Al Celentano, long-time former principal of General Douglas MacArthur High School who retired in June 2002, died suddenly on May 31 after suffering a heart attack at his home.

At his funeral the following week, Mrs. Arlene Scozzari, former assistant principal to Mr. Celentano who also retired in June, recalled the no-nonsense but generous boss who had become her dear friend throughout the 15 years that they worked together in MacArthur. She remembered how Mr. Celentano had entered MacArthur determined to tighten discipline, improve attendance and raise academic standards. Bringing the skills that he had used to manage the now-closed Maude Craig's Restaurant in Manhasset, "Mr. C" relocated offices, instituted procedures that were lacking and demanded academic excellence. Mrs. Scozzari recalled how students at the time threatened a boycott, an idea which they quickly abandoned when faced with Mr. C's firm resolve. She stated that the reward for all of his efforts came in 1995 when The New York Times allotted five stars - its highest award - to only seven high schools on Long Island - and MacArthur H.S. was numbered among those honored. She fondly recalled how moved Mr. Celentano was by this accolade which recognized the effort that had gone into making MacArthur High School the powerhouse that it has become.

A memorial dedication in Mr. Celentano's honor is being planned by current principal John Bifolco for the fall opening of the new addition to the school.