Editor:

I am shocked and dismayed by the situation surrounding the Pikes because a former member found it necessary to hurt the chapter by submitting a malicious letter to the editor (“My experience with hazing,” Nov. 9).

As a member of the news media and an alumna of Kappa Kappa Gamma, I find The Chronicle’s actions by printing this slanderous piece of garbage downright disgusting.

Time and time again you continue to print articles and letters that are completely untrue. I was recently a victim of The Chronicle’s lack of reporting skills and fact checking, and I cannot and will not sit here and let you try to ruin the reputation of one of the U’s best and most loved fraternities.

While the actions of a few members of this fraternity are not positive, can you truly blame them for standing up for themselves? How would you feel to have your organization and friends brutally and maliciously slandered by a single bitter person?

These men have worked hard to build one of the best chapters in the country, and by printing this letter without checking your facts, you have, in turn, made an attempt to undo everything they have worked for.

How dare you act as though The Chronicle is the victim in this situation? It’s amazing to me that rather than finding the facts, your paper is more concerned with printing controversial stories that are often untrue.

I am proud of Garrett Clark and Chase Harlin for taking responsibility for the fraternity member’s actions. This truly shows what the Pikes are about. I’m so happy these men are leading their organization, and I know they will do what they can to make it right.

The Pikes are wonderful men who make great contributions to the university community. Before passing judgment, I hope your readers will remember that there are two sides to every story.

In the future, The Chronicle can prevent such fiascos by making good decisions when it comes to printing articles and letters to the editor. It is your responsibility to ensure that the content of your paper is the best it can be and that it is factual.

You have hurt others and me by making poor decisions. How many more people have to suffer?

Mary Cobb-Rice

Senior, Mass Communication/Political Science