I Tip My Stetson One Last Time To The Great Larry Hagman

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

December XXXIst, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Perhaps it only fitting that we end the new year with a tribute to Mr. Larry Hagman. You might say its "out with the old & in with the new" as Mr. Hagman died several weeks ago. Larry was a great actor, first on stage with his mother, Mary Martin the Oscar (TM) & Tony (R) Winner in stage productions. Then on his own in a long & storied tv, film, & stage career.

In playing his different characters, you can see Larry took his work quite seriously. Not only did he act the craft, but students interested in the dramatic arts will see that he inhabited his characters when he performed his roles, the sign of a true professional. This was particularly true of his great role, the evil oilman John Ross (J. R.) Ewing The IInd. It was his favorite role only b/c J.R. despite being despicable still had some redeeming quality's in him that kept him in check. Mr. Hagman's continued presence on the new DALLAS reboot will be sorely missed!

Tony The Astronaut,

Rory

Source: Myself.

Sexual Brutality

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

December XXXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

It seems that the New Delhi, India Police Department has a retardation gene among many of its officers. A XXIII year female student gets gang-raped by VI men plus metal objects on a bus. What do the god damn cops do, they attack protestors who were protesting this brutal act, which concluded in her death. How is this normal? Why are the police & government not joining with the protestors in nailing these pieces of human excrement (all thats an insult to human excrement) to the wall? I am embarrassed for the sake of the victim's family & the people of India!

An Insane World,

Rory

Source: The Globe & Mail, Stephanie Nolen.

The Open Road

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

December XXIXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

When a student(s) reaches the proper legal age to drive, & once they receive the proper driver education in both a classroom, & in a car setting with a certified vehicle instructor, its important to get them in a vehicle for their transport needs thats safe, reliable, & economical. This is especially true if they are on allowances & can only work part time, or not at all while completing their studies.

This is why people should pay attention II Consumer Reports Magazine & its online companion, Www.ConsumerReports.Org. These fine publications preview the latest automotives, as well as used ones to give auto buying students & their family's a chance II view beIV they buy. Plus, Consumer Reports has an excellent catalogue of back issues so that students can see older models from previous years that might just be right IV them.

Consumer's Choice,

Rory

Source: Consumer Reports Magazine & Www.ConsumerReports.Org.  

The Oil Business

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

December XXVIIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

When I was at the Woodcroft (Westmount) EPL earlier today, a young male student was there with his brother and his mom enjoying his Christmas holidays. He had on an Oil Kings shirt & was talking to his mom about how fun it was to watch the players play at a recent game he went to with her. These are young students I interjected as I sat next to the computer. They play IV fun & really enjoy playing hockey, knowing that if they do good, they might be seen & get to play in the National Hockey League (NHL) or some other professional league someday.

Student Athletic Excellence,

Rory

Source: Www.Epl.Ca & Www.OilKings.Ca.

What A Nutcase!

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXVIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

So this idiot Wayne LaPierre, the President of The National Rifle Association wants II put armed guards in every school in the country? I mean what a stupid idea! What if you get a soldier or cop who goes nuts or fakes/manipulates his psychological battery of tests go off? S/he has assault rifles at their disposal, ready to kill multiple students within their reach. Plus with their military training, they'd kill many victims beIV they could be successfully taken down.

I for one think that the XLIVth President & President-Elect of the United States, Barack Hussein Obama, Democrat-Illinois should sign an Executive Order banning assault weapons based on the now expired assault weapons ban. This Executive Order has the rule of law for ninety days beIV it can be challenged. I am no lawyer, but Pres. Obama is, lets stop the killing, if only IV a short time.

Executive Order Number Seven-Hundred And One,

Rory

Source: Myself.

The Green Lantern

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

Calgary, Alberta

December XXVIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Getting students excited not just about science, but of environmental stewardship as well is important. One of the children here at my Christmas celebration was given an electric green light & bulb that turns on when you hand crank with the lever on the side. So from pure electric energy, no oils or chemicals. In otherwords the Earth's carbon footprint is not harmed when using this toy.

