Sports Columnists

By Jimmy Etheridge

September 25, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

The race-baiters in this country do not want the Michael Vick racial allegations to die. It gives them reason to exist.

By Jmac

September 25, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

After reading the first comment to this story, it appears that intelligent discussions about race are in short order. You might want to reconsider your column Jeff.

By threedeep

September 25, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Let me guess, Schultz, you were not invited. Maybe all of your race-baiting blogs will be used as an example during the town hall telecast.

By BUSHWACKER

September 25, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

This thing tonight is going to do nothing but make people think White Atlantans are racist. ESPN knows it will be contreversial and its all about ratings.

What does race and “fairness” have to do with anything.

Aman broke the law, and now he’saying for it.

See how easy that was, I said a MAN.

Not a black man or white man, just a man.

When he was indicted, I bet no where on the indictment will you find the words black man, meaning the law has no idea what color his skin is.

This will only accomplish one thing, to make us look racist aroung the country, and frankly I don not care if they think we are racist, becuas eif putting men who commit crimes in jail makes me a racist, then I am a racist.

By Gordon

September 25, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

You are a fool if you actually believe Micheal Vick was indicted because of the color of his skin. Every one of my black friends is just as disgusted with this situation as I am, as they should be. I dont care what color the next Falcon quarterback is, I will root for him(Harrington and Leftwich dont count, they are stop gaps). I have no idea what ESPN is trying to accomplish, but this is an even bigger joke than that Pete Rose movie.

By G-money

September 25, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

This is old news. Most people don’t care about the supposed racila tension in Atlanta. We care that the Braves aren’t going to the playoffs, the Falcons are 0-3 (thanks to a kicker & D. Hall) & if the Hawks will actually be any good. I am sick about hearing people cry about decision that they think are based on race. It is an overused claim. ESPN, which I watch often seems to be stirring it up for tv ratings. This is all ridiculious.

By Can't believe my eyes

September 25, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

I am not a huge fan of Sharpton or Jesse, and at first agreeing with Jeff Shultz that this topic is done, but reading Marks stupid comments make me think that having this is necessary after all.

Mark you are an idiot, loser, racist. Please leave town, you are not what the majority of people from Atlanta feel about race relations, although you have certainly tried to make people think otherwise.

Loser!

By CAS

September 25, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

To all you closet Racist, You are very good at expressing your hatred behind the e-mail or blog like this..how many of you would say the same thing to a Black person in person? None..you are all cowards..say it face to face or don’t say it at all…AJC how can you let someone get away with calling a Black person a “Chimp”. Don’t you monitor this blog at all? The forum is needed more than you think. Don’t hide behind the blog, say it face to face you coward…

By Roswell Ed

September 25, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

I can see the casting call MO now.

We’re looking for white men whose necks are a light shade of red.

No college education required.

Likes include but not limited to:

Trailers

Wallet chains

White Sheets.

Wife beater tees.

Barbed wire tats.

Bammer hat.

Dislikes include but not limited to:

Black athletes running their team.

Laws banning kin folk from marrying.

Places that proclaim No Shirt No Shoes No Service.

Dates are allowed but they must have a huge bare midriff and a belly ring.

We’re also looking for black men whose likes include but are not limited to:

Looking good rather then winning.

Think that there is no difference between slaughtering cows for food and watching two animals fight to the death just so you can get your jollies.

Thank that everything that happens bad to them is because they are black.

Think that whitey is out to get them.

Think that Al and Jessie are still relevant.

Likes include but not limited to:

Trailers

Wallet chains

White Sheets.

Wife beater tees.

Barbed wire tats.

Bammer hat.

Dislikes include but not limited to:

Whitey

Colin Powell

Condi Rice

Bill Cosby

Al Roker

Anybody who doesn’t keep it real.

By Elmo

September 25, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

I would just hope that Mike Patrick will ask the audience “what’s going on with Brittany Spears”?

By ESPN Invitee

September 25, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

I am one of the few people selected to attend the town hall meeting this evening, an invite I merited by walking down a sidewalk a couple of weekends ago and being approached by an ESPN associate who practically begged me to attend. Sure, the associate, who actually was probably an unpaid intern who was secretly wondering why she ever wanted to work for ESPN, made it sound intriguing and exclusive, but in reality she was dumping fliers onto anyone and even asked us to tell our friends.

Truth be told, however, I noticed I did have one thing that merited my invitation. I was white, and ESPN needed to fill the audience with an appropriate mix.

It’s clear to me that ESPN is trying to stir racial tensions with this “town hall” shenaniganry. It’s dubious, really, and I would recommend to all who are invited, even the speakers, to not show up. What could be better for settling racial tensions than to refuse to incite them?

Shame on ESPN for using race as a ratings boost. Someone should mandate they show pre-season hockey in primetime as a punishment.

By The Real Issue

September 25, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

All racists (both black and white) suck.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 25, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

What is the difference between ESPN’s town hall meeting and your blog, Jeff Schultz? The only difference is a lot more people read ESPN.com than your second-rate articles. Your worthless comments on the Vick situation over the last few months, which paled in comparison to the columns written by your fellow columnists at the AJC, served no more worthwhile purpose than ESPN’s town hall meeting. Feel free to continue spouting your trash articles every week, but don’t pretend like you are qualified to criticize other media outlets for being less than excellent.

