A Battle Royale

Rory J. Koopmans, B Admin., Ward A, Edmonton Public School Trustee Candidate, #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

June IXth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

"If your going II be involved in a knife fight, expect II get cut. Expect it, accept it!": Source: "The Punisher: War Journal Vol.#1, Issue #59, C. MCMXCIII (1993), Marvel Comics Enterprises (TM.)

While I certainly never endorse knife fighting or stabbing in school grounds in any way, form, or manner: I can unequivocably understand it to a degree. Especially in cases of self-defense. Or perhaps an emotional reaction. To perhaps say a dating situation gone bad or in protection of someone. What the students from Archbishop O'Leary High School need II do is settle their differences in productive combat situations. Where they can blow off a little steam. But at the same time no get really hurt. Say at Gold's Gym or an inner city gym. The kids could instead box or wrestle wth protective gear on. In this way, they can still fight constructively. But while wearing protective gear & with the further incentive that each side would have a statiscally equal chance of winning. Hurting is always stupid. I always say, try & negotiate through peace & understanding. Perhaps in the format suggested by the Dalai Lama & the late Mahatma Gandhi.

Switchback,

Rory

Source: Florence Loyie, "The Edmonton Journal" & Rory J. Koopmans, C/o: "Dear Kings Of The Castle" Letter On The "PWJ #59" Letters Page (as pictured above.)