The Green Science Dynamo Torch by the 4M Industrial Development Limited firm is great as its developed under the KidsLabs label & so it endeavours II get students around the world interested in science & ways to save our planet. Plus, III% of every sale goes to Oxfam, a children's charity that uses its cash reserves to make the lives of children of lower socioeconomic means better the world over.

The Gift Of Sharing,

Rory

Source: Www.4M-Ind.Com.

Democracy Born

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Calgary, Alberta

December XXVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

As we begin life anew on this day with the celebration of the Christ child, we must also remember that elections begin life anew as well. Take IV instance the MCMXCIX (1999) film "Election." In this film, the election of the Student Council body President is won by just one vote. Showing that every vote truly counts in a democracy. It does not matter the level of public office, whether it be IV a school office, or IV the biggest political office on Earth, The Presidency Of The United States, elections must be fair & free. People's voices must be heard. Just as the School President in the film was elected to a one year term to give her school a frsh start, Pres. & Pres.-Elect Barack H. Obama, Democrat-Illinois will be sworn inII a second term of office on January XXth, MMXIII at 12PM EST (10AM) MST. Whether you are for or against a certain candidate, if they were legitimately elected, they must be given the chance to start fresh & bring their ideas IV governance forward.

The Best Of The Season To U & Your Family Jeff,

Rory

Source: Paramount Pictures Corporation, C. MCMXCIX: "Election."

Oh Little Town of Bethlehem

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

Calgary, Alberta

December XXIVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

As I am residing in the same federal riding of Calgary-Centre as Premier Alison Redford with family IV a few days, I just thought I'd wish you, her, & politicians & their family's of every stripe a Merry Christmas Season & all the best as we enter MMXIII.

Christmas Eve always fascinates me. Students of the Christian faith have to realize that its quite an interesting day, just as interesting as Christmas Day itself. For instance:

1. Some students & their family's open their Christmas gifts only on Christmas Eve, while some restrict it to just Christmas Day, while some do some on each day.

2. Some students & their family's go to church services on Christmas Eve, particularly ones held later in the evening by candlelight. Still others head there on Christmas morning.

3. Many family's have their main meal on Christmas Eve, while some prefer to eat exclusively on Christmas Day itself.

4. Students have to realize that the main dish for family's is turkey with all of the trimmings, just like Thanksgiving. last year up in Edmonton I had roast beef. Still other friends of mine ate Chinese food. Its not the food that makes Christmas, its the sense of family & belonging.

Born In A Manger,

Rory

Source: Myself.

The Ottawa Senators

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

December XXIIIrd, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

From what I hear, The Canada Science & Technology Museum located in our nation's capital of Ottawa, Ontario has a well-reknowned reputation IV both teaching & learning excellence in incorporating students inII the displays & experiments. As a result, students get a really enthusiastic interest in science & all manner of scientific frontiers. I suggest to parents of students living in the Ottawa area, as well as family's who are on vacation for the Christmas break to take their kids inII this very worthwhile place of cognitive thinking & scientific endeavours.

Science Stimulates & Enlightens The Mind,

Rory

Source: Www.ScienceTech.TechNoMuses.Ca.



Founding Father Benjamin Franklin Lived In Philadelphia

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

December XXIInd, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

It is with a heavy heart that I hear of another shooting, this time in a church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania where a gunman was going II shoot children at a Christmas concert. Instead he arrives to early & shoots a church volunteer who was just putting up decorations to make the children & her congregation happy IV the holiday season. He also shot II innocent men at another site. Why must this madness continue?

The Man Of Steel,

Rory

Source: Sky News.

A Wish List

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

December XXIst, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

As you negotiate with Alberta's teachers, remember that they are already the best paid in all of Canada. I know that the cupboards are bare & that we need a new Finance Minister as Doug Horner, well lets just say Doug isn't 1/2 the cabinet minister his old man Hugh was. Maybe for Christmas a new Premier might be in order to. The teachers have the students best interests at heart, so treat them fairly & with respect.

Christmas Eve Eve Eve Eve,

Rory

Source: Myself.

