What A Great Blog Entry II End The Year MMXI Anno Domini On!

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXXIst, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

So this little VII year old lad, home alone with his mother who is incapacitated by a seizure & his III year old brother has the presence of mind II dial IX-I-I & get his mother the proper medical attention within XX minutes & saves her life. I bet you mom with a new lease on life Maria Ouelette thinks her older son Birk is A ROCK STAR NOW! I sure as heck think of him as one! This is 1 Grade II stuident who most deservedly gets II be a living legend IV the rest of his life! He knew the exact mailing address of his home on a rural route properly & was able II adroitly provide IX-I-I precise & excellent directions. In this way, the EMT ambulance crew could get II the house faster, thus providing Mrs. Ouelette with attention much faster. He deserves kudos IV valour in a distressing situation & IV being able II make the correct command decisions in order II ensure his mom's safety until medical pros could take over! Plus he made sure his III year old brother was calm as well. I IV 1 think this young man deserves an award IV bravery from the Provincial Ministry of Health. His fortitude & awesome memorization skills certainly have earned him my respect!

Canada's Own William Shatner Was Host Of TV's "Rescue IX-I-I",

Rory

Source: "CTV Edmonton News At V With Sonia Sunger", Reporter: Jessica Earle & Julia Parrish, CTV Edmonton News Web Content Reporter.

Medicine IV Kids Medicine With Heart

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXXth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

What a great concept, Www.InternationalMedicalRelief.Org & Www.WorldMedicalRelief.Org have gotten IIgether with folks to give unused prescriptions that haven't expired II medical professionals in IIIrd world nations. This is fantastic as it can cut down on pharmaceutical costs in producing new drugs. It will also help poor students & their family's who don't have access II quality medicines in a reasonable timeframe get some of the meds that they need. This will cut down infections, provide patient comfort (such as relief of pain from surgery), & will allow IV faster healing times IV affected children & their fellow sick personages. They will then be able II get back II their academic & social lives at a much quicker pace.

Truly Astonishing,

Rory

Source: "Woman's World Magazine", C. MMXI & MMXII, Volume XXXIII, No. I, Englewood Cliffs,. New Jersey, USA.

The James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXIXth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

I think this James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund  IV kids & grandkids of Teamsters members is a great idea. Its only fair IV the Teamsters & their affiliated brother & sister unions II do this IV the Hoffa family. After all, they murdered Jimmy Hoffa Sr. & buried his body under concrete in the end zone at Giants Stadium in New Jersey. So turn tragedy inII triumph by helping students, especially since Jimmy is beyond help. Its also why they made his son, James P. Hoffa, his son II cover off IV their waning influence as a union.

Jimmy Fallon,

Rory

Source: Www.TeamstersRail.Ca & Www.Teamster.Org.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

As the title of this film & blog subject line suggest, whether a student(s) decides II get a tattoo, they should not just consider going II the Ist ramshackle shop they see. Try & go II a place thats licensed & accredited, also, where the tattoo artist is trained in his/her art by professionals, & has fully updated Ist training in case somethiong goes wrong. After all, needles & other tools including dyes/inks are involved, so unforseen medical reactions can occur.

Needles as I say are part of tattooing, so there is always the chance of sasy Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, or some other blood born disease/pathogen entering your body if an artikst is sneaking & using the same syringe on multiple clients. Students XVIII years & older are of course free II make their own choices about tattoos & designs: whether they be of a dragon such as the film poster here suggests, or of any other pattern.

I would at Ist suggest they consult medical professionals, as well as catologues & magazines IV safety tips & hints from experts on who(m) would be the better & thereIV extension, safer artist II take a chance on health wise. Older students & teens could take a lesson from younger kids in say grade school. They could try tattoos of a temporary/washable nature II see if they feel comfy with the idea of their body being permanently inked. If they don't, just wash away with soap & H2O & if they do, then proceed further, but with of course plenty of guidance along the way. Such as say from other folks who have been tattooed, or from tattoo artists who are willing II spend some free quality moments of time with aspiring students, who may be customers, &/or the tattoo artisands of the future.

Marked IV Life,

Rory

Source: Myself & Www.MayoClinic.Com.

The XXVIIIth (28th) President Of The United States

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Its not often that a Conservative/Republican leaning Canadian like me praises a Liberal-Democrat. But I take my hat off II XXVIIIth United States President Woodrow Wilson, Democrat-New Jersey.

