I say put him in a pen with an angry pitbull and let the pit have a little snackie!

Posted by: April | July 18, 2007 05:20 PM

The Falcons organization, owners and managers, are as much of a group of cowards as thier scumbag QB Vick. To sit back and "defend" a degenerate scum like Vick, when they know the truth, makes their organization, and all the cowardly scum in it, no different than the lowest form of filth that Vick is. Great role model. I will never buy a Nike product if they dont dump him. This is not the Duke case. If anything, that case all but gurantees the charges against him - even though he might get some scumbag lawyer to defend him.

Posted by: Mark Horne | July 18, 2007 05:45 PM

Michael Vic and his pals should receive the same treatment as the dogs!

Posted by: Christine Spruston | July 18, 2007 05:53 PM

PETA should list all of the NFL's major advertisers and have phone numbers and emails that we can contact them with.

Posted by: bud fox | July 18, 2007 06:30 PM

This is a no brainer. People are defending this guy? I have stayed away from this news until now. He should never see day light again. But before that he should be wet down and electrocuted.

Posted by: Heather | July 18, 2007 06:32 PM

The NFL is fast becoming THUGS like the NBA and if Vick is not fired immediately for his pathetic, filthy, evil, sick activities, the NFL is no better than that scumbag black bastard. He should be hung and electrocuted just like he did to those poor innocent animals. Then he can burn in HELL!!!

Posted by: Rhonda Siegers | July 18, 2007 06:48 PM

CONTACT THE ATALANTA FALCONS AND ASK THEM TO DUMP THE SICK ABUSER!

http://www.atlantafalcons.com/About/Contact_Us.aspx

Posted by: Gabriela | July 18, 2007 07:14 PM

It is so sad to see how low a person will go to harm innocent animals all in the interest of making more money. I will stop buying any Nike, Coke, Airtran and Kraft products that will still endorse Michael Vick. I also emailed these companies. We are the voices for these innocent animals who suffer in the hands of masochists.

Posted by: Fabiola | July 18, 2007 07:19 PM

I have been trying to find a Nike email address so that I, too, could say that neither I nor any of my family will buy a Nike product again if they don't stop sponsoring Vick!

Posted by: Diane Judex | July 18, 2007 07:32 PM

What needs to be done is getting out footage or pics of these animals hanging, being electrocuted etc to the mass media. People live in a bubble in the western world and unless the mainstream media starts showing what really took place at that Virginia farm, it will be yesterdays news. No offense but the PETA website is not mainstream. It needs to get to the masses for people to really get it. PETA needs to use this as their platform. This should be PETA's rallying cry. I live near Calgary and we had a case last year of a guy taping up a dog and dragging it behind a car. Vet had to put it down. Said it was worse thing he ever saw. It is now yesterday's news because no impression was left. No animal cruelty laws were changed because of this. This is your chance.

Posted by: steve | July 18, 2007 07:34 PM

The Feds should take all his money and give it to PETA and HSUS.

Then strip MICHAEL VICK NAKED, hose him down and electrocute him until death and use his body for dog food.

Posted by: tiberius | July 18, 2007 07:48 PM

A fish rots from the head down. Arthur Blank is the owner of the Atlanta Falcons (or Alantic Felons). He has the authority but not the will to pull Vick's contract. All those concerned should contact either his business or his foundation. The clients of his foundation should also be contacted and notified where there blood money is derived.
The foundation number is 404-367-2100. Email address is: grantinquiries@ambfo.com

His business (AMB Group) communications director is: Kim Shreckengost of AMB Group, LLC, +1-404-367-2140, or cell, +1-770-335-3039

Posted by: coolfusion | July 18, 2007 08:15 PM

This man is sick and i think he should be put in a cage with one of his pit victims.
God has a special place and plan for thease kind of people. leave it not to me to judge after all only god can.. .and i won't be near him when it happens, i pray!

Posted by: Naomi | July 18, 2007 08:33 PM

I hope enough people take a stand and get into the NFL and Atlanta Falcons face that they will throw him out and that he'll go to jail. What a sicko and to think anyone who pays $$ to the NFL, Atlanta Falcons and anyone involved with that franchise will be supporting his habit.
Come on NFL players are you going to let him tarnish your images, take a stand and do the right thing.

Posted by: Brenda | July 18, 2007 08:49 PM

Oh How I wish I were a judge and have people like this barbarian come into my court room....PETA needs to lobby more for stricter penalties / tougher laws for these bastards.

I'd love to spit right in the faces of those involved.

Posted by: Tim | July 18, 2007 08:53 PM

If you want to affect Mr. Blank, I have an idea: boycott or protest at your local Home Depot. Blank owns the Falcons AND Home Depot! What better way to affect the head of the Falcons organization! I think I'll start my next project a Lowes!

Posted by: Mike | July 18, 2007 08:57 PM

If Vick is truly guilty of these crimes, then he should pay the price. But he needs to be tried and convicted before he is thrown under the bus. A lot of the comments on this site tend to take the additude that if you are acused of something, then you must be guilty, which as we know is not always the case.

The thing that makes me a little skeptical is that some of the alledged crimes happened long after this issue was public. If this is the case, then Vick is not only a criminal but is also retarded.

Also, many are getting on Arthur Blank. I guarantee you that if Vick is guilty, he will be out and out fast.

Posted by: Billy | July 18, 2007 08:59 PM

I realize I sound repetitive, but I can't begin to express my anger and disgust over this situation. I agree, 100+% that Michael Vick should pay the price - DEARLY. And i say with pride, that I will avoid any Nike, Kraft, Coke and Airtran products for as long as it takes... And for the Atlanta Falcons and NFL in general, they are definitely at risk of losing viewership...

If anything good comes of this situation, I hope some awareness of what is happening to innocent animals.

Posted by: Ursula | July 18, 2007 09:29 PM

I realize I sound repetitive, but I can't begin to express my anger and disgust over this situation. I agree, 100+% that Michael Vick should pay the price - DEARLY. And i say with pride, that I will avoid any Nike, Kraft, Coke and Airtran products for as long as it takes... And for the Atlanta Falcons and NFL in general, they are definitely at risk of losing viewership...

If anything good comes of this situation, I hope some awareness of what is happening to innocent animals.

Posted by: Ursula | July 18, 2007 09:30 PM

Frankly, I'm so happy to see the major coverage of all of this and have to thank the moron Michael Vick and his gal pals for bringing this to the public eye.

Let's face it, this cruel sport has been going on under our noses forever - everyone seems to turn a blind eye - no one has been really been able to control it. We need some idiot football player like this to bring it to the public eye in our celebrity starved world. So I am grateful for him. Now hopefully people will see how disgusting this practice is and talk and ACT.

I feel sorry for these jerks who need to do this - clearly they are lacking in all other departments and need to prove their "manhood" by taking it out on dogs. Same men who take it out on children and women. And we know how popular they are in jail...

There - I made it through without one swear (though as I was typing it, I was inserting profanities out loud through every word). Please feel free to substitute "jerk" and "moron" with your personal profanity of choice that you think best serves Michael and friends.

Posted by: David Risley | July 18, 2007 09:51 PM

Why isn't PETA demonstrating in front of Vick's house for his atrocities. Is PETA afraid of afrian-americans? The letter from Russell Simmons and Al Sharpton is meaningless as it does not even mention Vick's name. What can't they admit that an afrian-american can do such a heinous act? It happens everyday

Posted by: greg | July 18, 2007 09:53 PM

Please DO NOT boycott AirTran or The Home Depot!!!!

