Sports Columnists

By SkinnyBully

September 27, 2007 8:18 AM | Link to this

Terence, the difference between your viewpoint and that of the Vick Apologists is that you are framing your opinion based of Facts, Evidence, and Logic. Your nay-sayers are basing their opinions off of Emotion. I saw the special on ESPN. I was thoroughly embarrassed by the pro-Vick crowd. They made Atlanta look pretty silly. You should be be proud that you stuck to your guns.

By Keith

September 27, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

well said

By Bob

September 27, 2007 8:22 AM | Link to this

Great article and right to the point….

By Me Being Me

September 27, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

Simply Put…GREAT ARTICLE.

..By the way…did I mention how GREAT the article was?

By S Barnett

September 27, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

I agree 100%Terence. This guy could commit murder and people would still make excuses for him…

By Ed

September 27, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

Mr. Moore, You may be correct. These people simply want to see him play. However, in my opinion this is simply a reflection of our society as a whole. There is a mindset that our “heroes” can do nothing wrong. Whether that “hero” participates in sports, is in politics or is from Hollywood we simply ignore their transgressions. We refuse to see the truth, simply because we do not want to see the truth, not because the truth is not in front of us.

We as a society must open our eyes to what is happening and stop ignoring problems demonstrated by those we adore.

By tp

September 27, 2007 8:27 AM | Link to this

This is the best piece ever written about this whole saga, from Ron Mexico to positive pot test. Nice work Terence.

By Munsons Call

September 27, 2007 8:27 AM | Link to this

Great article, Terence. And this is coming from a reader who usually disagrees with your view point. Thank you for pointing out the truth of this situation. I was totally embarrassed for my city after the debacle on ESPN the other night. If more people who attended were thinking straight like you we would have been seen in a much better light.

By D.Ellis

September 27, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this

Vick is yesterday’s news. He will never play in Atlanta again…nd until those stupid people that were barking and yelling in that town hall meeting realize that he will never play in Atlanta again, they will keep their false hopes up.

It’s time for this city and the fans to move on…It really is. Yes there is no doubt in any one’s minds that other than the Dirty Bird run…Mike Vick put Atlanta Falcons football back on the map. But his career in Atlanta is over. He WILL NEVER PLAY IN ATLANATA AGAIN….DOES ANYONE REALLY THINK HE WILL PLAY FOR ATLANTA AGAIN????? IF YOU DO YOU ARE AS STUPID AS MIKE VICK FOR NOT PUTTING DOWN THE BONG FOR HIS MANDATED FEDERAL PRETRIAL DRUG TEST.

Mike Vick is no more in the city in Atlanta…he will never play here again. Get over it and instead of cheering for the biggest bust in NFL History next to Ryan Leaf….start cheering and pulling for the guys who ARE in uniform.

By Rick

September 27, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this

It is a relief to know that there exists brave writers like you who don’t bend to the people who want to paint this whole sorry debacle in a false light. It really is sad that Vick is such a troubled soul. It really is disgusting that he squandered a lucrative career; $130 million dollars down the drain. How many poor families would that money have fed, clothed and housed?

I applaud the Atlanta Falcons for their tough stance. And I wish the NFL could give them relief somehow by donating a star quarterback or a top draft choice. If the Falcons are a lesser team this year, Vick’s apologists have only Vick to blame.

By matt

September 27, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this

what do you expect from ghetto blacks ???

By Rod

September 27, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this

I agree 100% with Terence on this. After yesterdays news I don’t see how anyone can still support MV. Anyone who has paid attention the last few years already knew that he was using the “Mary Jane”. There are way more important issues out there for people to be worked up about than a grown man who choose to throw away his lucrative career. As for me I have long since moved on from this issue and I think that it is time that the city did as well.

By ZO

September 27, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Hi Fellow Falcons. I never agree with Terrance but he is 1000% right. I was a STAUNCH Vick supporter I mean STAUNCH but this last move just blew my wheels off! Why Mike? I hope you get the help you need. And yes I will miss him coming out of the huddle!

By GODAWGS

September 27, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Terence finally writes an article I 100% agree with. That town meeting was an embarassment to the city of Atlanta. And I am still hearing “It’s just weed”. HAHAHA, well, “just weed” just added another year jail time and another year suspension from NFL. Like I said before, I hope that joint was worth it.

By Telly

September 27, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Terrence how do you know that the only motive Mike Vick’s supporters have is selfish because they want to see him play. Now, not only are you stepin’ fetchit, but you are a mind reader too. As I said keep it up and maybe just maybe after a few speaking classes you will get that job at ESPN.

By Marie

September 27, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Terrance:

No one is an apologist for Michael Vick. As an African-American I clearly understand that Michael Vick has broken the law and must now pay the consequences for his actions. However, it is the unprecendented actions that were taken by the NFL and/or other corporations that has hurt and offended members of the AA community.

When Michael Jackson was indicted and eventually went on trial for child molestation — you could still purchase an album by MJ. When Ray Lewis was indicted and enventually went to trial for murdering TWO human beings — you could still purchase a Ray Lewis jersey. When Kobe Bryant was indicted for raping a young lady — again consumers were not denied the opportunity to purchase a KB jersey. Most reasonable people will consider the crimes for which Michael Jackson, Ray Lewis, and Kobe Bryant much more serious than what Michael Vick is convicted of doing (NOTICE: No race card playing here — I used all examples from the AA community). Even the justice system considers these more aggregious crimes because the punishment for these are much stiffer than dogfigthing and/or animal cruelty.

However, immediately after Michael Vick was indicted, the NFL Commissioner made the unprecedented move to deny ANYONE the privilege of donning Mr. Vick’s jersey unless oc course you already had one and all major retailers have followed in the footstep of the NFL. BUT you can still to NFL.com and purchase a customized, authentic NFL jersey bearing the name Ray Carruth (Carolina Panthers #86) and O.J. Simpson (Buffalo Bills #32).

As far as the latest episode is concerned regarding Michael Vick’s marijuana usage, I noticed that Judge Henry Hudson also ordered him to undergo mental health counseling. Is is just possible Mr. Moore just possible that with all this Michael Vick has been going through that he is dealing with severe depression and suicidal thoughts? And although it was WRONG and VERY STUPID — he used marijuana (which I’m sure he has used in the past) to cope with his pain and/or depression. EVERYBODY HAS A BREAKING POINT

By Darrick

September 27, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

It is refreshing to see SOMEONE speak on what this really is, a thug doing thug-like things, and a criminal doing criminal-like things. I would be happy if I never saw another snap by Vick…bring on Shockley!

By Wes

September 27, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

Terence,

THANK YOU for being the voice of reason during this. You, sir, are the William Cosby of the Micheal Vick “conspiracy.” Please keep up the good work.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

September 27, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

You need to let this go T Moore. No one is interested in your opinion on this subject anymore. Can’t you all let this story die? It’s like picking at a festering wound for pete’s sake. Every other day, Vick this, Vick that, I hate the apologist this, don’t care if I’m a hater that, LET IT GO.

By FalconFan

September 27, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

Terence:

Nobody is saying that what Michael Vick did is not wrong, and he deserves to pay for what he did. But the Media and people like you tried and convicted the man before he even went to court. And you have always had negative comments about not only Michael Vick but lots of Black people in sports. So that leads me to ask this question, DO YOU REALIZE YOU ARE A BLACK MAN, and just because you are where you are now does not mean that you are any better than any other black man, we all make mistakes. And you are doing exactly what they want you to do, and that is speak negatively about blacks. You are Pathetic, and I feel sorry for you because you don’t have a clue.

By GeeMo

September 27, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

Go Houston! I’m going to LMAO Sunday watching dumb-as-a-box-of-rocks Arthur Blank and Atlanta learning the hard way of why they were so-o-o-o stupid to trade Matt Shaub and that POS Vick.

By samiam

September 27, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

I’m a huge MV fan, but why are we talking about him? He’s old news. it’s time to move on. The brother doesn’t seem to get it.

As for heroes, you should be your kids heroe, not some athelete that your kid has never met. That’s our first problem.

By Brad

September 27, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

You hit the nail on the head. I was embarrassed that the rest of the country saw Atlantans act the way they did on ESPN. I wasn’t surprised though. I live in Atlanta and I’ve heard this nonsense comparing Vick to MLK and others. The fact that someone can compare an overpaid athlete/thug to the civil rights leaders shows a true lack of understanding of what blacks faced on a daily basis prior to the civil rights movement.

By bigdiggy

September 27, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

Thank you for saying what needs to be said. I watched part of the town hall meeting, and it was beyond embarrassing for the city of Atlanta to have large numbers of people screaming and hollering and clapping wildly when asked the question, “Do you think dogfighting should NOT be illegal?” Wow. Do those of you who did that have any concept of how ignorant and uncivilized that made you look? Can you possibly be that far out of the mainstream?

I’m glad your sickening little display was nationally televised, so people who advocate treating animals humanely can see the depths of sheer stupidity they’re up against.

By Jackie

September 27, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

Terrance, again….I say never ever place yourself in any kind of situation that will have you walking in Vick’s shoes…..trust me, you will see it’s a lonely place. I know you have to appeal to your employer and Vick has made some serious mistakes but no one….deserves the condemnation this man has received. In my opinion, he has given up. So, if we hear that he has done more damage to himself, I guess you can blame the apologists for standing by him.

By wildbillhiltner

September 27, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

This all because of some dogs nobody like anyway. Ted Kennedy drownt a girl and he get to be a senator - Robert Bird from Virginia he in the clan when it hangt people and he get to be a senator- Larry Craig boy on boy in the mansroom and he get to a senator - Vick he kilt a dog or two nobody like anyway so I think he should be on work release or witness protection so that he can play for the falconz

By High Pockets

September 27, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

Well-said, Terrence, you are absolutely right. As a Native Atlantan, I’m embarrassed by the way Vick apologists behaved on TV the other night.

By David

September 27, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this

Again thanks Terence for being the EDUCATED voice in the so called ATL. After Tuesday I actually sat my wife down and apologized to her for having to move here.

By snellvillejacket

September 27, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this

The Good Lord advises all of use to turn the other cheek. By all accounts with Mr. Vick the City of Atlanta has already turned all four and he is now one half through on his second time around.

When will the public understand he abused our faith and trust. Remember Alex Karris and Paul Horning both got suspended for gambling.

Finally how dumb can you be knowing you are going to have a drug test when you go into jail or at anytime while on probation and you smoke weed. This only shows how stupid he really is and how little he cares about all of you dumb enough to want him back.

Let him go out and find a job with convict on his resume or job application. He may be able to flip burgers with the best of them. No body did this to him he did it to himself.

By Tinkydog

September 27, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

Terene, For once, maybe, I totally agree with you. In fact, I can’t think of one single thing Mike Vick has done for Atlanta outside football. Has he ever given money to a worthy Atlanta charity? Has he ever given his time and effort to anything of value other than himself and his BadNewz buddies? I hope you never have to write about him again. Thanks for not defending him just because he is black.

By skip coppola

September 27, 2007 8:49 AM | Link to this

Great article, unfortunately those idiots who completely embarrassed the city (I listened to the national media rip Atlanta all day yesterday)probably can’t read, and certainly wouldn’t be interested in reading an intelligent newspaper column, so your message is falling only on the ears of those who agree.

By Bill

September 27, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

I know everything thinks that they are missing out on their best chance at a Super Bowl with Vick gone. But seriously people. Look at this sorry excuse for a “man” and his judgement. Based on his character and decision making, he isn’t qualified to lead a lemonade stand let alone an NFL team. He might have been exciting to watch, but he was NEVER going to lead Atlanta to a Super Bowl. He doesn’t have the character to do it, and character is as important or more important than talent when it comes to NFL talent. If they would have won it all, it would have been in spite of him, not because of him. The Falcons will be better off going forward and finding someone with good skills and great character. Michael Vick will never be it.

By Dave

September 27, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

I think this is just part of the no snitch rapper world breaking the law is no big deal. In this world the coin of the realm is celebrity and money. If you have it you get to do what you want and when you get caught getting religion bails you out. God will forgive everything including OJ cutting off his wifes head. I bet some in the audience could rationalize that as well.

By Big Al

September 27, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

This is a bit scary to say, but I agree with Terence Moore. Great article!

By DeeZee

September 27, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

You are such a hypocrite and a sell-out! I pray to God that no one in your family ever has to go through what this mother has had to endure! You can rest assured that because you have not shown an ounce of compassion for this man and his family, GOD is not going to show you any in your time of trouble. You are going to have trouble in your life and you are going to wish that someone will forgive you. Even worse, your troubles will be exposed for the whole world to see. You have some skeletons in your closet and they will be exposed to the media. None of us are living a perfect life. Our very existence is dependent on the mercy and grace of God. You are going to have to face a judge one day in the form of the almighty God and may he have MERCY on your unforgiving soul! Mike has made some terrible mistakes, but they are not unforgivable ones! He is going through a tough time right now and YES I feel compassion for him! Do you think he is not sorry for being in this predicament? If you or anyone else thinks not, then you need mental counseling as well. Frankly, I am praying for him because he needs it- not more ridicule. You win a person with love and compassion, not sticks and stones! Mark my word, some of the same people that have absolutely no mercy is going to meet the same fate- one way or another! God is watching all of this non-sense and He will be the FINAL JUDGE! Not me and certainly NOT YOU! I am not a Vick apologist. I just know that enough is enough! You think that degrading others is good journalism and continuously bringing up their past is interesting reading? Get a life Terence! It goes to show that you have little and NO creativity and ABSOLUTELY nothing else to write about. Why don’t you surprise the rest of us and let this be the LAST article we have to be subjected to on MIKE VICK! The old saying goes- If you don’t have anything good to say about a person don’t say anything at all. This man needs time to heal and people need time to forgive. They can’t go through the process as long as self righteous people like you continue to past judgment. I hope that you can sleep well at night knowing that you are helping to destroy another person’s life through the tongue! This is nothing short of mental abuse, Terence. Yes you have an obligation to report the news, but to continue to ridicule this man and those of us that SHOW COMPASSION is nothing short of mental abuse. I pray for people like you because you need just as much help as Michael Vick. Hell is enlarging itself everyday for people like you! Sin is sin- no big sin, no little sin. Hell is going to be full of people that lie, steal, cheat, mistreat, cheat on their taxes, committ adultery, fornicate, etc. He that is without sin, cast the first stone. Can we at least get a 1/2 teaspoon or pinch of compassion for this man? Just remember God is the final judge on every situation! If He says Mike Vick will play again in this league, none of you that judge him, can stop it! He can shut the mouths of all the naysayers and those that THINK they hold this man’s destiny in the palm of their hand. What matters in the end is whether Mike has gotten things right with God. If he never puts on another uniform again, does not matter! Thst will not make him any less of a person. Hope you feel the same way when your career is over. Please let this die, move on with life and ask God to have mercy on us all.

By Big Al

September 27, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

This is a bit scary to say, but I agree with Terence Moore. Great article!

By mhouston

September 27, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

I don’t think any of us have been placed here on earth to be judge, jury and executioner. Therefore, it is wrong to judge people for their opinions. Respect others for their views as you would want your views respected. Afterall, that is all they are “personal opinions.”

By skip coppola

September 27, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

HOW LONG BEFORE ESPN PICKS UP WILD BILL’S BUTCHERED ENGLISH AND MISGUIDED THOUGHT PROCESS BELOW AND USES IT TO FURTHER HUMILIATE ATLANTA?

By wildbillhiltner

September 27, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

This all because of some dogs nobody like anyway. Ted Kennedy drownt a girl and he get to be a senator - Robert Bird from Virginia he in the clan when it hangt people and he get to be a senator- Larry Craig boy on boy in the mansroom and he get to a senator - Vick he kilt a dog or two nobody like anyway so I think he should be on work release or witness protection so that he can play for the falconz

By charlieinforysth

September 27, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Mr. Moore, I saw the entire ESPN special and the city of ATL and all “real” Falcons Fans were embarassed by the audience. Your column is right on and you folks who think Mr. Moore is wrong-WAKE UP! Mike Vick did some very stupid things, continues to do stuip things and he is going to pay for it. And oh by the way, their are legal medications for depression.

By battleaxe1

September 27, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Terrence is a disgrace to the AA Community, i dont see any white american showing off their dirty laundry

By Paul

September 27, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Mr. Moore,

You are not only correct regarding the MV situation, you also brought up a very important issue facing our society. We as society use principles, ethics and morality when it is convenient and bend them when not convenient.

In truth, ones character is defined by how one deals with principles, ethics and morality when it is difficult to do so.

I always enjoy reading your straight forward articles and insights.

A wise man once said “one can argue and prove anything with absurd logic” and those who know who said it wouldn’t be supporting MV blindly.

No chance MV will play for Atlanta or any one else in NFL for that matter, which NFL Manager and Coach has “bricks” for brains, not many!

By mike

September 27, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

TM, Great Article!!! I watched the Town Hall Meeting and also was embarrassed for the City of Atlanta. To hear and see the actions/reactions of those in the audience was terrible. I could not believe how uncivilized many of them were. There was one person that was only concerned about making an @$$ out of herself when ever the camera panned in her vicinity. She was very obnoxious. The straw that broke the camels back though was the final question of the night. Bob Ley asked by a show of applause, do you think that dog fighting should not/should be a federal crime? or something very close to that. The majority in the audience felt that dog fighting shouldn’t be a federal crime. The people of ATL should be ashamed and embarrassed. Do you really think that MLK would have accepted what MV7 has done and stood by his side? Or would he have stood by his side for the sole purpose of ensuring he was treated and tried fairly? I think the later here. MV7 has been treated fairly thus far by all officials in this case. So now is MLK still by his side? Highly doubt it. And you ATL representatives that attended the TH meeting need to relook your motives for supporting MV7.

Again, TM great article. 100% correct. Guess the race card can’t come out on this one, but I am sure someone will try.

