"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Messer

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIXth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

We seem to have congressmen "leapfrogging" one another today in order to appear here at Executive Dissertations. Indiana Congressman Luke Messer discusses his educational thoughts in the subject area of multiple choice options & expansion of options for students in multiple educational areas & settings.

"In MMXIV (2014), I formed the Congressional School Choice Caucus, which is dedicated to expanding educational freedom & promoting policies that increase high-quality education options for all children. I also introduced legislation that allows states to use federal education funding to expand education choices."

Evansville,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Luke Messer, Republican-Indiana, The VIth District.

"A House Divided Against itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Roskam

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIXth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

On a stroll this morning with Congressman Peter Roskam of Illinois, we ask Pete to take a "leap of faith" on this day since it only occurs once every IV years. Executive Dissertations wants to know what Pete is doing in the area of raising the awareness of the importance of freedom of speech for students on collegiate campuses.

"Freedom of expression is a critical underpinning of university teaching & research. Lately, we've noticed a disturbing trend of institutions stifling free speech & otherwise inhibiting a free exchange of ideas to shield their own viewpoints from criticism."

Hinsdale,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Peter Roskam, Republican-Illinois, The VIth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Dr. Price

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXVIIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Georgia Congressman Tom Price decides to work on the area of family medical care & affordability. As a medical officer of healthy, Doctor Price certainly has a basis for his keen interest here.

"Patients all across America are losing the ability to access the highest quality care for many reasons. One of these is the extraordinary increase in costs."

Lansing, Michigan,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Tom Price, Republican-Georgia, The VIth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. DeSantis

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXVIIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Students of the political game will note that part of it is trying to improve yourself & once you get established run for a higher political office. Examples would include ex Ward XII Edmonton City Councilor Amarjeet Sohi who is now as MP & in the Federal Liberal cabinet. Same thing with ex Liberal MLAs Darshan Kang & Kent Hehr also MPs now, with Kent also achieving cabinet status.

So with candidates for this quadrennial year running for all forms of political office we have Congressman Ron DeSantis of Florida running to become the next Floridian U.S. Senator should Candidate & Current Florida Senator Marco Rubio win the Republican nomination for the Presidency of The United States Of America & the very Presidency itself!

"As a candidate for Senate, I look forward to offering reforms based on limited government principles that will make our country stronger & more prosperous." 

Jacksonville,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Ron DeSantis, Republican-Florida, The VIth District. 

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Coffman

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #23, 9731-174 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5T 6G4

February XXVIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Colorado Congressman Mike Coffman is judiciously working on the matter of helping families deal with mental health issues & suicides, in particular military families. As an honourable retired United States Army & United States Marines officer himself, Major Coffman has first-hand knowledge of its devastation.

"It is absolutely vital that we as a nation address the twin crisis of veteran suicide & mental health issues."

Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri,

Rory

Source: Congressional Represenentative Mike Coffman, Republican-Colorado, The VIth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mrs. Matsui

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #23, 9731-174 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5T 6G4

February XXVIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

When a student reporter comes from the Sacramento area comes to interview her, Congresswoman Doris Matsui of California chats about the importance of buying local foods & using them in restaurants & such. Thus families get the freshest possible food.

"We can actually use the local food to have them serve at our restaurants too."

Poston, Arizona,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Doris Matsui, Democratic-California, The VIth District.

Green & Gold Rush!

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXVIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

What can you say say about the great Don Getty, XIth Premier of Alberta, Progressive Conservative, Strathcona-West/Edmonton-Whitemud/Stettler? I guess his elegant & lovely bride Margaret & the Getty family can take comfort in the fact that now that he is passed from us, he is up in Heaven, pain free & quarterbacking plays & strategies with his old Edmonton Eskimos teammates Jackie Parker & Johnny Bright, as well as fellow teammate & Former Xth Premier Peter Lougheed for all time!

Rest In Peace Mister Premier A Truly Loyal Canadian,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Eskimos Football Club (Archival.)

From One Woman To Another!

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXVth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Listening to the condescending way in which your caucus colleague the Hon. Rachel Notley, B. A., LL. B., MLA, Premier, New Democratic, Edmonton-Strathcona treated Ryan Jespersen this morning on 630AM Ched Radio kind of makes me think she can't really handle the job & frankly, she should apologize to him on live air!

