fit in with the Muckdogs’ Community Outreach.

For example, the Muckdogs’ players have regularly done in-season autograph sessions, while the staff and mascot visit local classrooms and other places throughout the year, getting the word out about the organization, and how it might help charitably.  Homer, in particular, made nearly 20 appearances at local schools, a nursing facility, library and charity tournaments. The Muckdogs have also collected money and food for a local animal shelter. 
 
Prior to the season, the Muckdogs kick off the season’s community relations by hosting a job fair at Dwyer Stadium, where area youth are selected for stadium jobs. Similarly, a National Anthem contest is conducted, giving local singers a chance to show their expertise and sing the National Anthem at a home game.
 
In partnership with the Hillside Family of Agencies, several baseball clinics were organized in conjunction with Muckdogs players. These clinics provide an opportunity for children of all ages to learn baseball fundamentals and meet players. Additionally, the Muckdogs staff conducted seven “Launch-A-Ball” fundraising games on-field, with proceeds for Hillside topping $500.
 
The Muckdogs also hosted a night at the ballpark for Genesee County ARC, to provide ARC members from surrounding counties a chance to participate in a pre-game parade and receive recognition on the field.

It's time once again to call for volunteer bell-ringers to assist in the Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle campaign.

The nonprofit Christian charity is seeking anyone interested in ringing a bell to solicit donations for needy families this holiday season to call or log on to find out more.

In Batavia, the phone numbers are 343-6284 or 343-4342. Or you can call this around-the-clock toll-free number 1-877-764-7259 or visit the Web site at www.redkettles.org

These are tough times for a lot of people and your assistance is needed now more than ever.

Residents in College Village have something to be thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday. Beginning at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 24, the Resident Assistants (RA) and College Village staff at Genesee Community College will prepare a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for students in the Village Hall of College Village.

The meal is free to student residents and will include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and of course, pumpkin pie.

On average, 100 to 150 students attend the annual dinner. For many, this will be their only Thanksgiving celebration. And for international students, this may be the first time they've experienced the holiday or tasted the traditional fare. Resident Assistants spend most of the day preparing the meal, working around their classes, activities and other school functions. College Village staff is kept busy by running to and from apartments double checking on the cooking, especially the turkey.

"This year we have many new Resident Assistants who have never cooked for a Thanksgiving Dinner before," said Ellen Brokaw, assistant director of Residence Life at College Village. "There's going to be a lot of training involved, but the RA staff this year is fantastic and I'm sure this year will be a great success. The RA Thanksgiving dinner always ensures a very busy but fun day!"

Prior to the meal, Lauren Paisley, instructor of business and advisor for the International Student Organization, will give a presentation on the history and traditions associated with Thanksgiving. The International Student Organization assists Genesee's international students in making the transition into a new environment. The group promotes cultural awareness, while serving as a support network for the educational and social development of foreign students. The presentation will begin at 5 p.m. with the Thanksgiving meal immediately following.

This is the fifth year that College Village has provided a free Thanksgiving dinner to students.

For further information, please contact Ellen Brokaw at 343-0163 or by e-mail ecbrokaw@genesee.edu.

Tomorrow is National Memory Screening Day. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of American (AFA) and Assemblyman Steve Hawley encourage all seniors in the City of Batavia and the surrounding region to have a memory screening.

The free screening will available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Kmart Pharmacy, located at 8363 Lewiston Roadin Batavia.

"Memory loss is one of the first signs of the onset of Alzheimer’s and it is imperative we do everything in our power to protect seniors from this devastating disorder,” Hawley said in a press release.

At the screening, qualified healthcare professionals will offer confidential memory screenings and information about Alzheimer’s disease, along with information regarding local resources for healthy aging.

Approximately 4.5 million Americans currently suffer from Alzheimer’s disease or related illness and it is estimated that the number will triple to more than 16 million by mid-century. The greatest risk factor for memory loss and Alzheimer’s is age, with this risk doubling every five years after the age of 65.

As part of this year’s awareness campaign, AFA also hosted commemorative candle lighting ceremonies nationwide on Nov. 15. For more information about any other memory loss questions, please visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org or call 866-AFA-8484.