By Emperor Palpatine

September 25, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Yeeesssssss, VICK SUPPORTERS!!! Let the HATE you have in your hearts for white people FLOW THROUGH YOU. You have every right to hate them for making all those confusing football rules, those hard-to-follow governmental laws on gambling and animal abuse and all those big words to make your lives so difficult.

OOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHH……. I can FEEL Your ANGER, your unbridled RAGE and TASTE the sweet, sweet HATE you have in your hearts for all those FALCONS FANS who dislike Mike Vick for his crimes and football performances.

Yeeeessssssssss…

Yeeeessssssssss…

The HATE is STROOOONG with you, Vick Supporters!!

Your HATRED pleases me. Each of you shall serve me well.

Only through ME can you SAVE Michael Vick!

By Rick

September 25, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

Hey CAS,

I did not see Mark’s comments but if he said what you said he did then he is an idiot. Everyone who blogs is behind a computer. As a white person we are called names too but I do not see you calling out anyone face to face. Let me tell you there are as many black cowards behind these blogs as white. Anyway, this is old news. Screw ESPN for even setting it up.

By mark

September 25, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

What’s really funny is that most people think racism only can occur with white people towards black people!! There are so many double standards with this it’s not even funny! Remember that movie called “White Chicks” that starred two black so-called comedians who made themselves up to like white girls. Constantly making fun of how their (and probably most black peoples) interpretation of white girls act? Was their a public out cry of racism??? Can you imagine if two white actors did the opposite???? Who makes it a race issue 90% of the timm? Whites? American Indians? Middle Easterners? Hispanics?

Black guy gets in trouble, starts to get a bad image, committs felony, supporters blame it on “up bringing” or “it was accepted where he grew up, he didn’t know any better”, NAACP comes running, what should have been a case about a man who broke the law and made bad decisions is now a case about the world coming down on the black man.

I WONDER WHY THERE’S TENSION!! MAYBE BECAUSE EVERYONE IS TIRED OF HEARING ABOUT THE BLACK GUY GETTING PICKED ON EVERYTIME HE BREAKS THE LAW!!!!!!!!! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!!!!

By Dave

September 25, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Why doesn’t everybody just get over it. Vick messed up, he was man enough to admit it, and it’s a done deal. Why are we not doing a story on athletes that have had it all and messed up. There are plenty of those stories both black and white. Would be much more interesting than the race thing.

By Supe

September 25, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

I would guess Post Toasties will be a big spnser of this event. Vick’s career is over. Like him or hate him, it’s over. Time to move on.

By DanCFrom NJ

September 25, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Mike Vick you disgraced yourself and the NFL worse than anybody will ever do!!

You are the biggest disgraced #1 pick of ALLTIME in any sports league!!!

Remember Rae Carruth is in prison I think you guys will make great pen pals and don’t forget OJ!!!

By mountain jim

September 25, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

I agree with Najeh Davenpoop’s sentiments concerning AJC Jeff’s coverage of the MV debacle, repeatedly taking great glee in the man’s downfall, and kicking him after he was down, as well as shading the facts on numerous occasions to make his points.

Sad really. Made me wonder what MV ever did to Jeff for him to so enjoy and appreciate the demise of his career.

By Horton

September 25, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I thought ESPN covered this during that Monday night pre-season game?

By David

September 25, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

I just want to throw this out: what does anyone think would have happened if a prominent white athlete were put into the same situation (I’m sure there are white folks that enjoy dog fighting)? Would the FBI have come in and taken over the case from the local juridiction or would the case been handled “locally”? Just asking and yes I am a black American.

By Truthman

September 25, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

I guess Mark is OK with suit-wearing racists such as Trent Lott, Strom Thurmond, Lester Maddox and Bob Barr (before he fouund out he’s mostly black).

Sounds like the idiot sitting behind me at the Conyers Frontera last Friday whining about how blacks have “black colleges where whites can’t go.” His wife, being the voice of reason, opined that the Historically Black Colleges and Universities came about because blacks COULDN’T GET INTO THE LILY-WHITE SOUTHERN SCHOOLS.

The most embarrassing thing about the entie incident is the dumba$$ was wearing a UGA shirt (I actually went to Georgia). I asked our waitress to ask him when he graduated. Of course, he hadn’t attended college. Just another stupid Georgia redneck revealing his abject stupidity and rascism.

It’s 2007 Georgia. 80,000 years ago, we were all Black, you fools.

Sometimes I wish we were all blind!

By YeahRight! = Elementary School Dropout

September 25, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

YeahRight! -

How often have you been “BROUGHT (TRICKED INTO COMING) HERE, FORCED TO WORK FOR NO PAY, BEATEN, RAPED, KILLED AND DEMORALIZED, THEN OSTRACIZED” in your lifetime?

Hmmmmmm??????

Racist, HATE-filled Idiot.

By trottinghometudd

September 25, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

I going to start calling Schultz, Schultzie as in “Schultzie the Bigot”.

And for the ESPNinvitee, I don’t believe a word of your post. Not because it might not be true, but because of my perspective (get it?).