On the occasion of his IInd Inauguration on March IVth, MCMXVII, women took a big step forward in terms of their rights & were IV the Ist time allowed II participate in the Inaugural Parade. What an outstanding accomplishment IV Woodrow II have on his curriculum vitae as part of his legacy!

La Femme Nikita,

Rory

Source: "Jeopardy With Your Host Alex Trebek", Syndicated, C. MMXI Merv Griffin Enterprises.

The Fall Guy

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Joseph Hueglin of Niagara Falls, Ontario is a great guy. His "Canadian Daily Digest" is by far the finest collection of news articles/commentaries/emails collected & put IIgether IV folks II peruse on a daily basis. II me, journalism students need II take note & learn from Joe that journalism is about respecting dialogue & properly crediting your sources. Joe Hueglin has this format hands down & needs II be commended highly IV it. I can even IVgive the fact that he lives in a Province stupid enough II give III straight terms in office II Dalton McGuinty.

Enjoy The Falls Joe & Happy New Year,

Rory

Source: The Canadian Daily Digest.

Shoddy Journalism

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

My frustration is that IV journalism II be live & up II the minute, it should be totally live each & every hour. Students of broadcasting might share my frustration with this Thomas. Lets take Cable News Network's (CNN's): "Anderson Cooper 360" or "AC360." CNN advertises it as live II hours a night, but unless of a really breaking news story, the IInd hour is just a replay of the first hour. Sometimes with a slightly different pre-taped intro. by Anderson (taped earlier in the day or during a commercial.) To me thats not live. When CNN said "Larry King Live" was live, it was, every night at IXPM Eastern, & live would be under the CNN symbol II indicate this. In the replay later at night, & on weekends, Larry King's staff knew II remove the "live" indicator. Thats when CNN was glorious, when live meant exactly that. Its not just CNN, its FOX News, CBC, CTV, Global, ABC, CNBC, MSNBC, & many other networks. I am sickened by this media conspiracy II promote outright laziness & putting profits ahead of reportage accuracy!

Even Ted Turner Is Revolted At The Style Of What Was Once A Great News Network,

Rory

Source: Www.TimeOutChicago.Com.

Biomedical

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Was just listening to a satellite radio documentary on vitamins, steroids, herbal supplements, etc. & how they arte being pushed on children. Things like vitamin C, ginseng, & other herbal roots are okay. But its important II let kids know that if they have any questions about these types of meds/herbs & what they can do II a human body, the Ist thing they should do is consult a physician/pharmacist/medical provider who has background knowledge of drugs, herbs, & other medicines & their possible say side effects/allergic reactions.

This Would Be Along The Lines Of A Medical Field Trip IV Students Who Enjoy Math & The Sciences,

Rory

Source: "Yale Journal Of Biology & Medicine."

Biblically Speaking Prime

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

In previous comments & versions of this blog, I made mention of last years Queen's Christmas Message & the celebration of that great Bible that her predecessor King James The Ist gave the world some CD years ago: "The King James Version." I am reading through "The New English Bible" as I am doing as scripture reading at a funeral next week & it was the favorite reading my family member who passed on. There are such as however other fascinating reads in religious books like the Qu'ran of Islam, or Adi Granth of Sikhism, as well as many others. I encourage students II take courses on religion & religious history. Its amazing what they'll discover & the best thing is, there's always more II learn as religions are always evolving.

The Prayer,

Rory

Source: Myself.

Once Again A Few Minutes With Andy Rooney

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

How appropriate, in today's local news periodical, we have a "Wonderword" Word Search dedicated II the life & times of the late CBS News Correspondent-Emeritus IV "60 Minutes"Andrew (Andy) Achin Rooney. Its appropriate placed with only IV days until New Years Eve. As stated with conviction & respect when Andy died last month, he was XCII (92) & lived a good long life. He was a reporter, essayist, & writer/journalist. Students need II know that in death, Andy was just like he was in life, always exploring, always wanting II know more. So if students want II get II know about quality journalism, it might be "out with the old & in with the new" with Andy's death. Alas, we still have his columns, commentaries, books, & video essays/documentaries II learn from. For students of broadcasting & print media, these words capture the essence of the man & will let his spirit guide them II be honest & ethical journalists themselves upon the start of their careers.

For That We Can Be Ever So Thankful & I'm Rory J. Koopmans, We'll Be Back Next Week With Another Edition Of "60 Minutes",

Rory

Source: Www.Wonderword.Com.

