Mill Neck Audiology Relates with Family Members

It’s not just your grandparent’s condition anymore… these days, hearing loss is becoming more prevalent in younger generations. What with the slew of new gadgets available and the hearing hazards associated with the environment and work sites, today’s generation of hearing impaired individuals has changed considerably. The Better Hearing Institute says that hearing loss has doubled in the last 20 years, and estimates that by 2025, over 40 million people will be affected. Alarming numbers aside, one aspect of hearing loss hasn’t changed: the emotional impact of hearing loss on family members and friends.

While a hearing loss diagnosis is certainly traumatic for many, loved ones bear the brunt of the less-talked about emotional impact on family. Tanya Linzalone, Director of the Mildred and Frank Feinberg Community Center for Hearing Health at Mill Neck Audiology, says the level of frustration for relatives of a person suffering from hearing loss is wide-ranging.

“A parent that finds out about their child’s hearing impairment may feel guilty - did they do something wrong or not notice it soon enough? In other situations, family members may become aggravated if a loved one continuously misses out on conversations, experiences social withdrawal and/or is in denial and refuses to seek help. Or, a child may endure the tremendous burden of becoming ‘the hearing adult’ in a family if a parent is troubled over an undiagnosed loss and procrastinates about options,” said Linzalone. To facilitate the process of addressing a hearing loss, Linzalone always suggests that a loved one or friend accompany a person to an evaluation, an approach that enables both the caretaker and person suffering to deal with the situation and learn how to better it together. “Loved ones may even take the first step and make the evaluation appointment,” she recommends.

Linzalone and her staff are well-versed in the area of the repercussions of family members dealing with loved ones suffering with undiagnosed hearing loss. Many times, she says such a loss remains unsettled because the person may not want to spend money for hearing aids on themselves, but she stresses that there are options for all.

“At Mill Neck Audiology, we strive for the best solution based on lifestyle. Whether our suggestion is hearing aids, or more affordable Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs - strobe lights signaling phone and doorbell rings, vibrating alarm clocks; telephone amplifiers; cordless stereo headphones; vibrating baby monitors, etc.), we can also help families with simple house and relationship conduct. For instance, how you communicate now, as opposed to years ago, will have to change. Additionally, being upfront with third parties about your loss, who may otherwise incorrectly think you are anti-social or unintelligent - basically saying, ‘I’m really sorry, but I’m having trouble hearing you. Please speak louder,’ will stop this from happening.” Mill Neck Audiology wholeheartedly welcomes new clients. Linzalone shares, “We’ve seen dramatic changes in our clients from their first evaluations to now.” In addition to dispensing hearing aids and ALDs, and providing amplification adjustments, the center features separate, state-of-the-art adult and pediatric testing areas and offers a number of unique and sought-after services that may not be readily available elsewhere. Clients report that realistic expectations, a relaxed atmosphere and considerate and caring staff members help ease any initial anxiety about taking the first step towards better hearing health.

Linzalone says that at Mill Neck Audiology, “we know that hearing aids and ALDs will not erase hearing issues, but they certainly help. The whole purpose of getting them is better quality of life – that’s our goal for our clients. Those concerned with cost may want to think about the emotional impact their hearing loss has on loved ones. An investment such as this that you make for yourself is actually an investment for family members and friends. Taking steps to better your hearing improves their quality of life as well,” she said. Mill Neck Audiology now accepts all major insurances. If you or someone you know is experiencing hearing difficulties, please call Mill Neck Audiology at (516) 922-4100, ext. 258. Make an appointment today! For tips on how to prevent hearing loss, visit the Mill Neck website at http://millneck.org/did_you_know/did_you_know.html. Resources are also available for family members experiencing the emotional impact of hearing loss, as well as loved with hearing impairments. The Hearing Loss Association of America provides information, education, advocacy and support. For more information, visit http://www.hearingloss.org/.