By All

September 25, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Someone needs a hug.

I notice that a “Mark” enters an ignorant racist comment in every blog, to the degree that the AJC needs to block his/her IP address if they can track it.

“Mark” - Black people are living their lives HAPPILY without your ringing endorsement. You actually seem a bit jealous based on your preoccupation with the culture.

Remember this: Jesus answers prayers. Seek Him.

By dturner

September 25, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

I think it would be smart to suggest to the blacks that as soon as you start acting like respectable people, living like you have some morals and were raised to know the difference between right and wrong, THEN AND ONLY THEN will all these ridiculous meetings and marches go away.

MLK, JR WOULD ROLL OVER IN HIS GRAVE IF PEOPLE IN ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM COMPARED CRAZY REV AL SHARPTON AND CONVICT JESSE JACKSON TO HIM AND ANY MOVEMENT HE STOOD FOR !! THERE IS NO COMPARISON, AND THOSE 2 CLOWNS NEED TO SIT DOWN !!

When the black race, as a whole, learns to work, raise a family, pay taxes, stop stealing and violence, and respect one another, then maybe they can be trated like they are somebody.

AS YOU HAVE SEEN, THAT RIDICULOUS MARCH DIDNT DO ONE THING EXCEPT KEPT ALOT OF PEOPLE FROM GOING TO WORK AND MAKING A HONEST LIVING.

GO TO SCHOOL PEOPLE, GET AN EDUCATION AND LIVE LIKE YOU ARE SOMEBODY, THEN YOU WILL GET TRATED AS IF YOU ARE SOMEBODY !!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Paul from Milton

September 25, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

You know, sometimes life isn’t fair. But to some people when life isn’t fair it becaomes all about race. I’m sure ESPN will do their best to make the MV situation all about race, otherwise why would they be here? The bottom line is this - if MV didn’t fund and fight dogs over a 6 year period he would still be the QB. But he did that and he lied about it and he is where he deserves to be. If you want to make it racial then go ahead. I don’t care and I’m not listening anymore.

By Boots

September 25, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Race. Race. Race. Vick chose to break the law by hanging out with a bunch of dumb homies watching dogs fight —- and, now everyone is bemoaning his consequence in the name of race.

Horse hockey!

And, a black DA has finally receive a true bill on Vick and his band of dog fighting homies.

Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time —- and, that goes for all flavors.

By km

September 25, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Using damn right’s mentality I guess it’s ok to abuse and kill animals as long as they are your property. I guess it’s perfectly acceptable to lie to your employer, your teamates,the federal govt, and the fans of the organization that pay your salary as long as the heinous crimes your committing are against an animal that you own. Michael Vick has repeatedly exercised poor judgement and a complete lack of respect towards the people which have given him a great life. He only has himself to blame and to try to portray him and his behavior as merely a victim of racism is an absloutely uneducated and irresponsible commentary.

By Atlanta Fan

September 25, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

WHY DOES JEFF SCHULTZ STILL HAVE A JOB???

This guy is unequivocally the worst sports columnist in the country. His writing skills are terrible, all he does is bash anyone and anything, and he’s not even funny. What does he contribute to this paper?

I’m sure that Furman Bisher and Tony Barnhart are proud to share a masthead with this hack.

By CMS

September 25, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

ESPN is going to stir the pot with their show tonight. But if there wasn’t so much crap inside the pot it wouldn’t smell so bad. Face it, ATL has major racial problems and a polarizing black QB starting in the NFL gave some people (closet racists)reason to say how they really feel about black and white issues … especially on blogs.

By Mikey

September 25, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

What in the world is Britney doing ?

By dick

September 25, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Whatever happened to DOUBLE JEOPARDY?! This is crazy…Vick plead guilty, apologized and is going to do his time. We need to eliminate charging people for the SAME CRIME under different jurisdictions. Federal, State, County, City…where does it end? Why don’t we just create a few more layers of jurisdiction and they can continue to waste MILLIONS of taxpayer dollars on a crime involving DOGS, not people. How much money / resources did they waste on forensic work digging up dead DOGS that could have been better spent trying to solve MURDERS of PEOPLE? Hunter Thompson said it best, “The American Dream is Phucked!”

By markymark107

September 25, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

I like the blog, but still very mad that you called out one of the best coaches Georgia has ever had. I bet coach Richt would beat you silly.

By TRUEfalconsfan

September 25, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

what could this townhall meeting possibly accomplish that we don’t already know? we already know that white people are smarter, thus organized and will conduct this town hall meeting, as they organize and conduct all and anything relevant to human existence. and we already know that blacks don’t want to accept accountability for their actions and blame their inferiority on racism.

if you throw a dog a bone, the dog will fetch the bone. this town meeting is just white people throwing black people a bone. and the blacks are going to go fetch it. they’re going to vent all their feelings about how the white man holds them down instead of using that energy to evolve from their slave-riddled past. and the white people who organized the meeting are laughing because they have tricked the blacks into thinking this is some kind of progress. it’s regress.

it’s so easy to hold black people down. they do most of it themselves (dogfighting, etc.) and then all whites have to do is let the world know how stupid they are (town hall meeting).

meanwhile, the mexicans are working hard until their backs are wet instead of complaining, and they will soon eclipse the black race quicker than you can say “crack pipe and watermelons.”

p.s. joey harrington’s qb rating last week was a higher rating than vick ever posted.