Grid Iron Stratagem

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

A very wise move by the University Of Alberta Golden Bear Football Club. They have brought back their former offensive line coach, Tim Prinsen. Tim was running the offensive line IV the Edmonton Eskimos Canadian Football League (CFL) professional team. Tim wanted to spend more time raising his young family & teaching the athletic students of tomorrow his strategies from his professional league playbook. The Bears wanted a man who could bring raw offensive line experience from a professional level to improve their ground game quickly. With Tim having held the U Of A job before, he is a perfect fit to hold the job again & keep students at the top of their game as he is obviously already comfortable with the U Of A's athletic programs in terms of football, as well as its mindset.

Green & Gold Rush,

Rory

Source: 630 Ched AM Radio's "Inside Sports With Guest Host Dave Campbell."

The Good Doctor

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

December XIXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Wallace Chung is quite a great fellow IV collecting history. He has many pictures of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) & historical items. Being of Chinese heritage, Dr. Chung also learned & collected artifacts on the huge contribute that Chinese Canadians made to building Canada's national railway & its system of rail lines & transport ships. Now he has donated his collection to the University Of British Columbia where it can be IVever preserved by professors & students studying history. A real treasure trove indeed!

Doctor Doctor Mister Mr. M.D. Can You Tell Me What's Ailing Me,

Rory

Source: "Trek Magazine." The Magazine Of The University Of British Columbia, Larisa Buijs.                                   

Putting The Safety Of Our Children First

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XVIIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

I must say that it was excellent of Bearspaw School & Rocky View Schools to ban the use of lanyards on school property after that student was injured. Furthermore, it was a great follow up of you as Minister to issue an order to every school board in the province to do the same!

Students Can Never Have Their Safety Taken IV Granted,

Rory

Source: The Calgary Herald, Trevor Howell.

As The Late Great Tom Snyder Used To Say About Talk Radio: "Watch The Pictures As They Fly Through The Air!"

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

December XVIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

On the Coast To Coast AM radio last night, Academy Award (TM) Winning Director Oliver Stone & his co-author Peter Kuznick came on the air to talk about their book: "The Untold History Of The United States." They have a companion piece television series on Showtime cable tv about the same topic & both are quite excellent.

Oliver & Peter are concerned about American students who on average get lower grades than even in mathematics & science. Teachers & schools aren't properly teaching history when sometimes only XII% of the students in classroom are aware at times of certain facts. It was certainly a most enlightening piece, especially the screwups by both successive Democratic & Republican Presidents. These gentlemen are right & talk radio where you have to think & listen without any visual accompanyment was the perfect place to bring up these talking points as history should be taught. Not just in American schools, but in all schools so students can learn from it & not repeat its mistakes.

950-999 Countries,

Rory

Source: "Coast To Coast AM With George Knapp." Las Vegas, Nevada, The United States Of America.

A Window On The World

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XVIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

After the duplicate attacks of shooting in Connecticut, USA & stabbing in China, student safety in terms of windows & access becomes of paramount importance. The windows in schools must have bars & protection at points to prevent intruders. At the same time, they must look inviting from both sides, especially to students looking outward, so that they know they are looking at a school yard in which they can safely be free to roam & play in between their classes.

Window Washers,

Rory

Source: Www.CMSecurity.Web.

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode VII

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

I'd like to give a shout out II the unsung heroes of The Edmonton Journal, the production employees. They are sadly about to lose their jobs as The Edmonton Journal is closing its Eastgate Production Facility come summer MMXIII. This fine printing plant opened some XXXII years ago & its served Edmonton well. I remember as a boy taking the tour of the facility at night on two seperate occasions. Seeing the newspapers freshly inked up & getting to hold a still hot & unthumbed Edmonton Journal right off the press. I must tell newspaper & media students, there is nothing quite as exciting as that feeling.

Having worked on & off as a temporary contract labourer on the presses for the last few years, I will be the first to admit, it was one of the best jobs I ever had. A staff lounge upstairs with a snooker table & a fun atmosphere. I had to fix machines that were jammed by pulling out bent papers. On several occasions, I was even given the distinct honour of starting the press run. So its the end of the era. Best of luck to the Eastgate employees in their employment search & also to the Greatwest newspaper chain & the St. Albert Gazette in its continued production & stewardship of The Edmonton Journal for the citizenry of Edmonton. I shall IVever remember Eastgate.

Mixed Feelings,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Eastgate Production Facility.