Don't Count Your Chickens BeIV They Hatch

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of
Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Students need II realize that Candidate Newt Gingrich, Republican-Georgia (a history teacher by training) is not the saviour of the Republican Party. A few weeks ago Newt's start was on the rise as he lead other Republicans in polls of tracking samples IV his party's nomination IV the MMXII Presidential Candidacy to run against XLIVth President Barack Hussein Obama, Democrat-Hawaii who is seeking a IInd term.

Students who study political science need II understand that Newt & Gov. Rick Perry, Republican-Texas did not even get on the ballot as Virginia choices IV Republican primary's. But lesser known candidates such as Dr. & Congressman Ron Paul, Republican-Texas did. So this race IV the Republicans is far from over, it will in fact turn out II be a blood bath & thats healthy IV politics, a true fight II the finish II ensure that you have the best candidate.

Representative Democracy,

Rory

Source: Www.TheGatewayPundit.Com.

An Overpaid University President

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Why does University Of Alberta President Indira Samarasekera earn $800K per year & yet she took the landlines out of the offices of tenured professors? They need these phones badly so they can stay accessible II & IV their students. This bone-headed decision has made them less so. Indy makes pigs at the trough seem respectable but lets the students rot so badly that they must shamefully get food at points from an on campus foodbank. This economic wealth imbalance should not exist at post-secondary institutions. A President living high off the hog while students have II beg & claw II try & prevent cutbacks.

Outrageous & Sickening,

Rory

Source: Www.CampusFoodBank.Com.

Athabasca University Says Whats Up Doc?

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

I have always thought of my alma mater, Athabasca University as rather "forward thinking" in its focus & was honoured II earn my business degree there. Now AU has done it again. They've beaten all competitors & launched the Ist of its kind in the Dominion Of Canada: a Doctorate Of Business Administration Degree. Due II unforseen circumstances I cannot sign up. But I sure as heck encourage students to finish off their MBA's & get right onto the DBA.

What An Awesome School,

Rory

Source: Www.Mba.AthabascaU.Ca.

Students Can Bank On This Idea

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

You know how some banks are providing free change counting machines, or even ones that charge a slight fee II customers that count & roll change by computer. Then you get a slip thast states your amount & you can exchange that IV cash, or put it into an account, or investment IV instance. Well Thomas, I'd like II see that idea adapted & the change machines be provided IV free II students right in their schools. In this way, they can learn the skills of counting, finance, math. As well as the business skills they'll need II get fellow students to contribute to say fundraisers IV a charity, a sick student, or perhaps towards the cost of equipment IV the school or towards say a field trip or other worthwhile school related endeavour. To say nothing of the great free public goodwill IV the banks.

A Bank Shot Off The Backboard,

Rory

Source: Www.Bmo.Com.

School At The Legislature

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

As you know, the current Alberta Legislative Assembly Grade VI School-At-The-Legislature is lead by the very astute Sergeant-At-Arms, Mr. Brian Hodgson. The Sgt. knows parliamentary procedure cold, as done retiring Speaker Kenneth (Kenny Boy) R. Kowalski, Progressive Conservative, Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock. It seems II me Thomas that we could not have II better stewards of the Legislature, working in tandem with their offices with the schools & getting students excited about government & social studies concepts. Plus there are many great guides & legislative pages who are helpful II MLA's, bureaucrats, as well as the media, & the general public, including making sure students who visit our beloved assembly of the fascinating machinations behind how government works at the legislative, or law making/debate level.

I IV 1 Truly Appreciate Their Superb Efforts,

Rory

Source: Www.Assembly.Ab.Ca.

The Punisher: War Journal

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Took a little stroll with a friend II West Edmonton Mall's Scotiabank Theatre & saw "War Horse" on its opening day, which happened II have been yesterday, or Xmas Day. It was wonderful, the film teaches us about respecting animals & if they are loved, they will indeed love us in return. The plot centres around a boy whose family is force II sell "Joey", a thoroughbred work horse on the family farm b/c of the WWI effort. The boy has II see his equine buddy shipped off II France II duke it out with The Kaiser & his German armed forces. Its a novel, but a powerful movie about the inner human spirit & how hard the war was a stress to boy the boy & to Joey the horse. Plus all of the effort the boy had to in finding his IV hoofed friend & that he would never give up on him. It showed the many tribulations & abuses Joey had II go through b/c the German military only cared about abusing the animals physically & mentally, when what they needed most of all was love, respect, & companship. Just as we all need.

Students Will Like This Film & So Will Bob Barker,

Rory

Source: Www.WarHorseMovie.Com.