By JLM

September 25, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

First, I do not agree with Vick’s actions. Let’s be honest there is an element of racism. If not, then why are we silent on the NE Patriots issue…something to think about…

By Law

September 25, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

The real racist in this country are the blacks, especially in Atlanta. Blacks in Atlanta hate ALL white people just for the color of our skin. If a white does anything to a black person its a hate crime, but if 6 a’holes from Jena beat up one white kid, it’s a school fight. 6-1 is a slaughter. How about the black kids in Norfolk Va who beat the crap out of a white kid who did nothing to any of them. The kid was new to the school and the black kids beat the crap out of him. Blacks will say its a school fight, but in reality its a hate crime. Those kids should spend the rest of their life in jail, just like the Jena 6 should. To all the blacks that think there is a white law and a black law (laugh) dog fighting is illegal, selling drugs is illegal, robbery is illegal, so just because Vick didn’t kill your dog doesn’t mean he can kill his own dogs and have no penalty. Common sense seems to be one of many issues black people don’t see. To the person that told Mark to leave town because he doesn’t know the tension about race…blacks are the reason for tension in Atlanta! You should go back to where you came from and stop blaming white people for all the errors that the black race continues to make day in day out. You can only blame yourself for the mistakes you make…not white people. I can only assume that there will be a march for tonights ESPN event. It’s almost been a week since the black community marched for some stupid reason. Jesse and Al are the leaders for the racism in America and all the black people follow right behind. Thanks for ruining Atlanta and killing Buckhead!

By Rob

September 25, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Jeff, if it’s so laughable, why are you writing about it? If the topic is completely worthless, then it should be ignored altogether, including in this newspaper.

I hope ESPN Invitee just skips this thing. It isn’t worth anyone’s attendance, and it isn’t worth watching. Hopefully, the ratings will be terrible.

By CMS

September 25, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

^5 Critical Thinker!

By AL

September 25, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Having traveled to many continents and countries in 21 years of military service. Djibouti , Haiti and all over the middle east just to name a few. Black Americans need to thank the Lord they live in America. It’s known what their ancestors endured and obsticles that are still being dealt with today. However, let me tell everyone thank your lucky stars you live here. We’ve got problems but you have no idea. I invite you to spend a couple of weeks down in Haiti , take a trip over to Africa my friend. A nation of laws has to survive not anarchy and violence. Vick knew what he was doing whether he agreed or not.

By Yes, I'm white

September 25, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

If it was Tom Brady or Peyton Manning and not Mike Vick (a black man) yes, we would have fined and suspended him for 2 to 4 games, and he would have being still playing on the team. no, it’s not right but it’s white. A blck guy and myself did the the same wrong and I got off with a warning (and I have 2 strikes) and he had to pay a hefty fine, plus do time and he had a clean record…At least I’m honest.

By dg27

September 25, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

What is so interesting are the victims of Vick who are completely forgotten. The dogs brutalized and then murdered by Vick’s own hand. This guy KILLED DOGS WITH THIS OWN 2 HANDS!!! and this went on for years!!! Vick’s own father indicated that Vick’s involvement pre-dated his college days.

So now it’s all a racist conspiracy. HE PLED GUILTY. HE ADMITTED KILLING THE DOGS. He’s not going to jail for being black, he’s going to jail because he’s a sociopath.

During the lame apology he gave, he characterized these multiple acts of violence against defenseless animals as simply “immature”. Amazing.

He has no remorse for what he did. The only thing he’s sorry about is that he got caught!

He says he takes full responsibility for what he did. Good. Let’s hold him to his word (for whatever that’s worth). Full responsibility means 5 years in jail and a lifetime ban from football.

Please, this not a racial issue. To think so is to detract and minimize real racial issues that do plague this country.

By I'm Truly Tired

September 25, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

A woman of 56 has seen most of what our society has offered. RACISM IS STILL PRESENT, and is totally due to ignorance-that has nothing to do with education. Ask yourself why people are intimidated by others! The first and foremost response to the Mike Vick situation was “WITH ALL THAT MONEY”. Bottom line, White America has a serious problem with a Black Man having money…Case Closed.

By Jeeves

September 25, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

By David - I just want to throw this out: what does anyone think would have happened if a prominent white athlete were put into the same situation (I’m sure there are white folks that enjoy dog fighting)?

In that case, the angle of the media/public/government would be, “Should Dog Fighting be Legalized?”

By Truth Serum

September 25, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

This forum is an outstanding idea ! This is the perspective that so many either choose to ignore or don’t have the mental capability to understand.

We have Danny Heatly who killed a human being, got to stay with his team and the NHL and essentially got off scott free.

We have the Barbie Bandits who robbed a bank. It was reduced to a BS local theft charge????? and the FEDS have gracefully bowed out.

We have a Clayton County Cop who was going after our children as an internet predator while on duty using a department computer and he’s sitting in a local county jail. NOT A FEDS facility and NOT looking at half of the time Vick is.