Asian Suffering

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

December XIVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Its not just guns that are bad. In central China on this the very same day as the Connecticut tragedy, XXII children plus an aide were stabbed at a primary or kindergarten school. Why I do not understand these II tragedies happened I will never know. The sad thing is that they will keep on happening, & these kids have nothing to do with setting off the violence, but they still have II suffer.

Its Beyond Appalling,

Rory

Source: Kuwait News Agency (KUNA.)

A Connecticut Yankee In King Arthur's Court

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

December XIVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

I just cannot imagine what the parents & family's of those XX dead children are going through right now. Not to mention the family's whose adult family members were killed. The majority of the children between just V & X years old. Their only crime: they came to school to laugh, play, make friends, & learn. There are just too many guns, just too many god damn guns!

Devastated,

Rory

Source: Myself & The Hartford Courant.

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode VI

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

December XIVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

The Edmonton Journal's Letters Editors (both past & present) do an effective job in editing the many submissions they receive daily. Having had many letters published in these pages in years past, I must truly compliment whomever is Letters Editor of the day b/c they have to fit all of the letters each day on one page. Editing them so that their message is still understood, as well as making sure that said letters are relevant to the news issues occuring that news day. A very stressful task & these Letters Editors never get enough credit IV their efforts!

Letters Submissions Received Are Not To Exceed 250 Words,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Letters Editorial Department.

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode V

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

December XIIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

IV over XXXIV years straight, Gary Lamphier has been rock steady as a columnist. For most of that run, he has specialized in the business sections. of newspapers. Today, he has been at The Edmonton Journal as its lead business columnist since MMII, so a solid decade of excellent business reportage to the citizenry of Edmonton. Business students take note, if you decide on business writing as a career, follow Gary's example. A steady hand & a quality journalist!

Gary's Old Towne Tavern With Garrison (Gary) Arthur Ewing,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Gary Lamphier.

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode IV

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

December XIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

For an all round excellent journalist whose adept at any reportage beat, look no farther than Sarah O'Donnell. She can cover education, basic, news, the Alberta Legislature. Sarah does it all & is an asset The Edmonton Journal is lucky to have & needs to keep at all costs.

Sarah Stanley,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Sarah O'Donnell. 

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode III

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December XIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Sports fans & students who are interested in student athletics & physical education take note of this accomplishment. Jim Matheson begins his XLth (40th) year straight covering The Edmonton Oilers next year. This covering of the Oilers since they were in the World Hockey Association (WHA), hockey & the National Hockey League (NHL), & occasionally other sport endeavours put Jim in a class of his own. A proud son of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Jim has dedicated his life with passion to covering the Oilers & his adopted home city for a long time. His achievement & staying power in the position ought to be lauded by all.

Jim Shoots & Scores With Each & Every Column,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Jim Matheson.

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode II

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

December Xth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

As we role along with the tribute to the great newspaper that is The Edmonton Journal, we celebrate Alberta Legislature Affairs Columnist Graham Thomson. Graham has been covering the Assembly for many years, first with the local Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC/CBXT Edmonton) television station, & now in print with the Journal. Graham shows us that folks with opinions are just as important as the beat reporters at the Journal Legislature Bureau. Journalism & political science students take note, Graham can opinionate, as well as do basic reportage, as a result, he is a man of all trades. He is at the top of his game at all times b/c he knows whats happening from the Premier's Office on down, & he knows about it beIV some of the politicians/players involved do. So IV an education in the art of politics, read Graham Thomson thrice weekly on the editorial pages of The Edmonton Journal!

Also Excellent On Carbon Capture Emission Studies,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Graham Thomson.

Salute To The Edmonton Journal Week-Episode I

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December IXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Congrats must be given II Elizabeth Withey, superb columnist for The Edmonton Journal. Her book, "Life After Birth: True Stories", featuring her columns while on maternity leave with her son Oscar in a collected format. It has won many awards & deservedly so. This amazing set of columns shows how important it is to properly parent your child & how important it is that family bonding take place so the child gets the feeling s/he is loved & respected. This will give them the confidence they need when they enter day care, pre-school, & carry on through their educational path.

Paula Simons Also Should Be Lauded IV Her Amazing Editing Work,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal: Elizabeth Withey & Paula Simons.

