LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Ann Riccio upon the occasion of her
designation for special recognition by The Guild for Exceptional Chil-
dren, Inc.

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are enhanced by the concerned and dedicated efforts of individuals that
generously contribute to the welfare of the community and its citizenry;
and
WHEREAS, It is also the custom of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
outstanding individuals whose professional lives, personal endeavors and
community service are an example and inspiration to their colleagues,
friends, and family; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Ann
Riccio upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition by
The Guild for Exceptional Children, Inc.; this auspicious occasion will
be celebrated at The Guild for Exceptional Children, Inc. and Xaverian
High School alumni reunion dinner to be held in her honor on Thursday,
May 20, 2010, at The Bay Ridge Manor, in Brooklyn, New York; and
WHEREAS, Five decades ago a group of parents in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn,
New York, together with a local special education teacher, joined forces
to solve a common dilemma and founded The Guild for Exceptional Chil-
dren, Inc. to provide more education and recreation opportunities for
disabled children; and
WHEREAS, The mission of The Guild for Exceptional Children, Inc. is to
help each individual reach his or her maximum potential, and to help
families cope with the responsibility of caring for a disabled family
member at home; to achieve its goal, a dedicated, well qualified and
caring staff provide clinical, therapeutic, educational, social, resi-
dential, recreational and support services designed to stimulate the
development of the whole person, fostering self-esteem and pride in
accomplishment; and
WHEREAS, Ann Riccio has worked as an educational sign language inter-
preter for 20 years in both public and private schools in New York and
New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, Ann Riccio has taught American sign language at Xaverian High
School for the last eight years; and
WHEREAS, Because of her special education background, upon the
commencement of her employment at Xaverian High School, Ann Riccio was
recruited by Brother Jim Smith to volunteer at the Ryken Dances for the
Disabled; she has dedicated her time and talent to this worthy cause
throughout her career at Xaverian, greatly assisting the growth and
popularity of the event; and
WHEREAS, Retiring from Xaverian High School this year, Ann Riccio has
been married for over 40 years to Anthony Riccio; she has one son,
Anthony, and a new daughter-in-law, Afia; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of her professional and communi-
ty service, a period of constructive involvement, Ann Riccio has stood
constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and has earned the respect
and admiration of her colleagues, family and friends; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Ann Riccio has displayed throughout
her life; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-

tion, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire
State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Ann Riccio upon the occasion of her designation for special recog-
nition by The Guild for Exceptional Children, Inc.; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Ann Riccio.