 

A small methamphetamine lab was allegedly discovered at 135 Jackson St. in Batavia earlier today when law officers went there looking for Kenneth W. Mosholder, whose home in Alabama was the target of a 6 a.m. drug bust.

He was arrested on federal drug charges at the Jackson Street house and so was a female acquaintance who lived there. Her name has not been released because Sheriff Gary Maha is awaiting a federal search warrant from Buffalo in order to seize the lab and press charges.

A Batavia police officer is staked outside the residence to keep the scene secure until the warrant can be exercised.

When Mosholder's dumpy place at 789 Lewiston Road in Alabama was raided, 20-year-old Dustin R. Behman of Darien was arrested. Both men are charged with conspiracy to manufacture meth.

A haz mat team has been on location cleaning up the toxic mess as investigators gathered evidence, including chemicals, paraphenalia and guns.

Mosholder's 17-year-old son was also found there and taken to social services for placement.

Other charges may be pending against Mosholder and Benham, who have been transported to Buffalo for arraignment in federal court. The investigation is ongoing as to whether other individuals were involved in the illegal drug operation.

Hi, I'm Lee -- look at me! What funny ears I have, what piercing blue eyes I have -- and see how eager I seem to frolic and pal.

I'm an adult, male Siberian Husky mix who is good with other dogs and seemly on a leash. For inexcusable and unfathomable reasons, my pack abandoned me and another dog, too.

We were left in an apartment with nothing or no one to care for us. As a result, I'm a little on the thin side and could use some beefy stew or other vittles to help me get back to a healthy weight.

People say I'm nice, I'm playful and I love romping around with other dogs in the backyard, all so true. Come and shake a paw, Kennel 37.

My name is Einstein. Yea, I'm a cat and I'm Einstein. If that ain't a hoot and holler. Don't even start with the 3-equals-m-c-squared jokes. Been there, heard that.

Let me tell you one reason I am special. Ask yourself, have you ever seen a cat with short hair yet a big fluffy tail? Isn't that hilarious! I'm a "tiger and white," young, neutured male.

I am affectionate because I paw at you to give me affection and then I let you give me affection, that's how affectionate I am. Let's explore the universe together. I'm not as smart as the real Einstein, but I am pretty smart for a cat. Check out Cage 87.

P.S.: Both Phoebe (the pit-bull terrier) and Gypsy (the one-eyed malnourished kitten) were scooped up last week and sent to loving homes. The animals lovers all say Thanks! 

This week in Albany, Assemblyman Steve Hawley has been busy lobbying the governor and other lawmakers to rescind a plan requiring all residents to get new vehicle license plates next spring.

Opponents of the DMV plan, like Hawley, say it's a blatant money-grab by a budget-challenged state at taxpayers' expense. Firstly, they argue, we do not need new license plates. Secondly, this plan is, basically, a tax, something New York has plenty of already.

In a press release, Hawley said "In rural areas, like in Western New York, it is a necessity to drive: to buy food, to get to work. This license plate plan is just another tax on residents in communities like ours. This plan does not impact New York City residents, it affects us."

He asked that it be repealed immediately as a "sign of good faith" that those in Albany are listening to the residents of Western New York and other upstate regions.

"It is not enough for the Governor and legislative leaders to 'rein in spending' by making last minute budget cuts," according to Hawley. "They must cut the excessive burden they have placed on the backs of taxpayers..."

A City of Batavia fire crew was just dispatched to the Manor House senior housing complex at 427 E. Main St.. They're on scene and report nothing visible.

UPDATE (2 p.m.): Fire fighters have returned to service. Apparently, it was a false alarm or an insignicant incident.

Ricky Palermo has spent nearly 30 years working tirelessly to help find a cure for spinal-cord injuries.

On Dec. 4, UMMC and the Jerome Foundation will recognize his efforts when he is given the 25th Annual Health and Humanitarian Award at a luncheon at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.

Both foundations are honoring Palermo for three decades as a national research participant, and for his regional advocacy and local fundraising on behalf of curing spinal-cord injuries.

Wes Audsley, CEO of Genesee/Wyoming counties' YMCAs, cited Palermo's tireless efforts to find a cure for spinal-cord injuries when choosing him as a nominee. Palermo was injured 28 years ago in an accident which left him paralyzed from mid-chest down.

