Miles Layram’s censure motions against Tim Ngwena and Ben Humphrys have failed at the most recent UGM, but two motions on portering have passed.
Nick Scarlett, one of the four candidates for Student Activities Officer, has released a statement responding to criticism from incumbent Rhianna Kinchin.
The Yorker speaks to Suzy Dodd and Luke Sandford, who are running together for the role of Campaigns Officers.
The Yorker interviews the Racial Equality Officers candidates.
Event organisers Mike Thackray and Chris Kummelstedt told The Yorker that they were nervous about undertaking such a project after last year's profit of approximately £89. They attempted to keep the budget as tight as possible in order to maximise profit, but reached problems when discovering that lighting and sound was costing twice as much as in 2008.
Despite these financial issues, they estimate profit to have reached an impressive £2,500, but stress that there is still more money to be counted.
Thackray and Kummelstedt have been extremely active throughout their three years on campus and they have used their connections to help make Woodstock the success that it was. Thackray has been involved in the technical side of campus events and with URY while Kummelstedt organised Big D last year so knows a lot about campus administration.
Pooling together their acquired contacts helped cut costs for many societies provided services for free. They thank URY especially for their sponsorship of the performance program and for providing a PA system for free.
Regarding the success of the day, Kummelstedt stressed the weather conditions as being a big contributor to Woodstock's popularity. However, the poster campaign this year was also largely responsible for bringing such large numbers of students, as well as the “Where the Hell is Woodstock” video, which has reached almost 1,000 YouTube hits. With over 230 performers and 43 acts, students from all areas of campus life contributed to the atmosphere at the event.
Perhaps the most obvious issue with the event was the admission fee. Students complained about paying too much because door staff refused to give change. In Woodstock's defence, Kummelstedt explained that because it was a charity event, money had to go into sealed buckets so it was impossible to give change.
Kummelstedt added that the fee of £3.50 was "strictly enforced" despite posters which said donation was only suggested. He argued that admission was a very good deal considering the quality of the event. As to the difficulties experienced by students returning to the event a second time and having no proof of previous entry, Thackray explained that wristbands were too expensive.
The entire RAG committee were central to the success of Woodstock. Both organisers said it was a team effort and that many individuals deserve mention for their contribution. They noted that first year Jenni Williams' help was particularly appreciated, as she was “an absolute star” and will perhaps be the future Woodstock organiser.
Thackray and Kummelstedt also both admitted their relief towards the end of the event when they could handover their responsibilities to other RAG members and 'enjoy a nice pint or three'.
RAG will continue raising money for their beneficiaries next year with the help of the University of York’s students. Indeed, with every £100 we donate, 75 people can be saved from cholera. Now that’s something to be proud of.
You must log in to submit a comment.