I fully encourage an all out boycott of the sponsors and affiliates of Michael Vick, the Atlanta Falcons, and the NFL to get the point across.

Some, probably not all, that should be targeted are Nike, Coca-Cola, Kraft, Sprint, Motorola, and Wendy's.

AirTran and The Home Depot should NOT be targeted! AirTran terminated their endorsement deal with Vick after the water bottle incident. The Home Depot is no longer owned by Mr. Blank nor does he serve in any capacity with the company (since 2001). We should not penalize those who are not affiliated with Vick or Mr. Blank.

As far as the NFL and Mr. Blank go, give them time, as I fully believe they will act decisively against Vick - just ask Tank Johnson, Pacman Jones, or Chris Henry!

Posted by: Michael | July 18, 2007 10:01 PM

Please - let us make an example out of this barbarian who is paid x times the amount of even the most "affluent" incomes in the US (let alone the rest of us who fall below). Who could hurt an animal? This is all about power. It's equivalent to the theory we know about rape - it's not about sex . . . but, about power. What separates humans from animals? Apparently, not much. These poor animals are completely defenseless. An NFL player beating up on a poor, unknowing, drugged up animal. These dogs are pure victims. This guy is crazed . . . with a dark, dark heart.

He is the Jeffrey Dahmer of the animal world. He is perverted. The animals did not deserve this. And who was next?????? You know what Jeffrey moved on to. This guy needs some serious mental help.

Posted by: Amy Messner | July 18, 2007 10:44 PM

Please - let us make an example out of this barbarian who is paid x times the amount of even the most "affluent" incomes in the US (let alone the rest of us who fall below). Who could hurt an animal? This is all about power. It's equivalent to the theory we know about rape - it's not about sex . . . but, about power. What separates humans from animals? Apparently, not much. These poor animals are completely defenseless. An NFL player beating up on a poor, unknowing, drugged up animal. These dogs are pure victims. This guy is crazed . . . with a dark, dark heart.

He is the Jeffrey Dahmer of the animal world. He is perverted. The animals did not deserve this. And who was next?????? You know what Jeffrey moved on to. This guy needs some serious mental help.

Posted by: Amy Messner | July 18, 2007 10:44 PM

Call your local and national talk shows and tell others to have Vick banned from the NFL.

Posted by: Anonymous | July 18, 2007 10:44 PM

The recent indictment of Michael Vick reflects the profile of this individual, an uneducated, barbaric, heinous individual. Its one thing to destroy yourself but to act innocent animals who depend on us for guidance is completely horrific. As stated above, in other posts, i will immediately stop purchasing any product or company endorsed by michael vick. Additionally the FEDS should investigate his friends like Redskins running back Clinton Portis who went on national television and laughed about this incident defending his "friend" michael vick when these allegations were brought to life. I truly hope this case is not plea bargained down and that michael vick gets the full 6 years in general population. i believe he made money on "survival of the fittest" with his dogs. Michael Vick is a a property of the Falcons and should be dismissed immediately.

Posted by: chris | July 18, 2007 10:45 PM

YOU PEOPLE MAKE ME SICK..CRYING OF DOGS WHEN THERE ARE FAR WORSE PROBLEMS GOING ON.WHITE PEOPLE MAKE ME SICK TO MY STOMACH SOMETIMES.(NOT ALL --> ONLY TO MY WHITE FRIENDS IN CALI), BUT BEFORE YOUR SO READY TO BLAST MIKE SEVEN, BLAST ALL YOUR GRANDYPAPPYS AND GRANDMAMMAS GREAT GRAND PAPPYS, WHATEVER WHITE PEOPLE CALL EM, ESPECIALLY FOR YOU PEOPLE IN ATLANTA (DOWN SOUTH).THEYVE BEEN HANGIN AND BEATING, RAPING SLAVES FOR CENTURIES.WHY DO YOU THINK THE MAJORITY OF BLACK FOLKS ARE A CARAMEL TO MILK CHOCLATELY COLOR,AND THE PEOPLE IN AFRICA ARNT? DONT BE EMBARASSED ABOUT IT, GO PICKET INFRONT OF YOUR GRANDPAPS YARD.! LOL WHITE AMERICA WHERE YOU AT?

Posted by: cal | July 18, 2007 11:45 PM

This is an awsome video! Thanks to its creator.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgK7K-NzWRQ&mode=related&search=

waiting anxiously for justice!

Posted by: Gabriella | July 19, 2007 12:12 AM

Thank you, Rev. Sharpton and Mr. Simmons for adding your voices to those of PETA in condemning the actions of the monster Michael Vick. His friends on the Washington team are just as bad for standing by and being good Germans. I have emailed the Atlanta Falcons seeking his immediate dismissal. Vick should be kicked off the field and under teh jail.

Posted by: Laura Richards | July 19, 2007 12:12 AM

Just to play devil's advocate for a second...what will all of you that want Michael Vick burned at the stake say if he is found to be not guilty of these charges and had no involvement in all of this? This is still America and for all the rights that PETA pursues for animals, I would think that same should apply here or do we forget the adage "innocent until proven guilty". All I can say to each of you is "Judge Not, Lest Ye Be Judged".

Posted by: Michael | July 19, 2007 12:14 AM

Before you boycott these companies that you think endorse Michael Vick, do some research....MOST OF THEM HAVE ALREADY DUMPED HIM! I spent quite a bit of time today submitting letters to companies that already dumped him....like EASports and Rawlings. He's toast!

Posted by: Shanda | July 19, 2007 01:09 AM

Home Depot IS a legitimate boycott target.

Arthur Blank is a Home Depot co-founder and still a significant shareholder, despite stepping down from active involvement with the company. And Home Depot is also the official home improvement sponsor of the NFL. So the company is both a major NFL sponsor and has deep family ties to the only person in the league capable of acting decisively at this point in time -- the owner of the Atlanta Falcons.

Don't be swayed by the arguments of Home Depot shareholders!

Posted by: tony | July 19, 2007 01:33 AM

Why is it that minorities tend to abuse animals in that way...dogfighting is common in third world countries...
It's one thing to need fur and meat to survive, but, to pursue raising dogs for the purpose of a life that soon ends in in a brutal death is an atrocity. Imho it all boils down to greedy people with no respect for animals. Everytime I see a pit bull terrier type dog I pray it has a good owner that doesn't subject it to that abuse. I cannot believe that people raise animals just to watch and and bet money to see one dog kill another. One more thing that might be offensive to some people, but not me me anyways...I consume meat and dairy and vegetables too.

Posted by: hd | July 19, 2007 01:59 AM

WoW you people are all pretty damn ugly on the inside. How can any of you convict a person without any of you knowing any particular evidence or facts about the case. If Vick is covicted then you have proof of the disgusting person Vick is himself but your statements about a person yet to be proven guilty shows you all in a light not much better than Vick currently stands in.

Posted by: Greg | July 19, 2007 02:10 AM

Simply, this is awful. When my mother told me about this, I had to supress the vomit moving up my throat. I have lived in ignorance of the whole dog fighting thing, because I could never conceptualize a human being ever wanting or needing this as entertainment. Doesn't he have an X-Box or a game named after him he can play?

I really hope that no defense attorney will take this case...and I really hope they put Vick et al. in a mental hospital...preferably, and appropriately, one that still does shock treatments.

