I've always found the concept of gangs and gang activity on the Prairies rather headscratching. It just seems like a bad fit in my mind; almost on the same absurdity of the Yakuza invading Flin Flon, Manitoba... Just doesn't make any sense and just seems awkward.
The other funny thing I find is, they mentioned on the news that this recent round of violence stemmed from grudges of two people / groups from their days back in high school. Assuming that it is from my graduation year (2001, so most guys would be around 24-25 now), I wonder when these guys begin to think that this kind of activity is immature and worth pursuing? I mean, holding grudges? Trying to get back at people? Wanting respect / street cred? I didn't realize we were still in Grade 6.
I know a few people my age that STILL act the 'gangsta thug' attitude... c'mon guys, give it up already. At this point, it's laughable. If you want to be hardcore, go and spend a couple nights with your boys in a REAL hood like Compton, and see how long you last. Talk and walk around like you own the neighbourhood; then come back and say you're hardcore.
/rant