Holidays Abounding

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

I strongly suggest students learn about Hannukah from the Jewish tradition, & Ramadan from the Islamic tradition. At this great Christmas holiday juncture, a study of these & other alternate holidays from other religions being held around this same time of year will allow students II develop a greater tolerance & respect of other faiths as they settle down II enjoy their Christian traditions of the season.

Amen, Shalom, Allah Be Praised,

Rory

Source: Myself.

Summa Theologica

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

"Summa Theologica" means the "Summation Of Knowledge" or a set of commentaries where all knowledge is to become "harmonized" in one place. Basically so that it can be accessed more readily by all who wish II do so. It was a fascinating standard of the Middle Ages wherein Saint Thomas Aquinas was trying II strike a balance between the new economic standard of capitalism vs. old school traditional orthodox theorem(s) & religious beliefs that were of an orthodox nature.

Definitely A Fascinating Read IV Students Who Enjoy Philosophy,

Rory

Source: "Summation Of Knowledge", St. Thomas Aquinas.

The Value Of Knowledge

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

"I find nothing in my great posessions which I value higher than the "knowledge" of great men, which I have gained from long experience of the affairs of today & from constant study of the past."

In Otherwords "Knowledge Is Power",

Rory

Source: Niccolo Machiavelli, "The Prince."

The Police Who Investigate Crime

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Students at L.Y. Cairns School ought II be congratulated IV organizing & setting up & serving a hot Christmas meal on December XXIInd IV themselves, staff, & others IV the holidays. This teaches kids about socialization skills, how II cook properly (so the culinary arts), & the importance of sharing. Then II top it all off by having school resource officers from the Edmonton Police Service to come (from schools city wide) & help them serve & share in the meal was quite adept. This shows that the students respect their relationship with the Service in general & want II stress the importance of working with law & order figures II solve crimes & keep their school community's safe.

Your A Slacker McFly,

Rory

Source: "CTV Edmonton News At V With Carrie Doll" & Www.Lyc.Epsb.Ca.

Greenfield Elementary School A Hero In The Fight Against Diabetes

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

The staff & students at Greenfield Elementary School are heroes II me! As the child of a mother with diabetes, I truly appreciate the school's efforts in raising money towards diabetes research through their Kids Walk II Cure Diabetes. $9,807.00 by cheque is $9,807.00 more towards the fight that the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation never had before. Their VII year total in donations so far is $64,000.00. How in the heck can you not be proud & just ever so admiring of these fine students?!

Thanks Greenies,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Examiner, Trevor Robb & Www.Greenfield.Epsb.Ca.

How Does This Make Any Economic Sense

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

In his infinite wisdom, Edmonton's Mayor Stephen Mandel & City Council are proud to co headline Edmonton Int'l Airport Authority's announcement of the expansion of the Edmonton Int'l Airport with its new wing & shopping centre at the terminal. Along with the associated CDXII (412) new jobs. Well those jobs go II Leduc & Leduc County. IV the most part, they add zilch II the Edmonton city property tax or business tax base. Would it not have made more sense II have the Mayor & City Council add these shops II the Edmonton Municipal/City Centre Airport where the buildings, infrastructure, & power hookups are already in place? Thus giving the downtown core a real economic boost. Plus, there would be an influx of new customers II Daryl Katz's new arena downtown IV the Oilers, once its built. 

EIA Can Kiss My Ass For Siphoning Away Muni Jobs & Destroying North Side Family's,

Rory

Source: Myself.

Greetings In Return

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Outside the Grant MacEwan University Jasper Place Arts Campus, their billboard reads "Season's Greetings from the staff & students of MacEwan University." Well Thomas, I would most certainly be remiss if I did not wish them the same sentiments.

And So I Do,

Rory

Source: Myself & Www.MacEwan.Ca.

Captain America: The First Avenger

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Congrats are to be given out to the musicians who scored Marvel Comics Enterprises (TM) & Marvel Entertainment Group's (TM) "Captain America: The First Avenger." It was announced the other day that "Star Spangled Man", the main theme IV the film has made the first preliminary stage towards becoming the Academy Award (TM) winning song IV Best Song Of The Year at next years Academy Awards (TM), to be held in Los Angeles, California.

This nomination is great b/c it shows kids that its all right II enjoy songs about heroes & pride in nationhood. Just like say with the movie that told the story of famous composer George Gershwin & headlined by James Cagney in an Oscar (TM) winning performance: "Yankee Doodle Dandy." Both movies stress to students & folks of all ages II be proud of your nation, & sing or express that pride through positive avenues, such as song & dance. Plus, it shows them that music composition & singing might be a good career path IV them to take.