The Season's Greetings

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

December VIIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

President Harry Fernhout of The King's University College has wished me a Merry Christmas in his superb e-newsletter. I would be remiss wouldn't I if I did not extend the same greetings to the fine staff & students of this fine Christian based University.

All The Best Harry On Your Retirement In MMXIII & The King's Family,

Rory

Source: Www.KingsU.Ca.

Expressly From Toe-Kay-O

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

December VIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH20

Dear Jeff:

There's nothing like a little healthy competition, even in schools. It seems NAIT culinary arts students competed earlier this week IV a $500.00 cash prize & a chance II have their dish added II the Tokyo Express ready (heat & serve) II go meals. NAIT culinary arts instructor Jason St. Laurent oversaw the competition to ensure fairness & transparency IV all of its student competitors. The eventual winner being decided by Cathy Ma, the President of Tokyo Express.

What A Unique Idea IV A Competition,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Examiner, Special Report By Dale Boyd.

Computer Confusion

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

December VIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Why be scared of computers. At local Edmonton Public Library (EPL) branches, staff give one on one training sessions. They show you how to set up a keyboard & mouse, search library catalogues, start up email, & social networking accounts, as well as how to start up documents. Eg.: Word text documents, spreadsheet applications, & all the way through to Microsoft Power Point presentations. So if you are a student of any age who needs help, don't be afraid II ask a librarian.

Very Helpful Indeed,

Rory

Source: Www.Epl.Ca.

"And The Oscar (TM) Goes To:"

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

December Vth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Creator of "Family Guy"  & "American Dad" on Fox Television, & next years Oscars (TM) host Mr. Seth MacFarlane has come up with a unique idea. He has announced in a UCLA guest lecture that he & the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (TM) are starting up a contest wherein film & art students say what they can contribute to the future of films. They send their videos into the Academy (TM) website & Mr. MacFarlane & if their videos are picked, they'll get to be on stage at next years Academy Awards (TM.) They'll get their names read out, be on television for worldwide exposure, & they'll truly get their ideas heard. Plus they'll get to meet their favorite stars & hand out some of the Academy Award (TM) statuettes during the telecast. What a superb idea!

On This Sinterklaas/Saint Nicholas Day I Say Awesome Student Initiative Seth & Members Of The Academy (TM),

Rory

Source: Www.Oscar.Go.Com & Www.SethMacFarlane.Net.

The Eternal Rest

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

December IVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

It looks like a mother with mental health issues in Drummondville, Quebec killed her pre-school aged children, ages II, IV, & V. While I hope that she gets all the medical attention she needs, I find it sad that she had any visitation rights with her kids at all if they knew she in advance she was an unfit parent. It appears now that with previous court proceedings released in the case that she did. I look at this picture & I cannot believe such III beautiful young souls are gone.

At Peace,

Rory

Source: Www.CbcNews.Ca.

The Biebs

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

December IIIrd, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

All hail the "Biebs." Singer Justin Bieber coming off a bravissimo performance at the Canadian Football League's (CFL's) Cth Grey Cup has just done another nice turn. He autographed a guitar & it along with other items will go up IV sale through The Pink Heart Campaign. This is a fund IV the victims & their family's of the van crashing into the school in St. Paul. This funds will be very helpful in defraying costs IV these overburdened family's, especially the family of Megan Wolitski who lost her life b/c of this careless driver. The cash will not bring Megan back, but it will certainly raise awareness of the dangers of impaired driving.

Thanks Justin You Are "Just In" Time,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Sun, Allison Salz.

The Missouri Compromise

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

December IInd, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Talk about a horrible tragedy IV the grid iron. XXV year old Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker Jovan Belcher killed the mother of his child, XXII year old Kasandra Perkins in front of his own mother. He then drove over to his practice stadium (Arrowhead Stadium) in Kansas City, Missouri & killed himself with his gun in front of his coach & his general manager. Thus leaving his child with no parents at all.