Posted by: Brandy | July 19, 2007 02:30 AM

As much as he makes me sick, he has probably been through some sort of trauma and needs help. Anyone who needs to resort to mistreating another individual needs compassion. I am sad for him and the dogs injured in his fight. Please remember, most of us who are able to make these comments have had a happy life. Please get help Michael

Posted by: Jen | July 19, 2007 02:59 AM

Vick should never be allowed to own another animal...or for that matter be around another animal for the rest of his life. In fact...he shouldn't even be allowed freedome because they should put him away for the rest of his miserable life. What a ROLE MODEL for young kids...and with all the sports figures I've seen in the news these days...kids shouldn't even be able to watch sports! What is the world coming to.

Posted by: Devon | July 19, 2007 03:16 AM

Animal lovers should unite in taking effective measures to insure that both Michael Vick, his employers, sponsors know that such barbaric, vile behavior has severe consequences. If the charges prove true this "man" is the "Adolph Hitler of the animal world". Turn of the cash spigots to his sponsors. Let all Atlanta Falcon ticket holders boycott the games. Let the NFL speak with real integrity and humanity and bar Vick for life ! Prison in an open population with known dog lovers as his cell mates would certainly be a just sentence !

Posted by: Mark Jackier | July 19, 2007 03:16 AM

peta should spend more time getting all these dog fighters brought to justice vick is just one sick idiot there are plenty more

Posted by: melanie | July 19, 2007 03:27 AM

THE NFL HAD BETTER BAN THIS IGNORANT SO CALLED HUMAN!

Posted by: ANGIE | July 19, 2007 03:37 AM

Why is it that black people are so drawn to this sick "sport", i dont think there are whites who take part in this madness. I say castrate Michael Vick and hang him by his nails.

Posted by: Aparna Rao | July 19, 2007 04:44 AM

Michael Vick needs to be banned from the NFL for the rest of his life. He engaged in this sick abusive behavior for years knowing full well what he was doing. It's not like he was in a barfight that spontaneously erupted. I will turn the other way when I see a product endorsed by Vick, and furthermore, if the Falcons don't step up real quick on this issue I will be avoiding buying anything endorsed by any Atlanta Falcon permanently.

Posted by: Mick | July 19, 2007 08:36 AM

I am so appalled by the treatment of these innocent creatures. Not only are they executed for not winning a fight but their living conditions are unbelievably sad. I hope more laws are put into place to protect all pets from this terrible abuse. If the NFL shrugs this off then I will boycott watching the NFL games. As one of the highest paid NFL players you would think Vick would do something more useful with his time and money. What happened to being a decent role model to young boys? He is nothing but a criminal with a very high paycheck.

Posted by: Leslie | July 19, 2007 08:38 AM

PETA WILL NOT SEE ANOTHER DIME from me until I see demonstrations in front of either Vick's home or the courthouse where Vick is appearing. I will not accept some commonsense letter from two psuedo black leaders who not representatives of the black community as the answer and solution to this unconscionable behavior. My donations mean nothing if PETA is not out in front of this issue every day until he is sent to jail. NOT ONE DIME!!! GOODBYE FOR NOW!!!!

Posted by: Chris | July 19, 2007 08:54 AM

Jack . . . you need to sleep!!!

Posted by: hadley james | July 19, 2007 08:54 AM

I'm sorry. Shame on us for "worshipping the NFL" or for that matter anyone with a little money in this country! Money sure doesn't buy class and the black-hearted evil in this man who assumes he's rich enough to get himself out of everything needs to go down HARD. He needs to suffer until he realizes what he has done to those innocent creatures who depend on us for their care. God saw all of it!!!! I'm certainly glad I'm not in Vick's shoes!!! What comes around goes around! Rest assured about that!

Posted by: Monica Young | July 19, 2007 09:04 AM

I'm sorry. Shame on us for "worshipping the NFL" or for that matter anyone with a little money in this country! Money sure doesn't buy class and the black-hearted evil in this man who assumes he's rich enough to get himself out of everything needs to go down HARD. He needs to suffer until he realizes what he has done to those innocent creatures who depend on us for their care. God saw all of it!!!! I'm certainly glad I'm not in Vick's shoes!!! What comes around goes around! Rest assured about that!

Posted by: Monica Young | July 19, 2007 09:07 AM

Will PETA or the Humane Society hire someone to picket the Atlanta Falcons on the first day of training camp (next Thursday) or the Arthur Blank Family Foundation offices in Atlanta in my place? I will gladly pay the person you hire a reasonable wage. I can't get to Atlanta and this has my blood boiling. I don't want to "donate" to PETA generally because I'm afraid the money wouldn't go to this direct cause. However, if you're willing to do this for me, I'll pay for the protestor AND give you a donation. Please advise. Thanks!

Posted by: PamW | July 19, 2007 09:16 AM

I agree that these people can not be punished enough, but lets not make it into a race thing. A few years ago in Arkansas I believe, a dog fight ring was busted and they where mostly white men and a few women! It goes both ways. I think it is a matter of being uneducated about respect and being egotistical. Also read some of the stunts he has pulled in the past. They all point to a seriously inflated ego as well as an individual with no capacity to think past their own needs and wants. Why he is still a spokesman for NIKE or anybody is beyond me. He has already behaved shamefully. I think as a society, we have given these guys to much of a "Royalty" status. Some athletes, are actually good role models, but they are getting harder to find. But please everyone keep writing and emailing sponsors. This man should get 0 of our money, and should have lots of his taken away! I feel like the legal penalties are pretty much slaps on the wrist. So make him pay with his bank account. Right now, he is pretty much the most hated man in America. If you want a real case of nausea go to his fan clubs and listen to those poor deluded individuals.(LOL) Even if this man was not involved with the actual fights and tortures, to let this go on at a property owned by you is enough reason to go to jail and never play in the NFL AGAIN!!!

Posted by: Robin | July 19, 2007 09:39 AM

CAL, (7-18-07) Stop playing the race card already! It's beyond ridiculously ad nauseum! All is fine with the "black" people when "white" folks buy "their" music, patronize "their" movies when they are the stars, spend money on sports that include "blacks," on and on and on...but when a "black" person commits a crime, well according to "black" people, "white" folks are suddenly considered prejudice.

Prior to Vick's indictment, did you ever hear even one time anybody complaining about his color, that he shouldn't be on the team because of it...or the fact that he was being paid big bucks for being in the NFL...or the fact that he was chosen and making big bucks for all his advertising endorsements???
I bet you hadn't! In fact, "white folks" (if I must use these terms to "segregate,") cheered him on just as much as any other player.

No matter what ethnic race, any person who commits a proven atrocity like this would be and ARE indicted! Did you ever hear of "white folks" complaining about that?? I bet not!

So stop crying predjudice and about "worse things going on." None of us can solve ALL of the world's problems...but we have to do what we can, when we can to fight against crime!

And I am sick and tired of the "black" people segregating themselves by hearing them say "the black community." People are people no matter what color, and there is no need for categorizing into "communities."
AND I don't like to use the term "black people," but since you are playing the race card, I had no alternative.

Posted by: Ariel | July 19, 2007 09:44 AM

Falcons open traing camp the day Vick appears in court.Perhaps a show of support against Vick would be a great way for the other Falcons to see how the dog killer is going to set the tone for the team this year.
I urge as many as possible to show up every day at the Falcons camp in georgia.
Address is:
Falcons Headquarters
4400 Falcon Parkway
Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542
Phone: (770) 965-3115

Falcons GM is Rich McKay.
Director of Event Marketing is Roddy White,corporate sales is Tim Zulaski.
These are people that have clout and if shown how much this is going to affect the bottom line...like corporate sales and events...then maybe Vick will get kicked.
Another person that should get calls-former player Tommy Nobis.He has a good bit of influence in the community.
All these can be reached at the Falcons number above.