The we have a rogue DA in Jena who is WORSE THAN MIKE NYFONG the duke lacross DA who has since been disbarred and criminally charged for proceding with a bogus prosecution against the white lacross players, but no one is even considering going after the outright racist DA going after the young Black men in Jena, who is guilty of the exact same conduct but worse! HE’S BRINGING BOGUS ATTEMPTED MURDER CHARGES unlike Nyfong who brought bogus rape charges! Where’s the American outrage that existed for the Duke Kids?? If the Black people would not have went down there. NO ONE WOULD HAVE SHOWED UP!

Then we have a Mike Vick who fought dogs. Dogs that get euthanized unjustly every day. I say this to say that that specifically denotes how much value we really put on dogs in this country no matter how much we hate what he did and claim to love dogs. The FEDS are performing a full court press maximizing the event with every resource under the sun, the State just stepped in to issue new charges and all in all, it appears as if he’s looking at more charges than if he would have killed somebody like heatly, robbed a bank like the barbies, been on the computer doing kiddie porn like the predator cop AND if he were a rogue DA bringing false prosecutions against innocent people. Now where in the hell is the justice in that? And career ruined for life? and fines and the list goes on and on but somehow, we’re not to believe that race plays no factor?

White people always say that they can’t understand why Blacks support/ed OJ Simpson. It’s not because we have love for him or what he has done.. we’re just desperate for an once of “sameness” and a “win” in the criminal justice system and are the point where we’ll take it anyway we can get it! Him geting off simply represented what has and is continuing to happen today like in the Vick and jena cases, a sense of blatent unfairness.

If you can’t understand my points, it’s only because you choose not to.

Inteliigent people of all races see that there is something troubling about Mike Vicks treatment. The only difference is, if you’re Black, you can admit it with ease becaue we live through it everyday, and if you’re white, it will take a good dosage of American courage to dissent from the others and speak up and say the truth.

Now go tell that.

By Truthman

September 25, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

No sign of intelligent life here!

Beam me up, Scotty!!

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

By Truthman - Sounds like the idiot sitting behind me at the Conyers Frontera last Friday whining about how blacks have “black colleges where whites can’t go.” His wife, being the voice of reason, opined that the Historically Black Colleges and Universities came about because blacks COULDN’T GET INTO THE LILY-WHITE SOUTHERN SCHOOLS.

If she were really on her game, she would have correctly stated, that blacks WERE NOT ALLOWED to attend. There is a huge difference.

By Todd Green

September 25, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Race has everything to do with EVERYTHING. race is a factor in the Patriots coach not being suspended for actively CHEATING. race has everything to do with punishing horses at teh Kentucky Derby (it’s a major white american male sport - no blacks allowed, except in the stables). race is all over it, from the start. Hell, his name surfaced earlier when a murder investigation was going on (Vick was not related to the murder) and nothing was ever mentioned.

the country is Racial, and it’s not hidden!

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

• By dturner - When the black race, as a whole, learns to work, raise a family, pay taxes, stop stealing and violence, and respect one another, then maybe they can be trated like they are somebody.*

What “WHOLE RACE” does that, idiot? (not name-calling, you just made an idiotic statement and it is what it is).

I have been treated like “somebody” for all of my 36 years. In the event that someone tried not to, it was addressed in the appropriate manner for the situation. Some people have been fired from jobs for their ignorance, some have gotten theirs in other manners (thank God for maturity). LOL

Do white people think they have the respect of the nation? That, indeed, is the funniest thing of all.

By Whatever

September 25, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Hey Truth Serum, if I remember correctly, those white kids from Duke were crucified by the media and no one even questioned that woman’s story. Did you see all the white folks defending these kids solely because of the color of their skin??? The answer is no, but lets look at all the blacks defending Mike Vick solely based on the color of his skin. Now tell me, who is the racist here?

By Ms Texas

September 25, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

I think it is crazy how they are going on about this Vick case. I own several dogs (pits) or as we now call them American Bullies. I think the NFL should be all over the coach who was caught in the act spying on another team. It is so sad that when a man whether he is white or black is down we as a people continue to kick for instance the new lawsuit by RBC. We will have a dog show soon and would like people to come out and support the real purpose! People kill people and they get less time .. I am for what is right and there is something clearly wrong with this. Take care

By Happy in Conyers

September 25, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Wow. All this fuss. I don’t see anyone in uproar over the Duluth idiot that stole kittens from his neighborhood and fed them to his pit bull. Where’s PETA now?

By jacob

September 25, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I think that their is a race issue here. These people are trying to and have almost completely ruined this mans life. And for what? Some worthless mutts…Im not one to say that a slap on the wrist is what he deserved, but does he deserve to lose his career…his house? His fans? Does MIchael Vick deserve to lose everything over bad judgement. Think about the time you make poor judgement and imagine if you would have lost EVERYTHING. It wouldnt seem fair to you either. To Michael Vick, Stay strong, Keep the faith, and it can only get better.

By dturner

September 25, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

To: “I’m truly tired”- you are so mislead in life about white people. we could care less how much money black people have- IN REALITY, there are not that many of them, and the ones that do have money, dont know how act and seperate themselves enought to act like they are somebody with money- so in light of that, they throw it all away, just like MV- FACE IT !!