This shows that doctors & team psychologists & therapists, no matter what level the athletes are playing at need to make sure that they are well not just physically, but spiritually & psychologically as well. A healthy body on the field leads to a healthy mind & vice versa. Jovan, a University Of Maine graduate earned his degree in child development & family relations. Yet ironically, he couldn't seek peace in his own family & destroyed it IVever by his actions. Jovan might have had the technical knowledge to work on a family plan, but to kill his spouse in front of his own mother, he must have been terribly psychologically damaged. Let us hope we can learn from this tragedy to help other students who are athletes to keep a level head about themselves. Hopefully future incidents of this nature can thus be prevented.

A Black Arm Band On Every Chiefs Player & My Sympathies To The Team & The Belcher & Perkins Family's,

Rory

Source: USA Today.

A Technological Marvel

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

December Ist, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

I really admire the way in which Alberta Education has taken a hold & got students in classrooms II grasp technology. As discussed here in previous blog entries, while technology is good, the old ways have II be looked at as well. In some instances, students learn better on cognitive through typing & putting it in a typewritten format. However, some student brain patterns are different & they much prefer to learn by having things handwritten out IV them & then handing in their assignments raw & as they wrote &/or transcribed them. So as with any situation in life, a balance must be struck. Great Alberta Education tech improvements include:

1. Emerge 1 to 1 laptop learning.

2. Innovative classrooms & the supports needed II keep them at the top of their game.

3. Using technology II improve participation levels in high school studies in unique ways.

Keep Up The Ideas & Keep Up The Positivity,

Rory

Source: The Government Of Alberta, Department Of Education.

Stop The Press

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

November XXXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

School bus stop safety is of paramount importance in ensuring that our students get to & from their school safely each day. Good safety tips toward this goal include:

I. Be sure & practice good pedestrian behavior, making sure that students stay on sidewalks as much as possible to lesses the chances of an unexpected pedestrian/vehicle collision by the school.

I2. Make sure to tell students to look both left & right as they come II road openings. Accidents can happen in back alleys just as easily as they can on main streets.

I3. Make sure students don't run around or push their friends at a stop. They might accidentally wind up pushing their fellow student inII traffic by mistake.

I4. Don't go back II a school bus that you left something on. If the driver has II back up, they may not see you running behind the bus II get back on it.

Respect The "Danger Zone",

Rory

Source: Www.AboutSchool.Com.

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day Seven

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

November XXIXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

It should be noted that as we end Presidents Of The United States Week with XIVth President Franklin Pierce, Democrat-New Hampshire, I featured one Whig President, 3 Democrats, & 3 Republicans, thus giving each party equal time. So just like an election, giving neither side a tactical advantage over one another.

A. Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pierce, the Chief Surgeon from the film & tv show "M*A*S*H" got his character name from this President & the "Benjamin" from the famous inventor & Founding Father of the United States Constitution.

B. Chose to "affirm" his office upon his swearing in on a law book rather than "swear" an oath to the Constitution. First President to ever recite the oath of office from memory.

C. Only President to have his entire cabinet stay in place IV an entire Presidential term.

Jane Means Appleton Pierce,

Rory

Source: Podcast: "The Saddest President."

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day Six

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

November XXVIIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

XXVIIth President William H. Taft, Republican-Ohio was quite an interesting fellow. He is to this day even the only President II have headed (been Chief Executive of) II seperate branches of the United States Federal government. He was President first for a single term from MCMIX-MCMXIII (1909-13), succeeding the very popular XXVIth President Theodore Roosevelt, Republican-New York. Later on in life, as a lover of the law, Pres. Taft was nominated IV the position of Xth Chief Justice Of The United States Supreme Court by another one of our featured Presidents this, week, XXIXth President Warren G. Harding, Republican-Ohio & was successful in getting that job as well. I show him as Chief Justice in his robe as he was happy in that job & absolutely miserable as President.

A. Is a very distant cousin to former Alberta Liberal Leader & Edmonton-Riverview MLA Kevin Taft.

B. Assumed powers as Acting Secretary Of State when Pres. Roosevelt was jammed up elsewhere. This gave him powers in effect as "Acting President" at points, thus giving him crisis experience for his own run at the Presidency.

C. A supporter of unfettered & free immigration. Pres. Taft knew that at the start of the XXth Century that immigrants would be a valuable tool in helping build up American infrastructure.

Helen Louise Herron "Nellie" Taft,

Rory

Source: The William Taft National Historic Site.