When Players Report
July 24
First Practice - July 25 (2:30 - 5 p.m.)

Vick's court day is the 26th...but everyday the players-all of them-should be shown how this thug is destroying the entire team.
As for Arthur Blank and Roger Goodell-they should innundated with calls and letters protesting the decision to allow Vick to play.
What happened to the "get tough on bad behavior" in the NFL?
Apparently,it does not apply to marqee players,only the lesser known ones.

Posted by: Tvshooter | July 19, 2007 09:51 AM

It's disgusting that some of you have made this a racial issue. You are straight up ignorant if you really think only minorities and black people have an interest and role in dog fighting. Seriously, what is wrong with you? Your question about "why do blacks always have dog fights" is stupid and irrelevant. The bottom line is that dogs are being treated in a horrible manner for no reason at all than to benefit the people organizing the fights. Ethnicity has nothing to do with this terrible fact.
Stop bitching about the color of skin and recognize that we're all in this together to stop animal cruelty. Your comments on particular race participation are distracting and don't serve anyone at all. You've disgraced everyone who is committed to end dog fighting.

Posted by: Kate | July 19, 2007 09:54 AM

I just saw that Nike is still planning to release their Michael Vick shoe this year!!!!!! I am so appalled. Nike isn't listening, maybe we go to Foot Locker and other shoe and sporting goods retailers and ask them to not stock the product. Let them rot at Nike, just like Vick should rot in prison, preferrably with a large pit bull as a cell mate.

Posted by: Krista | July 19, 2007 09:54 AM

CAL,

LOL, quit been so ignorant. I am (black hispanic) and I am sick of people like always hiding under the excuse of racism. He is freaking criminal as well everyone who participates on animal cruelty. I have no pity for people of any color who takes the racism crap when someone does something wrong.
Michael Vick is a piece of $%^*, he deserves to be punish for animal cruelty.
There is no excuse to what have happen to black people in the past but two wrongs does not make a right. If you want to stop racism, then stop using as excuse to protect criminals.

Posted by: Avathos | July 19, 2007 09:55 AM

Al Sharpton and Russell Simmons are a joke. That letter is a spineless statement. They are both greedy publicity hounds. Niether should be mistaken for people of integrity.

Posted by: jerry neufeld | July 19, 2007 10:01 AM

To the fellow who was sidetracked with slavery:

Please remember that white people are the ones who freed slaves from other whites. There is currently slavery in Africa RIGHT NOW, blacks owning blacks, and Africa has had slavery for thousands of years as did the middle east. South America had slavery all over, especially in countries such as Colombia. Israelites were enslaved by Egypt for 4000 years. We should focus on the good of wiping out slavery forever, and once in awhile, acknowledge that whites once again were there to do something good, and that is rescuing blacks from their persecution from a white group. Why can't we celebrate a good thing? As a country, we stopped it. Let's move forward and get better.

Posted by: Jack | July 19, 2007 10:07 AM

To whom it may concern:

How selfish do a person has to be to protect a criminal who has no respect for life. A couple of millions? I may not have the house you do, the car you drive, but I have enough decency and respect for myself to not let money control my life, in a manner that I have to turn my face blindly to animal cruelty, criminal activity and other terrible things we do as humans.

Think about your kids and maybe your pet if you have one. My dad served in Vietnam in Military police unit and he was assigned a K-9 companion called "King". Thanks to that dog, my dad was able to discover a North Vietnamese commando trying to infiltrate on his post in order to place mines and other traps. This dog saved peoples lifes, including my dads life.

Thats why I care about animals specially dogs.

Now it is my time to try to help those who helped my dad.

Posted by: Juan | July 19, 2007 10:09 AM

Wow...as I continue to read this board I am starting to feel what been one of the biggest knocks against PETA and its members...speaking to fact rather than opinion or playing on one's fears. While I understand how volatile this topic is, and it hits home hard with me as we have 2 rescued pit bulls, I can only ask ... why so much hate towards Vick? There are right ways and wrong ways to approach things, and voicing hatred only brings you down to Vick's level. To be the bigger person is usually tougher than to stoop down to another level. Also, I wonder hwo many of you are true Christians, because if you are, you know that forgiveness - no matter the situation - is what God teches.

Posted by: Michael | July 19, 2007 10:16 AM

Please boycott Home Depot and write them to let them know you are boycotting them until Arthur Blank fires MIchael Vick. There are other home improvement stores and tell them you will go there. This is the response I got from them, pathetic and lame, as if the public is not aware of the relationship of their co-owner to the Falcons:

Dear Ike,

Thank you for contacting The Home Depot Customer Care.

Thank you very much for your message. The Home Depot is not a party to
this matter as we are not affiliated with the Atlanta Falcons'
day-to-day operations. Please feel free to contact the Atlanta Falcons
organization with your feedback.

Sincerely,

Samina
Customer Care

I wrote back and told her there is a movement afoot to boycott all organizatins affiliated with Michael Vick and Arthur Blank, and that Mr. Blank has to decide if he wants abusive sadists to wreck the bottom line. Please contact Home Depot and let them know how you feel. Thanks. Ike

Posted by: Ike Warren | July 19, 2007 10:25 AM

Get the Facts straight people!!!

I am getting the impression PETA loveeees the word BOYCOTT. But, have facts before you open your mouths...

Despite published reports that Vick had endorsement contracts with Coca-Cola, Hasbro, Kraft and several other companies, those contracts were for a limited time and have already expired.

The only company that should be targeted is NIKE.

And no, not The Home Depot either. Get the FACTS straight ... as I posted earlier ... The Home Depot is no longer owned by Mr. Blank nor does he serve in any capacity with the company (since 2001). The current ownership and board have ZERO ability to affect the Vick situation. We should not penalize those who are not affiliated with Vick or Mr. Blank.

Think with your heads and GET THE FACTS people! It only makes you look ignorant otherwise and totally defeats your cause!

Posted by: Michael | July 19, 2007 10:34 AM

Michael Vick should be given the same treatment he gave those defenseless animals. I would gladly volunteer to personally hang him by his neck and electrocute him.

Posted by: Anonymous | July 19, 2007 10:46 AM

anyone who makes this a race issue is a complete ignorant idiot. Its not about race..its about cruelty and a disgusting hearted degenerate. Although he should be punished...unfortunately it will never be a good or just enough punsishment-..if we are lucky he will get the Paris treatment but that will be about it Im sure.

Posted by: Parisi | July 19, 2007 10:57 AM

NIKE has said they will continue to sell Michael Vick shoes! We must stop them! We can do this by going down the "chain" of corporations involved with NIKE. Start by calling NIKE and telling them you are boycotting their products until they drop Michael Vick. Then, call the Directors of NIKE and corporations associated with the Directors of NIKE and boycott their products until NIKE withdraws Michael Vick products. By following the links in the chain, we can stop NIKE.

Here are the directors of NIKE and their affiliations:

Alan B. Graf, Jr. -- he's the CFO of FEDERAL EXPRESS (901-369-3600).

Jeanne P. Jackson - MSP Capital is her private investment company; MCDONALD'S CORPORATION is the general partner of MSP Capital & Ms. Jackson serves on the board of directors of MCDONALD'S CORPORATION (1-800-244-6227).