FACT: MOST BLACK PEOPLE THAT HAVE MONEY EITHER PLAY SPORTS, RAP, DEAL DRUGS OR STEAL IT FORM OTHER PEOPLE !! THATS REALLY SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF !!!

By Truth-teller

September 25, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

My ol’ father used to say, “you can provide a child with an education, but you can’t make him learn.” And, that is true. Many of the pupils don’t have a positive home environment that fosters education, discipline and personal responsibility. Instead, single moms have difficulty with teenage boys who too often create disciplinary problems at school and drop out. This decision to drop out of school then colors everything else that follows. They can’t find a decent job, so they lack the money to buy stuff they want. So, they hang around on street corners trying to sell alittle weed. They either end up in jail on drug changes or, since they don’t have the money to buy their own stuff, they take your stuff and end up in jail. And, RACE DIDN’T HAVE A DANG THING TO DO WITH THIS SCENARIO EXCEPT THAT THE BLACK COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO REPEAT THE SAME MISTAKES FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION AND TRY TO BLAME THE OUTCOME ON SLAVERY AND WHITES.

By Truth Serum

September 25, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

HERE’S THE SHORT VERSION;

Mike Vick is looking at more charges and time for fighting dogs than;

1. The Barbie bandits who Robbed a bank and went on a video taped shopping spree across the world.

2. Danny Heatly who killed a man while driving 130MPH drunk down a side street.(but still got to play in the NHL)

3. Mike Nyfong, who abused his public trust and brought bogus felony charges against innocent white men.

4. The Clayton County Cop who was caught soliciting sex and going after our children on a department computer (while on duty).

COMBINED.

NOW WHERE IN THE HELL IS THE JUSTICE IN THAT!

By Jennifer

September 25, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

I AM A WHITE FEMALE FROM ATLANTA GEORGIA AND I HAVE A FEW THINGS I WOULD LIKE TO SAY. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ALL YOU PEOPLE??????? SO MUCH HATE IN EVERYONE AND NOT ENOUGH LOVE AND NOW I CAN REALLY SEE WHY THIS COUNTRY HAS GONE TO HELL IN SUCH A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. I’M A HUGE FALCONS FAN…. MICHAEL VICK DID SOMETHING WRONG BUT THE MAN DOESNT DESERVE AS MUCH TIME AS A LOT OF PEOPLE WOULD ENJOY GIVING HIM. ON TOP OF THAT IT’S A WASTE OF TAX PAYERS MONEY AND I’D MUCH RATHER HAVE MY HARD EARNED MONEY GO TO SOMETHING MORE IMPORTANT. THERE ARE A LOT OF DOUBLE STANDARDS IN THIS WORLD BUT WE NEED TO FOCUS MORE OF OUR TIME ON WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE TO COME 2GETHER AS ONE THEN TO BE SITTING AROUND TALKING ABOUT WHICH RACE IS WORSE AND THE THINGS YALL CAN STAND ABOOUT EACHOTHER….. PATHETIC!!!!!

By LOL

September 25, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

LOL @ Peck E. Wood. Good points, but you were wrong for that name.

By dturner

September 25, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

tO: “jEEVES”

I must apologize to you- you must be one in quite a few who hold your own. I did misquote because I know its not every black person. I’ll re-phrase that to read: “MOST BLACKS”.

You know its the truth and so do the majority that I am calling out. If you treat people with respect, you gain respect and I must say that “MOST BLACKS” dont even respect themselves enough to provide a honest living and support a family that they created out of pure lust. Maybe when they start to live a life with morals and values, they will not be on these blogs for all the crimes they commit and are trying to get away with by pulling that racial card sh* !! Thats basically what it is “SH*”

By Truthman

September 25, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Hey Peck.

As your buddy and mine, Hillary Clinton says, “Abortion should be safe, legal and rare.”

Maybe you and old “Sgt.” Bill O’Reilly should share a rubber room together?

By POLITICSMEDIAMONEY

September 25, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

OK, whoever you are…check this out:

Poindexter’s term ends 12/2007, Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerald G. Poindexter P. O. Box 358 Surry, Virginia 23883 Phone # (757) 294-3118 Term Expires: 12/31/2007

IF you were him, what would you like to get out of your last six months in office? “A new term, with more pay?”; “Recognition for Stopping Dog-Fighting in Surry County?”; or how about “The 6 acres that will be up for grabs if Mike Vick is convicted?”

It’s all about the media, the money and POLITICS!!! I didn’t pay Mike Vick’s salary. I don’t pay Jeff Schultz’s salary. But, Surry County, Virginia is paying (and can continue to pay) Gerald G. Poindexter’s salary.

By the way…How much has the US Government spent in Iraq? $400+ BILLION Dollars. And who is still FREE, after 6+ years) to ROAM his OWN COUNTRY? BIN LADEN. Who’s side are you on? Choose your side? The Media, Government, or your own Life (to do what the heck you want to do)? LAY OFF VICK and write YOUR PRESIDENT (W)!!!!!

