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I know nothing about the situation at UF re. where DZ will be rushing, but based on your comments, I have a few observations. For obvious reasons, my comments may seem biased, but here goes.
1. I am certain that Panhellenic will also make sure it is crystal clear to the PNMs that the house does not belong to DZ, nor is there any relationship between DZ or the organization that does own it (assuming it is remotely possible to keep the identity of said organization a secret). Did DZ make the decision to use the ATO house in a vacuum, or was Panhellenic aware of the options and/or involved in the decision?
2. I think PNMs deserver more credit than they are being given, that they are capable of realizing that DZ is a new chapter, with no house (but a beautiful one on the way) and the ATO house (whether they know it is the ATO house or not) is merely a structure with 4 walls, a ceiling and most importantly, an air conditioner that will be comparable to the others they will be visiting during recruitment. If it is a nice house (once cleaned up) then it will only serve to make the members and PNMs more comfortable.
3. This is snarky, but, IMO, any PNM who cannot separate ownership of a house from the people who are using it, and makes assumptions that there is a special connection between said fraternity & sorority & further, makes a decision to pledge there, should not have been accepted to a university such as UF.
4. Put your organization in DZs position. If your org were new to a campus of that size and with a Greek system of such stature, you would expect to have every opportunity to compete. No, a student Union room would not do. Any new org should be allowed to use a similar structure to the other groups-and should not be pressured into using something that is merely adequate. Given the choice-would your organization honestly choose to use the ATO house or the AGR house? I have never seen either, so I can't speculate, but it sounds like you have an opinion on that.
DZ is not trying to do anything under the table or unfairly influence anyone. They are trying to compete-which they have a right to do. If I remember correctly, the sororities at UF were extremely excited and supportive of DZ's arrival last year. I hope that trend continues & wish everyone success in the fall.
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