On Jan. 13, 2003, the Daily Nexus Opinion section ran a column by Steven Ruszczycky entitled “Simian Antics Drive I.V. Residents Ape.” While well-intentioned, the column only served to hurt feelings and cause gross embarrassment to one of Isla Vista’s longtime residents.

The information revealed in the first paragraph concerning Scott was presumptuous, a gross intrusion and contained partially incorrect information, stating Scott’s age as 27 instead of 25.

A person’s medical history is one of their most private secrets, and only they have the right to reveal that information to others. Information concerning such history should never be stated, even more so published, without the individual’s consent, regardless of the purpose or intent. Scott is a permanent resident in I.V., living here longer than any student attending UCSB. He enjoys some of the same pleasures as everyone else, frequents many of the local hangout spots and has a wide circle of friends who are always pleased to see him come around.

In many ways, Scott is more a member of the I.V. community than are most students.

The article juxtaposed Scott with other I.V. residents in an effort to show how students can be disrespectful to other members of our community, but only served to be disrespectful and embarrassing to Scott.

Everyone has the same right, not only to privacy, but to be treated with decency and respect, no matter who they are or what challenges they face in their life. We are all human beings and should treat each other as nothing less.

The Daily Nexus would like to issue a formal apology to Scott for any embarrassment caused by the column.

Scott: We here at the Nexus are deeply sorry, and would like you to know that you are still one of the coolest people we know.