By hateful fans and sport writers base

September 25, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Ajc is hateful. Jeff schultz is the kind of sport writer that got up every day to help take Vick out. Treence moore is a talk head for cox . cox knows hate sell and Moore does his part.

next how they lynched Vick in the media is what this should be about. The dogs. Peta was outraged about the killing on the pit bull dog. The same dog are going to be put to sleep. Is killing killing. Who in america has lost over 100 million for killing a man much less a dog. The killing of the dog was the door to get vick gone. He made to much money. This what this is all about. The falcon have a dog killer on the team now do you hear any body raising hell. Most sport writer have there views and when a black player step over there line they do there best to take them out in the name of sport. ESPN raido and a host of raido talk show show there hatefull view. There need to be more sport writer of color. look at the line up on sunday on fox,CBS,Abc,nbc. most are whiteand they are talking about mostly black player. do Black sport caster talk about white player like white sports caster do black not by a long shot. They Market the players they like and outkast the one they dislike.

By newton

September 25, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

It is sort of ironic that AJC is criticizing espn for their coverage of Vick. Didn’t the AJC have a long article two years ago about the brothers who chose different paths (marcus and michael). Where Marcus was getting good advice about how to avoid media and make wise decisions? How about you all feature this in the next “What ever happened to”

By jacob

September 25, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

I cant help but be amused at some of the comments that have been made. These are some of the racist people on this blog that I have ever encounterd. Im not one to use the race card every time something doesnt go my way, but I definitely feel that this is a time to do so. Michael Vick has been made an example of. There are people who kill other people everyday in crimes like manslaughter and drunk driving, and dont get half the time and or media attention that has been given to Michael Vick. A lot of people comments on this blog really back up my next statement. Racist white people dont want to see another race with NOTHING. They feel that they are the only ones that should prosper in america. There are just as many african americans that have gotten an education and have good jobs, as there are rappers and drug dealers. Not to mention that most drug dealers are white. They just use the money and the power that they have to get black boys to be there “street Peddlers” Havent we all been through enough as Americans? What do we need Sept 11th to happen again for races to pull together as one? I feel that all we want as african americans is equal justice accross the board.

By sportswoman

September 25, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

This is just a shame. this man has lost everything and he continues to be exploited. It is a sin and shame that this has continued. What he has done was not right but MY GOD we arent perfect either.

By dturner

September 25, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

To: Ned Terry

You will be answering to God for that comment- You better go home tonite and call Rev Al sharpton or Juanita Bynum and see if you cant get some help with repenting.

I may say alot of things, but I dont wish death on no one, not even blacks or thugs !!

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

By the way, it’s okay to think that Michael Vick is/was an idiot, that he DID break the law and that he does deserve punishment WHILE AT THE SAME TIME believing that he has/will suffer from UNEQUAL justice and media crucifixion.

Some posters seem to think you can’t compartmenatlize this case - you’re either a supporter or detractor.

Realistically, there are ASPECTS of the case, each having its unique points of discussion.

I have a dream that one day people will think. Period.

By dturner

September 25, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

On the topic at hand: I do fell that MV has suffered enough. I dont like him because he thought he was “untouchable” in everything he did. But, I think that Poindexter needs to sit back and leave this alone, he didnt do anything to start off with and now he needs to leave it alone and let that man be. Let him do his time for the crime and move on- MV has lost almost everything he has, that in itself is alot more than any of us will know.

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

By dturner - I dont think TRUEfaclsons fan said he was “scared” of 300 monkeys in one spot- he just said it was like being in a friggin jungle !! BIG DIFFERENCE.

Hence the word “if.”

By the way, my post wasn’t about monkeys, so you’ve apparently misdirected. :)

By Truth-teller

September 25, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately, many black athletes find themselves in the position of Lawrence Taylor: four years of college, but they are illiterate!

Until education is more important than running, tribbling, shooting, catching or hitting a ball —- or, putting together raunchy words that rhyme and playing a record backwards to make a scratching sound —- the black community will continue to be a very hostile, drug-infested place to live with black on black crime soaring and more young black men landing in jail while their girlfriends carry and try to take care of their children.

It takes self-discipline to set goals and attain them. And, that’s where the black community with it’s need for instant gratification needs the help of Reverends Sharpton, Jackson, Bytnum and Weeks. Oops! They’re too busy stirring the race pot and stuffing their pockets with the sweat and toil of those who are ignorant and gullible.

By HJ

September 25, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Wow,

The majority of people, black and white included, have blinders on. To say or imply that Michael Vick was prosecuted because he’s black is idiotic and to say or imply there are no racial aspects involved in his downfall are equally as idiotic.

Michael Vick was prosecuted because he broke the law (PERIOD). However, the negative media and public perception of him, partly his own fault, were shaped long before the dog fighting allegations first surfaced. This made it easy for the public and media to crucify him before many details surfaced and caused “outrage” by some that you don’t find with brutal crimes committed against humans.

I think if you do an honest evaluation of “perception” and criticism of black athletes in America, you will come to the conclusion there are partisan standards at play. Donovan McNabb spoke the absolute truth. I think that’s why “open discussion” like the one ESPN is sponsoring is great. You can fix problems, unless you first acknowledge, then discuss them.

By Ron

September 25, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Jeff you are just upset because you aren’t on the panel. You already have your chance on a daily basis to bash Vick…I guess you would love to do it LIVE… huh?