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day Five

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

November XXVIIth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

XLIInd Unites States President William (Bill) J. Clinton, Democrat-Arkansas is quite the poster boy IV success. Just like XXXVIIIth President Gerald R. Ford, Republican-Michigan, Pres. Clinton was actually adopted, proving that if you come from a loving adopted home you can make something of yourself. Pres. Clinton was born William J. Blythe IIIrd, but his real dad was killed beIV he was born, so Pres. Clinton's mother remarried & Bill took his stepdad's name, Pres. Ford was born Leslie Lynch King, Jr.

A. Sucessfully signed into law the North American Free Trade Agreement.

B. One of only II Presidents to be impeached, which gives the Congress through the Senate the power to throw him out of office, he was however acquitted & got to finish his term. The only other being XVIIth President Andrew Johnson, Democrat-Tennessee (also acquitted.)

C. First U.S. President to visit Vietnam since end of conflict there some XXX plus years earlier. This served to smooth out resentments on both sides about the war & all of the dead, as well as the blood shed/political stresses that still remained between the two countries.

Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton,

Rory

Source: Impeachment Files Of The Library Of Congress.

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day Four

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

November XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

With III federal byelections II the Canadian House Of Commons II be decided this evening in British Columbia, Alberta, & Ontario, its very appropriate that we talk of the XIXth United States President Rutherford Hayes, Republican-Ohio.

Its important b/c his election shows the value of counting every vote. Just like XLIIIrd President George W. Bush, Republican-Texas, Pres. Hayes received less votes popularity wise, but he won the Electoral College & just in the right states. Thus he won 185-184 in terms of the votes of the college. This particular "college" is not a post-secondary institute, no its a collective of electors who casts votes IV each of their states, to ensure they reflect the overall mood of the American people. Its not a perfect system, but it ensures that smaller states have an equal say in who becomes the President-Elect IV the next term. I like it b/c it protects states rights & that each & every state knows that their viewpoints were fully heard in the election & by voters as a whole.

A. Ordered federal troops out of the South as Reconstruction ended so Southerners wouldn't be resentful of Northern influences & would once again have control over their now "slave-free" economy.

B. Became an advocate of educational & social reform so that every American, regardless of race, colour, or creed has an equal chance at a good start in life.

C. Took his oath of office in private on Saturday, March IIIrd, MDCCCLXXVII in the Red Room of The White House. First ever President to do this, his power & term did not officially take effect until 12PM on Sunday, March IVth Washington time when XVIIIth President Ulysses S. Grant, Republican-Ohio & his IInd term ended. The public swearing-in took place not until 12PM on Monday, March Vth as Pres. Hayes, a devout Christian would not agree to a swearing-in on the Lord's Day, or his day of rest.

Lucy Ware Webb Hayes,

Rory

Source: Rutherford B. Hayes: A Resource Guide (From The Library Of Congress.)

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day Three

 

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

 

November XXVth, MMXII

 

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

 

Dear Jeff:

 

Although a slave owner, the XIIth President Zachary Taylor, Whig-Louisiana, believed in appeasement & stopping slavery in some states if it furthered his political agenda. He had a IV decade long career in the military & rose to the rank of Major-General. So, as a result he was respected as a tactician. He died in office of gastroenteritis, a stomach & bowel disorder which has advanced nowadays to much better treatments. Still, it can be quite painful to its sufferers.

 

A. Pres. Taylor got the South & North to simultaneously accept the Compromise Of MDCCCL. This brokered land agreement averted any talk of a possible Civil War IV at least IV years. Of course hostilities didn't break out until MDCCCLXI & the Ist term of XVIth President Abraham Lincoln, Republican-Illinois.

 

B. Organized the Department Of The Interior. A very valuable tool IV the construction of national parks & such, as well as making sure environmental standards & stewardship are followed.

 

C. Negotiated treatises with the United Kingdom in what led to the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty. This compromise meant that neither the UK or the USA would try & seize (or claim) any control of any possible canal that might be built through Nicarauga. Thus averting any possible canal conflict.

 

Margaret Smith Taylor,

 

Rory

 

Source: The University Press Of Kansas.