By Solid Foundation

September 27, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

The main difference I saw that presented itself so clearly the might of espn circus act was a wide gap of education. The minds up there that were logically evaluating the situation and making Mike accountable for their actions where all educated indiviuals. The minds that were riduclously chanting and making comments out loud,an extremely brillant form of discussion I might add, in support of Mike were of an uneducated class. It is almost comical to see these two very different segments of society trying to convince each other of their viewpoints. The gap is just to wide.

By Bob

September 27, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Fantastic article.

DJ SHOCKLEY - please get healthy.

By KrisG

September 27, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

I’m not apologizing for Vick, because he brings it all on himself. Race has nothing to do with his conviction or his drug use. I do, however, have some sympathy for the guy, because of how quickly things heated up, and everything since April has turned into a series of worst-case scenarios like the world has never seen. And now, filing separate state charges? Apparently, a legal nightmare that just never happens to anyone… But now it’s happening to Vick. So now he’s smoking weed… real stupid, real real stupid, but I wonder if he’s given up? At this point, he’ll never see the light of day again anyway. He’ll be in his seventies when he gets out at this point, what kind of frame of mind is he in right now? By the way, I DO think the lack of sympathy feels like racism… the way somehow, every black man who gets into trouble is a continuation of the other… Mike and OJ and Ray Lewis and Kobe… As opposed to the Robert Blakes and Phil Spectors, which are, rightfully so, treated as individual cases with no connection to each other.

By Marie

September 27, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

Sorry Sir but moderator Bob Ley botched the original question that came from a viewer from the Internet. The viewer asked the question exactly as you stated it above. However, when Bob Ley posed the question to the audience he adlibed it by saying something to the effect of “Do you think dogfighting should be a felony or a have a sever punishment or even be illegal? So when the audience responded you got a mixed bag. Some people may believe yeah it should be a crime, but, not a felony and/or carry as much prison time. Others may genuinely feel that it should not be a crime. But whatever you think this is America and people are entitled to their opinion whether you agree with them or not.

As far as the whole town hall meeting is concerned; yes the audience was at times too rowdy. However, ESPN is to blame for that. This was billed by them as a town hall meeting and when you say town hall the expectation by most people is that there will be a good deal of audience participation. However, only about 3 or 4 folks got to actually make comments and the panel did most of the talking. Also, like they do in a Democrat/Republican presidential debate questions were pre-screened and hard-hitting and/or controversial questions were weeded out.

By Jamie

September 27, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

You can take the boy out of the “hood, but you can never take the “hood out of the boy.

By Will

September 27, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Terrence, I am a so-called “Vick apologist” and I disagree with your characterization of people who hold a more redemptive view of Vick in the most vehement way. The fact of the matter is, we live in the real world. And in the real world, we understand that the majorirty of high school, college, and pro athletes out there aren’t even close to being “saints”.

But let’s stick with the pros: Patrick Kerney was asleep in his home, while a woman was brutally raped. Raped! Only a dead man sleeps that hard! And what was his punishment for allowing such debauchery to take place in his home? He got a HUGE raise and a transfer out West to a Super Bowl contending team. Wow.

And how about the New York Giants linebacker that KILLED SOMEONE driving drunk, got off, then got arrested two more times for DUI. Is he under the jail? Last time I checked, he was playing games as late as last week. So Terrence—where’s the righteous indignation? The ourage?

And need I mention Ray Lewis’ indictment for MURDER and Jamal Lewis’ dope-phone! Here’s a news flash, T.: Ray’s still headed for Canton and Jamal is churning out 200-yard rushing games in Cleveland. Kind of makes you go “Hmmm….”

So the next time you decide to focus your keystrokes on Vick, don’t give us this crap about MV7 being just this horrible person. Yes, he’s made his share of mistakes, even testing positive for marijuana while on bond, but who hasn’t? He’s still a kid and, like all the other thugs amongst the professional ranks, deserves another shot at redemption—on the field at the GA Dome. (I tell you, people in glass houses just love to throw stones!)

By Jack Smythe

September 27, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

All you have to do is look at other people convicted of dog fighting recently and you will soon realize that Vick has it easy. This is most likely because of his fame, money, and undoubtedly his skin color. If anyone honestly believes that race is a factor in this my answer is “Ask the dogs” that he and his Bad Newz Kennels” tortured and killed.

By msteven

September 27, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

To Marie:

Thank you. Thank you. did I say Thank You? YOU. and ONLY YOUR post alone addresses that complete meltdown of this young man. I absolutely LOVE all the examples you gave of the other AA folks who werent treated near as harsh with far worst crimes. If Vick toted on a joint. What the HELL do yall expect? The man’s is under huge stress! Anyone of you holier than thou folks if you were under a tremendous amount of pressure and stress and watched your whole world crumble in a matter of weeks around you would turn to drugs, booze, and god knows what else! You Terrence Moore are an idoit to the 10th degree. Would love to see whats hidden under your bed and closets and backyard and attic! and NO I am not a fan of Vick. Dont own any of his mememobila nor any other sports star. I dont place any of them on high shelf. They are just mere mortals, humans like myself. Therefore I dont get bent out of shape when they make a mistake. I move on. and like another post said. I cheer those that are IN uniform that are trying to represent. Keep their noses clean, and do the right thing although they never get near the glory or attention. I like the background players. The ones that No one notices. All you ever hear about are the QBs CBs and coaches. This is what happens when you worship HUMANS. They End up acting like, what else? Just Humans. Humans are imperfect(just like animals) Humans do dumb things regardless of our supposed higher intelligence. The fact still remains we are still humans. and we are All Imperfect. Yes that means you Vick haters as well as Vick supporters. Get over yourselves and Move on.

By Tony

September 27, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Great article.

Terrance isn’t airing the AA community’s dirty laundry. Mike Vick took care of that for him.

By Let's laugh at Terence

September 27, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this

TRYING TO DISTANCE YOURSELF FROM THAT DEBACLE HUH TERENCE! OH HOW I BET YOU WISH YOU HAD NEVER AGREED TO THAT

By DunwoodyDawg

September 27, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

Terence,

I rarely agree with you, but on this point I couldn’t agree more. Frankly those folks sound like the Paris Hilton and Michael Jackson sycophants.

By Arsenio Hall

September 27, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

CAN SOMEONE GET ME THE GUEST LIST FOR THE TOWN HALL MEETING? I THINK I CAN MAKE A COMEBACK ON TV!!! WOOF WOOF WOOOF!!!

By Bravo

September 27, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

DeeZee wrote: “You win a person with love and compassion, not sticks and stones!”

All Blank did was give him “love and compassion” (which he was greatly criticized for) and this is the thanks he and the city of Atlanta gets? Vick once unified the city and now divides the city and you direct your anger to Terrence for Vicks actions? Mr. Moore is simply doing his job and “reacting” to Vicks own “actions”. Save your preaching for Sunday

By VickBeliever

September 27, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

Terranace Moore I hope you feel good about this article talking about your people this way. I just want you to remember one thing at the end of the day you are still a BLACK MAN as well. There will be a time that is going to come where you will need the community behind you and you will see what it feels like to be depressed, lonely and in the need to have someone to turn to. The white people on this blog telling you how great this article is are only using your dumb a* to be thier voice. Like always white people sit back and watch us destroy and turn on our own. They never do that.

By DHinton

September 27, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

If you lost over $130 Million Dollars, lost your career, lost the admiration of millions of people all over the world, and been vilified in the media, because of your own STUPID choice to be involved in a game of chance that destroyed dogs; HOW WOULD YOU REACT? What would you do to get some relief? Hit the bottle? Smoke MJ? other Drugs? Suicide? From a humanity stand point to ALL MV critics, What has Michael Vick done personally against either you or any other human? Why do you hate MV so much? His biggest human crime has been against himself. Crimes against dogs? People please… I’ve got 4 dogs, had 10 and none/all of them are not worth the life or misery of one human.

By Chris

September 27, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

The saddest thing about this entire episode is

a) the amount of Vick “supporters” that still remain as evidenced by the espn show and

b) the fact that those “supporters” have children.

God help these children - their parents care so little about them they can’t even point out right from wrong.

By Earl

September 27, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Terence;

Great article, saw pieces of the ESPN piece and felt bad for you and other panelists with the crowd you had to deal with. It’s my opinion that these ‘Vick’ supporters that say this is no big deal would also be the among the first to demand action were the perpetrator not of the so called ‘AA’ community.

By Roberta

September 27, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Thanks for this article, Mr. Moore. Your explanation helps those of us who live outside Atlanta understand why some people in that city continue to support Vick. You certainly were right when you stated that some of the people who attended the town hall meeting embarrassed the city on national television.

By msteven

September 27, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

Word to the wise and Terrance Moore.

Dont be so happy to Gloat over another man’s downfall. Just remember. We All fall short. Karma is a mother you know what. While its clear that you and many others are enjoying this mans downfall. Just remember you got a life too. You got family members(children, etc) too. You better pray that they walk a holier than thou chalk line because something is waiting around the corner for each and everyone of us. So judge all you like. You surely will be judged one day with the same measure. Mark my words.

By mike

September 27, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this

I continue to hear the comments that “MV7 made a mistake” or “everyone makes mistakes”. MV7 didn’t make a mistake, he made a knowledgable decision to get involved in dog fighting. He made the decision to get involved with smoking pot. This whoa-is-me argument is getting real old. Put all emotions aside and look at what he did.

Isn’t it ridiculous when a member of the same community speaks out against one of their own everyone else in that community considers them a “sell-out” or “they forgot where they came from” or “uncle tom”, or something of that nature. Whaat a cop out for not being willing to step out of the tunnel and seeing the entire view. I think some people stand closer to the entrance looking through the tunnel rather than the exit looking out.

By Earl

September 27, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

To Marie;

It’s good to know where your values are (ie., it’s not important whether you’ve raped, murdered someone etc and so on, participated in dogfighting, drug abuse) so long as you can buy his sports memorabilia. And of course, the corporations in America should be forced to be saddled with these idiots b/c people like you are willing to overlook these transgressions so you can buy their jersey.

By JKS

September 27, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Fantastic column.

As the “Free Vick” contingent has become more and more ridiculous (and vocal) the further I have found myself being pushed from being a Falcons fan. It is true that the guys on the team have nothing to do with the situation (well… maybe some of them do), but the players change and move on, leaving the one constant behind: the fans. The ethos of the most vocal fan base has not changed in years, and while categorizing all of the fans by the actions of a relatively small but loud group may not be rational, its what I’ve come to. (My apologies to those who are loyal AND find these developments revolting.)

Not that it matters (and since when do blogs and comments here reallllly matter), but I’ve had it with being embarrassed to support my home team… especially when it doesn’t involve performance on the field.

By BILL

September 27, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Why dont these Vick apologists open their eyes and put blame for Vick not being there anymore where it belongs,on Vick himself,Vick took himself away with his unconcern for his team,city and loyal fans,breaking the law proved that, if he cared one iota for those apologists he would have kept his nose clean from the time he was drafted.OJs apologists set him free the first time for murder,Vicks apologist would do the same thing in a heartbeat,just where is the justice you ask,its coming soon when the judge hands down the sentences for both of these dummies.

By steve

September 27, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

you’re right in implying the “attendees” were out of line and a disgrace to Atlanta. But for the wrong reason. The so called vick “supporters and apologists” don’t give a damn about vick’s football playing abilities. They just don’t want to admit that the justice system is color blind in this case. They still think it’s all about race which we all know is total unadulterated B.S.

By Sports Fan

September 27, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Why are you still talking about Vick: Alert he’s not Jesus, let it die Terrence

By Marc

September 27, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

Terence Moore I do not know you personally but based on the articles you right…..YOU ARE A HUGE JERK!!

By DHinton

September 27, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

What do Terence Moore, Clarence Thomas, and Condolessa Rice have in common? Why was T. Moore picked to be on the ESPN panel? Pi$$off the wrong people T. Moore and they will come after you. They make you and they can break you. Wise up my brother.

By GE

September 27, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Why is it that black people with opinions embarass other people with opinions. Our government embarasses me on a daily basis, but I do not waste my time complaining about it. Football is just a game and it should not be a topic that sets the the morals and values of the people who view it. If Vick is a thug in in private life, then so be it. I just enjoyed watching him play the game. His off the field activities are no concern of mine and they do not have any influence on my values.

By willdave

September 27, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Mr. Moore, I agree with you 100%. Thank you for sticking to your guns and not giving in to these apologists. They are an embarrassment to the city of Atlanta. As you say, their only concern is to see Vick play again. Period. They couldn’t care less about doing what’s right, setting a good example for our youth, or seeing that justice prevails. Their rude, obnoxious behavior at the nationally televised town hall meeting shows how low class they are. Their opinion means absolutely nothing to me. I’m glad the NFL suspended Vick. I’m glad the Falcons plan to cut ties with this criminal. I’d rather see Harrington or Leftwich at QB even if neither is as talented as Vick. However, keep in mind that Joey just put up numbers against Carolina that were statistically better than any of those ever posted by Vick for one game. So I’m not so sure that we have traded down in that department.

By Beantown

September 27, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

I was in a similar situation as Vick as far as facing time. SoI feel what hes going through with drug test failure. You just do even worse, you have I don’t care anymore mentality. ITs until you go do your time, for me 1yr, and realize you have to change things. When you sitting in a cell thinking 365days and everything is moving accept for you and you ask the Lord for guidance. That when your 2nd life start and you start to relaize your purpose in life. Mine was to be sucessful which I am, and help all the knuckle-heads on my way to the top. Because I was a MV7.

By BUSHWACKER

September 27, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

I think that’s partly true they just want to see him entertain. But alot of it is some blacks don’t think they shoul have to obey the laws because they are owed something which is a load of crap!

Last I checked, no black man walking the earth today has ever been a slave.

It’s time to move on and get over it.

But another part of the problem is society has spent the 15 years or so not telling people, you cannot break the law.

Ever since Bill Clinton told the world a lie, its been down hill since. There is no more right and wrong.

I said it then and I say it now, it may be decades before we know the damage done by that lie that the most poerful man in the world told!

By Earl

September 27, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

To: msteven

I don’t think people are gloating over Vicks downfall. Personally I feel bad for him. But I don’t have to ‘pray’ that I or my family members walk a ‘holier’ line. I’m confident that all of us are smart enough not to associate w/ thugs, drug dealers, dogfighters etc. In the end the argument is ‘Mike made a mistake, we should forgive him’. Let’s face facts… at the very least he’s had a history of making poor decisions as Mr. Moore documented. What should we forgive him for next? Do we draw the line when he kills someone or will that be just another mistake?

By steve

September 27, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

To DHinton: Wow, I’m really afraid for T. Moore now. You ignorant racist a*******hole.

By Disgusted

September 27, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

TM,

Great Article…I along with many others were embarrassed by the actions of the crowd and was sorry to have witnessed that. My son, whom I’ve exposed to our sometimes pitiful history in this country, asked me the following…”How can someone from that race support the killing and fighting of dogs when not too long ago, they themselves were hung, killed, shot, executed, and treated like dogs for only the color of their skin…” Makes you wonder….

By ken

September 27, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

Anyone who tortures and kills dogs is a psychopath! Period.

Anyone who defends the actions of a psychopath is mentally retarded.

There is big potential for a huge mental hospital to treat the rabid sports fans of Atlanta.

By Stan

September 27, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this

What you “fairness” crybabys forget is that there is a new Sheriff in town, because the old sheriff let all of that other crap happen and did nothing about it. Roger Goodell is going to clean up the mess and not tolerate any more bad behaviour. Look what bad behaviour has done to the NBA. Their ratings are headed south. And it’s about time we quit putting up with these immature, poorly raised, classless prima donnas. Thank you Mr. Goodell.

By Chris

September 27, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this

Terence - for years you have been vilified for “playing the race card” and been accused of too aggressively trying to promote an african american agenda. Now once, just once, in the most obvious of cases, you call it as most people agree it is.

This is what you get in return, veiled threats for deserting “the community”. This should tell you alot about the intelligence level of the folks calling you out.

By mike

September 27, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

Here’s what’s amazing that many have overlooked. yes MV7 broke the law, we know that. But this person has no INTEGRITY. He lied to his boss, he lied to the commissioner, he lied to the public, especially those in ATL, he lied to his teammates. Everyone that supports MV7, supports him for alternative reasons.

Why? Why, would anyone support someone that lies, (putting aside the other issues). A man’s word is his bond. I taught my children to tell the truth no matter how painful it may be. Guess this didn’t happen for MV7 and if it did, guess he has a really slow learning curve. I own a business. If I have an employee lie to me he/she is gone, no if/and/buts. I need to trust my employees. Cannot, will not tolerate it. Why should anyone else tolerate it? Why is it so easy to turn a blind eye to someone lying?

By Beckster

September 27, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

I do not agree with Mr. Moore’s assessment of the crowd who attended the ESPN event. I don’t believe that the majority of that crowd gives a crap about Vick being a player on the Falcons. Or watching his amazing talents. And the Falcons certainly are not extraordinary either with Vick or without. At least from a football standpoint. They were a mediocre team with Vick and now they are even less.

The reason why the majority of the crowd booed and hissed Mr. Moore and all of the other panelist who presented the facts are because they are racist. They think Vick is entitled to special treatment because he is black. They think he is being picked on and made an example because he is black. They are excuse makers, and in denial. They want to blame Vick’s problems with everything other than what is the truth. I’ve heard them all. From Whoopi saying that it is not his fault because of the culture Vick grew up in, to the old standby of “he was hanging out with the wrong people.”

This is an entirely racial issue. If this was an incredibly talented white quarterback - so Peyton Manning, and he was convicted and admitted guilt to these things - I can assure you that Falcon fans, certainly not black Falcon fans, would be hostile towards those who were on the panel the other night. In fact they would most likely be critical.