In addition to Mill Neck Audiology, the Mill Neck Family of Organizations includes Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf, established in 1951 to help Deaf children unlock their potential through quality education, Mill Neck Manor Early Childhood Center, Mill Neck Foundation, Inc., Mill Neck Services for Deaf Adults and Mill Neck Interpreter Service. For more information about any of these programs, please call (516) 922-4100 or visit http://www.millneck.org.

...the Mill Neck Interpreter Service Way

Think about it…anyone’s typical day may include work, meetings, social events, school activities and/or appointments. For a Deaf or hard-of-hearing person, engaging in these activities may require the assistance of a sign language interpreter. Those in need of interpreters turn to Mill Neck Interpreter Service (MNIS), an agency with over 18 years experience in the field. The Importance of Hiring Professional Interpreters
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, MNIS provides professional interpreters throughout Long Island and the New York Metropolitan Area for any situation requiring communication between Deaf and hearing people. Interpreters work in a wide variety of settings, including medical, mental health, legal, business, educational, government, non-profit, independent living centers, conferences and workshops, worship and entertainment. MNIS matches each assignment in specific settings, carefully choosing interpreters based on education, knowledge, background and experience. “Other agencies tend to be mechanistic, whereas we truly know our interpreters and the assignments received. We offer more personal, professional service in an expeditious manner at a reasonable rate,” said Loretta Murray, Director of Mill Neck Services. When arriving for an assignment, says Judith Rackovitch, MNIS Supervisor and Interpreter, “we are always well-prepared.”
No matter the type of situation, MNIS provides highly trained interpreters who are able to communicate in a variety of modes. In addition to the above-mentioned settings, assignments have been as diverse as women’s groups, therapy sessions and creative performances. To meet the needs of the ever-evolving profession, MNIS often hosts workshops with accompanying continuing education units (CEUs) and ensures that their interpreters are well-educated and up to date on the standards and procedures of the field. “As technology changes, so does the lingo,” says Heather Rossi, MNIS Operations Manager. “And because technology changes, any language, really, will grow and advance. Sign language is no different,” explained Rackovitch.

The Right Stuff

Businesses, schools and other organizations are encouraged to contact MNIS, not only because of the skilled sign language interpreters available, but also because the agency can educate and advocate regarding how to use sign language interpreting in a professional environment. “Our staff is able to provide updates on all the necessary laws, requirements and benefits of using an interpreter,” said Rossi. No matter what, Murray advises, “Those in need should hire interpreters whose skills have been assessed by a professional or certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).”

Testimonials
MNIS has received rave reviews from clients.

• “I am extremely pleased with MNIS. All interpreters I have encountered have done an excellent job. Mill Neck has always worked hard to find a qualified interpreter, sometimes on short notice, and has always been willing and able to accommodate my client's needs.”
  • “The interpreter you provided was intent on getting the consumer to understand what was being communicated. I look forward to future assignments.”
  • “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and praise for the interpreter's professionalism and communication skills. She is a pleasure to work with and is an asset to your company.”
  • Facilitating Communication and Meeting Needs
  Over the years, Rackovitch, a sibling of a deaf adult (SODA), has seen a great deal of disparity within the sign language profession and vowed long ago to change it. She said, “At MNIS, we can make a change for the better for the businesses who hire interpreters and for the Deaf community.” Rossi, a child of a deaf adult (CODA) shared, “I became involved in this field because I wanted to support the communication access between members of the Deaf community and hearing people and I will do whatever I can to uphold the professionalism of sign language interpreting.”

Contact Us Today
Are you in need of a sign language interpreter? Contact Mill Neck Interpreter Service at 516-512-6222, ext. 1, between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm. For emergencies and after hours requests, call 1-800-235-2594. For an interpreter request form, or for more information, visit http://www.millneck.org/services/interpreting/interpreting.html. Mill Neck Interpreter Service, located at 501 S. Broadway in Hicksville, NY, is a division of Mill Neck Services for Deaf Adults. Both are part of the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, a not-for-profit group dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people who are Deaf, or who have other special needs, through excellence in individually designed educational, vocational or spiritual programs and services. For more information, please call (516) 922-4100 or visit www.millneck.org.