John G. Connors - partner of Ignition Partners LLC (425-709-0772) and also affiliated with MICROSOFT (800-642-7676).

Douglas G. Houser - attorney with Bullivant Houser Bailey in Portland (800-654-8972).

Jonathan A. Rodgers - executive officer of TV ONE, LLC (301-755-0400) and is also a director at PROCTOR & GAMBLE (pg.com).

Jill K. Conway - she's a scholar visiting at MIT (617-253-1000); she is also a director of COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY (800-468-6502).

CALL ALL OF THESE COMPANIES AND TELL THEM YOU WANT THEM TO EXERT PRESSURE ON THE DIRECTOR TO STOP NIKE OR RISK FACING BOYCOTTS AGAINST THEIR PRODUCTS.

Posted by: PamW | July 19, 2007 11:09 AM

I live in the county of the Falcons training center and I feel if ALL your players cannot be role models GET OUT OF MY COUNTY. GO TO AN AREA THAT DOESN'T NOT HAVE CHILDREN.

Posted by: Samantha Stone | July 19, 2007 11:10 AM

We need to make him pay for the care of all the animals he has hurt and I am so sick about this I do not know where to begin,Nike are the only shoes I have ever bought and will never buy again he they do not drop him
Pleasesend out emails to us and let us kknow what else we can do to help you put this man behind bars.

Posted by: Carmen | July 19, 2007 11:12 AM

We need to make him pay for the care of all the animals he has hurt and I am so sick about this I do not know where to begin,Nike are the only shoes I have ever bought and will never buy again he they do not drop him
Pleasesend out emails to us and let us kknow what else we can do to help you put this man behind bars.

Posted by: Carmen | July 19, 2007 11:12 AM

PETA, Why don't you advocate for banning ownership of the pit bulls!!

Posted by: Jada | July 19, 2007 11:21 AM

PETA, I don't hear you complain when innocent children are mauled to death by pit-bulls. Animals are animals, not human beings!!!

Posted by: jada | July 19, 2007 11:23 AM

For the ignorant Cal, who posted above:

This is not a racial issue.

If Tom Brady or Peyton Manning were indicted on these charges the outcry would be the same.

Forgiving Vick for these heinous acts will not make amens for any past racial hardships.

Now, put Vick in the pen with one (or two) of these dogs, and let them exact their revenge.

Posted by: Bill Panka | July 19, 2007 11:30 AM

For the ignorant Cal, who posted above:

This is not a racial issue.

If Tom Brady or Peyton Manning were indicted on these charges the outcry would be the same.

Forgiving Vick for these heinous acts will not make amens for any past racial hardships.

Now, put Vick in the pen with one (or two) of these dogs, and let them exact their revenge.

Posted by: Bill Panka | July 19, 2007 11:30 AM

Dear Michael (aka GET THE FACTS STRAIGHT) --

Home Depot is the official NFL home improvement sponsor and Arthur Blank is still a significant shareholder. So you are the one having trouble dealing with the facts. Just sell your Home Depot stock so that you can look at this objectively. Home Depot should be near the top of the boycott list, right behind Nike.

Posted by: tony | July 19, 2007 11:31 AM

Is anyone planning a protest when Vick has to appear in court? I think anyone who is outraged should go down there and send a message to the Falcon team owners and the losers who find this kind of cruelty entertaining. I'm looking forward to seeing Vick and all his accomplises being throw in a 'cage' just like the animals they abused.

Posted by: Alison Keogler | July 19, 2007 11:34 AM

Another link in the chain is retailers. We can also stop NIKE from selling Michael Vick products by boycotting the retailers who sell these items – especially as we are entering the school year and many people will be buying shoes for their children. We can boycott these stores (handing out leaflets and talking to customers) at malls around the country. But we also need to call these retailers and tell them that we are going to boycott their products until they publicly denounce Michael Vick and NIKE’s shoes:

FOOT LOCKER – malls around the country (also includes KIDS FOOT LOCKER), 800-991-6815

SPORTS AUTHORITY – malls around the country; Nesa Hassanein is the General Counsel, John Morton is the CEO and Thomas Hendrickson is the CFO; 1050 W. Hampden Avenue, Englewood, CO 80110, 303-200-5050

FINISH LINE, INC. – malls around the country; Alan H. Cohen is the CEO, Kevin S. Wampler is the CFO; 3308 N. Mitthoeffer Road, Indianapolis, IN 46235, 317-899-1022.

Maybe some of you who are living in Englewood, CO or Indianapolis, IN can go to the corporate offices and make your voices heard there.

Posted by: PamW | July 19, 2007 11:46 AM

Intentionally harming animals is really an attitude of disrespect for all living things, including human beings. An individual who participates in such things bears watching.

Posted by: Karen | July 19, 2007 12:05 PM

Michael Vick should be placed in a pit with his dogs so that he can see how it feels to be bitten to death. I will not watch the Falcons or any NFL program until they fire Michael Vick because they are just as bad as he is if they continue to let him play.

Posted by: dog on mad | July 19, 2007 12:13 PM

I believe everyone should email Nike and tell them they should not be associated with Michael Vick. I did and I reminded them that Americans love their dogs.
I can't believe someone actually wrote they are just animals. I guess they don't have pets.

Posted by: Sarah Lagasse | July 19, 2007 12:15 PM

I have tried! After signing peta's petition, you suggested getting in touch with the Federal Us Attorney to thank him for issueing the indictment against Vick. I used suggested web site usavaw.webmaster@usdoj.gov-I received the e-mail back undelivered, I tried Grantinquiries@ambfo.com-that comes back as no web site.Feedback@fans.atlantafalcons.com comes back no web site.Still can't find a site for nike, or other sponsors,roger.goodell2@nfl.net does go thru. Peta can you please list a consise list of companies and individuals that you want us to contact w/ their correct contact info. I spent over 3 hours on internet, and 2 hours on phone, and still only contacted a limited number of people. The one web site that was easy to reach was the Atlanta Falcons.com. Help on this would be greatly appreciated, I don't mind spending the time and effort, but I don't want it to be wasted effort because of incorrect contact info.Oh, and I did contact Fox New's Bill Oreilly suggesting he find out why Surry County Commonwealth's Atorney Gerald Poindexter has yet failed to issue indictments and why his lack of response led the Feds to take over.

Posted by: nan mcclain | July 19, 2007 12:16 PM

Jada, there are enough people in the world to care about children!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Someone needs to defend animals so crap like you does not abuse them. Why the hell are you here if your concern is children?, this is PETA! and for your info, these animals are conditioned by HUMAN BEINGS like your pal MR VICK, to be violent! Why don't you do something worth while like going to africa to help starving children, if that is your concern? But how dare you act as if Animals are nothing but trash!

Posted by: Starla | July 19, 2007 12:17 PM

out right disturbing! Vick should be in jail. His arrogance is astounding and he should be faced with serious consequences. There should be more outrage regarding this particular instance AND this issue overall.

Posted by: Rachel | July 19, 2007 12:17 PM

It would be great if Michael Vick's actions weren't referred to in terms of race and racial slurs. He and his cohorts (Peace, etc.) have no excuse for their actions, but let's not turn this into a black v. white issue.

Posted by: Laura McNamara | July 19, 2007 12:18 PM

First I'm a little disturbed by some of the racist attitudes I've read on this board. Some of them are as frightening and ugly as some of the things Mr. Vick is accused of . We have to guard against that type of attitude. I don't believe that Dog fighting is a black or white thing. It may be more of a class/upbringing thing than anything else. It's similar to say child/spousal abuse. If you where brought up in an environment where that is common you will be more likely to exhibit that behavior later in life.