The Red, White & Blue,

Rory

Source: The Academy Of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences & Www.Oscar.Com.

The Hockey Song

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon.Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

IV extreme excellence in student athleticism, I strongly encourage folks II take in a few games of the World Junior Hockey Championship (being hosted right here in Alberta), or watch them on tv. These junior athletes will most certainly be the professional hockey stars of tomorrow.

Hockey Fight,

Rory

Source: Www.Tsn.Ca.

A"Mayes"ing

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.,
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Today & tomorrow on the Edmonton Journal Editorial Page, we have the best cartoons of the year MMXI as drawn by the sublime Malcolm Mayes. As ther Journal's political cartoonist, Mr. Mayes has al ways been right on the ball, cutthroat, & exactement in the quality of his drawings, funny ideas, & captions. Just like his predecessor, Yardley Jones. IV students interested in political science, as well as how II do refined & classy illustrations, there is no need II look any further than ther Edmonton Journal Editorial Page daily II see Mr. Mayes's drawings IV a guide on how II stay current. Mayes is brilliant b/c he teases politicos of all sides, in this way he's the perfect illustrator b/c you never know from one day II the next whose side he's on & more importantly, whose side he is against.

A Laugh Riot,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Malcolm Mayes.

Say Hi And Tell The People Sportstalk Sent You

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Casdtledowns

Dear Thomas:

As we fight IV the best deals by boxing our way II be first at Boxing Day sales counters, perhaps its good that we praise a very brave family, Danny & Virginia Wong. The Wongs established an athletic award II recognize excellence in athleticism, & they put the award up through Ross Sheppard High School as he played IV the proud tradition they have at Shep known as The Thunderbirds. Congrats II this years recipients; Alex Nugusse & Reighanna Bird IV carrying on a proud student athletic tradition, as well as II all past & future winners of this award. Seems that even in death, Justin Wong will always be a winner!

In The Arena,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Sun, John Short.

Shaw High Speed Internet

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Just helped IV about II hours serving meals II less fortunate family's at the Shaw Conference Centre. Its really sad II see all of the starving students & their family's struggling II get by. But the warmth & appreciation that they greet you with, as well as their smiles of happiness at having a full belly on Christmas Day is the most precious of gifts I, or anyone could receive.

Keeping The Spirit Of Christmas Alive,

Rory

Source: Myself.

The Blue Carbuncle

Jeremy Brett & David Burke

Jeremy Brett & Edward Hardwicke

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXIVth, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

As the year MMXI closes, I heard that Edward Hardwicke, the second actor to play Dr. John Watson, friend of Sherlock Holmes & case solving confidante & excellent aide II Holmes b/c of his medical degree & background died last May of a cancer. So what Holmes master thespian & Academy Award (TM) Winner/Shakesperean Actor the late Sir Laurence Olivier as his trainer & that of the man who played Holmes as well, actor Jeremy Brett dead of heart failure in MCMXCV (1995), the great Granada Television pairing from the 1980's/90's is now totally gone.

I had not been aware of Edward's death until I saw it on a dead actor montage IV MMXI on Turner Classic Movies (TCM.) Edward was not the 1st Watson, so he wasn't in The Adventure Of The Blue Carbuncle, no that Christmas themed Sherlock Holmes story had David Burke (thankfully still living), the 1st Watson helping Mr. Brett solve the case & bring truth & justice in an intellectual thought processes through deduction & observation. The Holmes/Watson stories by (Dr.) Sir Arthur Conan Doyle showed that friendship & honesty & the need II want II help people in trouble. Holmes & Watson II me are heroes & Brett & Hardwicke bring these great literary pieces II life. The end result being of course being students who like detective stories, science, reasoning, & the great flare & societal styles of the Victorian Era.

Students & historical literature fans can watch these episodes & other Holmes versions such as the new Sherlock Holmes film with Academy Award (TM) Nominee Robert Downey Jr. all the way back II tv versions & films with Basil Rathbone & Nigel Bruce, as well as the many stage versions over the last century & more that this character has been around. Sherlock Holmes, The Great Detective has even outlived & endured his creator Conan Doyle who died in MCMXXX (1930.)

Hardwicke & Brett were friends onscreen & in real life & both lived superb lives IV acting careers, both with the Holmes/Watson characters & in their other work. Students who want to study acting, literature, & learn about family & friendship at this time of bonding & family time of joy on December XXVth (25th) can learn a great deal about acting integrity & family respect by doing google searches on Edward Hardwicke, David Burke, Jeremy Brett, & Sherlock Holmes. They'll learn a lot!