1. She gave him heck over asking about the Hon. Stephanie McLean, B. A., LL. B., MLA, Minister of Service Alberta, New Democratic, Calgary-Varsity. She stated that because Ryan is a man he shouldn't ask questions about Steph's pregnancy & cabinet position. Let me point out that while I don't like Ryan Jespersen myself, he is more than qualified as both a radio host & since he is a new dad himself with his lovely bride, he knows a lot about parenting issues. Just because its from the male perspective, he shouldn't have his voice shot down.

2. As for Rach helping out the Ontario NDP, if she's looking at putting away some of her share of the cash from the fundraiser, then might I suggest the SkyPalace as its sitting empty.

3. People are saying female versus male, whom is better in office, well I am starting to think that I miss the days of Alison Redford, QC as Premier when I see the way in which the NDP is now destroying this province. I have had nine friends laid off since February Ist and eight of them have wives and children. So Dave, does Rach think that because they are male that they shouldn't be entitled to a decent job?

4. Also, the premier shuts down coal mines displacing thousands. Her old man, the late & great Grant Notley (pity he never lived to Premier) would never have put these thousands of good union folks on the unemployment lines in order to kiss the derriere of David Suzuki who has been proven a liar on multiple occasions.

Snooty Versus Snotty,

Rory

Source: Myself.

P.S.: Has anyone else besides me noticed that in press conferences that Rach is not very good at actually answering the questions, she doesn't have any form of command of the room like a real leader should!

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Schweikert

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIVth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Arizona Congressman David Schweikert bring up his feelings on student education in scientific frontiers & technological know-how. This would be in case they want to pursue say mathematics or perhaps engineering, or even the trades as a career.

"Ensuring all grade levels have access & experience in science, technology, engineering, & math is a critical point in building up this generation to face the difficulties & challenges ahead."

Los Angeles, California,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative David Schweikert, Republican-Arizona, The VIth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Palmer

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIVth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

We get a remark from Congressman Gary Palmer of Alabama this morning, fresh out of Committee on the record on his work to get funding for the children of low-income families to have an equal chance at attending a private school in Washington, District Of Columbia if they so choose. So more school choices no matter what their economic status. I would say this is a rather excellent goal by Gary.

"Ensuring our children receive a good education is essential, both for each individual child & for the future of our nation. But for many of our most disadvantaged children, a clear pathway to receiving a good education is hampered by being unable to choose the school that is right for them."

Haleyville,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Gary Palmer, Republican-Alabama, The VIth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Sensenbrenner

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIIIrd, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

We complete today's trifecta of quotes by asking Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner of Wisconsin to talk about his efforts in the area of bringing common-sense back to the classroom so students can get back to learning.

"We need to continue to push for common-sense reform."

Chicago, Illinois,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Jim Sensenbrenner, Republican-Wisconsin, The Vth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mrs. Rodgers

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIIIrd, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

We have Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington standing up for the cause of disabled children today. She's the perfect go to gal on this file as her very fine son Cole was born with Trisomy XXI (21.) As a result, Cathy speaks from the heart!

"I believe that every American should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams to the limit of their abilities, determination, & desires."

Salem, Oregon,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Republican-Washington, The Vth District.

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Hurt

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #6, 14504-108 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1G8

February XXIIIrd, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Now where were we before being so rudely interrupted by the Ward XII Byelection? Ah yes Congressman Robert Hurt of Virginia has a comment on quality over quantity. We must provide students not just with an education, but one of quality. I for one agree with Bobby!

"A quality education is one of the greatest opportunities we can provide to our children & grandchildren."

New York City, New York,

Rory

Source: Congressional Representative Robert Hurt, Republican-Virginia, The Vth District.

SCOTUS-Mister Justice Kennedy

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin, Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XXIInd, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

As his good friend Mr. Associate Justice Antonin Scalia was clearly smothered to death by the "illuminati & new world order", as well as those who want to turn the Court more liberal at a ranch in West Texas (the same state President Jack Kennedy, Democratic-Massachusetts was done in you will notice), his good friend Mr. Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy now becomes the most senior member of the Supreme Court of The United States (SCOTUS.) So this morning since I cannot by law put out any form of campaign material on this Byelection Day itself, I instead prevail upon Tony to make a few remarks on the passing of his fallen comrade.