Wake up African-Americans. Quit playing the blame game and see through your prejudices to find the truth.

By KOOL FREE

September 27, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

Not necesarily he put himself in the wrong situation, but he should be punished and let allowed to play for Atl again a year off and a big fine bottom line he fought a dog nobody wants Terrence Moore why don’t you go to your local humane society and rescue a pitbull!!!

By Ookie

September 27, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

African-American community: You should be ashamed of yourself for your blind loyalty to Michael Vick.

You want to move forward in society, you want to be seen as equals, you want to be taken seriously……HOW THE HELL CAN YOU BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY WHEN YOU ACT LIKE IDIOTS?

By Erik

September 27, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

For all of you saying Vick smoked pot because he’s depressed or in a bad legal situation… please. Do you really think this is the first time he’s smoked pot????? Bong at the Miami airport ring a bell, or maybe the photo of him in that limo smoking a “blunt”.

Have you ever considered the idea that maybe, just maybe, he’s got a problem with pot, or that he’s just incredibly stupid? He could carve a guy in two and you’d still support him. Yes, he does need help, but one has to help himself first before others can help him.

As for the glass houses comments, true, we are all sinners. Many of us have probably smoked pot. But, the difference is, many of are NOT the face of an NFL franchise. Many of us are NOT the highest paid player in the most successful sports league on the planet. Many of us would NOT smoke pot when we were already facing prison time for a felony. Vick chose a certain lifestyle over his team, this city, millions of dollars, and the FANS. He spit in all of our faces. Deal with it.

By Rob

September 27, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

You people that attack Terrence Moore and support Michael Vick, remember that Mike was given every chance to come clean to the Commissioner. He failed to do so twice. That is why he was suspended WITH PAY initially. This Commissioner has made it a priority to clean up the bad behavior in this league. He is dealing with issues his predecessors failed to deal with. Was Pacman Jones treated unfairly? Nobody is jumping up and down for him…Playing in the NFL is a priveledge, not a right. One last thing…If Vick were white would the same people be defending him?

By Gandalf, the Gray

September 27, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

first off, there is no such thing as an AA comunity. There is a community, but to base it on race is foolish and shortsighted. Why can’t we just get along and be americans? This whole issue is about an idiot that is blessed with certain talents. No one likes Vick for what he says, if he didn’t have such quick feet, he would have been the THUG he pretends to be. well in light of the things that he has done, He is just a THUG with quick feet. DON’T think he represents a certain “community”. He doesn’t. He represents HIP HOP culture at it’s worst. A MAN WITH THE WORLD AT HIS FEET, that makes horrible horrible decisions. HE IS AND ALWAYS WILL BE A THUG.

By Marie

September 27, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

Earl you said: By Earl

September 27, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

To Marie;

It’s good to know where your values are (ie., it’s not important whether you’ve raped, murdered someone etc and so on, participated in dogfighting, drug abuse) so long as you can buy his sports memorabilia. And of course, the corporations in America should be forced to be saddled with these idiots b/c people like you are willing to overlook these transgressions so you can buy their jersey.

Sir you are an idiot that has neither the logic or reasoning ability to understand my post. For your information, I have never purchased a Michael Vick jersey or anyone else’s jerseys or any sports memorabilia for that matter. I DO NOT take sports that seriously. The point I was making (if you can keep up with me) is that the NFL and other major retailers have refused to sell Vick’s jersey based solely on his indictment (not after he was convicted) and this has NEVER been done to any sports figure or entertainment star in modern day history; although the criminal accusations against others were far worse. Do you get that you dimwit?

By Beckster

September 27, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

I do not agree with Mr. Moore’s assessment of the crowd who attended the ESPN event. I don’t believe that the majority of that crowd gives a crap about Vick being a player on the Falcons. Or watching his amazing talents. And the Falcons certainly are not extraordinary either with Vick or without. At least from a football standpoint. They were a mediocre team with Vick and now they are even less.

The reason why the majority of the crowd booed and hissed Mr. Moore and all of the other panelist who presented the facts are because they are racist. They think Vick is entitled to special treatment because he is black. They think he is being picked on and made an example because he is black. They are excuse makers, and in denial. They want to blame Vick’s problems with everything other than what is the truth. I’ve heard them all. From Whoopi saying that it is not his fault because of the culture Vick grew up in, to the old standby of “he was hanging out with the wrong people.”

This is an entirely racial issue. If this was an incredibly talented white quarterback - say if Peyton Manning were the quarterback of the Falcons, and he was convicted and admitted guilt to these things - I can assure you that Falcon fans, certainly not black Falcon fans, would be hostile towards those who were on the panel the other night. In fact they would most likely be critical of what Peyton Manning did and how they are disgusted that have hurt the Falcons and the city of Atlanta.

Wake up African-Americans. Quit playing the blame game and see through your prejudices to find the truth.

By Gandalf, the Gray

September 27, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Actually, I think Terrance is kinda brown…??? He’s a BROWN MAN!

By Regular guy

September 27, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

Keep preachin’ it, Terence!!! You are right on all the way, brother!!!

By PETE ROSE

September 27, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

WOW! I TRIED LYING ALL THESE YEARS ABOUT MY BETTING ON BASEBALL, WHEN I SHOULD HAVE JUST ORGANIZED A TOWN HALL MEETING STACKED WITH KKK MEMBERS. NOTHING LIKE A BUNCH OF IGNORANT SUPPORTERS FULL OF BLIND FAITH TO HELP A MAN CLEAR HIS NAME AND GET REINSTATED.

By Dumbing Down

September 27, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

“STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES.”

The lack of leadership in certain circles-communities comes to fruition with bad-boorish behavior!

The glorification of “THUG LIFE” in Rap, has found its way into professional sports. Black athletes imitating this “art” leads to self-destruction.

The bottom line is that Vick is a stupid person. A great athlete with little common sense. Hanging out with his “peoples” (fellow perps) did him no good. Unfortunately, many in the the black community refuse to see anything beyond race and their excuses pile on (the man, uh, I mean media, is out to get MV).

THE RACIAL CREDIT CARD IS NOW OVER ITS LIMIT!

By mason

September 27, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

I am not African American…but if I were..what would bother me most about the Vick apologists is this…They want to boycott the dome. Don’t support the Falcons they say. Well…all they are doing is hurting the cause of all the other players on the team. Most of which are African American. So, to show their support for a self admitted felon they are punishing other African American and white players on the team… by not supporting them. When Vick pays his dues to society and does his time….he should be allowed to come back and play in the NFL. It won’t be for the Falcons though…So, when he does come back to play for another team…all those Vick apologist can go to another city to support their hero. Good riddance.

By GE

September 27, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Bushwhacker,

You and people who think like you are why we blacks are so concerned about our country. You generalize your opinions(not facts) and link them to your perceptions of black people. Thanks for linking us to Bill Clinton. At least he does not search out picture ops on the levees in New Oreleans while doing nothing for the citizens who need help. This is the biggest lie of all.

By A Reasonable Falcons Fan

September 27, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

The posters who keep saying “No one is saying Vick did nothing wrong or that he doesn’t deserve some punishment” are clearly not paying attention. That is EXACTLY what LOTS of Vick apologists are saying - over and over. the overwhelming response from the pro-Vick crowd at the townhall meeting to the question of whether dogfighting should be a crime was “no.” This comment section includes several posts saying that exact thing - “it’s just dogs man!” “it’s just weed, man”.

The claim that no one is denying Vick did anything wrong could not be more incorrect. The townhall meeting only confirmed what any reasonable person had already observed over the last few months: a large portion of Vick’s supporters have divorced themselves from reality and are living in a fantasy-land where Vick has never and can never do wrong.

By Terencehater

September 27, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

YOU ALL ARE A**HOLES. VICK WILL BE GREAT AGAIN AND YOU ALL WILL FALL TO YOUR KNEES AND ASK FOR HIS FORGIVENESS. TERENCE YOU WILL BE HANDLED IN PRIVATE.

By Stan

September 27, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

DHinton is definately an ignorant moron. He spoke twice on this blog and it keeps getting worse. The bad news is that there are a lot more of DHintons out there, living off of our taxes.

By To Marie

September 27, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

Marie, While you still can, please stop posting. You are acting like an ignorant boot-lip.

By DeeZeeisanidiot

September 27, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

DeeZee is an idiot. Grow up.

By Diogenes

September 27, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this

It is a cold, hard, simple fact that the behavior exhibited last night at the ESPN function is just the latest tangible sign of an accelerating abandonment of reason, logic, responsibility and — yes — “class” in the African American community. This trend has been accelerating for years. Surely not by all in the community (Terrence Moore’s column is right on — thanks, TM), but by alarmingly increasing numbers, nonetheless.

Far too many in the AA community have answered the end of the terrible apartheid in this country (and it was terrible) NOT by stepping up and responsibly joining society, but by increasingly sinking into a self-destructive spiral of dependence and anti-intellectualism and violent crime and anti-social nihilism based on raw, negative emotion rather than reason or logic. Accordingly, paranoia and violence become their only “language” of debate or social discourse. That was fully on display last night.

There are two great tragedies in the history of our national racial dynamic — the terrible apartheid mentioned above, and the self-defeating reaction of the AA community to it’s end. Yeah, I marched for civil rights in the ‘70’s with a positive spirit, but from where I sit now, things are lookin’ bleak.

By FAN

September 27, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this

A FAN - means admirer, supporter, follower, devotee, etc., so you can blog, talk, debate, hold townhall meeting and some people will always be a FAN. So stop talking… and move on. Vick needed to forget his problems for a bit. Some people drink, some people eat, while MOST people smoke.

It wasn’t the right time to smoke for him, but hey…the stress level is HIGH.

By MC

September 27, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Mr. Mike,

How many times have you lied? Give me a break! We have all lied and I can guarantee that you as a BUSINESS OWNER has done the same! Get off your high horse. What you wanted to say was that a black man lied to his master and that this will not be tolerated! You people lie all the time! That’s how most of you stay in business. You lie to your employees, Uncle Sam and god knows who else. Stop with the hypocracy! Lies, cheaters, etc. They are all ONE in the SAME! Be real!

By newteamgeardotcom

September 27, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Terrence you owe michael vick a boat load of money. talk about selfishness. you and the ajc have benefited so much from this fiasco.

By kip

September 27, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

All I have to say is Mrs. Vick, you must be SO proud. You sure have raised some fine young men. THUGS!

By jlee

September 27, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

First of all, Moore is a sensationalist reporter. If there is a story to be told, he’s going to hype it up and ride the story beyond the point of death.

Secondly, although Vick committed a heinous act, he didn’t kill or hurt anybody. There is a reason, morally and legally, that a person will not and should never be tried for murder for killing animals (they’re frigin’ animals!). Vick needs to serve the right time for the crime.

With that being said, I would like to point out that I am not a Vick supporter. Regardless of how he did it, Vick broke the law(s). Only through sheer stupidity and ignorance can a person, not related to him, support this man.

If race was an issue, then why did other high profile players like Ray Lewis and Jamal get off relatively easy for more heinous acts. Wow! They’re both black! Amazing! Race is NOT an issue in this matter. Look through the cloud of your ignorance people; then, you will finally see the light.

By Boots

September 27, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

Great artile —- very logical and to the point —- which, of course, creates problems for those who illogically support their celebrity hero.

My ol’ father used to say: “If a man gets into a fight and gets his eye gouged out, God will forgive him for fighting, but he’s gonna be a one-eye Christian for the rest of his life.”

God will forgive Vick’s transgressions, but the consequences will endure. With the gambling and now the drug offense, it is doubtful Vick will ever dress out again in the NFL.

That’s one heckuva consequence!

That’s one stack of stupid behaviors!

By GS

September 27, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Stan - Roger Goodell needs to be across the board with his sword slashing. The way Vick was treated was just plain prejudice. He could have let him play, Falcons still suck. A convicted MV7 is better than anything the Falcons can pull off of the sidelines. If he were to walk through the tunnel sunday he would get the greatest welcome he has ever gotten. Because he’s a great football player. The greatest and most exciting that people have ever seen and LOVE To talk about. He makes for great conversation or Terrence wouldn’t have written this article. People were(most of all the white fans)alright with MV7 as long as he was entertain their golden eyes. Even if the Falcons weren’t the best team. Hell he had to play by him self. But he was the most exciting. Now we see what sorry excuse for a team Blank signed him to. All the rearranging for a couple of years and they are still worthless. I hate to call them that but at least with MV7 it was worth spending the money to go and see. Blacks and Whites alike even though they knew Falcons were not a superbowl caliber team. Now we have to dig into people’s private lives and expose that. Just another way to get something to use against them. MV7 outshined too many white players. Made more money than too many white players. Made too much money for whites to handle, and they couldn’t stand it. Now they want to talk about results of a random drug test. Who cares, he’s pleaded guilty let him do his time. Don’t keep bashing him. He’s not bothering anybody. Just feels good and so easy to bash him doesn’t it. Can’t do that to old Peyton Manning now can you. He’s so pure and holy, huh.

By BRIAN NICHOLS

September 27, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

YO CNN, I AM IN A BIND, CAN YOU HOOK ME UP WITH ONE OF THOSE TOWN HALL MEETINGS AND FILL THE CROWD WITH AFRICAN AMERICANS!! OVERPOWERING GUARDS THEN SHOOTING INNOCENT JUDGES AND COURT REPORTERS IS JUST ONE OF THOSE COMMON CULTURAL THINGS WE DO IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY, RIGHT? GET WHITEY OFF MY BACK! UNTIL THEN I WILL JUST KEEP LYING AND DRAINING THE TAXPAYERS MONEY ON MY LAWYERS LIKE MIKE VICK DRAINED ARTHUR BLANK.

By Earl

September 27, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Marie… I feel sorry for you. Instead of discussing calmly and rationally you have to resort to the lowest level and resort to name calling. Your latest post is reminiscent of the mentality of the Vick supporters at the ‘Vick Divide’. No logic, but he / she who screams the loudest should get their way. Sad.

Go back and read the articles, he lost Airtran after the ‘bottle incident’ at the Miami airport, Nike dropped him after he admitted to the dogfighting charges.

By Boston Yankee

September 27, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

I went looking for your comments after catching the ‘town hall’ meeting.Having never been to Atlanta I hope the jerks in the audience are not representative of the general populations. I’m sick and tired of hearing black people justify black criminals with complaints of persecution and bias. The bottom line is and has always been that Vick blew a chance at fame and money that few people black or white will ever see all because of arrogance. If I (and most people) had his skills and someone offered me a chance to have what he had with the stipulation that I had to avoid breaking the law I would not be STUPID enough to blow it. This is the price many young people (black and white) pay for buying into the phoney lure of hip hop culture. You pay the price while the creators of this trash sit back and count their millions. As for those posting here that call Mr Moore a traitor to blacks I have one thought….If pointing out Vick’s and his supporters’ stupid whining is being a traitor than I’d say the black community needs more traitors.

By Wake up Call

September 27, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

Pray for MV, I’m afraid he needs more help than he’ll get. His situation will certainly worsen before it gets better. Seriously, it’s a total waste of God given talent what he’s done and choices he’s made. He must have a character flaw or illness of some sort. Can we try to be more supportive of him and his plight? We do need to move on from this situation and support the Falcons. Like MV they are hurting as well. Think about it, they can’t replace him, not at this very moment or possibly even during this season. We can support them and encourage them to keep their heads up. We owe them that much, don’t you think?

By telfairgirl

September 27, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

I’ve got just two words for you after reading your strongly worded opinion …. THANK YOU! The other day an MV fan said to me that as long as it wasn’t his dog, why should he be upset. I guess he’s glad it wasn’t his daughter who had sex with Ron Mexico. I guess he didn’t get his watch stolen at the airport. I guess the day MV flipped the bird at his fans who helped pay his salary he was the season ticket holder on the other side of the stadium. MV is ripe for a suicide attempt.As self-destructive as he is it wouldn’t surprise me at all. People, let him go. This man has emotionally crippled this city and divided its fan base. Atlanta, we look bad and it is embarassing. Hooting and hollering on ESPN, unenthusiastic crowds at the Dome who leave early and leave seats empty. Stop feeding Vick’s ego. He won’t accept and admit his faults if we coddle him and give him the idea that he was THE Falcons and not A Falcon.

By Craig T. Greenlee

September 27, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Let me summarize a statement that Terence Moore made towards the end on the town hall meeting that puts the Mike Vick saga in its proper perspective. Since Mike is a born-again Christian, he has a wonderful opportunity to show himself to be a living testimony that God is able to restore and redeem. Let the church say ‘Amen’!

By Traveler

September 27, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Terence Amen brother…the ESPN “townhall meeting” was one of Atlanta’s worst hours. It was embarrassing. And to those who just don’t get it…the NFL is a BUSINESS. Michael VIck knew he was going to WORK for the NFL. They have the rights to impose any rules or sanctions like any other business.His supporters are ignorant and racist.

By G. Thompson

September 27, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

I am stunned. I never dreamed it would be possible. They must be playing ice hockey in hell because I absolutely agree with something that Terrence Moore has written. Nicely said.

By Sam

September 27, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Great article Terence. I have been a Falcon fan from the beginning and I had been hoping against hope that this dog fighting thing was not true and Vick would be able to play. I want the team to win and I don’t really care what color you are as long as you can play. However, I cannot see how any fan can rationlize his actions. Vick is history-let’s move on.

By GS

September 27, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

Chris - we can point out right from wrong. But why persecute the man, over dogs, dogs. We have people who kill other people and eat them. Child molesters, child killers, pedifiles, and we are stuck on dogs, and a joint. Get a life. Anything to make a big deal out of. Please people, Get a life. Let him do his time. Please.

By Mr.Perfect

September 27, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

Bravo Diogenes, After your comments dear Sir or Ma’am, all others are irrelevant.