"This humble man has contacts and influence in all corners of our community, based solely on the content of his character and the sincerity of his work. Everyone takes Ricky's call, everyone contributes to Ricky's cause, and everyone feels better for the experience of knowing and working with Ricky," said Audsley in a press release.

The Miami Project is the world's most comprehensive spinal-cord injury research center and is based at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine. It was the inspiration for Palermo's drive to raise funds and awareness for those with spinal-cord injuries.

In 1997, Palermo and his family started the Ricky Palermo Foundation. Since then, it has raised $500,000 in support of the Miami Project, United Memorial Medical Center and the Genesee/Wyoming counties' YMCAs.

Palermo is a member of the Board of Directors of the Genesee County YMCA, where he has developed an exercise program for those with spinal-cord injuries. His foundation offers free rehabilitative exercise opportunities for people suffering from paralysis, regardless of the level of injury. It also offers counseling and hope, says Audsley. The program is funded by contributions to Palermo's foundation.

The Health and Humanitarian Luncheon is open to the public. Reservations can be made by contacting the United Memorial Medical Center Foundation at 344-5301. Seating will be limited so early reservations are recommended.

I'm Phoebe, a fine-looking, female pit-bull terrier. Although I was found as a stray, I am good on a leash and good in the car.

All my newfound friends here say I'm sooo fun and playful. Just look at my perky ears and how healthy I am! I like to show you affection and give hugs by wrapping my front legs around your neck. But what sets me apart from many of my peers, is my super-duper sweetness -- something I hear a lot. Love it! I'm in Kennel 24. Hugs and kisses, kisses.

I need your love! Now. I somehow wound up here, very "malnourished," which is to say I was starving. On top of that, I had a badly infected eye. I'm coming along, though. I'm not starving anymore. My eye has healed but I am blind in my right eye.

I'm a little tiny tiger and they've named me Gypsy. I need a loving family who will give me some extra TLC so I can grow up to be a strong, beautiful companion. I'll be looking for you, with my good eye, in Cage 60.

The perenially popular fairy tale of "Cinderella" comes to life beginning 7:30 p.m. Thursday, the opening of the 61st annual Rotary Club of Batavia Musical.

The Rodgers and Hammerstein classic will also be performed Friday and Saturday night at 7:30 and there's a matinee at 2 on Sunday, Nov. 8.

The production is directed by Patrick D. Burk and takes place in the Batavia High School Auditorium, located at 260 State St., in the City of Batavia.

Tickets are $16, available online at <bataviarotary dot com> or at Hawley & Associates Insurance Center, 260 State St. in downtown Batavia, Lawley Genesee in Jefferson Square, or at the door.

More than 40 friends, students, associates, neighbors, citizens, Americans and so forth have put countless hours and great effort into bringing the community this enchanting story. Ditto dozens more in the orchestra and production crew.

It's very much a family show and little ones are welcome -- encouraged -- to come dressed in a befitting costume.

This stage performance of "Cinderella" is one-hour-45-minutes long and has a happy ending, but there's soooo much to keep you entertained until then!

"Once upon a time there was a young maiden named Cinderella, who lived with her wicked stepmother and two wicked stepsisters..."

You are cordially invited to come reimagine the magic, timeless tale of romance-against-the-odds. And invite someone you care about.

Both photos were taken during rehearsals and provided by the Batavia Rotary Club.

Le Roy firefighters are responding to a report of a tractor-trailer fire at Ontario Service Center, 8700 Vallance Road in Le Roy.

Pavilion firefighters are on standby.

UPDATE: 10:25 p.m.: Auxiliary personnel have been requested, too.

UPDATE: 11:47 p.m.: Mission acccomplished; Le Roy responders back in service.

The holiday season is almost here and that's when many couples begin scouting for the perfect engagement and wedding rings. And with the horizon of 2010 only a few weeks away, it's a great time to create something new for yourself or a loved one.

A world of dazzling possibilities beckons at Valle Jewelers this week during its semi-annual remounting and custom-design event. It takes place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, and from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7.