"In years to come, any history of the Supreme Court will, & must, recount the wisdom, scholarship, & technical brilliance that Justice Scalia brought to the Court. His insistence on demanding standards shaped the work of the Court in its private discussions, its oral arguments, & its written opinions. Yet these historic achievements are all the more impressive & compelling because the foundations of Justice Scalia's jurisprudence, the driving force in all his work, & his powerful personality were shaped by an unyielding commitment to the Constitution of the United States & to the highest ethical & moral standards. In the fullness of time Justice Scalia's beautiful family will be sustained the force & dynamism of his intellect & personality, attributes that were so decent & so powerful; but now they mourn. We give them assurances of our deepest sympathy & our lasting friendship."

Roman Catholicism,

R. Joey

Source: Associate Justice Of The Supreme Court Of The United States Of America Anthony McLeod Kennedy, Republican/Libertarian-California & Washington, District Of Columbia.

A Real Furr Fight!

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XXIst, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

My Feline Son & Chief Campurrgn Strategist James Redwing aka "J.R." Cat Koopmans has reminded me of the impurrtance this day of Ward XII residents & other Edmontonians about being good to their animal friends. He has declared "total open warfurr" against animal abuse & I agree with him completely! In addition to having called in Animal Control twice for dead animals who were obviously harmed greatly before they suffered & died as I canvassed neighborhoods & dropped brochures, I have had residents tell me how upsetting it is for them their animals sometimes get hurt in the course of a crime(s) being committed against them & their families/property.

Sure, animal control & the Edmonton Humane Society are located on the north side of the river, but purrhaps a south side satellite Humane Society location to better deal with attacks on the south side of the city might be a wise move. In good times & bad, recession or great economy, we rely on our animal friends furr comfort & they should definitely be respected & not abused.

Pet Talk,

R. Joey

Source: The Edmonton Humane Society & "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

Rink Wrankles

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XXth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Its a prime example of how The City Of Edmonton & its yegified, yegplan, yegsocialized, yegidiot, yegheads have stopped listening to the little guy & the citizenry of Edmonton as a whole. Here in the North Millbourne Community, the rink equipment gets stolen & a person who desperately needed his part-time job as an income supplement got laid off as a result, & yet no one seems to care.

Here the lefty agenda of the current council comes into play as they want to build a pile of new rinks into Rexall Place/Northlands Ice Coliseum when the Edmonton Oilers vacate this April. Yet, no one seems to care to even listen to help these fine North Millbourne residents be able to find a proper solution for keeping their community rink going & yet City officials just keep on raising taxes exponentially & well above inflation year in & year out!

I Can Sense The Frustration Of Residents Here,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

Its A Bit Rich!

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XIXth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

1. Its a bit rich to think that if Candidate Danisha Bhaloo is elected as the next Ward XII YEG City Councilor that Former Mayor Stephen Mandel won't once again gain direct operational control of the City Council & its administrative functions, thus seizing even more power from the hapless Mayor Don Iveson & his media minions like Mackmale & Kristopher Wells & Ryan Jespersen!

2. The Former Mayor is free to endorse whomever he wants of course, as is his absolutely stunning bride Lynn! But Candidate Bhaloo should take their endorsement with a grain of kosher pickle salt. After all, she will be in the pocket of the Chief Executive of this city who caused all of the LRT overages & expenditures such as the welfare cash being handed over to the billionaire & crappy Edmonton Oilers team owner Daryl Katz, thus forcing endless tax increases which are higher than inflation without any increase in service levels.

3. It should also be pointed out that the Current Mayor Iveson was then Councilor Don Iveson who went along with everything that Steve said and thus placed this absolutely crippling debt on the citizenry of Edmonton, which has contributed greatly to the homelessness problem & who has that "deer in the headlights" look of being absolutely clueless as to how to solve it. Why don't you send out another tweet picture of yourself smiling Donny?

4. If Danisha becomes the Councilor-Elect this Monday when results are announced at 8:35PM MST, I'd like to point out that she will constantly be over having coffee or dinner in Ex-Mayor Mandel's living room getting her orders from Steve on what to do next. So basically, we will have a Ward V resident with total operational control over a sitting City Councilor until October MMXVII when the next regular Civic Election Cycle occurs so he can expand on his plan or "the vision" to add on even more debt. I ask Ward XII residents & south side voters who kicked then cabinet minister Mandel out as MLA after only what VII.V (7.5) months, do they really want him back in charge of anything but changing both his & his grandson's diapers?