By dturner

September 27, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

Terrance,

Great Article !!! After this incident w/ the “weed” that just goes to show you he has NOT changed one little bit !!! Anyone on this blog who thinks that MV is not getting justice must have been raised in a friggin shack with no electricity, their mama smoked crack and their daddy was a pimp !!

AND ALL THAT “TURNED MY LIFE OVER TO GOD” CRAP IS JUST THAT…..CRAP !!! I believed him when he made his statement to change.

NOW, THAT JUDGE IS GOING TO THROW THE BOOK AT HIM !!! He has made a embarrassment out of the courts that ordered him to stay clean. He couldn’t even do that !!

NEWS FLASH: MICHAEL VICK WILL GET IN TROUBLE AT LEAST ONE MORE TIME BEFORE HE GOES TO COURT !!!

PLEASE STAND BY !!!

By BooBoo

September 27, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

I know that if I was convicted of a felony and had to serve several years in prison, there would be no employer waiting on my return with open arms. In fact, with a felony conviction on my record I would have a hard time finding a decent job - automatically rejected due to a criminal past. Why would anyone even think Mike Vick should be given some guarantee of a continued blessing of wealth, after he ruined his own future - just as does any criminal?

By Stan

September 27, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

GE Quit wasting time on the internet and hurry down to the government handout office.

By Sane Voice

September 27, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

First of all, GREAT ARTICLE, T!!! I liked how succintly you listed his tailsping and multiple chances to get his “spit” together.

* I am thrilled to see that not everyone in Atlanta is a complete idiot!!* I just wish some of the posters here actually went to the town hall meeting. It seems lik ethe only ones that turned out were low-life Vick sympathizers with an ax to grind against the perceived injustice that the White Man brings down on the Black Victim in everday life.

Vick’s a piece of crap. He stands before the cameras and says he’s found Jesus. IMAGINE THAT!!! Maybe he smoked some ganja with The Son of Man as well!!! PUHLEEEEZE!!!

The worst part of this whole debalce is that Atlanta showed t’s true inner city colors on Monday night. Go ahead, Atlanta…show your street cred and thuggery to the whole world, and then wonder why being the center of the Hip Hop nation is nothing more than a skid-mark stain on the shorts of America. It’s no damn wonder nobody actually LIVES in Atlanta except the hoodlums.

By mike

September 27, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Mr. MC, First of all you don’t know me and can only judge me based on your interpretation of my words. You don’t know the color of my skin and I will not indulge you with such information simply because it does not matter. MV7 didn’t tell a little lie, he told a bold faced lie straight to those that gave him the opportunity to right himself. So before you get up on your “barely able to hold you” soapbox. You can question my business ethics all you want, I don’t have to justify anything to you. I know my business is ethical and operated with integrity.
You, sir, need to learn to differentiate between a little lie and big lie. My bad for not claifying that in my earlier post. Didn’t think I had to. But you continue to support MV7. Thank you for your opinion. It made me understand how blinded people could have misunderstood my point. I will tell you this, I would never have lied at the risk of losing my business, family, or life. So critique on MC. And the black man statement was yours not mine and would never even think of such a comment. So don’t put words in my mouth.

By Don Owens

September 27, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Very well written and lucid description of what happened to you on television and an appropriate description of the situation Mike Vick put himself in.

I am young, African-American and Falcons fan. Michael Vick embarassed his family, his ethnic background and the people of Atlanta. No appearance on MNF or Thanksgiving should make up for a city’s dignity.

By Earl

September 27, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

To GS:

I haven’t seen Peyton Manning’s name associated with drug dealers, dogfighters etc and so on. Should it become so… I’ll be among the 1st to say he’s an idiot. No one cares what kind of money Vick made. If you’re successful, great. If not, either work hard to become so or stop complaining.

Let’s stop with the mentality that ‘whitey was out to get Mike Vick’. What happened to Vick, he’s done to himself, there’s no one else to blame.

By dturner

September 27, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

ONE CRITICAL POINT FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS:

Why hasn’t the Rev and Jesse been boycotting the justice system in the MV case, here MV got caught w/ dirty urine and remains free on bail. His hommie, Quanis Phillips just admitted to smoking weed to the Feds and he did not get granted bond. They didnt even test him, they just took his word. To this day, Phillips remains in jail without bond for violating probation, MV violated his conditions too.

HOW FAIR IS THAT MY AFRICAN AMERICAN FRIENDS ?? I guess its when the blacks are doing the blacks dirty- its OK ????

By Boots

September 27, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

GS, bless your heart, you just don’t get it! A bag of hammers has more logic than you do!

If miraclously, Vick could come back, it would be an absolute circus. And, embarrassing! It would result in the total decimation of the team. It just won’t happen now or ever! Vick is toast. He shot himself in the foot. He commited athletic and financial suicide.

And, regarding his play on the field. He was a mediocre quarterback and set records rushing the ball between the 20’s.

The black community can scream and yell and bark and boycott and demonstrate —- but nothing will change. Vick played the fool and is suffering a terrible consequence for his stupidity. It’s not the media —- Vick’s mortal wound was self-inflicted.

Now, it’s time for the black community to move on to the next faux hero/idol/god/celebrity.

With the failures of your entertainment/sports heros, YOU MIGHT WANT TO LOOK TO A HIGHER LEVEL OF HERO—- LIKE MAYBE AN EDUCATOR, SCIENTIST, WRITER, DOCTOR OR SOME OTHER PROFESSIONAL WHO CAN WRITE AN IMPERATIVE SENTENCE AND SPEAK WITH A MODICUM OF CLARITY. A HERO THAT WOULD URGE KIDS TO STAY IN SCHOOL AND OBEY THE LAW. NOVEL IDEA, DON’T YOU THINK?

By GS

September 27, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Mr. Wake Up Call- this post isn’t about he falcons, it’s about how MV7 fans just want to see him play. The Falcons need to be hurting, because when he played for them, they didn’t play with him. They are now learning to play football. They enjoyed the sellout crowds, he brought, but didn’t appreciate his talent. they wouldn’t even protect him and didn’t like the fact that he was the attention getter. He’s off the field and still getting the most attention. The fans that loved him loved him because of his ON THE FIELD TALENTS. Everytime the man walked somewhere, there was a camera. How would you feel if you woke up in the morning and a camera was in your face, and the morning’s news showed what you did this morning? Anyone could tell that off the field he preferred a private life. Who cared about his priivate life? I just cared about him in the Dome, nowhere else. So if the media and Mr. Gutapo Goodell would leave people personal lives to themselves it would be alright, or would one of the Golden boys have to be exposed for committing a real crime before we consider them humans as well?

By Aurora_27

September 27, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Thank you! Finally a great article.

The only thing that continues to astonish me, is the group of people who say “they were just dogs” or “they’re just pushing it this far because he’s black, it’s a racial thing” It was never a racial thing, it’s not because he’s black , it’s because he’s STUPID!!!

At the end of the day, the fact that Vick did kill dogs, what’s to stop him from doing it to a human?…Who’s to say that the life of a dog is less important than that of a human?

By tiff

September 27, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

A woman gets killed, the man Phil Specter admits this to his limo driver. He has her blood splatter on his clothing, and the gun is conveniently placed by her feet by Phil Specter, and he wasn’t even found guily. And none of the media including the AJC is running this story continuously the way they ran the Vick story or the O J Simpson story. If this does not show black people how the media can use “Uncle Tom’s” like Terrance Moore to do their bidding I don’t know what will. Terrance Moore is poison, and when they use him up they will spit him out. They use trash like him to do their bidding so it won’t look racist. Then they can say “see a black man is behind that article”. When they know all alone the AJC is pulling that “UNCLE TOMS” strings telling him what to do and what to write.

By midnite

September 27, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

Great article T-Mo! I’m proud of you and Boortz for digging in and staying the course during that ESPN debacle. Those people were pathetic and really made fools of themselves.

Mike Vick is a no class, pitiful excuse for a human being. One would think he would’ve stayed clean during pre-trial, knowing random testing could occur at anytime. He has really stepped in you know what now. He has sealed his fate.

It is a dangerous practice to throw mega-money at these unsupervised young men who have no structured upbringing. A fool and his money are soon parted.

I don’t think Mr. Blank will be able to collect his $22,000,000 since RBC Centura can’t even collect on his defaulted $2,500,000 line of credit.

By BeBe KID

September 27, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

Terrence in black culture (and you of all people should know this reality)it is not uncommon to have a brother, sister, cousin, relative, or neighbor who is a convict or ex-convict. I am sure everybody in the Moore family is not squeaky clean. From the shallowness your articles it’s apparent that you probably smoke marijuana yourself or experimented with it at some point in your life. Let me see, you took a hit but did not inhale right? Many black people look beyond the poor judgment or circumstances that got their loved one, friend or neighbor in trouble with the law. Generally,I feel that black people are more tolerant, more lenient, more forgiving and more compassionate to a person who runs afoul of the law.

Historically,The legal system in America has not been a shining example of fairness and equal justice to black people; Therefore, many black people do not view the legal system with a great deal of legitimacy so Terrence don’t be ignorant to the fact. Many Black Atlantan’s simply love and are willing to forgive Michael Vick in addition to the fact that Vick is not a criminal. He may have exercised poor judgment but he is not a menace to society. Many whites who are codemning Mike Vick are motivated strictly and solely by racial hatred, they can give less than a damn about fighting dogs and some marijuana. To many whites Mike Vick is just another arrogant black man that needs to be taken down a notch so now that he is down let’s try to completely destroy him. Mike Vick is redeemable and many blacks want to give him a chance to once again succeed!

Terrence keep writing your politically correct articles pandering to the view of the majority of whites and you definitely will further secure your position at the AJC.I have a question for the white readers and editors at the AJC. Who is really getting PLAYED? ….HMMMMMMMM

By msteven

September 27, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

If I were an Falcon(Although I would never Do ANYTHING for you fairweather Folks who love you one minute and hate you the next! I feel really bad for the rest of the Falcons. You bozos cant seem to keep MV out of your cabbage mouths even when he aint on the field or even in the state. GeT tHE HELL OVER IT! MV is history. Terrence Your still an idoit, thats my opinion which I stand by. You can take it and shove it. thats on you. I could care less. And yes HELL some of you are gloating. Dont worry about MV. worry about your own holy life. The man is history. Ever heard of moving on? What bunch of Crap heads! sheesh! GET a LIFE!

By Lee

September 27, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

May I ask all Vick supporters whether they are they are judging him by the content of his character or the color of his skin.

By No Falcon Supporter

September 27, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

I remember back when the braves first came to Atl…And every since that day the fans of ALL the pro teams have been “Hero Worshipers”. If The Falcons cannot be a good team without Vick, then they are not a team…If a line backer or runing back gets hurt,or suppended, the TEAM keeps playing. In Atlanta, the team becomes a disorganized mop. If a receiver can catch a pass from Vick, why can’t he catch a pass from Vick’s replacement. Sure there are players who really excell, but I think all pro players are(or should be) above average sandlot players who can play the game without their “HERO” figure. The fans seem to think the season is over, Atlanta can never win another game and should hang their head in shame. If Vick had been an everyday joe who worked at the auto factory, everyone in Atlanta would have been screaming in outrage to “Hang the Bum”. “Put him away an throw away the key”! But he is Mike Vick, a young star who got tied up with too much money, too soon and blew it for a little weed and some very sick dog fighting. Great article. Thanks for sticking to your guns.

By GS

September 27, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Stan- if you were referring to GS(not GE), take more time to look at the keyboard since you really can’t see or spell. If I needed anything from the government I wouldn’t be blogging or even have the outlet to blog. Is that all you’ve got. Could come back on those points could you. Now go back to your .75/ hour job, you eternal-Vick-hating joke.

By DHinton

September 27, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

For those of you who attacked me personally… what have I said that was not true? What question did I ask that does not deserve an answer. To Stan. I don’t live off the government as a matter of fact I still volunteer services to America. I work daily, also own my own business, pay my taxes. I have served two tours in a war defending America. What have you done? Racist? No! But I do realize racism exists on both sides. Read most of the blogs above this.

By David Lee

September 27, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

BOOTS, you are acting too white LOL

By GE

September 27, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Good try Stan.LOL!!!

By Diogenes

September 27, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

I would add to my previous comment — the tragic upshot of this decline in values and civility is that the white community increasingly views the AA community as broken, marginalized and, indeed, irrelevant.

Why else would the GOP candidates snub AA-sponsored debates? Not only does the GOP view that voter-base as irrelevant, but there IS traction to be gained among the remainder of America by showing we they are NOT a party that endorses or identifies with or even tolerates that community of civil decline. Is that racist? Or is it values-based? Regardless, it’s tragic.

As a result, we have AA youths who KNOW they are irrelevant, and therefore have no means of mattering to anyone or gaining anyone’s attention other than by acting inappropriately and offending everyone else (if not outright rioting and burning and looting and stealing and shooting each other).

By rich in roswell

September 27, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

i wonder how long mikey has been getting coddled. middle school? high school? college? i would bet good money that people have been letting him off the hook for years, maybe decades, because of his ability to do things on the field. so, vick felt no sense of what it means to do the wrong thing because he has never had to face a consequence for his actions. well guess what mikey- now the real world has you by the cajones and all your speed cant let you run away from this one. as one spike lee movie puts it; do the right thing.

By CDS

September 27, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

Thank you Terrence for speaking the truth. As a black man that’s lived here all his life, I have never been so embarrassed by the lack of class or common sense by the Vick supporters in that crowd. Was there really a need to boo or hiss at people that don’t agree with you?

Everyone has opinions, and just because you believe some racial injustice has occurred doesn’t make your opinions anymore valid than theirs. You all made yourselves look like complete fools, and made this city look like it’s totally out of control over a guy that cannot stay out of trouble. One incident? That’s forgivable. But he constantly keeps getting in trouble. It’s like I said a million times. Vick could go on a murdering spree and some of you would still find ways to support him.

You want to call me a traitor to “one of my own”? Go ahead. Cause I belong to the human race, and I don’t use my race as an excuse for anything. I’m tired of other blacks in Atlanta wanting to focus on hating someone who doesn’t have the same thoughts or ideas as they do. You are a bunch of hypocrites that only look at the facts that you can play the race card on while ignoring everything else. Just like the NAACP guy that was incorrect in saying that the laws were changed for Vick.

Wrong is wrong. Vick broke the law, and he is still probably going to get off with a year or so in jail. Stop whining, and get over it. Me, I’m on the first plane out of this place because people like you make it almost unbearable to live here anymore. Good luck to the Falcons, and I hope they can get past this overpaid thug that himself embarrasses black people. Remember, it’s not who you are inside, but your actions that define who you are. Vick supporters, go watch Vince Young play. Now that is a guy that is far better than Vick will ever be.

By mike

September 27, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

funny MSteven, you tell everyone else to get a life and forget about Vick, yet you come to the site, read the article and other posts, then submit a post yourself. You might consider taking your own advice of getting a life.

By PoliticalMan

September 27, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

It’s nice to be able to run faster than the next guy and have football sense. In this nation that is apparently worth up to $130 million. But Jeez, electrocuting dogs? Someone actually wants to stand up for that behavior? That’s where we are in 2007.

By Jay Black

September 27, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Where were the Anti-Vick people at the ESPN Town Hall Meeting?

By jeeves

September 27, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Terence,

I love Mike Vick the QB. I think Mike Vick outside of that realm is a lost and ignorant individual, arrogant and thinks he’s above the law.

I still believe he has seen an attack like no other would face on the same charges.

Most importantly, it is so OBVIOUS your feelings were hurt the other night. This is your unfair “last word” that you didn’t have a chance to get in at the forum. Stop crying, please.

By dturner

September 27, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

TO MIKE:

Dont waste your time with MC, he is not even worth blogging back to !!

Its obvious, his mama was smoking crack when she was pregnant with him !! Just another statistic in the USA.

Hee will be the next jailbird !!

By Ray

September 27, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Apolgists everywhere. Terrence, For once I agree with you. That is not often. Those that do not like the ones speaking out against the actions of Vick, call us God-less, unforgiving and so-forth. When someone speaks out against the ACTIONS of Mike Vick is that we have standards, not above the law, obeying the law. If one of us, did these things, yes you are correct it would not be in the news much. That is the price one pays for being a celebrity. Any major celebrity would receive this type of media attention. Those that say he grew up in the deep south, etc are NOT familiar with the Tidewater area. Saying Newport News is rural or deep south is like saying Cobb and Gwinnett Counties are rural. Mike Vick has broken several FEDERAL laws. He has shown time after time bad judgement. For those Falcon fans that want him so bad under center, would you feel the same way IF it came out that he smoked before ballgames and did not have a clear head? What if it came out that he was not even 75% prepared for each game. He cheated you the fan of leading the team at full capacity. Maybe I am unforgiven. There is a time where one INCLUDING Mike Vick HAS to TAKE RESPONSIBILTY for ones actions. Don’t make excuses, it is clear he is NOT the person we all thought he was. One final note, L Tomlison could have been here instead of Mike Vick. Yes its easy to say that NOW.

By SimpleDog

September 27, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Terrence, I rarely agree with your opinions and views, but this time you are correct. But you still didn’t identify the elephant in the room. 90% of the people who defend Vick, do so because he’s a black quarterback in the NFL….and 100% of those people are black. Their claim is that “the white man is trying keep a black man down”. Which is complete “bovine scathology”…BS for those who didn’t understand. Corporate America loves to support marketable black athletes to show their endorsement of diversity. The rest of us don’t care if he’s black, hispanic, or Korean…all we care about is, can he help us win football games, while conducting himself as someone we want associated with our team? Period.