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day Two

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

November XXIVth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

The VIIIth President Of The United States, Martin Van Buren, Democrat-New York was quite an interesting fellow. I find him interesting b/c Van Buren is a Dutch last name, just like mine is. Koopmans means "salesman" in Dutch, a fascinating tidbit for genealogical students II note.

A. He was the first President to be born a United States citizen. All of his predecessors technically were British Subjects & then even though born on United States soil, were not Americans until after America's birth on July IVth, MDCCLXXVI.

B. First ever President whose Ist language was not English, but Dutch spoken at home because thats what his family spoke when he was growing up.

C. Able II get a system of bonds set up so that the United States Treasury could have emergency cash to cover unexpected depression era expenses & get food & emergency iterms to citizens in desperate straits.

Hannah Hoes Van Buren,

Rory

Source: Presidential Commentaries, American Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Newsfile.

Presidents Of The United States Week-Day One

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

November XXIIIrd, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

Presidents Of The United States are quite fascinating. As America celebrates its Thanksgiving this weekend & we prepare for the XLIVth President (& simultaneously President-Elect) Barack Hussein Obama, Democrat-Illinois to get sworn in a IInd time on January XXth, MMXIII at 12PM EST (10AM) MST, we look back at Presidents past & transitions.

We start off with the XXIXth President, Warren Gamaliel Harding, Republican-Ohio. Pres. Harding died in office in MCMXXIII. Students of both journalism & politics might be interested II note that Pres. Harding had very successful careers in both professions. He made it to the top as a newspaper publisher & as Chief Executive (President), the number one political office in the country.

A. Released a Presidential opponent who was a socialist from prison as he knew it was wrong to jail someone who had never committed a crime. Plus he wanted to ensure transparency in governance & fairness to all political opponents.

B. Made sure to preside over ther military ceremony of America's "Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier" to show ultimate respect to soldiers & their family's at Arlington National Cemetery, the main area of honour ground IV America's fallen military heroes.

C. Created financial accountability by establishing the Bureau Of The Budget. This forced Presidents to be accountable to taxpayers & the Congress for their financing by submitting yearly office budgets. Very sound financing idea indeed.

Florence Mabel Kling "Flossie" Harding,

Rory

Source: Www.WhiteHouse.Gov.



 

A Roman Holiday

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

November XXIInd, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

I realize that in a school calendar year, the planning & taking of school holidays is just as important as instructional days. Plus, different religions, customs, cultural traditions must be adhered to in planning such holidays. Some schools I have found out run Tuesday-Saturday, or even Wednesday-Sunday b/c that works better IV that particular division. Plus some people have their holy day on a different day rather than the standard traditional Sunday of the Christian faith. Some schools run year round & take shorter intermediate breaks. Some run IV days a week, but longer days so that family's can have III day weekends or more family time with students to help them in their studies at home. You have to admire school administrators & trustees in their efforts to make students holidays for all students of all beliefs feel special!

Photo Calendars,

Rory

Source: Www.Holidays-Europe.Com.

Legislative Business

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

November XXIst, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

I realize that with the changes & compromises to the Education Act that you as Minister have to strike a balance. Please remember though that even though students learn differently today than they used to, its not right to grade students on only their completed work. To give students 85% of 80 marks when they have an incomplete assignment/test for 20 marks for example is unethical as they haven't earned it. I believe you should tell all schools that hand out incompletes that you won't be letting them have the priviledge of giving out anymore.

Transparency,

Rory

Source: Myself.

There Can Be No Party Affiliations Or Battles When It Comes To Battling The End Of Child Hunger

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

November XXth, MMXII

Hon. Jeff Johnson, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Athabasca-Sturgeon-RedH2O

Dear Jeff:

We can certainly put differences aside on this matter. The adept formal Alberta Liberal Leader, Dr. David Swann, Liberal, Calgary-Mountain View organized a rally against child poverty & hunger today at the Alberta Legislature. He also spoke about it during Members Statements so it would be recorded in Hansard, so that kids know that someone cares. He is doing it through his United Church & other social groups in his riding. This is definitely something I can stand by as the greater the nutritional content in a child, the better able that s/he is able II study in school.

Nutrionally Satisfying,

Rory

Source: Www.Assembly.Ab.Ca.