"Cat Ballou",

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

The Undecided Factor

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XVIIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

I for one would like to commend Mr. Shane Bergdahl, the President of the Millwoods Presidents Council of Community Leagues for his hosting of the forum at the wonderful J. Percy Page High School last night. I'd also like to commend the school (which is an amazingly stunning facility) & the @yegfoodbank for getting together with the Community Leagues in order to have a food donation bin set up at the forum. Furthermore, the Ward XII resident who came up with that idea was quite smart & I applaud him for it.

As for the forum format, people have been maligning it in texts & emails & calls both last night & today. I find this absolutely ludicrous as President Bergdahl did his very best to insure it was fair to all. The dilemma with the affixed time concept of having to stop by 9:15PM MST in order to clear the room by the legally required 9:30PM MST doesn't leave much room for the President & the school administrative & janitorial staffs to work with. So I think that President Bergdahl's concept of raw & rapid-fire "yes" & "no" answers gives the voting populace in attendance & the media an instant satisfying of their immediate needs as to where their next potential Ward XII City Councilor stands on any issue(s.)

"Shane, Come Back Shane",

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

"Will The Senator Yield The Floor?"-Mazie Hirono

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin, Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XVIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Executive Dissertations concludes its look at the educational issues of the Upper House of the two United States elected chambers with a look at Senator Mazie Hirono of The Pineapple State of Hawaii. We "yield the floor" this one last time exactly one year from the date that we started this category in order that we may achieve "a full Senate" or "quorum" of all C (100) Senators. The Senator is interested specifically in mentioning how she was given every opportunity to learn as a child since she immigrated from Japan with her mother & her family & that she is grateful as it expanded her horizons & opportunities in life. This is reflective because of the huge immigrant populace in the boundaries that currently constitute Ward XII!

"I know firsthand how a quality education opens the doors of opportunity. When my mother brought me to Hawaii to Japan as a child, I did not speak a word of English but my mother enrolled me in Hawaii's public schools. If it were not for my teachers & my mother's high expectations, I wouldn't be where I am today."

The Rainbow State,

R. Joey

Source: Senator Mazie Hirono, Class 1, Democratic-Hawaii.

JULIAN KOZIAK!

Ward XII Candidate Don Koziak

Julian Koziak Leadership Campaign Badge

Julian Koziak Tickling The Ivories At His World Famous "Julian's Piano Bar"

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XVIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

In October MCMLXXXV (1985), my father & I had the distinct pleasure of making phone calls, handing out literature, & holding up signs for the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta Leadership Convention Campaign in support of Mr. Julian Koziak. Hard to believe that its been XXX.V (30.5) years since that event & I was a month away from turning just XI (11) years old!

I have also had the thrill of dropping off pamphlets & making phone calls for his extremely fine son Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate Don Koziak in past campaigns & have enjoyed doing so immensely!

So, as a result you can imagine what an extreme honour & privlege it is for me to have my name on the ballot right next to Don on the ballot as we both run for the same position. I have relatives with a Dutch background including my dad, while Don & Julian & their family have a Ukrainian heritage that they are truly proud of. With all of the Ukrainian voters in Ward XII & people of different multicultural backgrounds, its great to see that we can campaign in a friendly & gentlemanly competition & how immigrants made this province the great place it is to live it is today both through good times & bad!

The Koziak Family Are Truly Great Albertans,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

Tripping The Light Unfantastic Four

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XVth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

As I sit here in Millwoods after buying a coffee at the Mac's nearby, I thought while I was there I'd ask the clerk what his main concern was in terms of crime. He pointed out that while he is at points frustrated with the lack of police presence at times, what really bothers him & other clerks when they do night shifts is the severe lack of exterior lighting. While I realize that its just a sampling of one clerk's opinion, he is a Ward XII resident & his points were thus.:

I. Exterior lighting at greater levels will allow residents to see any cracks or defects, or say snow &/or ice (especially black ice) on the pavement in front of them. In this way, they can enter or exit safely, either alone or with their friends or family.

II. Also, having better exterior lighting will guide them to the front of the store & the Mac's lighting. as a result, the clerks at this Mac's are frustrated by the lack of infrastructure up keep & proper street lighting.

III. Better lighting would also give the police a greater chance of apprehending perpetrators of convenience stores, businesses, & homes as they prepare for flight from the crime scene.

So Light The Way With Better Upkeep,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

Campaigning For Ma!