...Prepare to Transition ECC, Family Reminisces on Journey

The assignment is to make an abstract picture during a workshop. One by one, using fine and gross motor skills and sensory input, a trio of four-year-olds creates beautiful art. The first laughs happily, the second grins playfully and the third has a twinkle in her eye amid girly giggles. All take on the project with gusto, interacting and chatting with classmates along the way. These are the Santana triplets, and they simply love preschool. Faith, Grace and Joy attend the Mill Neck Manor Early Childhood Center (ECC), where all three are members of the integrated program, a class for both children with special needs and their typically developing peers. The sisters and best friends began the ECC journey in three different classrooms with a variety of special needs, but today, they are ambitious and successful preschoolers who have met a series of related goals. The triplets, often spotted in matching outfits, will graduate in August and transition into kindergarten in their home district. Christine and Ruben Santana didn’t have to search very long when it came time to look for the most suitable program for their girls. Christine’s mother, Terry Schanel, was on staff at the campus kitchen before becoming an elementary school secretary, back in the days when the school was located at the Mill Neck Manor House (today, both Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf and the Early Childhood Center are located in other areas of the campus). A part of their family history, the Santanas were also married in the Manor House sunken garden.

It was with these fond memories that the Santanas placed their triplets in the program at three years old. Since then, the girls have made remarkable progress. “The Santana triplets have been achieving and mastering goals since they arrived at the ECC. Each year in the program has been undeniably successful. They started in three separate classes, and now they are all in the integrated class. Our program has given the girls opportunities to socialize and engage with other kids and expand their social horizons,” shared Principal Suellyn Giserman.

Recounting the early days of the placement, Christine says the ECC was the only choice for her girls. “We quickly found out that there were no other options. Because my mom worked here, we already knew how good the program was. The staff helped all three girls be more confident, and today, they are speaking so well. The ECC pointed me in the right direction about appropriate therapies, and if I ever noticed something, they never had a problem hearing me out and addressing any behavioral issues. Thanks to the ECC, all three girls will attend regular kindergarten and only one will have an IEP (Individualized Education Plan).” Giserman can’t say enough about the Santana’s vital role in their children’s education. She explained, “The Santanas have been amazing sources of support to the program. Christine always had the spirit, and she’ll do anything to facilitate the triplets’ progress. The family works to reinforce skills at home, and as a result, that has helped move the girls along from their original placements to the integrated class. They’ve not only made wonderful academic progress, but they are truly pleasant and well-behaved little girls.”

Why the dedication? “As parents who really know our children the best, we need to advocate for them,” said Christine. “I would recommend the ECC to other parents without hesitation! It’s the only place as far as I’m concerned. The staff acknowledges my feelings and helps me work through them. I think some parents may see special needs as stigmas, but they aren’t. You just have to figure out how to teach your child differently.” And so the Santanas saw the need to place their triplets in the ECC program as less of a challenge and more of a way to do just that: teach them differently. When Faith, who Christine describes as sassy, began, she was speaking poorly, but soon became so successful that she immediately moved into the integrated class. “She’s the ‘mother’ of the triplets, always making sure her sisters are ok. She’s a 40-year-old wrapped in a four-year-old body!” said Christine.

The most sensitive of the triplets, Grace had speech apraxia and is still delayed, but her original ECC teacher made all the difference. Grace is now a successful student in the integrated class, having moved on from her original placement in a smaller class over the summer.

Joy, the youngest triplet, and a spunky, independent tomboy, at one point had separation anxiety, but her teacher completely turned her around. “Now she doesn’t want to come home!” jokes Christine. While all three girls are presently enrolled in the integrated class, they still benefit from services to help them continue on the path to success. Currently, all the girls receive speech therapy, while Grace and Joy also receive occupational therapy.