One didn’t have to watch very much of “The Vick Divide” to get a feel for how the whole show would play out. Intelligent, successful people of all races stated that Vick brought all of this on himself through his own actions and associations. Ignorant bigots, who simply want a black QB in the “capital of Black America”, attacked all who disagreed with their claims of wrongful persecution. Hence, we’re the only team interested in Byron Leftwich. Mike Vick blew it. He had the world on a string, but wasn’t able to seperate the “wheat from the chaff”. Shame on him, and shame on those who defend him for all of the wrong reasons.

By Erik

September 27, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

For Tiff:

Why don’t you think for one second and tell us all why the Phil Spektor trial doesn’t get the coverage that Vick does?

Nevermind, I’ll go ahead and give you a few reasons. First of all, Phil isn’t NEARLY the mega-star that OJ and Vick both are. NO ONE around here cares about Phil Spektor. While I do agree that he looks guilty, the fact is that no one around here cares about him. Vick was the highest paid QB in the NFL and played for ATLANTA. Our city! Of course he’s going to get drilled by the media. If you’re going to be the highest paid player, with it comes mass scrutiny, especially when you’re a convicted FELON.

And anyone brining up OJ anywhere in this article is ridiculous. Dude chopped up two people and walked free. But I digress…

By David

September 27, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Terrence, you know the real reason ” they” are upset. Yea, a part of it is they want to see him play but the real reason is they don’t want to see a black celebrity going down. They wouldn’t care if he had murdered. It’s O.J. all over again. And stop calling them ” they “. You know and I know it is mainly black people.I am a little surprised of your stance, generally you report on the “they” side. Maybe you have figured out that “they” don’t buy a lot of newspapers.

By Jay Black

September 27, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

No Falcon Supporter-

I agree with you totally except for the fact that, if Vick were an auto factory worker, nobody would have even known that he was dogfighting because the media would not have been covering him 24 hours for every little development. Therefore, he would not have had a chance to be tried by the media and public first, and probably would have had a fair chance of beating his rap. That’s what the argument is really about. Media tried him before the courts did. Nike and PETA had no facts, and still found it plausible to cancel his endorsement deal and persecute him. I’m not saying that what he did wasn’t wrong, but every “ordinary Joe” gets a fair shake. Even Babineaux is granted due process. He killed a dog too!

By Stan

September 27, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

GS. You’re an idiot. You know the minimum wage is $5.85/hr and will go to $6.55/hr on 7/24/08 and then to $7.25/hr on 7/24/09. By the way, YOU”RE FIRED! To GE: Sorry, man. LOL.

By GS

September 27, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Well said Bebe Kid Boots my heros are not in celebrities or well known people. Nor was Vick considered a Hero. That’s the problem you fools try to force people into roles appropriate to you. He is a FOOTBALL PLAYER. Atheletes aren’t heros. They aren’t entertainers. I didn’t say he was coming back, that’s up to God. Not you, you idiot. As for my child, I teach my child, I wouldn’t never let a narrow mind like you have any effect on my child’s thinking. Thank God. You exibit the mentality of an eternal-vick hater yourself. Get a life, and Go make some money. We can tell you’re unhappy and broke.

By Jumbo

September 27, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

GREAT ARTICLE TERENCE!! And thank you for being one of the few voices of reason at that debacle on ESPN the other night. I was also very impressed with Chuck Smith.

I do disagree on one point. I honestly don’t think the crowd was pro Vick simply because they want him to play. I think it have more to do with race than anything else. I can’t imagine the African American community coming out to support a stellar white athlete simply because they want him to play.

The thought process of our African American Atlantans is pretty clear to me. They support Vick because he is African American….PERIOD! At every turn Vick has lied to his followers, but they still support him. Now he is doing drugs, while under a court order to stay clean and I would bet my mortgage that the African American community will still support him.

Last comment: Booing and heckling the Director of the Humane Society? That one act alone, showed the utter low class of the majority of that audience the other night. They should be ashamed of themselves. I know I am ashamed of them and my city.

By BJ

September 27, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

100% agree with you Terence…the four horsemen of the apocalypse will be arriving shortly ;)

By GS

September 27, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Lee- we’re not judging, that’s the point. No one has the room.

By Big Poppa

September 27, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Nice job Terrence!! I would like to congratulate you on your growth as a writer. I had for years disagreed with your weekly articles and found them to be strongly represented with an agenda. I clearly remember however that the individuals who are today represented as Vick apologists are those same individuals who vigorously defended your honor. How soon they forget. In today’s slanted politically motivated news arena your voice will be appreciated as credible and easily conveyed to others seeking to recognize the reality in this very unrealistic worl

By DW

September 27, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

S Barnett, then, he would be called “O.J.”

By Erik

September 27, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Jay Black:

Of course the media wouldn’t cover a factory worker like they would the HIGHEST PAID QB IN THE NFL. Get real, man. Also, Vick is quite rich, and for better or worse, that will enable him more than anything to better defend himself. Want to see what happens to the “common man”, look at his buddy Q. He failed a drug test and went straight to jail. Vick did the same and is free.

When you’re a face of the NFL, the media is going to pounce all over you if you’re a convicted felon who has made MULTIPLE mistakes along the way. Heck, look at Ray Lewis. The guy was involved in a murder. All during the trial, he was in the spotlight of the media. But, since then, he’s not gotten into any trouble whatsoever and all you hear are good things about him. Vick is bringing all of this onto himself, not the media.

By GS

September 27, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Stan- you’re not worth minimun wage. Jay Black - This was a set up, they invited who they wanted and told most people it was invitation only and neglected to invite some they told. Then they portrayed that not many showed up. It was a joke, from jump.

By GS

September 27, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Jumbo” we don’t have to come out and support a stellar white athelete, because they will play regardless. Do you actually think they only people who do wrong in the NFL are Blacks. Whites will go to whatever lengths to cover each other’s wrong doing. Whey do you think Patrick Kerney is no longer here? hmm, hmm? I’ve been ashamed of this city for years. Always been racially divided, didn’t take Vick for that.

By TC

September 27, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Great article T keep it up. To BeBe KID so MV is not a criminal? What do they call felons in your neck of the woods. Wake up, he did not exercise poor judgement he COMMITTED A FELONY what part of that do you not understand.

By Gene

September 27, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Vick may have been rich, but he is going to end up flat broke once his revenue dries up and the lawyers pick his bones. Blowing dope on the way to his drug test is a pretty good indication of his intelligence.

By Joe Cole

September 27, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Mr. Moore comments echo my own. Every how supports Vick at this stage has left reality. Vick has shown no RESPECT FOR FANS, ATLANTA, FALCONS, AND DEFENSELESS DOGS. What kind of person is that? To me he is certainly no one to look up to. He is not worth all effort that has been expended on him. IT was a great Article Terrance. Blind Selfishnish is to be blamed for the clamor of the outcry to save poor little Vick.

By R. Stroz

September 27, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

The town hall meeting demonstrated racism and ignorance at its worst. The ignorance and racism displayed only perpetuates hatred. Our city leaders need to stand up and express their collective disdain over the behavior at that meeting. Failure to do so, makes Atlanta look like the black racist capital of the south and will dissuade anyone with any degree of intelligence from wanting to live in our city.

By Frank

September 27, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

If you find a Comment by Marie in he first 30 or so comments….read it. It is absolutely brilliant and opened my eyes to a few things that show Vick is being unfairly treated. He still needs to be punished but others have done worse and not suffered as greatly

By MV7 fan

September 27, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Well said!

On another note, if I were MV7 and had all this s** going on I would have to smooth the edges to keep some degree of sanity…

By jeff

September 27, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

Wow. Lots of opinions on this one, some of which are simply grossly misinformed at best of willfully ignorant at worst. Vick is a criminal. Plain and simple. Why predominantly blacks wish to excuse him and provide him with no consequences is simply another case of the misguided black community thinking that since he’s a black athlete, he deserves more than any other person. It’s sad, really, to see a community so unable to understand that they cannot be truly equal if they make excuses for bad behavior simply because they share the same skin pigmentation. Here’s a clue people - Vick admitted to doing it! That’s right! He pled guilty. So spare me the sympathy nonsense. Spare me the support. Spare me the cries of conspiracy, racism, and outrage. Start condemning his behavior. Start holding him accountable for his decisions and his actions. Start understanding that just like every other race, there are good people and bad people. You cannot stand behind all black people just as I cannot stand behind all white people. To do so proves how ridiculous you truly are. Vick is a criminal who grew up surrounding himself with other future criminals. He never showed any discipline. if you wanted a hero that was also a thug, you have one in Vick. The question should be - CAN HE CHANGE? It should not be - IS THE NFL DOING THE WRONG THING? Here’s the deal, football is a game of respect. The commissioner and coaches demand it. when they asked him about it, he lied to them and told them he was innocent. Less than a month later, he admitted that he was guilty. To the NFL, that means he is a liar. Had he been honest, the league and his team would definitely have shown more support. But like the thug he is (was?), he tried to lie his way out of it. He deserves no special treatment. Once a thief, always a thief. Once a liar, always a liar. So please, spare us your indignation. Vick is guilty and should be punished. He violated the leagues policy on professional behavior and deserves what he gets. If he ever plays again, and he very well may not, he will still be wealthier than every single person who is crying about his punishment. He will not be poor. His livlihood will not have been stripped. If he cared so much about Atlanta, the Falcons, and his NFL career, he never would have even considered building a dog fighting complex complete with rape stands and stable of dogs who were raised to kill. If he cared about any of that stuff, he would have realized that he holds one of the largest contracts in NFL history and would have distanced himself from the whole thing. If he was smart, he would have simply given his friends the money as a gift and not been involved in what they did with it in any way. So please, stop crying about fair treatment. If this was a white person, the same things would be happening. And no one would be supporting him, imagining conspiracies, or crying foul on the NFL’s decision.

By losing interest in ajc

September 27, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Terrence, It is truly sad how you have let Vick affect your life like this. You have been on a foolish tirade about this man since day one. Did he sleep with your wife or something? It’s funny to see your articles now, no one takes you serious anymore becuase most people feel you have a personal vendetta against him. Sad, just sad. When the whole Vick saga goes away I guess so will your career.

By Boots

September 27, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

GS —- FYI, I’m retired and have time to mess with these blogs when I’m not on the golf course.

Calling someone an “idiot or fool” is nice filler when your vocabulary is insufficient to adequately express your thoughts.

Again, your logic is so flawed that further comments on my part are unnecessary. Just keep blogging. You expose the shallowness of your intellectual capacity.

Adios, Bro.

By Mike

September 27, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I moved from Atlanta in 1972 but still consider it my home town since I grew up there. My father and I had season tickets to the Falcons the first year and I kept them for a few years even after leaving. I go back “home” every year at least twice, once to see the Braves. Yet, last night my heart was saddened. Those who booed you and offered emotional pleas for Vick are doing neither Atlanta, the Falcons, nor African-Americans a service. People need to be shouting about Vick…but not about how he has been mistreated. They need to shout about how foolish and cruel he is to convince our youth that such behavior is wrong and will not be accepted.

By enough already

September 27, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Amen, Terrence. Those “fans” refuse to assign any responsibility to Michael Vick. He was given great wealth and, as you pointed out, numerous chances to straighten up. All the fans and the Falcons recieved in return was the finger! Vick created his problems and continues to compound them with stupid decision making.

By gift

September 27, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

terrance you are a racist to your own people and you give white folks a reason to say what they say about us you f*. go read a bible and learn something from it. i be you are the main one protesting against vick. you are an idiot who don’t know anything at all and when you get of that pipe that you are smoking then maybe you wil learn someting but now you are getting high off some black people ait s** and your are black your self acting you never smoke weed or apologize when you did something wrong but i guess you think you are perfect and home boy the only one is perfect is jesus him self and since you are not him you should shut the hell up. leave vick a long. in the bible it say’s(a life with no change is a waste of life) so let’s welcome vick back and see will he change his life then if he don’t he is a waste of life.

By enough already

September 27, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Amen, Terrence. Those “fans” refuse to assign any responsibility to Michael Vick. He was given great wealth and, as you pointed out, numerous chances to straighten up. All the fans and the Falcons recieved in return was the finger! Vick created his problems and continues to compound them with stupid decision making.

By Andy K

September 27, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Michael Vick: liar, sociopath, sadist, convicted felon. Great article, Terrence!

By Jack

September 27, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

You can take a man from the ghetto but you can’t take the ghetto out of the man.

By Fred

September 27, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Hey GS need some help carrying that chip on your shoulder? I love how a “white” player like Patrick Kerney can be investigated by the police who have many African Americans in top positions including Chief…be found not to be a suspect and its all of a sudden a big old white man conspiracy. He left town cause he could make better money selling his wares to the highest bidder. Also notice one thing GS…. its called patterns…Patrick Kerney one accusation of rape in his house (even the victim said Kerney was nowhere to be found and was not involved ) to michael vicks career in crime that went all the way back to his days in college. When things happen over and over it stops being a coincidence and is shown to be a pattern or habit. Michael Vick is a thug and will remain a thug….and that is his choice.

By tiff

September 27, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Erik said no one cares about Specter because he is not as famous or doesn’t have the money Vick has. You just proved a point I have made all alone. The jealousy you have for the money and fame Vick had. The idea that this man had $130 million and people like you and Terrane Moore will never see that much money in your whole life. Besides it should not matter how much a person has, it should matter what they did. Vick killed dogs Specter killed a “HUMAN BEING” I put that in caps so you could get the full force of what i’m trying to say. Vick gets dogged 24-7 Specter don’t even get 24 seconds on the news or in the AJC. Besides the last time I checked Phil wasn’t exactly on the welfare list.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Sorry, guys. It was all my fault. See, Mike isn’t a good judge of character. He just keeps getting into the trouble because he hangs out with the wrong people. All he wanted was to use me to dry off after a dip in the pool, but I kept asking him to get high, and he finally said OK.

Man…I’m so high right now. I have no idea what’s going on.

By Stan

September 27, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

GS stands for goober sucker.

By God for us All

September 27, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

DeeZee, you hit the nail on the head!

By Vick Supporter

September 27, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

All of “you people” who are judging and stomping on Mike Vick, you will have your day coming soon. If people want to support Mike Vick, it’s their right. I have to admit, Mike is doing some dumb things, but could you imagine what he’s going through? I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s had suicidal thoughts. Believe it or not, THA WEED can take your mind off of your problems for a while. Yes, we all know that your problems are still gonna be there, but it looks like Mike is giving up. I still support MV7, but he really needs to just be around the right people and just KEEP HIS A* AT HOME. Cmon Mike, just do what the white people want and you’ll play again. Mike’s got to hang in there. The Black Community is still behind you Mike, no matter what the white people say or that punk a* Terrence “WHITE” Moore. Keep your head up Mike Vick.

By Rick

September 27, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Funny

It’s cool to make an example out someone as long as they make more moeny than you and are an entertainer.

FUNNY

I bet more than 90 percent of those who support the Great Terrance are white. I would quit my job at the AJC if I were wrong.

Funny

Great Terrance I dare you to write another article, this time detail the following.

1) Why was Michael Vick the main target of the investigation?

2) In the sate of Virginia prior to Vick, how many cases were people prosecuted to the level of Vick?

3) Where were the “animal-rights people” during the cases mentioned in question “2”

4) You mentioned the following;

“(the water-bottle thing). And a third one (the stolen-watch thing), and a fourth one (the-flipping-off-the-hometown-fans thing), and a fifth one (the stiffing of the U.S. congressmen in Washington thing), and a sixth one (the Ron Mexico thing).

Which of these was he charged with, and convicted?

Not going to Congress is a crime?

The fact remains you put that in there to fuel the whites who support you. A AJC co-worker asked me to read this story this morning and I said I didn’t need to. I already knew what the Great Terrance would say.

SO PUT UP THOSE ANSWERS

GREAT ONE

Write a story detailing the answers to the questions I posed.

Your job should be to report facts, not just some of the facts, all of the facts.

Don’t do a half a— job, Again!

By Clay

September 27, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Here is the critical problem. The apologists think that Michael Vick is a victim of laws made only to keep people of one race higher than people of another. If you are of a darker tone, and believe that dogfighting, smoking weed, gambling, having STDs and passing them on, hangin’ with people that have served time in jail are part of your culture, there is no helping you.

Also, think about this - if a guy gets 100 million dollar contract and is being sued for not paying on a load for 2.5 million - what in the world is he doing with his money? Why would he need to borrow more at this point?

The Falcons should know by now that Vick will not be able to pay back what he owes the team, and that drafting him in 2001 has set the entire franchise back a decade or more.

By Dee

September 27, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Good article, Terrance. Spot on.

By mus42tang

September 27, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

I’m neither the judge nor a resident of Virginia. I’m not responsible for anyone else breaking laws.

Life has consequences. Break the laws; can put one in prison or jail.

By mike

September 27, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Personally, I hope MV7 never puts on an NFL uniform again. Why should he be allowed to? If an accountant is convicted of a felony, would his previous employer hire him with open arms? Would anyone hire him as an accountant again? NO! As a matter of fact if an accountant is found guilty of a felony, I do believe they lose their CPA license. So why should MV7 be allowed to continue his career. I also don’t believe Mr. Little should be playing, nor should Mr. Lewis.

By WOW!

September 27, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

TO VICK SUPPORTER, YOU ARE A M-O-R-O-N! “COME ON MIKE DO WHAT THE WHITE PEOPLE WANT” i think that is ebonics for do what normal law abiding citizens do….NOT BRAKE THE LAW! THIS IS NOT ABOUT HANGING AROUND THE WRONG PEOPLE HE IS THE WRONG PEOPLE. IF P FUNK WAS OUR QUARTERBACK YOU WOULD BE SAYING JUST STAY AWAY FROM MIKE VICK

By Erik

September 27, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Tiff:

Where did I say I was jealous of the money Vick had? I didn’t say anything about that. I said when you’re the face of a pro sports league and the face of a team and the city, AND make all that money, the media is going to come after you when you REPEATEDLY make mistakes and are convicted of a felony. Plus, facts are facts, money can and will buy people a better criminal defense. Go back and read my post. That was the point of the money I brought up.