A lot of people have also stated that Mr. Vick is innocent until proven guilty and that we should wait. That is true as far as it goes. However the NFL has taken similar action against PacMan Jones, Tank Johnson in PacMans case he's not been convicted but the NFL basically suspended him for a whole year effectively ending his career. Tank Johnson did his time but was still suspended, and was later cut by the Bears for what turned out to be nothing more than driving erratically. So the NFL should be consistent on this. The problem is that Mr. Vick is a high profile player, playing the most important position on a team. Defensive Lineman, Cornerbacks are far easier to replace . If PETA wants to force the issue then it needs to hurt the NFL where it hurts it's pocketbook. Until Mr. Vick is suspended then PETA should organize a boycott of NFL sponsors.

Frankly I think something must be wrong with Mr. Vick to engage in this type of behavior. I can almost understand dog fighting. But killing and in such a barbaric inhumane way shows a truly sick individual.

Posted by: Paul | July 19, 2007 12:21 PM

Please stop bashing Michael Vick. Can he at least get his day in court.

Posted by: Roxanne | July 19, 2007 12:22 PM

This is addressed to the comments made by Brandy, hd, and Chris (-of course the WHITE people are to blame!) what a bunch of morons you three are -- the "sport" of dog fighting is cruel and vicious and the dogs can't speak for themselves. Vick is nothing than a nigger and nobody how large of a mansion he lives in or how much he and the rest of "them" get paid -- it never washes away the color and the makeup of these degenerate animals! You liberal morons are what's wrong with this country! and Chris, stop crying about the white people and slavery -- today it pays to be black because it's the best card you hold -- you use it to get jobs and hold jobs because firing your lazy asses usually costs too much in litigation! JERKOFF

Posted by: sharon brown | July 19, 2007 12:25 PM

Jada, get your facts straight. There are no bad dogs(not even the bully breeds), there are only bad owners. These owners encourage their dogs to be vicious and aggressive, and then when they are, the dogs get the blame.Fight for better control of ignorant owners not to ban an entire breed, of which probably 95% are as loving and as affectionate as you could want.

Posted by: nan mcclain | July 19, 2007 12:31 PM

Que Barbaro!
Hay que hacer justicia por estos pobres e inocentes criaturas.
Personas que hacen esto son sadicas y criminales, puede llegar a hacer cosas horribles! y esto se tiene que parar!
Yo se que en sudamerica todavia hay muchos lugares donde esto sigue, como hacer para pararlo? no tenemos PETA alla...

Posted by: Alexandra | July 19, 2007 12:31 PM

As an owner of rental property, I am legally responsible for the actions of my tenants. Convicted my butt. I don't have to communicate with my middle finger, I'm educated to use English words to express myself. Ban the scum. It's only a GAME. I wrote to his sponsors. NIKE stands by Vick until convicted (are they stupid?). Bauer hockey sticks are included in NIKE.

Posted by: Val | July 19, 2007 12:41 PM

GET A LIFE!!! they are just animals!!! PETA can Go to HELL!!!!!!!!!! i hope more animals are killed

Posted by: caren | July 19, 2007 12:45 PM

first off, some of you crackers kill me. Im far from racist but this is retarded. Look, im black and pissed off that Vick would do anything in this nature thats why i came to this site do my part to boycott or make sure PEOPLE OF ANY RACE would not be able to do these things anymore. My cousins and I have kennals, not big but 12 american bulldogs that are incredible animals and are best friends. If you know for a fact that black people are the ones doing these illegal fightings think again. yes they do but I know for a fact theirs white trash around were i live who do it, i know of groups of hispanics who do it, also groups of Asian people who take part. Man, I just did not know peta people were racist! WOW! Get a grip folks....

Posted by: miguel | July 19, 2007 12:48 PM

to jada:
it is horrible when pit bulls are mauling children, indeed! but it is the human being who made him to become a beast! behind a bad animal is always a bad human! it is very wrong to despise an animal for his deeds because behind it are the misdeeds of men!!!

Posted by: cappuccino | July 19, 2007 12:55 PM

Vick's despicable treatment of animals should put him in jail for a long time. Put a pit bull in his cell and let him be viciously attacked. He deserves to be severely punished. People that abuse animals cannot get away with it anymore. Strong laws have to be passed to protect god's most wonderful creatures. As far as I'm concerned all the animal abusers in the world should be tortured. The world would be a much better place without these scum!!!!!!!

Posted by: joan rosenberg | July 19, 2007 01:07 PM

I think protesting the Falcons and their leadership on the first day of training camp is a great idea!

Can Peta organize such? I am sure many people will join in.

Posted by: kelly | July 19, 2007 01:14 PM

We have to fight for the rights of all these animals and make sure that not only does he get put away, but that he never plays football for the NFL again!! We should also be boycotting NIKE!!

Posted by: PattiG | July 19, 2007 01:25 PM

I am outraged that this man is not in jail already. Where is the justice for these poor innocent animals? He should have done to him what he did to all of these dogs.
This man doesn't even deserve jail time he needs to be executed in the same style as the dogs were.
Leave it to all of us animal lovers to give him the punishment he deserves.
Give all of his money to PETA and Animal Shelters nationwide.

Posted by: Linda Parella | July 19, 2007 01:31 PM

I have already written NIKE and just came to your site to make sure your putting the word out as well and I am glad to see that you are!
I think that people that want the same abuses done to Vick don't quite get how Karma works. He will "break his neck" the next time he is tackeled on the field because the Karmic world will make it so. (you can quot me on that) What you put out into the universe will come back to you 10 fold good or bad. Don't worry folks he will get his too!!! It will come in the form of life long porallysis from the neck down. Someone will have to wipe his ass for him, how degrating ;) ;)

Posted by: sasha christianson | July 19, 2007 01:33 PM

I personally believe this lower than low no heart, no soul no anything scum should be stripped down, wet beaten then electrocuted its sad that this piece of shit makes all this money running with a little ball across a field, and yet not have a heart and want more money in the expense of innocent animals, why doesn't he gather all his ghetto friends and they get into the cage and beat each other until one dies, they would be doing society such a great thing

Posted by: Sarita | July 19, 2007 01:59 PM

concerning human rascals torturing animals i'm colorblind - black, yellow, red, brown or white thei're all the same! maybe blacks are more addicted to dogfights but did anyone of you here see a black bullfighter??????????

Posted by: rintintin | July 19, 2007 02:23 PM

JADA (7-19-07) IF you had been keeping up about animal activists, you would know that we DO indeed have a problem with pit bulls attacking children...or anybody. The problem lies with the fact that those very innocent dogs are trained to be vicious, mostly by drug dealers. We personally cannot do anything about the drug dealers. It is not legally wihtin our realm. BUT we can and do report and follow through with this type of animal abuse by contacting prosecutors, etc. for those culprits to be jailed to the max for their revolting, vicious training of pit bulls that are responsible for people being mauled.
Even the police can't do anything until a crime has been committed.

Animal activists are more aware than most people about the people/animal relationship. And basically, we are the only people who DO in fact speak up and are active about matters like you mentioned.

On the other hand, have you ever publicly voiced yourself on this issue?

Posted by: Ariel | July 19, 2007 02:24 PM

So many things to say about this. First, David Risley, thank you for refraining from curse words, often used by immature posters along with abominable grammar and such, makes animal rights people look like total morons.

