Dr. Claude Packer, principal of the Mico College (left), Alexander Frankson (centre) and Arthur Williams Snr graduates of the 1932 batch.
-Contributed photo
ALEXANDER STUDDART Frankson, one of three surviving members of The Mico College class of 1932, says life has just begun.
"I'm living each day at a time... sky's the limit," said Frankson, shortly after the launch of the book No Chafing Harness at the Courtleigh Hotel in New Kingston, recently.
No Chafing Harness is a memoir of Frankson, who wrote about his childhood in colonial time, days at The Mico College, and his transition to Belize. It has gained an A+ by Professor D'Oyley.
A proud Miconian and an associate of the University of London, Frankson has given the assurance that, although No Chafing Harness is his second book it surely won't be last. "I have already started putting things together for a few other books to come on stream."
His first was a collection of his poems (1976-1993), which was launched on his 90th birthday in Belize, last year.
This 91-year-old veteran, who functions with little or no assistance, says: "My brain is firing on all cylinders, and as such I have to ensure that it is utilised to the best of my ability".
SCHOOL SUPERVISOR
Frankson served the Government of British Honduras as a school supervisor, and subsequently held appointments as a District Commissioner and permanent secretary before retiring in 1969. Thereafter, he became a member of the Overseas Direct-orate of the US Peace Corps, and served as a Director of the Belize operation from 1971-1976. In 1976 he received the Directors' Award for Exceptional Inter-national Service. He is currently a citrus grower in Belize.
Professor Neville Ying, chairman of The Mico Foundation, said "the fact that Frankson's mind is still fertile and active is both worthy of exhortation as well as cause for giving thanks to God for his wonderful blessings".
He added that, No Chafing Harness demonstrates that Miconians continue to carry the mission of service to others wherever they are in the Jamaican Diaspora. "His long and distinguished service in Belize is testimony of this.
Professor Ying said he was particularly pleased that Frankson's recollections have given important references to the work, worth and human kindness of A.J. Newman, who served as principal of The Mico College for the period 1924-1959, a 35-year reign that has yet to be surpassed.
"Any history of The Mico College is incomplete without giving due reference and honour to A.J. Newman for his enduring and seminal contribution to teacher education in Jamaica during his 35 years of service at The Mico College," said Professor Ying.