The Best Of The Holiday Season Thomas II You, Stacey, & Your Daughters,

Rory

Source: Turner Classsic Movies & Granada Television.

A Fishful Of Dollars

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXIIIrd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

So the Aquaponics Program at Jasper Place High School in palatial west end Edmonton just received a Commercial B Fishing License. This will allow them II breed tilapia, rainbow trout, salmon, & many other varieties of fine fish. Plus the students are thus earning High School Credits & learning a valuable trade at the same time, as well as how II properly fish & provide food, sustenance, & protein IV their family's in the future. I IV 1 certainly applaud the Permaculture Club at JP & its rather exciting hydroponic/marine life initiative.

The Fish Market,

Rory

Source: Rev. William Wade Izzard, Universal Life Church Aboriginal Outreach & Jasper Place High School Graduate (MCMXC) 1990, Www.JasperPlace.Epsb.Ca, & Www.MetroNews.Ca/Edmonton.







Sleep With The Fishes

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Woodcroft (Westmount) Public Library Terminal #XI, Edmonton, Alberta

December XXIIIrd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Here at Woodcroft (Westmount) Branch EPL is a beautiful fish tank. Generally there is one at most EPL locations. Its amazing how well these beautiful creatures & their life in "the fishbowl" can stimulate the young minds of today's youth. They get to learn that the fish are all part of an aquatic system & that while we as humans eat them, its very important II preserve them so that they can spawn & create family's of their own IV future generations of humans II enjoy & admire. Scientifically, there are more things we don't know about whats under the very depths of our oceans as compared to whats in outer space.

Seems Rather Fishy II Me,

Rory

Www.Epl.Ca.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM (20,000) Leagues Under The Sea

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXIIIrd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

The Telus World Of Science here in Edmonton has a fantastic exhibit on the Titanic sinking & some of the famous & fascinating artifacts from that terrible disaster. I strongly encourage students II take their family's over Christmas & New Year's holidays II see this exhibit. Not only can they learn about how these people lived, but also how they died. Not just the historical factoids, but the raw emotions they'll experience when they realize the artifacts belonged II human beings just like themselves with real spirits. How not just their lives were wrecked, but how their genealogical lineage was destroyed in richness IV all of the people's lives lost, including children that would never grow up & have a chance II raise theirown family's.

If they ever get inII a career such as in the Navy, or in the Merchant Marine, Coast Guard, or a sjust a general labourer/staff member on say a cruise line, they can then learn valuable lessons from these artifacts. Perhaps turning those lessons II ideas on how II prevent future nautical/marine disasters at sea. Or if involved in a disaster, stratagems II try & prevent the loss of as many lives as possible.

Lloyd Bridges In "Sea Hunt",

Rory

Source: Www.EdmontonScience.Com.



Quotational Subprime

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Lois Hole Public Library Terminal #XIV, Edmonton, Alberta

December XXIInd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

"Spread the words."

Marmalade,

Rory

Source: Www.Epl.Ca.

Quotational Prime

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXIInd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

"We're bigger than our buildings."

Its Not The Size That Counts,

Rory

Source: Www.Epl.Ca.

Son Jaliscience Senors Et Senoritas



Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Lois Hole Public Library Terminal #IX, Edmonton, Alberta

December XXIInd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

It may seem odd but the Lois Hole Branch EPL has a mariachi band playing here in one of the ante rooms used IV study. They are playing songs with a Christmas focus. The door II the room has been left open & many EPL clients are inside. No one seems II mind, people (including kids) are giving thumbs up & high-V's II the band members. The gift of muzak, all year round, even in the quietest of places!

Its Rather Awe Inspiring,

Rory

Source: Www.Epl.Ca.

Stellar

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Lois Hole Public Library Terminal #IX
Edmonton, Alberta

December XXIInd, MMXI

Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Castledowns

Dear Thomas:

Here at the Lois Hole Branch EPL, we have a mentally handicapped young lady sitting at Public Library Terminal #VII. She keeps saying "yes" when she is excited about something & is actually reading about Johannes Brahms on Wikipedia with the help of her caregiver. Its truly great & heartwarming to see someone with such a huge impairment still able II focus & learn at her own speed. Especially during this season of giving!

EPL Wins Again,

Rory

Source: Myself & Www.Epl.Ca.