To Whom It May Concern:
I have two problems with the recent Ampersand article of Feb. 20th, 2007. The first is the insensitivity towards the death of one of Middletown’s bravest, Captain Joseph Pagano, a veteran of 28 years, who died on the job last November. Joe was a great friend of Psi U, and many of the older brothers knew Joe personally. When Joe died, the City of Middletown shut down. Main Street was closed. All the schools were closed. 8,000 people attended his funeral. To put it lightly, Joe was one of the most respected people this city has ever seen, and he will be dearly missed. I sat with Joe’s wife, Linda, and his brother, John, during our dinner last Thursday. I cannot imagine how they would feel to read this article ridiculing the death of someone so close, someone who meant so much to so many. I’m extremely disappointed that the Argus chose to print an article so egregiously disrespectful to a man deserving of much better.
My second problem concerns the unfounded mockery of the Psi U brothers, especially concerning their attitudes towards women. Fraternities don’t have it easy. We are forever plagued by misconceptions and stereotypes. Psi U prides itself on offering a space in which everyone can enjoy themselves in a safe social setting. I am personally offended that the writer of this article would suggest such disrespectful behavior towards women by the Psi U brothers.
I found it wholly inappropriate and in very poor taste. Ridiculing a fallen hero and the brothers who worked tirelessly to honor him all for a cheap laugh is ridiculous.
Thank you.
Benjamin Messinger-Barnes, Psi Upsilon President
Leave a Reply