Afton Elementary School

Rio Terrace Elementary School

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XIVth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Perhaps the residents of Ward XII will indulge me in a little personal task. Its a task I will really LOVE doing & it seems ever so fitting to do so on this day of love & respect, this Saint Valentine's Day! I would LOVE it if the Edmonton Public School Board (EPSB) would name one of the new schools to be built after my late mother, Mrs. June C. Koopmans, B. Ed. (still my best contributor to this blog & who was the inspiration for its entire concept who died sadly way too young at just LXVIII (68) of a brain-stem stroke in January MMXII.) In particular, it would do my heart good to see a school in Ward XII named after ma, in this way I could see her name up in big & bold letters every time I passed it, inspiring future generations of students from above! Also what better time to lobby & campaign for an issue than when an actual campaign writ period is on whilst being an actual candidate myself?

I. Mom taught first in the EPSB system as a student teacher while attending the prestigious University Of Alberta where she received her Bachelor Of Education Degree in MCMLXVIII (1968.) She loved going there & it took her almost VII.V (7.5) years to graduate due to helping out with family obligations & the fact that she proudly worked to pay every dime of her own tuition, costs, & living expenses. Paying as she went & proudly not taking any student loans! Plus student teaching in rural communities on her holidays!

II. Mom taught in the very important rural area schools of Clandonald & McLaughlin for several years when there were teacher shortages as a student teacher. Gaining valuable experience for her Edmonton based teaching later on.

III. Later on, mom went on to teach in the EPSB system in both the Rio Terrace & Afton Elementary Schools, with a special focus on Kindergarten to Grade II students. Plus, ma loved taking new courses throughout her life as she continually learned new things from Kings College, now Kings University.

IV. When mom left EPSB to raise her family in what MCMLXXVII (1977), she still substituted with EPSB for years & volunteer taught students in Sunday schools & enjoyed babysitting & socializing with others moms & dads & their children. This was a trait she never loss the knack for when we prevailed upon her to babysit her own grandchildren!

V. Growing up with what VII (7) siblings I've observed at many times & at many junctures to her family & friends is what I think led ma to become a Mother Hen & want to educate kids in their formative years, so I can think of nothing better than to have her get this honour!

VI. Mom was working on lesson plans for learning disabled children for a Winter School Camp at her local house of worship, Trinity United Church when she stroked out. Sadly, when she passed four days later, I realized those plans would never be completed.

As a result Dave, I would love mom's journey & life plans to be completed to full fruition by having an EPSB school named after her! HELL DAVE (HECK, SORRY MOM, NO BAD LANGUAGE, I FORGOT): LETS GO FULL BORE HERE: SHE DESERVES THIS POSTHUMOUS HONOUR GREATLY!

My Mom: Mrs. June C. Koopmans, B. Ed.: THE GREATEST CANDIDATE OF THEM ALL!,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor" & The Entire Koopmans & Adams Families & William Wade Izzard & I'm Thinking The Entire Planet Earth!

"A House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand!"-Mr. Hensarling

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin, Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XIIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Earlier in the campaign, this campaign converted Executive Dissertations blog, I as the candidate featured a quote from a Democratic congressman. If I am to be exactly fair to all sides however, I must also garner an opinion from a member of the right hand side of the aisle or Republican Congressman Jeb Hensarling of Texas. With that corrupt Valley LRT line being sneakily voted in by the current City Council without Ward XII residents having a vote on it, Jeb is wondering "How Green Is My Valley" when he chats about the need not for not just big oil from J.R. & Bobby Ewing's home state, but of greener alternative energy options.

"In addition to developing our nation's traditional sources of energy, we must work to develop & ensure that alternative energy sources, like hydrogen fuel cells & solar power, are part of a long-term energy strategy."

Stephenville,

R. Joey

Source: Congressional Representative Jeb Hensarling, Republican-Texas, The Vth District.

In A Court Of Law

Ward XII Candidate Rakesh Patel

Ward XII Candidate Yash Sharma

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Alberta Law Courts Bvilding Library Public Use Computer, Edmonton, Alberta

February XIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

As a close & personal friend of former Progressive Conservative MLA Peter Sandhu, I find myself in a rather unique & extraordinary position. I, as an active Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate have been called by several media organizations for a comment of "alleged" improprieties by my fellow Ward XII Candidates Yash Sharma & Rakesh Patel.