ECC staff members, across the board, say working with the triplets is a privilege. When they graduate in August, Giserman says she will not only miss the girls, but the entire family. “They are such a pleasure to work with, and they make our jobs so gratifying. Everyone here feels the same way - and we really have the parents to thank for the girls’ progress, because in large part, their successful journey through preschool is to the credit of the family.” As graduation nears, Christine is already preparing the triplets for the transition to kindergarten. She feels they are ready, but she knows the girls will miss their friends and teachers. “The ECC is like a second family. I feel THAT comfortable. The triplets will miss the routine. It’s a regimented program, and because of it, they’ve learned so much! I recently took one of the girls to see their new kindergarten, and she said, ‘Nice mom, but let’s go back to the ECC!’ They really love it there. I hope they bring good memories from the ECC with them and build on what they’ve learned. I am confident they will excel in the future,” said Christine. Founded in 1991, the Early Childhood Center provides early and intensive assistance to children, ages 3 and 4, who may have deficits in speech, language/communication, cognitive and gross and fine motor development. The Center also provides full evaluations of preschool children suspected of having developmental delays. Most children who attend the program graduate and attend kindergarten in their home school.

Lutheran Friends of the Deaf Advocates for a Lost Congregation

“Do not worry if you have built your castles in the air. They are where they should be. Now put the foundations under them.” - Henry David Thoreau
Rev. S. R. Schumacher, Mill Neck Foundation’s Director of Deaf Ministry and advocate for its Lutheran Friends of the Deaf (LFD) mission, quotes Thoreau as he recounts his experiences traveling around the world in an effort to increase awareness and accessibility of Deaf ministry. As he plans itineraries for subsequent trips, he refers to LFD’s long-standing goals for Deaf ministry and education. “Through time, planning and preparation, we want to build the foundations needed to bring these hopes and dreams into reality,” said Rev. Schumacher. The hopes and dreams include reviving an ostensibly lowered interest in Deaf ministry. With 364 million Deaf people worldwide, one would think large numbers of Deaf people practice religion, especially in the United States. But the reality is, according to the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS), an estimated 98% of Deaf people in the US do not attend church. Why? Rev. Schumacher says a lack of communication and congregational accessibility largely contributes to the plight of Deaf ministry. “Successful communication in this sense requires that hearing individuals learn sign language, which has its own grammar and syntax. An individual may be very interested in working with the Deaf; however, many often finish sign language classes without continuing on in Deaf ministry. Add to that the fact that sign language is not universal, and communication then becomes an obstacle in working with the Deaf,” explained Rev. Schumacher.

As LFD strives to lower the communication barrier by meeting the ever-increasing needs of availability and awareness in Deaf ministry, hopes and dreams are continuously formulated along the way. “We hope to enable churches and individuals to develop and grow ministries that enhance the spiritual and social lives of the Deaf. Our dream is to increase the availability of programs and materials that will help lead hearing congregations, and their church workers, into this vital ministry - not only in the parish, but also the community,” said Rev. Schumacher.

One way of increasing availability is to help others become more aware of possibilities in assisting the Deaf in developing ministries within existing congregations. “An outreach ministry will enable a hearing congregation to bring the Gospel to the Deaf, provide related services such as sign language interpreting and allow more access to the church and congregational life. Worship, Bible studies and fellowship activities that are designed for the individual needs of the Deaf, as well as for combined hearing and Deaf congregations, will bring the two groups closer together and encourage communication,” clarified Rev. Schumacher.

Realistically, added Rev. Schumacher, “I believe that we will be most active in the training and support of church workers and laity as they serve in ministry. The changes that will occur, in time, are not limited to the increase in awareness, but in the actual participation of hearing congregations in Deaf ministry - whether it be within their own congregations or in joint efforts with others. Whatever the advancements are in Deaf ministry, we know that as long as we focus on going with the Gospel of Jesus, God will bless our work in His time and in His way.”