This is Atlanta. This is where Vick played and lived. OF COURSE his issues are going to get more pub than Spektor. Just like his issues will get more pub than any murder committed yesterday in Atlanta.

Nowhere in my post did I say that killing dogs is worse than killing people. It’s not even close.

And you know what, me and Terrence Moore aren’t the only ones that will never see $120 million. NO ONE on this blog will ever see that kind of money, including you. Am I jealous of him? H*ll no. Do I wish I had $120 million? Of course!!!

By rn46

September 27, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Vick’s problem as an Atlanta QB is the same as his problem as a person - He’s just another stupid, spoiled jock. Rules don’t matter to Mikey because somebody’s always bailed him out when he ignored them before. It didn’t occur to him that when your name’s all over the press nation wide that maybe it might be different as an “adult”(term used loosely in this case…)? as a QB how many games did Vick screw up by giving the ball to the other guys at critical moments? Super athletes who don’t think as quickly as their feet can move have always been a problem. Put him in a big cage with all of his dogs and don’t feed any of them for awhile: See who comes out this time. No, don’t. The dogs deserve better.

By mei

September 27, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

The Vick issue is not an issue of black vs. white. It is an issue of right vs. wrong. Just so happens that most white people fell on the side of the law…or what is right. The Vick apologist fell on the side of Vick. The apologist are the ones that made this a racial issue, no one else. It never was a racial issue to white people…that is why not many showed up at the town meeting. They are using the stance of white people falling on the side of the law to cry racism when there clearly is none. I personally feel sorry for clear thinking educated African Americans who will wrongfully be lumped in with the uneducated illiterate thugs that were at that debate.

By DavefromChattanooga

September 27, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Dear Marie, Rae Carruth (Murdering Thug) was #89.

By Boots

September 27, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

It’s really revealing. The black community jumps on T. Moore, an educated and articulate black sports writer at a major metropolitan newspaper, because you don’t agree with his opinions. Instead of engaging Mr. Moore in an intelligent debate of the facts of the case, you revert to name-calling and racial epitaphs —- chosing to side and defend a convicted felon who has a history of flaunting the law and disrespecting his loyal fan base and devoted employer.

“Uncle Tom,”you say in derision. For what? For speaking the truth.

For speaking the truth —- a truth that is so obvious anyone with a modicum of intelligence can grasp it.

Oops!

By Mr.Perfect

September 27, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Michael Vick and his minions could gang rape a 75 year-old lady and some people in Atlanta would make excuses for him. I can hear it now..

“She was an old lady. What’s the big deal?” So sad.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “Nearly any man can withstand adversity. To truly test a man’s character, give him POWER.” MV had power, prestige, fame and fortune. Any questions??

By Steve Richards

September 27, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

It took a while, but you finally wrote something I completely agree with.

By Patrick

September 27, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

It’s cool that black folks can use the term “Uncle Tom” to counter logical arguments. I wish as a white man I could have a similar term to use when I have no valid points left. Man I’m jealous.

By Rick

September 27, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

You my friend are absolutely 100% correct with this article

By C'Mon Man

September 27, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

And secondly Im getting tired of people using the term thug.Well Im going to tell you what that means thief or a brutal ruffian or assassin and a ruffian is a brutal person so guess what all the people including Terrance Moore that are beating Mike Vick even when hes down is a thug so look it up before you use that word again.

By GS

September 27, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

mei Get out of your closet DUMMY

By R. Stroz

September 27, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Anyone wish we had kept Tim Dwight and picked LT instead. LT is an athlete everyone, regardless of race, respects. Too bad, the Falcons picked an immuture individual instead.

By Atticus Finch

September 27, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Athletes, entertainers and the wealthy are often acquited of their crimes because they have the money to buy the best lawyers and defense team in the land.

Michael Vick is no exception. He hired Billy Martin, a renowned black defense attorney and a team of investigators to launch a spirited defense. Billy Martin stood to made $4 - 5 million if this case went to trial.

However, when Billy Martin and his crack team of investigators looked at the facts of the case, it became apparent that there was nothing to defend. Vick was guilty! The evidence was overwhelming!

Billy Martin wasn’t about to risk his reputation when there was no chance of winning.

So, Billy Martin, the crack defense attorney, advised Vick to cop a plea.

Vick was guilty and admitted it!

Enough said. Let him serve his time and let’s see if he deserves to be reclaimed.

And, for the rest of you —- well, I guess the lesson is: “If you can’t do the time, then don’t do the crime.

By Stan

September 27, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Gift & WOW. You two are credits to your race!

By telly

September 27, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

To all of the Mike Vick supporters. All of you are thinking that Terrence Moore is an intellectual. He is only a person who happened to be in the right place at the right time who is full of so much self hate that he will write anything to keep his job or move up the corporate ladder. I feel sorry for him remember (To thine ownself be true). Terrence may or may not believe in what he is writing, and then to assume that everyone is just like him with no ability to think for themselves. That is what’s making him upset and continuing to write these inflammatory articles. He is approaching middle age now if he is not already there and soon to be an old man. Ask him if he used marijuana, or cocaine back in the 70’ or 80’s or any of the other social drugs of that era that were thoughtt to be harmless. He who is without sin cast the first stone. As I have said once you become a man or a woman there should be a limit to what you will do for a job.

By Gerard

September 27, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

All of you are Vick Haters and that’s it. It’s one thing to commit a crime and serve the time, but that’s not enough for you all. Regardless of what happened this is still a human being and not a DOG! You all don’t want him to just pay his debt. You all just want to drag this man (Like all of you have clean noses.) There is no way in Hell should he go to jail for a first time offense. There should be rehabilitation for any human that has not committed a violent crime to other human beings. This is another example of the hypocrisy that is America. What about Ray Lewis? Is he rehabilitated( No Prison Time )What about Jayson Williams ( No Prison Time ) What about beating your wife Bobby Cox ( No Prison Time)What about the ex hockey player that killed his teammate while reaklessly driving drunk. ( No Prison Time). I hope all of you haters never do anything wrong, because comma is a mother. F@#k a Dog!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Elizabeth Del Greco

September 27, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

The crowd of morons didn’t MAKE Atlanta look silly… Atlanta IS silly. Belive me, I live and work here. Remember the bogus 1996 Olympics that looked as if they were organized by Fred Sanford? The Courthouse Shootings when a five foot tall grandmother was overpowered while escorting a six foot something murder suspect, who then rampaged around shooting a judge, a cop and another courtroom employee while the security officers were absent from their posts, getting lunch for their supervisor? Yes, folks, this is Atlanta business as usual. The so-called City Too Busy to Hate is actually the City Too Busy To Think.

By stan

September 27, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

I grew up in Atlanta but left about a decade ago and am glad I did. That so-called forum the other night was one of the most depressing things I’ve seen lately and an absolute embarrassment to the city. A lot of the comments to this totally right-on article are embarrassing as well…”Uncle Tom”? What a lazy, reflexive response to what is the truth. You’re still screaming about a rush to judgment when MV has pled guilty and been convicted, admitted to and apologized (somewhat disingenuously) for his actions and has again broken the law (though I believe marijuana should be legal). Your comparison of MV to true martyrs such as MLK shows an astonishing ignorance on par with Ahmadinejad and other Holocaust deniers. Give it up! MV will never play for the Falcons again and doesn’t deserve to.

Terence, you have nothing to apologize for and I applaud your standing up to these ignorant, oblivious people who are raining hate down on you.

By DavefromChattanooga

September 27, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

This sorry excuse for a human being was given chance after chance after chance. FINALLY he became RESPONSIBLE for his heartless, foolish and unlawful behavior. Farewell trash! Oh … you can still get ya chronic in da big house, loser.

By skip coppola

September 27, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

PHIL SPECTOR REFERENCES ARE YOU SERIOUS??? I AM WHITE AND FEEL HE SHOULD BE PUT AWAY FOR LIFE IN A CELL WITH ROBERT BLAKE WHILE PARIS HILTON MAKES THEIR LUNCH IN THE PRISON COMMISSARY, AND I BET 99% OF WHITES WILL AGREE WITH ME. WHERE ARE THE WHITE PEOPLE OUT IN THE STREETS CELEBRATING THE HUNG JURY? HOW IN THE WORLD CAN I SAY THIS…ITS BECAUSE I BASE MY DECISION ON THE FACTS NOT THE COLOR OF SKIN, UNTIL THE IDIOTS IN THAT TOWN HALL MEETING START DOING THE SAME ATLANTA WILL BE KNOWN AS THE CITY LEFT BEHIND THE REST OF THE WORLD. BOOING THE HUMANE SOCIETY…GIVE ME A BREAK!

By Chris

September 27, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

It’s sad that in Atlanta this is where we are right now. It’s unfortunate that this town - a town with more more successful and educated blacks than any other in the country - can be undermined and divided by this small yet vocal minority.

I wish some of the student leaders at Morehouse that so eloquently led and spoke about the injustice in Jena would make a public statement regarding THIS injustice - the unfair portrayal of Atlanta’s black community thanks to a loud few.

By Patrick

September 27, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Gerard-periods, colons and hyphens are a b*** too.

By R. Stroz

September 27, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Gerard, gift - The Black Panther movement is looking to sign up people just like you. Maybe, you can get a job working for Cynthia McKinney too.

By Soryu

September 27, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Sorry mhouston, but if you post like an idiot—e.g. willbill—who seems to have flunked out of the 3rd grade—then I reserve the right to slam you for it.

And ZeeDee—You might want to look into something known as paragraphs. They teach that point in the 5th grade or so. And what Vick did was not a mistake, but a criminal enterprise. Should he be forgiven—sure, but that is not what you want to happen. You want it to be forgotten—Vick still playing QB for the Falcons…now as if nothing happened. Doesn’t work that way. And I may have some things in my closet, but I don’t have dead dogs buried in my yard.

By jarvis

September 27, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Terrence, I thank you and praise you for telling it like it is. I was horrified by the display on ESPN. I am a native Atlantan living in DC and was completely EMBARRASSED by what I saw. Those folks should be ashamed of themselves. They acted like a bunch of fools, plain and simple. They humiliated a whole city! Thanks for airing your opinions on this matter; we need your voice to set the matter straight.

By Jason

September 27, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Good article.

Vick…his untouchable status that was part of his own dreams has finally caught up to him and he now reaps what he has sown. Vick deserves to do time just like every other piece of s** out there who has done what he has done and is guilty of it (by his own admission). The pot test results are just the icing on his cake. Falcons, if you had any class…you’d fire him and make it known that players like him and a few others (Hall for one) don’t fit in the organization. Winning is nice, but ethics and morals trump all.

By bigdiggy

September 27, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

D Hinton wrote: “Crimes against dogs? People please… I’ve got 4 dogs, had 10 and none/all of them are not worth the life or misery of one human.”

This is the real issue, lest we all forget or become distracted by Vick’s other moral failings, which include spreading herpes, smoking pot, stealing watches, defaulting on a $2-million loan (anyone want to explain how THAT happened to a multimillionaire?): the real issue is that some people in this city believe that fighting dogs, executing dogs, and torturing dogs are perfectly acceptable behaviors.

It seems to me that that is a huge problem. It also seems to be concentrated among people who don’t have a lot of money and don’t have much education. I live in southwest Atlanta and I’ve seen this kind of attitude up close. I’ve seen how dogs can suffer and die brutal deaths in the “care” of ignorant people who think that a dog’s life or well-being is utterly meaningless. Shame on you for being not only inhumane but inhuman.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Gerard, I know “comma is a mother” (but apparently not a punctuation mark of which you are too fond), but so is KARMA.

So Gerard, you think that as long as someone did not commit a violent crime against another human being, no first offense should be punishable by jail? You think transporting 50 kilos of cocaine shouldn’t result in jail? Or, let’s say, running arms from Nicaragua to the U.S.?

I can see that one. “Well, Vick may have shipped the guns, but he didn’t shoot no one with ‘em!”

You people are absolutely pathetic.

Where is the outcry of justice for P-Funk, T & QT? “Free P-Funk!” I say. You people aren’t worried about “justice” or anything close to it. If you were, you’d be ranting and raving about how Vick’s 3 other co-defendants got a raw deal.

But you people don’t even care about the other 3, because they can’t run a 4.4 40 or toss a 60-yard pass. You say you care about “justice”? No, @s$holes, you only care about your black quarterback.

It’s so easy to see through your hypocrisy. But you people don’t even realize you’re guilty of it. That’s the saddest part about this whole thing; not what has happened to Michael Vick, but what has happened to how people view you ignorant supporters. Your reputations are taking the biggest hits in my mind, not Vick’s.

By GODAWGS

September 27, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

This is hilarious:

Whites agree with Terrences article and blacks are calling him an “Uncle Tom”. I couldn’t buy this much entertainment. Keep this blog going.

By SAM HILL

September 27, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Mr. Moore.

How about we just let this issue die. Its already dead. Mike Vick Is no longer a member of the Atlanta Falcons or the NFL and never will be again. Stop stirring things up with your damn endless rhetoric on this issue and appearing all over the media with interviews and town hall meetings!!!!! Enough. Its finished. its dead! Whats the point in continuing this p** contest. STOP TALKING ABOUT SOMEONE AND SOMETHING THAT IS NO LONGER RELEVANT!!!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 27, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

I agree with the article to an extent. Personally, I just want to see Vick play. Vick might be a complete idiot, but it doesn’t change the fact that he’s an exceptional athlete and a very good quarterback, and probably had a more positive on-field impact than any other player in Falcons history other than Jamal Anderson (the RB not the DE). I don’t have any emotional or racial ties to him, and I don’t really care what any athlete does once the game is over — I just want to be entertained for three hours every Sunday. But I don’t think that necessarily applies to a lot of his so-called apologists. A lot of these people, mostly (from my observation) black folks who are not financially well off, see a guy from the projects who made it big and don’t want to see that rags to riches story crashing down. That’s an understandable feeling which goes way beyond just “wanting to see him play”. So yeah, while some of us like myself just want to see him play regardless of what idiotic off-field decisions he makes, that doesn’t apply to all of his supporters.

I will say this though — as an off-and-on weed smoker who has experience beating drug tests, it doesn’t take a whole lot of effort to get the weed out of your system, and I don’t mean by using a Whizzinator. Failing a government mandated drug test, knowing fully well that it is coming, is easily the dumbest thing Vick has ever done — much more stupid than dogfighting. I will say this — for those of you who are not familiar with marijuana, it stays in your system a lot longer than most drugs, so it’s hard to say when exactly Vick was puffing the sticky-icky. (Although seeing as how he’s a professional athlete with very little body fat, chances are it wasn’t too long before he was tested). But either way, it doesn’t change the fact that he’s too stupid to beat a drug test. That is inexcusable.

By Nigel Williams

September 27, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

MV7 is not the first player in the NFL to dogfight and smoke weed and he certainly won’t be the last. The media chooses what they want to put out there. Michael got a ticket for not wearing a seatbelt. Michael defaulted on a personal loan, Michael has a std.This has gotten beyond ridiculous. How long are we going to put this man under a microscope. Pretty soon the ajc will be reporting on how many bowel movements he has in a day.

By CDS

September 27, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

The noun thug has one meaning:

Meaning #1: an aggressive and violent young criminal. From Answers.com

Michael Vick is a thug. Case closed.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Yeah, when the Phil Spector verdict came down, all the white people I know were jumping up and down, calling each other in exhilaration, and toasting one another in celebration. Another white man free! No matter if he committed the crime; the public was just out for him cause he was white! Another white man free to roam the streets again!

Wait, no…..No, that didn’t happen.

You ignorant pieces of refuse.

By jarvis

September 27, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

Bravo, Jason. I agree, 100%. Please Falcons Management, please get rid of these guys. I’d rather lose EVERY GAME with Harrington or some other QB then to get Vick back. Please take a stand and get rid of these thugs.

By John

September 27, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

The misguided and misbehaving minority at the ESPN town hall meeting are among our fellow citizens of Atlanta. While small in number, they represent a seqment of the community. And they always seem to get noticed. Boy, do they get noticed.

They are the same folks who bring their restless kids to the movies, don’t make ‘em behave and talk incessantly throughout the picture like they’re at home in the living room. They’re the same folks who scream for their graduate when his name is called despite repeated reqeusts to hold off on cheering until all grads names are announced. They’re the guy standing in front of you at McDonalds wearing a ‘DON’T SNITCH” T shirt cussing into his cell phone for all to hear while he waits for his Big Mac.

If you invite 100 of your closest friends to a party, chances are two or three of ‘em will drink too much, insult your mom or girlfriend and puke on somebody’s shoes.

Are they still your friends? Probably. But it doen’t make them any less drunk or their ignorant behavior any less embarrassing.

Apparently ESPN was frantically trying to recruit seat-warmers shortly before airtime. Apparently these numbnuts had spare time. Did ESPN take a second to school these last-minute invitees on expected decorum? Maybe. Or maybe ESPN wanted them to act like they were on JERRY SPRINGER. In any case, the latter behavior prevaild over the former.

By WWJD

September 27, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Who are you to judge and not give another a chance or help him/her in the right direction… Boy wait til judgement day and all the hypocrites are pulled out of the closet. Where it really counts one sin is not better than the other.

By Rusty

September 27, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Ya’ll do know that Mike ain’t gonna go around handing out $100 bills to you fools that are still backing him don’t you? I think Lee had the best post so far with the MLK “character” quote.Pretty much says it all.