- First and foremost, the matters are part of court actions filed by other parties. Therefore, it would not as both as an active candidate & as a provincially licensed security officer for me to comment in any way. That would be frankly rather unethical of me & it should be up to a court of law to decide & furthermore, I am not a lawyer, judge, or police officer.

- Second, I was also asked to comment on past charges or incidents laid against four other candidates. I would for the record rather not as these other candidates have paid their debts &/or are obey any obligations or Peace Bonds against them.

- I for one don't want to be accused of taking political advantage &/or smearing Candidates Sharma or Patel, or for that matter Candidates Sam Jhajj, Shani Ahmad, Steve "C.P." Toor, or Terry McKinnon. I have come to know all VI of these fine gentlemen during the campaign & they seem like very upstanding citizens.

- Also, I for one firmly believe that of the XXXII (32) candidates at hand, each of us should have a I in XXXII (1 in 32) chance of winning or losing, no unfair tactical advantage for any of us whatsoever! 

That Is The True Essence Of Democracy & Fair Play At Work,

R. Joey

Source: CBC Edmonton News Jennie Russell, Charles Rusnell, & Janice Johnston & "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

Ward XII Candidate Terry McKinnon

Ward XII Candidate Steve "C.P." Toor

Ward XII Candidate Sam Jhajj

Ward XII Candidate Shani Ahmad

As an aside, I do find it wrong from a security standpoint that Sikhs can bring in ceremonial daggers to a polling station when nobody else can & which can be used as part of voter intimidation tactics. Its just as bad as the niqab in the Muslim tradition which clearly subjugates women to their male counterparts, women should have to uncover their full face in a polling station like those of every other voter to establish proper identification. Finally, if you cannot say a Loyalty Oath to Her Majesty The Queen then perhaps you shouldn't be a Canadian citizen because The Queen is above all else!

Intimidate This!

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February XIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

I am frustrated when I hear that some of my opponents have criminal pasts & are running despite having Peace Bonds issued against them. Then further using tactics of voter intimidation & forced voting at the Advance Polling Station. Having never had a Peace Bond or Restraining Order ever issued against me since I do security & guarding work for a living as provincially licensed security officer at warehouses, bars, & other sites, I find this lack of security decorum disgusting & extremely disturbing! You don't hear any complaints about me or my student volunteer scrutineers in the media do you? Answer: NO YOU DON'T!

This is because I have them sitting in the room as scrutineers where the voting is taking place or in the hall outside the room. I don't even permit them to wear any form of campaign insignia, even outside on the sidewalk. I also tell them not to even say "hello" to voters but just observe! That is all: OBSERVE!

People can call me directly at 780-604-6732 for the rest of the election if you have any questions. This is my third election campaign in what nine months & after all of the thousands of doors I have knocked on & with all the people I've met, I find as a Candidate for the said office above of Ward XII YEG City Councilor it incredibly frustrating to stop doorknocking &/or flyer deliveries at homes. Then I have to go walk all the way back to my vehicle & come to the Advance Polling site to deal with problems that my volunteer scrutineers cannot handle. Its beyond frustrating as I am losing an already narrow & limited window of time in which to meet Ward XII residents & listen to their concerns.

Tag in the new snowfall & I have to make sure that I'm dressed warmly & carry a bunch of flyers without falling on the poorly cleaned (if cleaned at all sidewalks) with ice & snow on them & full of cracks & unrepaired holes. Frankly, I'm about all campaigned out & am sickened at the way some candidates are harassing voters, its upsetting to see the great people such as Laura Kennedy & Iain MacLean of Elections Edmonton having to deal with this crap when they are already having enough stress just trying to keep the voting room itself safe & secure for voters! Having observed as a paid neutral Canadian IIIrd party some of the shenanigans in the MM Floridian recount vote for the Presidency Of The United States, I find it sad that XVI years later in another Presidential Election Cycle we in a municipal byelection are having this same garbage being pulled!

It's Just Not Right,

R. Joey

Source: Gordon Kent, The Edmonton Journal & "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

P.S.: David Staples, also of The Edmonton Journal did a remarkable job in interviewing me. As I am quite nervous & don't have much confidence when I discuss matters, he was very reassuring & allayed my fears very nicely. I for one thank him & The Edmonton Journal team ever so much!

You Can Take That To The Bank!

