Sir Howard Cooke's bio launched in Mo Bay

BY KARLA JOSEPHS Observer West reporter

Thursday, February 23, 2012

MONTEGO BAY, St JAMES - Minister of Youth and Culture Lisa Hanna has urged Jamaicans to use former governor general Sir Howard Cooke's biography - 'God is Good: From the Cane Fields to Kings House'- to inspire them into productivity and service to the country.

Hanna who was delivering the keynote address at the Montego Bay launch of the book held on the lawns of the St James Parish Library last Thursday, lauded Cooke for sharing the history of his "distinguished career."

"It is a privilege to be here to celebrate the work of such a stalwart public servant who gave his life to serving the people through education, governance and political activism. Sir Howard Cooke has been an inspiration and a role model for many young persons like myself......his principles and dedication are worthy of emulation," said the minister of youth and culture.

Added Hanna: "He is a father-like figure to all of us who have benefited from his counsel."

She spoke also about the life lessons and skills that Sir Howard has passed down to many people, noting that the former governor general taught people to become smart and savvy in business.

"God is Good: From the Cane Fields to King's House chronicles Sir Howard's reflections on almost a century of significant national developments and events, including Jamaica's achievement of Independence from Britain in 1962. It also provides an authentic glimpse of a time when Jamaicans knew few modern conveniences, but enjoyed strong family and community structures. Additionally, the book recounts the captivating personal story of an outstanding Jamaican son, educator, family man, public servant and public official.

Custos of St James Ewen Corrodus also commended Sir Howard for positively impacting lives.

"Your very presence here this evening is an inspiration to all of us. I congratulate you and express appreciation for the work you have done in our parish and in Jamaica as a whole. This is to me a great, moment in history," said Corrodus.

He argued that the message of the book proves that success is attainable regardless of one's humble beginnings.

Sharon Ffolkes-Abrahams, the member of Parliament for West Central St James, who is also the junior industry and commerce minister in her remarks, described Sir Howard as "one of those great leaders of our nation.

Sir Howard in his response made reference to the significance of Jamaica's Jubilee year and urged Jamaicans to "spend our time portraying the good that has happened and not focus on the negatives."

The 96 year- old Sir Howard who was Independent Jamaica fourth Govenor General served at King's House from 1991-2006.

The book which took a decade to complete was written by Jamaica author Yvonne Coke.