While addressing the plight of Deaf ministry will continue to be a work in progress, traveling extensively has afforded Rev. Schumacher an overview of what’s occurring worldwide. He shares, “It doesn’t matter what country you are in - Deaf ministry still needs to be accomplished. In the more remote areas, there are many Deaf children whose parents have died, where relatives or friends have taken them into their homes. These Deaf children often develop minimal language capabilities, only to communicate life’s basic needs with those they live with.”

In the US and other developed countries, the Deaf often have opportunities to take advantage of educational and vocational resources provided by governmental agencies and non-profits, and many religious denominations have a variety of ministries for the Deaf. “But even with all of these opportunities and resources,” observes Rev. Schumacher, “we have not reached all the Deaf in the world with the Saving Grace of the Gospel.” On the flip side, some encouraging news is that the LCMS says there are Deaf pastors and leaders working in more than 10 countries around the world. Optimistic, Rev. Schumacher poses this question: “Would we like to be in more countries – YES! But the reality of funding is sometimes the biggest blockade. Developing Deaf ministries in foreign countries is not only a desire, but also a process that takes time and commitment from the sending and partnering organizations.”

In general, Rev. Schumacher is heartened by the fact that religious outreach to the Deaf is taking place. “But,” he says, “This means even more outreach is required. Believing that the primary concern for the Christian church is to care for people’s souls, we will not want to ignore the needs of the Deaf around the world, and their greatest religious need, which is to hear the Gospel. As Christians, we do desire to live out our name sake - followers of Christ - and follow the example that He set for us in His earthly ministry of caring for the spiritual and physical needs of people.”
In addition to the aforementioned goals of LFD, increasing Deaf-friendly church experiences for parishioners is a top priority. “Currently, we are developing a Deaf Awareness program that reaches out to a variety of entities within the church. We aspire to reach the congregations, which include members and church workers. We are also developing a support program that will aid congregations and church workers in a variety of ways as they continue in their ministries,” shared Rev. Schumacher.
On both an international and more local basis, Mill Neck Foundation, Inc. has contributed $10,000 this year to the International Lutheran Deaf Association (ILDA) to assist them in their mission efforts to bring the Gospel to the Deaf to various parts of the world. Mill Neck is also partnering with Camp SonRise, a Lutheran camp in northeastern New York, in developing a summer camp program for both Deaf and hearing youth that will encourage communication through Christian growth and fellowship opportunities. “Additionally, in conjunction with Mill Neck Services (one of the Mill Neck Family of Organizations), we are also partnering with Camp SonRise to provide a camping opportunity for Deaf and developmentally disabled adults. This particular camp will give them a variety of outdoor experiences with devotional time and spiritual growth.” Furthermore, “we continue our work with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya (ELCK), as we have partnered with Bethesda in the building of a hospital and assessment facility for developmentally disabled children in Kisumu.” said Rev. Schumacher. “Our future plans include continuing work with the ELCK in developing ministry and materials for the Deaf.” LFD will also have a role in the production of upcoming Bible story books that will be translated into various international sign languages.
A mission of Mill Neck Foundation, Inc., Lutheran Friends of the Deaf provides support for educational and evangelistic outreach to Deaf people of all ages throughout the United States and world. To date, over $7,000,000 has been granted to a variety of church-related ministries here and abroad. Mill Neck Foundation, Inc., a recognized service organization of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, and Lutheran Friends of the Deaf, are part of the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, a not-for-profit group dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people who are Deaf, or who have other special needs, through excellence in individually designed educational, vocational or spiritual programs and services. For more information, please call 1-800-264-0662 or visit http://www.millneck.org.