By C'mon Man

September 27, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

And secondly Im getting tired of these people that are using the term thug do you really know what that mean, and the people that are condemning Mike Vick,judging Mike Vick because of his prior altercation with dog fighting okay he did it and right now hes paying heavingly for it before hes even sentenced.Ooh you want to see him worse then where hes at now thats just f@cked up really that us as Americans focus on smaller things like dogs being killed and letting bigger issues pass by.Mike Vick has lost all of his endorsements,some bank is trying to take money from Vick,the NFL is trying to take money from Vick,and on top of that Mike is still spending money on the his defense team.I hope that whoever is jumping on Mike Vick while hes down has their life and if their childrens life in check if they have any,because its going to be hard after you showed your true colors by judging Mike Vick because it is in the book of Matthew,”Do not judge, or you too will be judged.So guess what your time is coming and for the term thug it means theif,a brutal ruffian,assasin and also is known as a gangster or tough.A ruffian means butal person or bully so that is an example of most of us writing this comment.Beat a person more even when hes down instead of picking him up and helping him.Im a Vick supporter and Im well educated in all things.What if someone else were accused of killing 8 deer or 8 ducks during the wrong season and the person was (hmmm let me see) anybody that have a high profile like Mike Vick.Will you jump on that person to by calling him a thug and wishing every bad thing on him as you can wish?No!Then lets be equal this is to small of an issue to be big.Lets get the rapist,human killers,molesters,terrorist,Bush out of being a president and our soldiers back before all is lost.Get with the program people let it go.Its up to Mike,the judge and God right now not us.Lets pray for him because its just getting bad right now.Go Falcons and youre always in my prayers Mike Vick.

By DeltaGirl82

September 27, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Terrence, your article may be true, but you yourself keep giving people a forum to vent/trash about Michael Vick. You just can’t stop bashing him every chance you get. We all sin in our thoughts and our actions whether they are big or little. Be careful how you judge others, because one day you may be in the same situation where you are being judged.

Let Michael Vick alone. Let him do his time and “this to shall pass.” Whether or not he ever plays football again he is still a human being just like you. It sounds like you might need to find Jesus Christ yourself and get some counseling so that you can write about someone other than Michael Vick. God Bless Michael Vick and God Bless You Too Terrence!

Just my opinion.

By mike

September 27, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

With everything being said here about how embarrassed many are by the way the crowd reacted to various issues. I know that MV7 played for the Falcons, but was very curious as to why ESPN didn’t pick a neutral site for this discussion? (Rhetorical) It was because they knew what was going to happen. Those that attended, you were set up to look like idiots. However, you didn’t have to fall for the trap. ESPN knew exactly what they were doing. Why wasn’t it held in VA where the crimes were committed? or somewhere up north were this isn’t a cultural travesity? DRAMA!!!! ESPN producers knew the reaction would be MV7 friendly and how idiotic that would make ATL look.
Residence of ATL, those select few that attended the meeting projected an embarrassing image for the rest of the nation to poke fun of. Now that MV7 hurt ATL through his actions, so did his Athletic Supporters. How naive can these people be? (again rhetorical)

By Allison Kattrell

September 27, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Adolph Hitler was a reflection of the culture he came from, and the people he hung around with.

By vick apologist

September 27, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

The thing about this is everyone is entitled to the way they feel. Vick will always have supporters because, although it’s rare, there are still people who don’t advocate hate and have a spirit of forgiveness. The man has lost his career, respect, money, no doubt friends, and i’m sure a times his will to go on. He’s going to jail, he is being ridiculed daily what more do you want. I know for you terrence his head on a platter. But if people support him let them. Will he play again. Probably not. Do I wanna see him play again. Yes. Give me something else to read besides T. Moore’s hate articles on Vick and his fans.

By deju vu all over again

September 27, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately, and I mean this sincerely, Michael Vick and Mike Tyson have a lot in common. And, sadly, the outcome will probably be the same.

By DavefromChattanooga

September 27, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

The OokieDookie is sho hittin’ the fan.

By GATransplant

September 27, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

First, let me state that I do not condone harming an animal for any reason except self preservation.

With that said, I must continue with the following:

Wow Terrance it is good that you have a venue to support your ideas, but did you know that while they were convicting Mike Vick for killing dogs, dog pounds here in Georgia were putting good dogs to sleep. There was an article on the same page in the AJC about it on the same day the story broke!!! Check it out if you don’t believe me.
Did you also know that the dog pound that seized his dogs had to put good dogs to sleep to make room for the dogs that he had, which they stated would probably have to be put to sleep because they were probably too violent. Let’s start by getting rid of the term “put to sleep” and continue by stating what it really is, “Killing”. I guess it is ok to kill animals as long as you say that you did so because there wasn’t enough room at the dog pound, hungh? Perhaps you could also say that the animals were too violent to remain alive. I am sure that you could come up with dozens of reasons to justify the slaughter of animals in other instances but you are adamantly against any of the reasons that Mike Vick did it. I guess it is sick to make money off of dog fights when you can kill them to save money that it would take to build a larger facility to house them.
I know…you want to be on the side that is currently right and that is the side that sees his behavior as cruel, but what of that side? How many of those PETA activists are spending their money to get a reserve to relocate animals that may be killed in dog pounds due to a lack of space? Where did you send your donation? Please let all of your like minded friends know so that they can speedily send their own. He is a lightening rod now because he has notoriety and tons of money but if this were Billy Joe Bob down the street, he would have gotten a fine and sent on his way.
Surely, if you can see so much wrong in the world you are doing something about it, right? I mean, you have an outlet that reaches thousands of readers and you could solicit contributions to arrive at a solution that would save animals’ lives, aren’t you guilty of knowing that animals will die if you do nothing and yet what are you doing except riding a dead horse.
A better solution to this entire situation would have been to fine Mike Vick and make him establish, in part with PETA, an animal reserve where animals could be allowed to roam free and live free. It could even help out the economy by employing people to feed and tend to the animals. Mike Vick’s presence could have been used to dissuade others through education and not severe penalization, but I am betting that you, and other like minded people, would rather see a man get locked up than to see the animals have a safe haven. The problem wouldn’t get solved but at least you would have something to write about in your column. “Hear this, hear this…Mike Vick jailed for cruelty to animals!!!” If you really cared, you would be thinking about a solution and not just restating the problem!!! That isn’t making progress but you could possibly run for Congress.

By KenFromCalifornia

September 27, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

vick’s supporters should not forget that michael’s true crime is illegal gambling. no matter what the league may say pubicly about dogfighting, gambling is the problem that got vick in such hot water with the nfl. no way anyone in professional sports who is involved with illegal gambling ever gets back. michael “only” put up $26k? well, someone else had to do the same. who was that other person who could afford to gamble so much money? i’m sure that’s one of the questions the fbi will ask him before sentencing in december. dogfighting makes the headlines. illegal gambling will keep michael out of the league forever. and let’s not dismiss the fact that the original search warrant on that house had to do with drugs. did some of mike’s people sell drugs so that they’d have enough jack to gamble with? with apologies to terrence mathis, mike would have been better off trying to help his boyz get a jr college degree and a hook-up with phil knight at nike….setting them up instead with their own illegal job enterprise hardly qualifies him for sainthood.

By klide

September 27, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Long a reader, not always in agreement with your views, but I must commend you Terrence on stepping up on this vick situation. He is merely a criminal who has been exposed. He does not deserve to represent decent people anywhere in our society. What a gift he was given. What a waste.

By Tradub1906

September 27, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Mr. Moore, you and all the other people who are against MV7 are entitled to your opinions of the situation. The fact still remains that MV7 pled guilty to a crime within an improperly balanced judicial system that most would have been exonerated from. Furthermore, its not only that we are riding the emotions as a football fan, but we recognize the blatant disparities on how he’s being treated and feel that if others can do dirt and walk away with a slap on the wrist….then why can’t MV7???? PS……and for future reference to all the MV7 supporters…Please proofread your comment so these INTELLECTUALS in here won’t have nothing to say. It is kinda embarrassing.

By Najeh Davenpoop

September 27, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, for all you kids out there who might some day smoke weed and have to beat a drug test, here’s how you do it.

1. The active ingredient in marijuana, THC, is stored in body fat. The less body fat you have, the faster the THC will exit your system. Between your last smoke and your drug test, you should exercise as much as possible — the more fat you burn, the quicker the THC will exit your system. Cardiovascular activities, such as running, are ideal for this purpose.

2. However, in the 24 hours before your drug test, you should make sure to do as little exercise as possible. When you take your test, you want as little THC in your bloodstream as possible. If you exercise within that 24 hour period, you are likely to dislodge THC from your body fat but not yet expel it from the body, meaning when you urinate in the cup that dislodged THC will end up in your urine sample. In other words, at the time of your drug test you want all your THC to either be in your body fat or expelled from your body — you do NOT want any in your bloodstream.

3. Drink a LOT of water. Obviously, the more water you drink, the more you will urinate, and the more you urinate the faster your body expels THC.

Depending on who you ask, weed can stay in your system from anywhere between two to six weeks after smoking. What kind of weed you smoke, how often you smoke, and how fat you are greatly affects this number. But if you follow my three simple steps, you will be able to cut your time in half. Further resources are available online — just ask Google.

Of course, if you just smoked yesterday and you have to take your drug test today, it’s a lot harder. You can drink a lot of water and hope for the best, but the drug testers may catch on to that. In that case, you are better off borrowing a urine sample from a friend — just make sure it is held close to your body for 30-60 minutes prior to use, since it has to be the proper temperature in order for the test to be valid.

Sad, isn’t it? If only Michael Vick had asked me, he may not be confined to his home right now.

By Spivey

September 27, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

All you people need to get real. Fine Michael Vick and let him go back to work. The Hockey player who drove drunk and killed his best friend was not vilified as badly as Mike Vick nor is he going to jail. PETA, support eliminating the pitbull breed. These dogs have killed many people. White men have been dog fighting in the south for years. How many have been sent to jail for years. Terence you list accusations against MV. How many times have your or any of us been accused but not guilty. Young people make mistakes, that the right of the young. WE can only hope that they learn from their mistakes. Fine the man and let him go back to work. THAT’S RIGHT WORK. Being a QB in the NFL is a job not a priviledge. I am tired of reading and hearing about this situation. Oh! I do not believe the Falcon organization did not know about this situation.

By GM R

September 27, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

You missed the main point - “they” are just plain ignorant - morally (it’s only dogs) and intellectually (check out “their” spelling and grammar)- I may have to subsidise them but I don’t have to pay attention to their opinions

By Rich

September 27, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

The ignorant people you saw screaming and booing are the same people who vote for Democrats, the naive and uneducated. The people who booed Chuck Smith and Terrance Moore for not falling in line just because they are black men should be ashamed of themselves, because they believe Vick did this too himself and has to be held accountable and that no one was out to get him (MV), I for one was impressed with Chuck Smith and think it took a lot of courage to say the things he said, thank you Chuck Smith. The people who booed him scare me because they obviously don’t see right and wrong, they see black and white.
Additionally, those people scare me because their raising children to see race and not a man’s deeds, I believe the majority of those people embarrassing the City of Atlanta during the ESPN town hall meeting are as big a racist’s as anyone who ever wore a Klan outfit. The apologist don’t want Vick held accountable simple because he is black and for no other reason. They try to justify Vick’s bad behavior with someone else’s bad behavior, comparing one bad deed to another never works, it’s all wrong and each individual has to held accountable for their own actions. Fifty years ago when all white jury’s convicted an innocent black man or acquitted a guilty white man those jury’s were racist and the majority of the people who want Vick left alone want it solely because he is black man and that’s racism. Until people in this country raise their children to see a man’s deeds and evaluate him based on those deeds this country will always have the problems we have.

By jarvis

September 27, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Ok, Mike…heard that excuse used before in the past that the it’s the “media’s fault” for “setting these people up!” or for “convicting Mike”…try another one. People do what they want to do. Act like a bunch of morons, they did. ESPN broadcast from ATL, because…DUH?! Do the math! So… what?, we gotta protect people from their own dumbness? Please, try another excuse. They all looked ridiculous and everyone is laughing. Wise up, buddy.

By Erik

September 27, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

C’mon Man: “Some bank is trying to take money from Vick, the NFL is trying to take money from Vick…”

Uhhh, hardly. Vick took out a loan and didn’t pay it back. That’s what a “loan” is; it’s not your money. It’s the bank’s money.

And the Falcons are attempting to get their money back since he isn’t playing. At your job, if you committed a felony and was suspended or in jail and could not play, do you think your employer would still pay you? Where’s the common sense?

Please!! This isn’t the media’s fault, this isn’t Arthur Blank’s fault, this isn’t the NFL’s fault, this isn’t some bank’s fault… this is ALL squarely on the shoulders of Michael Vick. The guy admits to a felony and some of you act like it’s a witch-hunt. Un——real.

And for all the people saying some of us want to see him never play again or or are punishing him too harshly… I’ve tried to give him the benefit of the doubt. But the guy KEEPS SCREWING UP and makes it impossibly for me to back him. I do hope he gets his life back together. I don’t wish the guy ill will.

By GS

September 27, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Boots— *modicum * I can’t wait until tomorrow to see your tomorrow’s word for the day.

By A

September 27, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

nice job tom

By SealT2

September 27, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

This is only for those of you that have the capacity for serious thinking. No responses from those with small brains, especially Stan. When did MV7’s legal problems begin? Who missed a Congressional Hearing and basically flipped them off? Who has the power to get governmental law enforcement in the lives of a citizen? Who has the power to investigate a life in this country under guise of a drug search?

By midnite

September 27, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

The problem with the black sub- culture(not all blacks)is two fold. First, most of them are not taught at an early age right from wrong, or lack of discipline. Second, there is just no respect for authority, such as for the laws of this country.

Look at these urban ghetto’s and you will find crime is rampant. Teen girls spitting out 3 or 4 babies before they are 20 years old. Father figures who are non-existent.

Take a look at what happened after Katrina for example. Youths looting, carrying TVs through waist deep water, with no electricity to power them. More interested in stealing than helping people to safety.

There is no wonder they always support the lawless malcontents. They never support the upright and law-abiding, responsible black celebrities, politicians, and athletes. They just remain in the cycle of public housing, welfare, and crime.

What a screwed up sub-culture that embraces that lifestyle. It’s all the white mans fault is their mantra.

By erica

September 27, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

DeeZee, do not worry for ur darling michael vick, becasue , HE HAS FOUND GOD!!!!!!!! for someone who can find GOD in such a short time ,(after seven years hideous crime to dogs but only a few weeks after he was nailed by the fed :)))), i bet his GOD, is going to guide and protect him from all the people who is piling on him. and make sure he doesn’t get DUMB AND DUMBER everyday. i hope the rest of us who has compassion towards those helpless,defendless, voiceless pitbulls and the bait dogs and cats can find GOD in the near future too. i won’t be very surprised may be when vick is in trouble again after his weed bust, he is going to tell the public he also find ” ALAH ” OO. may GOD and ALAH bless michael vick the thug.

By jack

September 27, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

The people that write in and say things about Vick are people that didn’t like him from the start. Let’s be honest about, Vick did wrong and all you people are kicking him now that he’s down. Terrence is only doing trying to gain on another man down fall. To me he is a lesser man then Vick. And you people never like him, because of his talents and because of the money he made. You people are all the same.

By Bonnie Johnson

September 27, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Good point, Allison. If Hitler had been black and could throw a spiral, Atlanta and the rest of the AA community would be naming streets after him and celebrating his birthday and trying to force it on the rest of America.

By Plainspeak

September 27, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

For the only time in my life——you are 100% correct, Mr Moore.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

I’ll bet you people shouting, “He who is without sin…” haven’t even seen the inside of a church in years. And if you did, it was only the church in the “Godfather” and “Grand Theft Auto” video games.

You talk about “he who is without sin…,” yet you stand in judgment of others, something presumably only your God should do.

Get a clue. Or better yet, a job.

By mike

September 27, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Jarvis, I am not your buddy (in a positive or derogatory sense). Had you read my previous posts, you would completely understand my position on this entire matter. But your lack of comprehending what you read obviously isn’t your strongest skill. Don’t give me the “DUH!” answer, makes you sound like an ignorant person. State your case intelligently if you can. Do the Math? What the hell does that mean? White to Black ratio in ATL versus other venues? or Percentage of AA’s in ATL as compared to other possible venues? or Total percentage of Educated AA to Uneducated AA in ATL versus that of other possible venues? I am doing the math, Jarvis, which one should I focus my attention on. What is obvious is that you have no clue therefore can’t elaborate.

By tiff

September 27, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

I dare anyone to show me in any of my post where I defended Michael Vick on any dogfighting charges. Why would I defend him when he pled guilty in a court of law. The judge is going to sentence him, so why do people like Terrance and most of you posting here keep making an issue out of it. I repeat he has pled guity and will be sentenced by a judge why do you keep making an issue out of it. You say blacks like me make everything a racial issue—I say it is a race issue, because when a white person does something even worse we don’t hear about it except in passing. Vick got 24-7 coverage, “THAT’S WHAT MAKES IT A RACE ISSUE”. There are a lot of good white people who see the injustice in this world, people like the ones in Jena Lousiana, they know there is one rule, and one law for blacks and one for whites. People who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King and people like David Bowie. They are not racist so they can look at things with an open mind. But for those of you who are racist or “TOMS” you only see with your eyes and not with your hearts. Otherwise you would make the same fuss when a white person does something equally as bad. And I put this before you-I don’t make everthing out to be a racial issue I call them the way I see them. And here I see a blcak man being lynched by the media for doing something bad, while whites do things equally or just as bad and we don’t here about it from this newspaper or people like Terrance Moore. I have nothing against Terrance, he has to make a living, pay his bills and support his family the same way I do. But when making a living at the downfall or demise of another is your only goal and your only mind-set in life. Brother you need to call it a day, and go on a job search. But anyway to all of you good people out there “LOVE EACH OTHER” and stop hating people for who they are and what they have. None of us are going to take it with us anyway. Think about it have you ever seen any owners taking their Escalades or Lexus’ or any of their money for that matter to heaven or hell with them. “PEACE OUT” and much love to all my brothers and sisters “BLACK AND WHITE”.