Regarding the racial issue, as a vet nurse I've worked at plenty of free rabies clinics vaccinating dogs for inner-city folks and plenty of white folks brought in their fighting pit bulls to be vaccinated.

It's not a racial thing. It has to do with the "Gangsta" image, macho jerks, and status. (And cursing, bad grammar, etc). Tons of plain white skinned bad-attitude losers are practicing pit bull fighting. Most of the pit bulls are actually fairly nice and good when being vaccinated but are horrible around other dogs. The first thing they want to do is tear other dogs to pieces.

And Jada, of course no one wants kids to be ripped to shreds by dogs. Bad dog owners who allow their dogs to be aggressive or run loose should be tossed in jail. Dog owners who refuse to be responsible are the worst citizens anywhere.

I'll probably be hated for this but pit bulls and rottis and other aggressive breeds need to be banned. I'm not saying people should not own them, but only shelters should be allowed to adopt them out and breeders and pet stores and such should be banned from creating more of these dogs. The jaw power of a pit bull is hardcore dangerous. Don't disagree with me unless you've actually been bitten by one.

Anyone who wants to own a pit bull should be required to have a special license.

We shouldn't come down on Vick until he is proven guilty, it's a shame it takes so long in the courts. But I'm glad this issue is being raised. We should have cracked down on it ten years ago.

Posted by: Maya | July 19, 2007 02:42 PM

The cruelty to these poor animals is too much to fathom but now a new twist is developing.

It seems that this is now a racial issue as well. Most African American's interviewed on television seem to believe this is some new version of a white conspiracy. I'm afraid political correctness will allow this man and his cronies to walk...ala OJ.

Posted by: Joseph | July 19, 2007 02:49 PM

I am so glad that this is getting so much coverage! Perhaps it will finally open everyone's eyes to not only the dogfighting, but animal abuse in general.

Posted by: Stacey | July 19, 2007 03:02 PM

I hope he rots in a pen after being mauled by Pitbulls. Let him be dismembered, bleeding, screaming in pain, and his private parts ripped off. let him suffer while people get the opportunity to watch and laugh at him.
I want him dead. Micheal Vick you need to die!

Posted by: Judy | July 19, 2007 03:04 PM

Good God, PETA. First you print the words "Slut" and "B****" all over the place and now you print a comment with the "N" word? Are you nuts?

Posted by: Maya | July 19, 2007 03:07 PM

caren, thank you i wish you the same thing - you fucking beast!

Posted by: carengotohell | July 19, 2007 03:12 PM

Die you miserable bastard, suffer in a place where Pitbulls can rip your body parts off slowly and painfully. I hope you suffer and scream. You need to be dead. You are the worst excuse for a human and should not be breathing.

Posted by: Judy | July 19, 2007 03:17 PM

I am sick of the race card being used everytime a black person commits a crime. My ancestors came from Italy and Ireland and we HAD NO INVOLVMENT IN SLAVERY. A animal abuser is a animal abuser no matter what color they are. As an owner of a Pitt bull, I know that they can be wonderful loving pets. Its only when they are raised and taught to be killers that they act that way. I will continue to write,email and call until Mr. Vic is no longer a so called "hero" in the sports world. Let him experience the rape stand in prison

Posted by: Toni T | July 19, 2007 03:19 PM

SCREW YOU MAYA!!!!! I DON'T CARE IF YOU ARE BLACK RED OR GREEN! YOU CAN'T USE RACE THIS TIME YOU IDIOT! GO CRY POOR AND BLACK SOMEWHERE ELSE! YOU GET ENOUGH FOR FREE IN THIS COUNTRY! NOW YOU WANT TO DEFENSE A SCUMBAG MURDERER??? YOU SHOULD BE ELECTROCUTED YOU PIG!

Posted by: KIMBERLY ANGELONE - THIS IS FOR MAYA ON JULY 19 | July 19, 2007 03:24 PM

I CAN'T WAIT FOR BUBBA TO GET HIM IN JAIL! THEN HE CAN SCREAM AND BEG!

Posted by: KIMBERLY ANGELONE - THIS IS FOR MAYA ON JULY 19 | July 19, 2007 03:29 PM

I'D RIP HIS TEETH OUT ONE BY ONE WITH A PLIERS. I WOULD CUT HIS THROAT SLOWLY IF I MET UP WITH HIM. THAT PIG SCUMBAG MOTHER F--KER.

LET HIM ROT IN JAIL WITH BUBBA. THAT'LL TEACH HIM THAT MURDERING MOTHER F--KER. PETA - YOU KEEP PRINTING WHATEVER WORDS YOU WANT. CALLING HIM AN "N" DOESN'T EVEN BEGIN TO DESCRIBE WHAT HE IS.

Posted by: KIMBERLY ANGELONE | July 19, 2007 03:32 PM

Kimberly you crack me up. Anger issues much? I have a job and earn my money caring for animals, so I'm at peace with my place in this country, my dear. Thank you.

As for you, I suggest you spend less time in your basement surfing the internet and more time in therapy, before you wind up in prison.

Peace.

Posted by: Maya | July 19, 2007 03:35 PM

I too am disgusted with Vick and the Falcons and the NFL and any of the sponsors. Any Nascar fans out there? Don't forget that Joe Gibbs Racing accepts the sponsorship of the Home Depot on the 20 car that Tony Stewart drives. To those that think we should wait for his trial....why? We all know he was involved!!
He's one sick man and should pay dearly for what he's been involved with.

Posted by: Gypsy | July 19, 2007 03:37 PM

This was my letter to the Falcons, and The NFL commissioner, thought I would share.

To whom it may concern:

I am writing in regards to Mr. Vick continuing his career in light of recent allegations, (which happen to be backed by mounds of evidence), with your establishment. I have been a football fan at all levels since I can remember, and I thought I could not be anymore outraged by actions not taken against players, until today. I understand that we are innocent until proven guilty in this country, but with the astronomical amount of evidence that backs the charges against Mr. Vick, and your so-called stringent code of conduct, one would assume at the very minimum a suspension would be in order until this case is settled. I would hope that the inhumane and down right disgusting nature of the charges filed would be enough for the Atlanta Falcons and the NFL to look past the dollar signs that govern all aspects of this once great sport, and for once do the right thing. Do not allow this person to continue his life as if nothing else is happening, if these actions were against you children's life long companion, or your own, would the outcome change. What will it take for the humanity to be restored to the NFL? Maybe we could respect the players, if we could once again respect the game. What you may be missing is that the chance is yours, change begins with you, please lead by example.

Thank you for taking the time to at least read this, I know I can not be the only one outraged by this development. I hope and pray that the fans in Atlanta demand more than what you are giving them.

In Highest Regard,

K. J. Tepsic
1840 Sequoya Dr
Poland OH 44514

kt1carat@aol.com


"I only hope to be as good of a person as my dog already thinks I am" -unknown

Posted by: Katie | July 19, 2007 03:38 PM

A most effective means of demanding that NIke pull Vick's contract is to post messages on the Yahoo financial message boards. This is where investors reach for research and information about internal operations.
The url is: http://messages.finance.yahoo.com/mb/NKE

Posted by: coolfusion | July 19, 2007 04:04 PM

The least that the NFL and the Falcons can do for the fans is to suspend Vick immediately pending any outcome in the court of law. The federal grand jury indictment is sufficient enough for the league to make a decision to suspend.
Dogfighting is a heinous and inhumane activity (it's not a sport as far as I am concerned)and anybody who engages in it deserves jail time as well as heavy fines.

