James “Red” Morris – Northeast Tech Center, Afton
Single dad goes back to school and starts his own catering business.
THEN: A father of four in the process of getting a divorce, unemployed after a shoulder injury. Red was at "the lowest point a man could be” when friends and family members convinced him to do what he loved – smoke meat. At the age of 36, Red bought a cheap smoker, and signed up for culinary arts courses at Northeast Tech Center where he
- Was an active member of student organizations Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and National Technical Honor Society.
- Adopted his new motto "look up, get up and never give up."
- Gained courage, confidence and skills to start his own business
NOW: Red owns his own business, Red’s House BBQ, catering events and delivering his barbecue across Oklahoma. Serving as a role model for young, disenfranchised youth, Red takes his custom concession trailer to fundraising events and other functions. His specialties are smoked cabbage, pulled pork and a six-bean dish with ground beef and peppers.