On June 24, Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf held a commencement ceremony for 20 proud graduates, all of whom have bright futures ahead of them. From here, the Graduates will attend college or continuing education programs, work in various fields or participate in Day Habilitation services. No matter what the future holds, all are ready for rewarding experiences, unlimited opportunities and new adventures after high school. The event, attended by family, friends and staff members, began with the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. After an invocation by Rev. S. R. Schumacher, Mill Neck Foundation’s Director of Deaf Ministry and advocate for its Lutheran Friends of the Deaf mission, Dr. Mark Prowatzke, Executive Director of the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, greeted graduates and guests with a meaningful welcome speech. “In the future, you will have an opportunity to look back on a life full of kindness and concern for other people, hard work and giving to others before yourself. That is one of life’s real lessons. Never accept a limit on what you can accomplish.”
Next, the Class of 2010 valedictorian, Ebby Johnson, shared his experiences at Mill Neck Manor. “I want to honor our teachers, staff and leaders of our school. They taught us to live, love and do the right things in life,” said Ebby. “As graduating seniors, we have to look at ourselves in the mirror and think, ‘What do we want to become?’ Then we must strive to become that person. When you are thinking about that person, please use the power of love over the power of hate. Let our education at Mill Neck help us to remember the power of love in the world and help us to be the best we can be in our futures.” Class of 1992 alumna, Laura Rosenberg, also spoke to guests. Rosenberg, who went on to become a graphic artist and American Sign Language teacher, reflected on her own time at Mill Neck Manor. “I had so many wonderful experiences at Mill Neck Manor,” she said. “I am proud to be a Deaf adult and to be able to use my disability in such a positive way.” Addressing the graduates and referring to the famous tale The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper, she added, “I think I can…I think I can…I think I can…I KNOW you can.” Several students then received scholarships and awards, presented by various members of the Mill Neck administration and special guests. Assistant Superintendent Francine Atlas Bogdanoff, who distributed some of the awards, said to the graduates, “I know in the future you will accomplish wonderful things. I hope everything you learned here at Mill Neck will help you continue to grow.” During a farewell address, student Kelly Kildare said, “I feel very lucky to have come to Mill Neck because it has provided me with many opportunities to become more independent. I’ve had great memories. One of my favorites is cheerleading. I made new friends and learned new moves and dances. It was a lot of fun and a great experience.” Finishing with a salute to fellow graduates, Kelly said, “Good luck to all the seniors, and remember, never give up!” Principal Kathleen Kerzner followed with parting advice for the graduates. “Remember your lessons and never give up. Know that all of us will never forget your smiles, tears and laughter. We are proud to say that all of you are not only connected to the history of Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf, but to everyone here today. Be yourself. Be fabulous!” The class of 2010 graduates, comprised of 20 superstars, then received diplomas from Dr. Prowatzke, Kerzner and Mill Neck Manor Board of Trustees President Rudolph H. Auslander. The ceremony culminated with a thoughtful benediction from Rev. S. R. Schumacher. Many parents, who continued to celebrate the successes of their children at the subsequent reception, spoke about their hopes and dreams for the graduates. “My son’s time at Mill Neck Manor was amazing. The school has been so helpful. We have been blessed,” said Jamie Vitale, mother of graduate Richard Manwill. “Today was unbelievable,” seconded Richard’s father, Wayne Manwill, who added that his son’s future will be especially rewarding thanks to the enriching work experiences he enjoyed as a member of Mill Neck Manor’s Work-Study program. “Ricky hopes to work in a library,” explained Mrs. Vitale. “Thanks to Mill Neck Manor, we know he can!”

The 2010 Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf Graduates

Johnny Roger Bonilla
As a member of Mill Neck Manor’s Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), Johnny recently interned for a campus teacher and has also worked in the community as a babysitter. After graduation, the soccer aficionado plans to continue building his skills in a BOCES program before applying to a community college, where he’ll pursue mechanics or another related field. Johnny has attended Mill Neck since he was eight years old, and he says the most important thing he’s learned during his tenure is to never give up.

Stephanie Carvalho
A cheerleader full of school spirit, Stephanie is always ready to lend a hand, tackle volunteer opportunities through Mill Neck Manor’s Work-Study Program and support school activities. The hard worker is proud to have learned a variety of skills at school and has developed a strong work ethic. Stephanie is currently considering secondary education or employment options.