Enjoy a personal consultation with the store's own custom-design specialist, Mark Berman of Manhattan, who will be there to help you design a special piece or re-craft something you already own. Make something old look new!

Berman will showcase his entire line of Icon Creations, with hundreds of bridal sets to choose from. Free financing is available to qualified buyers.

"He's just incredibly talented -- you tell him what you want and the next thing you know, it's on a piece of paper," Maria Valle said, noting that he uses computer-aided design software to bring ideas to life.

For happy couples who are no longer happy or a couple, Valle has some advice.

"Diamonds left over from love gone wrong are still good diamonds," she said. "You earned them. Reset them and enjoy them."

All fine jewelry needs proper care to ensure its durability and beauty for years to come. With jewelry, it's especially wise to be proactive. This would be a good time to have those gem stones sitting precariously amid your ring's worn-down prongs to be remounted or put into a stylish, new setting.

A lady at my optometrist's office admired my wedding ring one afternoon, which had been on my finger for many years.

"You ought to have a jeweler look at," she suggested.

She was right. I kept thinking "I'll get around to it, but I don't have time now," only to look down one day not long afterward to see a gaping hole where a one-carat diamond used to be.

Walk-in consultations are, as always, welcome, but people wishing to talk with Mark Berman about a design idea, can also make an appointment by calling 343-3372.

Figures aren't in yet, but absenteeism seems to be up at Batavia-area schools, and it appears that many of the children who are missing school are sick, possibly with H1N1.

At Robert Morris Elementary School, a "spike" in absenteeism occurred last week when 25 percent of its students were absent on one or more days. Batavia Middle School, according to parents who have contacted The Batavian, has also seen a jump in flu-related absences.

Hundreds of kids in Batavia are either at home coping with the nasty gamut of flu-like symptoms, or they are being kept home by anxious caregivers who are taking every precaution to keep their children healthy.

Batavia City School Superintendent Margaret Puzio said today that on Friday she will have week-to-week comparison figures for absences at the schools.

"Absences are a bit higher and I understand parents are concerned about sick kids," Puzio said. "But the best defense is to handle this as you would any flu. The symptoms are fairly mild. We're not doing anything differently than we normally do during flu season, except cleaning on a daily basis."

If a child exhibits flu-like symptoms, he or she is sent home. It they are already sick, they should not attend school. If he or she misses several days of school, the guidance counselors are notified and they contact the home. If need be, they notify the teacher and a packet of learning materials is put together for a parent to pick up.

But some parents say there's a lack of communication from schools concerning the H1N1 virus and, in the void, some panic is beginning to set in.

"I am the father of an 8th grader at Batavia Middle School," complained one man, who did not want to be identified. "There may be hundreds of children with this virus and no phone calls or letters from the school. My child is seriously sick and all of his close friends."

He said he doesn't think parents are getting enough information from schools to decide if it's safe to send them there.

This winsome lass is a real winner. Her name is Winnie and she's an adult, spayed beagle. She is said to be good on a leash and good with other dogs.

Her temporary caretakers say: "Winnie loves people, other dogs and being outside. She also thinks she's a lap dog -- so watch out! This girl has quite a nose -- she loves sniffing, and barking at whatever she's sniffing."

Adorable! She's in Kennel 20.

Here are Scotty and Davey, black, beautiful and quite the dapper duo.

Their mom was sick after having them, so they had to be hand fed. They were oh-so-lucky to have a great foster family to take such wonderful care of them. They are now both neutered. Ask about them at the Desk.

Volunteers For Animals
P.O. Box 1621
Batavia, NY 14021
www.vol4animals.org <http://www.vol4animals.org>

Working in partnership with:
Genesee County Animal Shelter
3841 W. Main St. Road
Batavia, NY 14020
(585) 343-6410

Adoption Hours:
Sunday through Friday: 1 to 3 p.m. (closed on Thursdays)
Wednesday: 7 to 9 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
 

A motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian was reported at 9:04 p.m. at East Main and Swan streets in the City of Batavia. At 9:06 p.m., a medic crew and police were on scene.

UPDATE: 9:21 p.m.: a female pedestrian is reported to have minor abrasions and lacerations on her hands as a result of the accident. She is being transported to UMMC via ambulance.