Monday, November 23, 2020
Of all teachers that I had at WOMHS, I have such fond memories of Mr. Lafredo. Some people might say that history is a rather dry and boring subject but he made it literally come alive and vibrant for me. He honestly made me a life- long fan of history and I often think I should have picked a career of being a high school history teacher instead of elementary education which I did not love. He made every lesson interesting and relevant during the turbulent times of the sixties. I also remember that he was by far the best dressed teacher (and maybe person) that I can recall. He always looked so well put together; a virtual fashion plate every day. I also fondly recall a New York City radio station of the day, WMCA, that had a contest whereby people would nominate a WMCA “Good Guy” once a week/maybe once a month. If the person got enough votes, he would win a sweatshirt (possibly other prizes as well but I don’t remember that). Many students wrote in and nominated Mr. Lafredo and he came to school one day wearing I believe it was a bright yellow sweatshirt over his fashionable sport jacket that proudly exclaimed on the front “WMCA Good Guy”. He wore it proudly all day to the delight of his students. When I saw him at our reunion at the Hanover Manor 2 years ago (or was it three?), I mentioned that incident to him and to my surprise, he did remember the contest and winning the sweatshirt. I am so glad I spoke to him that day and told him that it was my honor and privilege to have had him as my history teacher. I am so sorry for his loss. May his memory be a blessing.
Warm Wishes,
Maxine Youin Kleiman