Genevieve Marie Cimino Always smiling, Genevieve, a member of Mill Neck Manor’s Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), most recently volunteered as an intern in the Deaf Education Center Occupational Therapy department, where she discovered a love of working with youngsters. The outgoing graduate has participated in volleyball, swimming and drama on campus, and hopes to attend BOCES post high school for nurse assistant training, computers, fashion design or the culinary field.

Rino DeGuida An athlete and avid sports fan, Rino was recently featured on MSG Varsity on Cablevision. He was one of the first interns placed this school year in a teaching assistant position through the Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills). The internship so impacted Rino’s future that he plans to study education at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. He is the recipient of the Mill Neck Manor Alumni Association Eunice P. Weidner Memorial Scholarship for academic success, the New York State Higher Education Scholarship for Academic Excellence and the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Anthony Michael Finocchio “Big Ant,” as he is affectionately known to friends and classmates, is an avid sports fan and chef-in-the-making who dreams of owning his own restaurant one day. As a member of Mill Neck Manor’s Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), he was able to prepare for such a venture by interning in the campus business department, where he learned about accounting, data entry, processing, mailing, copying and filing. Anthony was accepted to Gallaudet University, where he will pursue business. He received the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Takashi Hamano Over the years at Mill Neck Manor, Takashi has overcome severe communications difficulties. Today, he is fluent in sign language and regularly volunteers on and off campus through the school’s Work-Study Program. The known “technical genius” has a natural ability to assemble machinery from scratch and draw meticulously detailed illustrations. In the near future, Takashi hopes to transition into an adult services program that includes enriching volunteer opportunities. He received the James McCarthy Memorial Award for dedication to community service.

Ebby Johnson Soccer star and academically gifted student Ebby was named the valedictorian of the 2010 graduating class. Ebby, recently the subject of a film by Ultimate Athlete Magazine about overcoming adversity, has volunteered as a teacher assistant through the Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills). During the internship, he gained invaluable experience by working with younger peers. Ebby will attend North Central University in Minnesota, where he plans to study theology. He received the Nassau Educators Federal Credit Union Scholarship, the Mill Neck Manor Educational Association Award for leadership skills, the Maryse Chrispin Scholarship presented by Friends of Montfort, Inc. and the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Sean Jay Kessler “Sean the Man” has attended Mill Neck Manor for 14 years. A member of the school’s Work-Study Program, he has enjoyed volunteer opportunities both on and off campus. The popular math and reading fan has participated in many school activities and counts several fellow classmates as best friends. Sean will pursue a career at a local business post graduation, where he hopes to continue using outstanding social skills and demonstrating a strong work ethic.

Kelly Ann Kildare Soccer fan Kelly is active in school and community sports and is a participant in Mill Neck Manor’s Work-Study Program. At most school events, Kelly is often spotted taking pictures for the yearbook and other school publications. Most recently, she interned at the Locust Valley Library, where she researched topics for displays, shelved books, placed orders, organized exhibits, navigated the library’s online system and read to young patrons. Post high school, Kelly hopes to find a job in a book store, or join a Day Habilitation program, and she also plans to pursue photography.

Michelle Barbara Komarnicki Always willing to learn something new, Michelle says Mill Neck Manor is a special place whose staff members have helped her achieve goals. She has a number of valuable job skills thanks to volunteering with the Mill Neck Manor Work-Study Program. While the 21-year-old has gained invaluable experience working on campus at the library, front desk and school office, she hopes to purse her dream of working for a florist. Post graduation, Michelle will join a Day Habilitation program and participate in fulfilling volunteer opportunities and outings.

Tiffany Lett As a member of the STEPS Program (Students and Teachers Experiencing Progress and Success) at Mill Neck Manor, Tiffany learned the value of education, helping others, the benefits of working towards goals, the different ways to express oneself, how to be a good listener and the importance of communicating appropriately. Through the program, the active teenager mastered so many skills that she was able to transition into another class part-time. This fall, Tiffany is looking forward to bringing these skills with her and pursuing additional rewarding opportunities through a Day Habilitation program.