By chico

September 25, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Ask any server in a sports bar in Atlanta if they prefer to serve whites or negroes. 90% will say whites.The negroes never tip and complain abpout the food in an attempt to get comped. Vick was known for being a terrlble tipper.

By Ebaby

September 25, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Racism exits. Stereo-types are prevalent in most blogs. Believe it or not white people. Race is part of the Vick conviction. It is part of it not all off it. His celebrity is also a major part of it. I am in law enforcement and military. I have seen brutal assaults and rapes do less time. Black on Black crime is probation. Black on animal crime is 2 years. Black On White crime is life. Punishment/Sentences should be equal across the racial boards and its not. That is a fact and can be proven.

As far as whites feeling Black American should forget about their past as being raped, beaten and killed. So since if it was done to my Grandfather/Grandmother. I should forget about it. Never! Ican still feel tha pain of my grandmother as she tells what it was like growing up in the South. I move on but I cant forget. The pain of Racism exits and permeates from generation to generation. In America Blacks are at a disadvantage. White Europeans plundered and killed the Native Americans like DOGS and enslaved to do the work. Inherently white American have the wealth, the positions in government, in business and society. Of course black have opportunities but not as many. Of course some blacks can succeed but it is a just a little harder. It easier to do something with something than it is do something with nothing. Most Whites have an advantage. I am not saying that whites dont have problems. But this country was set up by them for them. There are more good whites than bad. There are good blacks than bad. There are racist black and whites. Whites just have more power to carry out their racism. I can understand Racism but I cannot understand people not wanting to change for the better. Racism exists…. we just have to learn how, as a Country, how to deal with it. Enough about the problems. Solutions are needed. Vick’s conviction can serve some good if it forces us to think about how we treat each other (black, white, brown, women and man). We are all God’s Children.

By The Murf

September 25, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Why is this the only paper in Atlanta? WHY???

By joe

September 25, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

I’m not getting involved in all of this again, but to “College Football Fan” who compared the AJC’s treatment of Vick to the Oklahoma newspaper’s treatment of a college player, apparently you missed the entire point of the coach’s rant: the benched OK player was a kid in college. Mike Vick hasn’t been in college in a long time.

By SharonH

September 25, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

How lame is this? It accomplishes nothing. It only attempts to stir up an issue that was illogical to begin with

Now you know how we felt every time we read one of your columns on this matter.

By Dee

September 25, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Isn’t it ironic? ESPN…the same medium that propped him up is the same medium that relishing tearing him down. What a joke indeed.

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

By chico - Ask any server in a sports bar in Atlanta if they prefer to serve whites or negroes. 90% will say whites.The negroes never tip and complain abpout the food in an attempt to get comped. Vick was known for being a terrlble tipper.

LOL. You all do a wealth of research when you’re out… especially regarding negroes… “Most” this, “90%” that. The preoccupation is interesting.

By joyce

September 25, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

I WORK IN AN EQUALLY INTERGRATED ENVIRONMENT AND WE WORK TOGETHER WELL. WE ALL WANT THE SAME THINGS FOR OUR FAMILIES AND OUR COUNTRY. I DON’T SEE COLOR; I SEE GOOD OR BAD. IF ONLY REASON COULD PREVAIL AMONG US! PEACE.

By steve

September 25, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

wow! mention race and off we go! man, what a bunch of whack jobs, race baiters, and bed wetters. enough is enough. stop the crap and get on down the road.

By midnite

September 25, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

The white man is not responsible for Mike Vick’s undoing. Vicks upbringing was his undoing. Sadly he was too stupid to rise above his past life.

It is not racist to state the facts. You few radical supporters epitomize the black subculture that exists in America. You few people support anything that is against the law, fail to support the decent, law abiding black athletes, stars, and politicians that are classy and respectable. Shame on you people.

Mike Vick is liar and is going to prison and doubtfully will never suit up in a NFL uniform again. So keep on supporting him and teach your illegitimate children to do the same lawless deeds, just don’t get caught. That attitude is why you will always live in government housing and never amount to anything.

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

By The Murf - Why is this the only paper in Atlanta? WHY???

Damn good question; I feel your pain.

I don’t think a day’s passed by when I didn’t wish we had something more respectable/readable/interesting/accurate.

By Truth-Telling-Teacher

September 25, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Black families will turn out in huge numbers to watch a football game, BUT WILL NOT COME TO A PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCE TO DISCUSS INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS AND ACADEMIC FAILURE.

Folks, this is the root of the problem. Education trumps ignorance and the need to maintain a VICTIM?ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY!

By jeeves

September 25, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

I must be out of the loop. Is “monkey” supposed to enrage someone? It just makes the typist seem ignorant. I’m sitting here crackin’ up, envisioning the Jerry Springer types.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 25, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

In the last three hours, 107 hard-working citizens of Metro Atlanta have stopped by ajc.com largely to comment on the issue of Michael Vick and race.

*Jeff Schultz, do you still think ESPN’s town hall meeting is a waste of time? You really think there aren’t people who want to discuss this issue, and hear it being discussed? Still think the issue is “dead”? Let me rem