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February Xth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

I just adore this idea that a senior citizen I met on the street in Tamarack neighbourhood doorknocking last night. He came up with the ingenious idea of having a Food Bank bin outside the doors of the gymnasium at the J. Percy Page High School for the Ward XII All Candidates Byelection Debate on Wednesday, February XVIIth (17th) from VI:XXX-IX:XXX (6:30-9:30) PM! I guess he called up the school principal & the Food Bank staff to suggest the idea & it is going through.

I for one cannot tell you how much this pleases me as both a person & as a candidate! People say that senior citizens don't have great ideas are dead wrong! If it wasn't for this initiative & a war veteran's raw determination in making his idea come to light, there would be no bin at the school. I for one will bring a food donation & I encourage all Edmontonians attending this forum to do so. Plus, this old soldier wishes to remain anonymous in his suggestion & I will respect his wishes & keep his information private! Just a typical soldier, reserved & with decorum!

Hunger is an issue that transcends politics. Look at my most Honourable & Respectable Opponent, a Mr. "Can Man" Dan Johnson & his yearly efforts to garner Food Bank Donations! Frankly, Candidate Danny's efforts, along with those of this senior are truly an inspiration for integrity & honesty above all else in helping the less fortunate of our community during these tough & uncertain economic times! I for one strongly encourage the media, the public & anyone attending to bring all the food you can to the forum, or contribute to one of many Food Bank Bins across the city!

Thank You All,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

Ward XII Candidate "Can Man" Dan Johnstone

Interfaith Consensus

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Edmonton, Alberta

February IXth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Mayor Don Iveson is talking about the need for more affordable housing. Here at this Muslim Friendship Centre in Ward XII, there seems to be a consensus building not just among Muslim members, by people of Jewish, Christian (such as myself), Sikh, & Hindi that are here visiting that a great temporary solution would be to house the refugees inside of abandoned Edmonton Public & Edmonton Catholic Schools. As the very proud son of an immigrant myself from The Netherlands, I feel that I would be an especially good fit for Ward XII as I am very interested in multicultural issues & immigration patterns/trends!

1. I think its a great idea as it would generate rent revenue for the schools, which would help offset utility costs of the buildings greatly & for which Edmontonian taxpayers are paying for anyway.

2. There are kitchen facilities for cooking, as well as a gymnasium for families & their children to exercise in. Not to mention the huge grass fields surrounding each school that mostly sit empty due to aging seniors that don't use them. Wouldn't it e nice to have refugee children & neighborhood kids playing together & becoming friends in those fields?

3. Sure, its a short term solution but each family could have their own classroom for a living area. Plus, there are usually washroom & shower facilities already built into the schools to cover bathing needs.

The Mayor talks about revitalizing neighborhoods & maybe this will do it? Living in a group & family setting certainly has to be more comfortable than being stuck in a hotel.

An Editor's Note: This would also work for relieving stress over the homeless & ballooning city First Nations residents growth spurt problems.

Gotta Have Faith,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."

"We Are "Advance" Polling & We're Not Giving Into Anything!"

R. Joey Koopmans, B. Admin., Ward XII YEG City Councilor Byelection Candidate, Meadows Public Library Terminal #XI, Edmonton, Alberta

February VIIIth, MMXVI

Hon. Dave Eggen, B. Ed., MLA, Minister of Education, New Democratic, Edmonton-Calder

Dear Dave:

Redeployed by my volunteer scrutineers from a seniors residence by Ellerslie to the Meadows Community Centre attached to this EPL Branch to join them in watching some of the advanced voting process, I must say I am mightily impressed!

A. The Elections Edmonton team had the first day of Advance Polls set up very nicely & efficiently. Their typical usually great job. There were no voter access issues or any problems whatsoever!

B. I enjoyed seeing my most honourable opponent, Candidate Moe Banga come into vote with his family as I was leaving. He seemed particularly pleased to be bringing in his granddaughter to show her the voting station. I mean what a little cutie & her Grandma says she's a princess. I'm glad she was along to keep Grandpa Moe out of trouble (& we all know just how bad grandpas really are.)

C. Very happy indeed to see the talented & gorgeous Mrs. Susan Amerongen of the CTV Edmonton news team doing interviews outside the polling station with people around her. You know, despite all of the media cutbacks, CTV & other media outlets are doing their very best to cover this byelection & I for one truly appreciate it!

Voting In Advance Polls Will Greatly Relieve Voting Day Pressures,

R. Joey

Source: "The Campaign II Elect R. Joey Koopmans Ward XII YEG City Councilor."