Dear Editors:
Re: “Volunteers manage to keep street virtually glass-free.” (Journal, September 18, 2006).
As a volunteer at the Aberdeen Street party, I was encouraged by the improved tone and behaviour of this year’s Homecoming. However, two important questions remain unanswered:
First, how ethical is it for Queen’s to force Kingston taxpayers to foot the bill for extra police and municipal services?
The University istration pushes the “community” idea until it’s asked to help with the costs of a community event—which the Aberdeen Street party is, sanctioned or otherwise. Then the University weasels out. Making at least a substantial contribution would build goodwill in the Kingston community and would be a gesture of good faith. Refusing to do so looks petty and mean, and creates considerable resentment in Kingston.
Second, where are the party-goers’ environmental consciences? The party generated mountains of trash, not all of which has been picked up. Or do some Queen’s students lack concern for the environment? The littering along Union Street would suggest so.
Molly Wolf
Kingston Resident
Dear Editors:
Re: “A healthier Homecoming hangover.” (Journal, September 18, 2006).
Congratulations to Queen’s students, the University istration, Kingston Police and the Aberdeen Street Community Volunteers on a safe and immensely enjoyable 2006 Homecoming street party!
We are three of the hundreds of volunteers at the party Saturday night, mingling with the crowd, exchanging plastic cups for glass bottles and generally encouraging safe and respectful behaviour.
Very little encouragement seemed to be required—virtually every student we approached was aware of our role and expressed genuine appreciation for our efforts. They were enthusiastic, energetic and obviously having a great time, with minimal evidence of the previous year’s excesses.
No doubt the reasons for this success will be dissected in the next few weeks. In our opinion, there were multiple contributing factors to success.
The street closure, improved lighting, non-confrontational police presence, bottle drop-off station, a large supply of plastic cups and water bottles and huge number of community volunteers were all essential.
To the students of Queen’s University, who heard and acted on the message to party responsibly and who were great role models for people from out of town we would like to extend a heartfelt thanks.
Cha Gheill!
Anna Sadura Healey
Susan Marlin
Roger Healey
Queen’s Staff
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