By GS

September 27, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Earl You can bet both your dollars before you get a chance, you will not see Peyton Manning’s name in any wrong doing, because it will have been covered up. It’s been happening so long with Whites that Whites actually believe they are holy, pure and the ones to follow. Please, glad I’m not that naive. If Whites were exposed for all the wrong they do then the law in this country wouldn’t be the same, and their wouldn’t be loopholes just incase Whites break those laws. Get REAL

By deju vu all over again

September 27, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Najeh Nimcompoot: Even better advice: don’t smoke the crap!

As someone who worked in the substance abuse business for more years than I’d like to admit, this advice is very unreliable and probably will not work for you.

Why take the chance?

By Earl

September 27, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Tonya - I’d say something but it would be positive.

I’m afraid you just don’t get it. Dogs are not normally vicious, they don’t normally fight to the death when they happen upon eachother. Dog’s fight (occasionally) in nature to establish dominance in a pack, but the losing dog always submits and is usually unhurt.

Vick’s dogs were vicious and did fight to the death because that’s what he raised them to do. And why? So that his ‘homeies’ would be able to gamble and make money on them, such that they didn’t have to go out and get a real job or try to make something of themselves. Quite the role model…. thank god I know better

By Jumbo

September 27, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

GS You missed my point pal and from the looks of your posts, you are missing a lot of people’s points. I would never ask, nor would I expect the African American community to rally behind a white athlete but again, that was not my point.

My point was that the absolute majority of African Americans that are standing behind and supporting Vick is because of the color of his skin, not because they view him as a hero or martyr or want him to play. It’s because of the color of his skin. That was the point of my post.

One of the most horrific things I have ever witnessed in my entire life was the sheer jubilation by African Americans when the OJ verdict was read. African Americans in my office were running around the cubicles flailing their arms and utter joy. Why? Because a black man just got away with butchering two white people. It was all about color as is this situation.

If this had been a white local sports hero, no African Americans would stand behind him and the whites here would take the same stance as they are doing in the Vick case. It’s all about color and race with the African American community GS. That’s all that matters.

By Vick Supporter

September 27, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

I am so sick of all you white people thinking you are so much better than us because you obey the law and have education. I make $75,000 a year as a Systems Network Engineer for Crisco. All my white coworkers act like that hate me because of my substandard work, my negative attitude, my short temper and my rudeness, but I know they are truly hateful and jealous of me working alongside them just because of my skin color. I teach my son to stand up for himself and speak his mind just like me and distrust all you sorry white people too!

All Vick did was kill some dogs while that white hockey player killed a human being and got nothing for it because of his race. GET REAL, PEOPLE!!!

The Falcons are NOTHING without Mike Vick!!! You all got your redneck quarterback and you now see what that got you.
I hope we lose every single game!!!

By Stan

September 27, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

SealT2. No matter how small my brain is, I have the use of most of it,unlike yourself So, it’s a government conspiracy against Vick? The CIA invented crack and Bush created Katrina. His problems began when he was being raised. Look at his brother, Marcus. Cut from the same cloth. He’s a moron and so are you.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

Just saw a picture of some more idiots chanting and “demonstrating” in the streets wearing MV7 jerseys.

Those pictures reminded me of the shots you see of Islamists in the Middle East carrying on in the streets every time someone sneezes in their direction.

This type of behavior is carried out, and condoned, by only the uncivilized and uneducated. These are archaic methods; today we write our Congressmen or pass along petitions.

I wish these people had any idea how ridiculous they look outside of their own little community. Yeah, the dude next door may think you’re cool because you “take to the streets,” but civilized, educated people look at you and shake their heads (while laughing). So, just keep on making yourselves look like morons. You’ve done a pretty good job of it thus far.

By Earl

September 27, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

GS - I think you need to follow you own advice.

I realize it’s easier to ‘blame whitey’ for all the short comings in your life than accept responsibility for the choice you make or people you associate with, but please.. how about some personal responsibility. I know that’s a bad word in a lot of circles these days but I think it’s about time that changed.

By bdeuga

September 27, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I want to respond to an earlier post saying that the actions by the league have been unprecedented by banning Vick items from being sold. It is not the NFL but the individual companies making these marketing decisions. The individual companies have made the choice that it would be bad on their businesses to continue to sell Vick merchandise. The NFL cannot be blamed for that. If there is a large number of people who are upset about this “unprecedented” move then perhaps they should contact the companies involved. Obviously the outcry has not been that great.

By Tarheel23

September 27, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I really believe that Atlanta may be the dumbest city in America. I am all for forgiving Mike Vick but some of you need to get a clue. Supporting a brother just because he is black is ridiculous. We are all brothers in the eyes of the Lord. Mike Vick broke the law, lied about it, lied again until his boys dropped dime on him. He then claimed to be a born again Christian only to fire up a big doobie.

Preach to the kids and use Mike Vick as an example of what not to do. We need to forgive him but he is truly dumb. Until he helps himself, your support means nothing. I am going to miss watching Mike Vick play football. Use some common sense and stop blaming black peoples problems on the man. Rise up people.

By Erik

September 27, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Tiff,

Good points and I do agree with much that you have said. But, in my opinion (and only an opinion), I think Vick is getting killed in the media because of his high profile, not because of his race. I guarantee you if Peyton Manning had the last year or two that Vick has had, that he’d be getting drilled by the media. I only bring up an athlete in another city because there really aren’t any white athletes in Atlanta that have the star power of Vick. I can say it enough, Michael Vick was the face of a city, a franchise, and the most successful sports league the world has even known. This is a big deal.

In addition, if you want to see the media absolutely crushing someone white who’s screwing up, just go to Google and search Britney Spears or Lindsay Lohan. Trust me, all of these people have one thing in common: it’s their high profile in the public eye, not their race.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Actually, people would be MORE upset if Brady or Manning were in the same situation as Vick. People actually EXPECT them to behave themselves. I can’t think of many people who, after seeing him speak publicly and commit various other “misjudgments,” actually expected Vick to behave himself.

If you think white people are hard on Vick for what he did, they would be even more upset if this were by a member of our own race. But we would take it personally and scold them for it; you people take it personally and praise Vick.

See the difference? If not, take off your black-colored glasses.

By tiff

September 27, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter, you make $75,000 a year as an engineer, and you can’t speak well or spell. I only make a $52,000, can you tell me if your company is hiring and where do I sign up. To be ignorant, and spell like that and make that much money. As Don King has said a million times “Only In America”. And by the way if your black as you stated, then i’m Rush Limbaugh.

By Earl

September 27, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter: Are you kidding me???

“I am so sick of all you white people thinking you are so much better than us because you obey the law and have education.”

Mayhaps we should all aspire to be like Mike? An uneducated, drug-user,dogfighter and convicted felon. Maybe you’ll get lucky enough and your son will marry someone with the same credentials.

By deju vu all over again

September 27, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

GS: As a bonus, please consider the following: imbecilic and idiotic.

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Athletic Supporter, you work for Crisco? Now THAT’S funny!

By peace

September 27, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

DeeZee, You have sumed it up for me! I agree with you 100%. God have mercy on us all.

By T.C

September 27, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

mr.moore with a small m,why are you worried about how someone else feels about M.VICK? did those people hurt your feelings? i think they did.everybody is not going to always agree and thats if there right or wrong.but your getting what you want from everyone that is posting there comments so i guess you feel better now.you should worry about your own demons and you wont get the back lash from the supporters.what he did was wrong but i just happen to be one of those people with forgiveness in my heart something you and a lot of posters dont know about.shut up and talk about whats going on in the sports world something you dont know about noway.

By Mr.Perfect

September 27, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Okay, so MV committed a felony. All the Vick supporters say that he should be forgiven. “It was just dogs, it was only weed, he was under stress, its part of his culture” whatever. Keep in mind his actions constituted a felony. I am willing to bet a dollar to a wooden nickel that these same supporters of Vick were leading the protest to get the I-man fired. Hypocrisy abound.

Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity*

By Joshua

September 27, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Anyone still supporting Vick is an idiot… Textbook definition of an idiot. I will bet that they’re trying to get Rae Carruth paroled so that he can play with the Falcons. Why not sign Mark Chmura too? The offense would be killer. Morons.

By Herschel

September 27, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Great Article. Having been born in ATL I felt sad for our city and all the cultured and kind hearted AA who make ATL unique and a great city, but who are brought down by a few fanatics. P.S. Have you noticed that the people that support Vick cannot spell when they post messages and were the ones with broken English at the town hall meeting?

By Jason

September 27, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Excellent Article!

I was in the studio audience for The Vick Divide. I was so embarassed to be in that crowd…what a poor representation of Atlanta!

By non-sports fan

September 27, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Now since Michael Vick & his friends will be going to prision over the harm of animals. Why dont we all use our voice and boycott the legalizing of dog & horse racing. The making of clothing from animals & I also think boxing as well. What do you say people & PETA? Lets do it. It is time for a change.

By BlackMan

September 27, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter, read your comments. How can you admit too your substandard work, your negative attitude, your short temper and your rudeness. I would not like you either. I am black myself and to portray yourself in this light is pretty sad. By passing your distrust in white people on to your son only makes the racial situation worse. Do you work for Criso or Cisco. I thought Crisco made vegatable oil, why would they need a Systems Network Engineer. I hope your coworkers read your comments and fire your black a*…

By Tom

September 27, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

There is a certain part of our population that is oblivious to a lot of things. Like when the cops raid a crack house & the whole neighborhood comes out & starts to riot. Saying the cops are doing the wrong thing. They start to throw rocks & bottles, one or more of them gets shot, & the next thing you know they want an investigation in to a “hate crime”.

By BUSHWACKER

September 27, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

I just changed my mind. First time offfenders don’y go to jail!

I admit I have not thought about that until right now.

Don’t get me wrong, he broke the law and must pay a penalty.

But why is Mike Vick “first time offender” going to jail?

And where is Al and Jesse?

I’m not changing my mind about Vick being our QB, not because of the legal issues, but because he is not smart enough to play the posistion, and after the latest boneheaded issue I would find it hard to beleive anyone out there does not agree.

BUT, I do no believe he should be going to prison.

A huge fine,probation, drug testing, and REAL COMMUNITY SERVICE would do more good than locking him up with hard core criminals where he would probably come out a much worse person than he is today!

By TallyDAWG

September 27, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Great article. I couldn’t have said it better myself.

By tiff

September 27, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

I saw on the news and in the paper they are now saying the white guy that killed the two real estate workers has asperger syndrome-a form of Autism. I can tell you this that I am an almost expert, because I have read everything there is to read on Autism and the many forms of it, that they labeled him with that to get him off. They also tried to say Chris Benoit had some mental illness that made him kill his family. Don’t you people get it by now. When blacks do something we are nothing but animals, when they do something they put a cause and a disease on it, so they won’t look like animals. Remember the woman that drowned her five kids then called 911 and admitted it. They made up this supposed disease that no one knew she had before she killed them. She is in a mental institution, and will be released as soon as her doctor says her treatment is finished. For all the blacks or whites that believe this is fair, you have a lot more to be concerned about than Vick and his troubles.

By Southern Born

September 27, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter:

Love your vegetable shortening. But my Crisco firewall keeps getting fried, just like Vick.

Mayor Nagin, it looks like you’re out of luck in creating a “Chocolate City” - it’s already been done.

By Soryu

September 27, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Vick Supporter:

Do you work for Cisco (which is a technology company that makes switches, routers and such) or Crisco which makes cooking oils. Does Crisco even have Network Systems Engineers?

By Towelie

September 27, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

So Bushwacker, 1st-time offenders shouldn’t go to jail? If I brought 50 kilos of cocaine into my neighborhood and got busted, I should only get community service and a fine, right?

Jail is there for a reason. It is because the people in there can not control themselves and need someone else to control them. Michael Vick can not keep himself out of trouble; therefore, he needs a fence and armed guards to keep himself out of trouble.

That is why we have jail, and that is why that is where Michael Vick is headed.

By joel

September 27, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I’m glad a black man can stand up and say these things… the black community needs people like T. Moore to say these things so as they are not represented solely by the idiots in the crowd at the “Town Hall Meeting”

By Soryu

September 27, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

If whites are so good at covering things up, please explain Nixon, Clinton, Enron, WorldComm, etc etc.

Oh and if you think only black QBs have it bad—see what is going on with Rex right now.

By BeBe KID

September 27, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

To TC, Terence Moore and the rest of you Mike Vick haters. Just because black people show compassion for Mike Vick does not mean that all of them are apologist. Most black people recognize his error in judgement. He did some bad things perhaps with the dogs but smoking marijuana is not one of them. This drug should be legalized any way, but that’s a whole other blog and I will stay on point. Mike Vick is no Jeffrey Dahmer, no Danny Rolling, no Ted Bundy, and no John Wayne Gacy. Mike Vick is a young man that made poor choices but the media is attempting to demonize him. Mike Vick is no CRIMINAL. Mike Vick a good person.

The actions of Mike Vick gave many racist whites in METRO ATL and beyond an opening and opportunity to spew their pent up racist venom. There is a high level of frustration among white people in METRO ATL because many blacks have a better quality of life then they do. Frustrated whites view black achievment and success with scorn because they feel blacks have been given preferential treatment through affirmative action policies discriminating against who they consider better qualified white people. Many whites hated to see Mike Vick with that multimillion dollar contract just as they hate to see any black athlete that is paid millions, just as they hate to see any black person prosper especially if they have a better quality of life and more than what they got. Black success disproves and contradicts white superiority and many whites have mental difficulties as a result.

These racist white people have a chance to vent hiding behind their so called love for dogs and their so called unwavering appreciation and respect for the law. Many white people view the prison industrial complex with legitimacy while many black people don’t. Every day in the US a black man is exonerated through DNA testing in many instances from death row for crimes they did not commit after being on death row for decades. There are many reasons that black people as a whole are skeptical and question the legitimacy of the legal system, therefore, we have compassion for people who run afoul of the law. Just look at what’s currently going on in Jena, Louisiana.

By gspot

September 27, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

The only part I disagree with; with Vick they were ‘extraordinary’???? THAT, my friend, is the overstatement of the year! They were ordinary at best with a VERY exciting player…and that is it.

By GaDawg

September 27, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

This whole sordid affair comes down to a ‘Right v. Wrong’ thing, not a ‘Black v. White’ thing as many would have you believe.

MV was / is wrong, those of you who think otherwise are kidding yourselves. Not only that but he seems incapable of learning from his mistakes - see failed durning test after pleading guilty to federal charges and hoping the judge goes easy on him.

Let me ask those of you who support MV this - Would you hope that your childrens lives turn out similarly? If you found your child doing drugs would do you say ‘That’s ok we all make mistakes’?

By Aprill

September 27, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

We forgive Mike Vick for his felony conviction and or poor decisions. He admitted guilt. He will have to serve time. That’s accepting responsibility and apologizing for yor actions. sidebar:Quanis Phillips is still in prison because he admitted using weed and had significant criminal record. Mike Vick doesn’t.

We do not think that Mike is innocent. We feel very strongly that Mike has been beaten down by the media and Public interest groups like PETA etc. The tactics used by this organization are hideous. I received emails from PETA and they in my opinion are KKK with the racist antics they employ. I have never seen in my life time such bias and slanted coverage.

We don’t have to kick a brother when he is down. Can you imagine being stripped in public because of you poor decisions? You’re licking your wounds trying to get up after the defense has beaten you and continuously pour gasoline on open wounds. Why?It can’t make you feel better! Not only has he been attacked but his family,friends and supporters.

The AJC blogs have been notorious for allowing racism and hatred to abound on their blogs. This is very offensive. Terrence you don’t know why people support Vick and you do not have any right to offend the readers because we do not believe as you or as many Toms do.

Yes he is a sick christian that needs healing(positive marijuana test). God is not like us! We all can use healing. Yes we fall down, but we get up! Especially if you allow me to get on my knees vs being defenseless because you will not get off his back.

By mei

September 27, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

GS…were you at the town hall meeting? Why did you guys try to turn a responsible discussion into the Jerry Springer Show? I think it is because you and your fellow Vick apologist do not have the mental capacity to talk intelligently about any subject..Unless the subject is about how everything that goes wrong in your life is some one else fault. You would be an expert on that subject. Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!

By Chris

September 27, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Black people will NEVER earn respect from anyone because of the display of the audience at the meeting. Blacks are always preaching about respect but they certainly hate to give it. The panel deserved more!

By CDS

September 27, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

These are FEDERAL charges being brought against him, not an arrest. Sorry, but they don’t give out community service for violating the Interstate Commerce Act. And he wouldn’t be locked up with hardcore criminals, he would be going to federal prison which is a lot less violent and shady than lets say, the Fulton County Detention Center.

First offense or not, the severity of an action determines your punishment. If you kills dogs, or humans for that matter, there is no such thing as community service for a first time offense. Al and Jesse aren’t in this because they know that there’s nothing to fight about. They are busy with a REAL issue about racism in the Jena Six case. That people, is racism. Not some overrated, overpaid QB pleading guilty to charges and has yet to keep himself out of trouble. Why fight for something that can’t be fought for?

By KenFromCalifornia

September 27, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

what’s ironic is that mike coulda gotten away with a fine if he had just simply gotten his lawyers to enter a plea deal with the hapless d.a. poindexter up in virginia. this thing would have been squashed long before the fbi sent in their no-nonsense people to dig up the graves (remember, poindexter dragged his feet for weeks on the search warrants, giving the fbi time to bougard in). but michael’s attitude was “no matter what i do, people’ll always luv mike vick!” you can’t do very much to save a grown man who insists on living in a dream world. as i’ve said, michael’s true problem is illegal gambling. nfl commissioner goodell will not let him back in anymore than art schlister and pete rose (two white guys, btw) will get back in.