A TRIFECTA OF GREAT MEN

There were the Three Wise Men, and we all know about their place in history. All of us have laughed with the Three Stooges. “Tres Amigos” is a famous expression, but the three gentlemen I am writing about were great leaders in our Industrial Arts Association.

Curtis Oliphant, Luby LeNorman and Leonard Bay were among the finest men our organization has ever had, and it was a privilege and honor for me to be their friend. These three men were from different school districts but they were all members of the Gulf Coast Regional Association. They were exceptional and they were a trifecta of great men.

Curtis Oliphant was a born leader. He accomplished more as our president than most, and he could delegate authority smoothly. He had a business mentality that was very efficient and timely. He knew how to get things done without forgetting the importance of having fun. In addition, he was personable and related to his students, offering positive advice to each of them.

I was with Luby LeNorman when his first wife died leaving him a lost soul. To ease the grieving, he became more intensely involved with his industrial arts club. As soon as he said, “I do” at the ceremony of marriage to his second wife, he left the celebration to attend a high school club meeting. He loved the kids, and they loved him. He was highly respected and deeply admired by students, school administration and parents. He was dedicated to his work.

When I came to teach at Brazosport High School, I was assigned a room next to Leonard Bay. Leonard was such a good teacher that I would go into his room during my conference period to watch him perform his magic. I was consistently impressed with his ability to reach students and his ease dealing with more difficult cases. What few discipline problems he had, he handled himself. A few months later, I watched him perform as our association president. He was s superior industrial arts man in all disciplines of our profession. He became my idol and over the years we became good friends and often played golf together. He was an excellent golfer and very competitive.

These three gentlemen influenced the lives of many students, some adults too, in a very positive way. All that knew them were fortunate and prospered from their contact. They were exemplary and I hope the memories and their spirits will live on.

David P. Lorms