Anthony Joseph Malner A photojournalist-in-the-making, Anthony has attended Mill Neck Manor for 16 years. Through the Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), he recently interned for Mill Neck’s Office of Advancement, where he assisted with mailing procedures, campus photos, data entry and writing articles for school publications. Anthony hopes to attend LaGuardia Community College where he will further pursue photojournalism.

Richard Manwill A seasoned intern, Ricky is a member of Mill Neck Manor’s Work-Study Program, which readies students for life after high school by providing academic instruction, life skills training and job preparation. Through the program, Ricky has volunteered at a number of community establishments, including the Locust Valley Library and Cradle of Aviation Museum, as well as on campus, at the school store and library. The avid reader and fan of video games and basketball hopes to pursue a job at a community library. He received the Brian Sosnowski Memorial Award, traditionally given to the most responsible worker.

Sincely Daphne Maxime Modeling exemplary behavior and communication skills were successful goals for Sincely this school year. She recently worked with a teacher, through Mill Neck Manor’s Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), where she provided a much-needed extra pair of hands. The recent homecoming queen will attend Nassau Community College, where she plans to pursue exciting and varied interests such as photography, business, cosmetology and education. Sincely received the Marcia Lynne Petering Award for school spirit and the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Christopher Ramirez An athlete, artist and music fan, Chris loves attending concerts, hanging out with friends and playing sports. A student at Mill Neck for nine years, he credits the school and administrators for teaching him “everything.” Post high school, Chris plans to attend Nassau Community College for a semester before transferring to SUNY Purchase, where he will study photography, computer graphics and web design. Chris is a recipient of the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Luis Reyes Computer fan Luis is a member of Mill Neck’s Job SPOT (Special Preparation Occupational Therapy) program, which not only helps students learn how to manufacture state-of-the-art integrated technology, but additionally provides marketable job skills for the future. Luis is also a member of Mill Neck Manor’s Work-Study Program, through which he volunteered for Ride for Life, a program benefiting people suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the Stony Brook University Health Science Center. His work at the center was recently featured in Newsday’s FutureCorps section. Excited about the future, Luis will join a Day Habilitation program for enriching volunteer opportunities, some of which he hopes will involve computers!

Deborah Olubunmi Sangobowale A chef-in-training, Deborah learned about the rules of the kitchen - discipline, sanitation and skill training - through Mill Neck Manor’s Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), where she recently interned at the campus Sign and Dine Café. Deborah will attend Nassau Community College, where she may study culinary arts or a number of other exciting fields. She is a recipient of the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Carl Sorrentino Popular class clown Carl may often joke with others at school, but he’s also serious about meeting career goals. Thanks to an internship at the campus business office, offered through the Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), Carl learned helpful strategies for future endeavors in this arena. This fall, he will attend the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, where he will further pursue business, and specifically, restaurant management. Carl received the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Richard Brandon Stark This school year, as part of the Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills), Richie alternated internships between the athletic and math departments. A noted athlete and math whiz, he modeled sports tactics and assisted younger peers and classmates with homework and lessons. Richie plans to study architecture at Gallaudet University, where he says he’s looking forward to “connecting with the mathematical elements of architecture - the numbers, rulers, measurements, blueprints and organization.” He is a recipient of the Melvin W. Luebke Memorial Scholarship for college-bound students.

Mariya Yousuf Known for her love of helping others, Mariya put her interests to work this school year by interning as a teacher assistant through Mill Neck Manor’s Capstone Program (prepares work or college-bound students with independence skills). During the internship, the affable 21-year-old set up and oversaw student activities and participated in art, music and group lessons. Mariya hopes to attend a BOCES program, where she may study cosmetology or pursue other fields. She received the Mill Neck Services Award for perseverance.

Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf is part of the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, a not-for-profit group dedicated to serving Deaf and hard of hearing individuals through educational, vocational and spiritual programs and services. For more information about any of its programs, please call (516) 922-4100 or visit http://www.millneck.org.