Mineola High School remembers its former assistant principal so fondly that each year a night is held in his memory. Reggie Carter was not only an assistant principal, but for those who knew him, he was a role model.

Born in New York City, Carter later when on to star on the St. John's University basketball team. He was drafted and played for the New York Knicks, a dream for many New York youths, but one that came true for Carter.

Another love of Carter's was educating youths, a love he fulfilled at Mineola High School. On Christmas Eve, 1999, Carter died of a heart attack. Ever since, he has been remembered each year.

On a recent Friday, the Mineola Schools once again held Reggie Carter Night. As has become tradition, a player on the Mineola basketball team that embodies hard work, perseverance, teamwork and dedication, the qualities Carter possessed, gets to wear #35, Carter's old number, in his memory.

This year, the honoree was John Cloghessy, who embodies all of Carter's special qualities. Congratulations to John, who honored Carter's memory with pride.

The honor was bestowed on John at halftime of the Mineola vs. Roosevelt Varsity Basketball Game held at Mineola High School on Friday, Jan. 20. Mineola kept the game tight until they were outlasted by Roosevelt 41-38. Cloghessy contributed 2 points and 7 rebounds to the Mustangs' effort.

During halftime the memory of Mr. Carter was honored by St. John's University coach Fred Quarlebaum and Mineola coach Scott Donnellan. Coach "Q" described Mr. Carter's contributions to St. John's University and Coach Donnellan spoke about Mr. Carter's attributes as a part of the Mineola School Community. The evening raised over $900 toward the annual Reggie Carter Scholarship Award given to a deserving senior at the Mineola High School Senior Awards breakfast in June.