I just want justice for those poor dogs. Anybody who kills an animal is just one step away from taking another life form-the human life. Think about it!

Posted by: SuzyQ | July 19, 2007 04:07 PM

To Katie1carat, I am impressed that you could be so restrained and cogent in your letter to the Falcons.It is impressive that it expresses concern while not being vitriolic. 20,15,or even 10 yrs ago, I might have been able to be so eloquent. After having been a wildlife rehablitator for 20 years and seeing what cruelty humans cause to animals, and having worked at the SPCA and put down dozens of animals a day, many of which were pit bulls, I no longer have your quietude about what humans are capable of. I want him to fry..I want him to feel the pain that those wonderful animals had to go thru..I don't want to wait for karma or the justice system to decide his fate, I want him in hell now!

Posted by: nan mcclain | July 19, 2007 04:11 PM

I came to this website hoping to find out that people are outraged at Michael Vick and his "alleged" involvement in dogfighting. I was initially happy to find the outcry, but then, in reading the comments, I am further upset by how the PETA community speaks to each other.

Using racial slurs and otherwise hateful words against each other is useless and a huge waste of time and energy.

Please take the energy created by this situation and direct it towards the campaign for the firing of Vick, or for his losing of big money endorsements.

When we were all outraged at JCrew for selling fur, we stood up, raised a gigantic fuss, and they caved! Let's do it again and again...

Michael Vick is a role model for many many kids in this country. Let's turn it around and let those same kids know that big money and fame are "get out of jail free" passes this time. And that dogfighting is a serious crime with serious consequences.

There is so much at stake here, please keep your eyes on the real issues.

Posted by: Izzy | July 19, 2007 04:12 PM

“Rush to Judgment” is a battle cry that the Vick apologists are using to justify doing nothing. Does anyone remember that “rush to judgment” was a term coined by Johnny Cochran in the OJ Simpson case? If you recall, it was a term Cochran used to divert the jury’s attention away from the facts of the case and to misguide the jury. In OJ Simpson’s case it worked. It is a defense tactic. Some people call it the “straw man” theory. It is not a logical argument. We can’t allow that tactic to work here.

There are others who are saying that Michael Vick shouldn’t be suspended by the NFL because he doesn’t have a criminal history and, therefore, his situation is different than the situation of Pacman Jones. As I recall, Pacman Jones hasn’t been convicted of anything yet – only guilt by association. Yet, the Commissioner had no problem in suspending Jones for a year. Tank Johnson of the Chicago Bears was let go by his team because he violated probation. The accusations against Michael Vick are so heinous that he should be immediately banned from the NFL for life and the Atlanta Falcons should fire him immediately. MICHAEL VICK IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TORTURE OF NUMEROUS DOGS. AND HE HAS BEEN DOING THIS SINCE 2001 – SIX YEARS. That is a sustained criminal activity that surely justifies a lifetime ban from football.

If a police officer is accused of shooting a suspect illegally, he is immediately suspsended. If a school teacher is accused of molesting a student, he is immediately suspended. Michael Vick should be suspended.

The only possible explanation for the lack of action by the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons, and Nike is MONEY. The “let’s not rush to judgment” mantra being spewed by sportscasters across the nation (ESPN and CNN, notably) is due to these sportscasters’ love of sports celebrities and fears that they will be “cut-off” from important interviews during the upcoming football season if they dare to criticize a football player.

PLEASE – if you are as disgusted and sickened by the actions of Michael Vick and his despicable friends, please call the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons, Nike, and the other organizations listed in various comments above. We must make the retailers of Nike products understand that we will not support Nike’s efforts to recover their investment in Michael Vick. We must make the members of the board of directors of Nike understand that we will not allow them to prevail in this matter. We do this by exerting pressure on Nike’s board of directors personally as well as exerting pressure on companies to which they may be affiliated.

This entire situation reminds me of the Holocaust -- and of the millions of Germans who knew about the Holocaust but did nothing. We cannot be like those Germans and do nothing.

Michael Vick is a monster. His friends are monsters. The killing of animals is a known symptom of serial killers. Michael Vick had everything going for him and yet he continued to associate with these sick people. Whether or not he actually electrocuted, strangled, beat, or drowned these tortured animals with his own two hands is not important – he provided the money and the encouragement to do so. He is a monster. We cannot allow him to remain in the NFL lest our children believe that money is the only value worth holding dear.

Posted by: PamW | July 19, 2007 04:30 PM

Izzy, well said. On a similar note, I think it's a shame that there are some psychotic posters here taking post time away from the animals.

Some girl just posted a reply directed at me, implying that I "cried poor and black" and she implied that I was racist. Aside from the heinous stereotype, I don't know what she meant.

First of all, I'm white. Second, I spoke out against racism in my comment. Third, I'm not rich, but I have money and in fact I just donated my car to the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

It's a nice car. I would love to have given it to PETA, but between the immature behavior and PETA allowing hate speech on thier boards, I think I did the right thing.

Sea Shepherd is in fact quite radical, but they stick to the point: saving animals. Shame PETA enjoys hate speech and controversey more than they do saving animal's lives.

Posted by: Maya | July 19, 2007 04:48 PM

Here is one more very important number:

ARTHUR M. BLANK FAMILY FOUNDATION
3223 Howell Mill Road, NW
Atlanta, GA 30327
404-367-2100
Fax: 404-367-2157
grantinquiries@ambfo.com

TELL MR. BLANK TO FIRE MICHAEL VICK!

Posted by: PamW | July 19, 2007 04:50 PM

People who do this are sociopaths. No different from Ted Bundy, or any other freak who gets off on hurting people or animals. I hope this guy gets exactly what is coming to him karmically and legally. I wish I was the judge in this case. He would go down for the maximum.

Posted by: Archer | July 19, 2007 04:52 PM

Post you comments on Nike's finance message board. Let them feel the pain in watching their stock decline.

http://messages.finance.yahoo.com/mb/NKE

Posted by: coolfusion | July 19, 2007 05:03 PM

What a shame that both the Falcons and the NFL appear to be equally low life LOSERS for not doing the right thing.

As for michael, if proven guilty I hope the judge gives him MAXIMUM time in PRISON, the IRS confiscates all of his fortune and he gets to test drive a "rape stand" in prison.

What a true coward and low life scumbag.

Posted by: Mitch | July 19, 2007 05:12 PM

Don't reward this coward by paying him millions of undeserved dollars. He is no role model! Make him pay back everything he's ever been given. Fire him immediately! He's obviously very sick and demented, no better than a child molestor! It's clear he has little to no regard for "life". I want this coward punished to the fullest extent of the law!

Posted by: Sharon Messina | July 19, 2007 05:36 PM

Did I just read that someone (Mark Horne) posted that you need Nike to dump Vick in order to ever buy their product again.. WOW! I guess you only support animal rights and not human rights for that type of comment. The fact that most pro athletes even accept money from this company is a joke in itself.

Posted by: JKarr | July 19, 2007 05:51 PM

How dare anyone do anything mean to innocent lives , animals are just as innocent as a human being . Vick's actions shows his up bringing , lack of respect for life and the law. Who the hell does he think he or the others involved think they are ? Nothing but worthless pieces of crap , its pretty unanimous that they all should suffer the SAME EXACT way those poor dogs did , lets see how much those asses would like to be HUNG,DROWNED , SLAMMED TO THE GROUND , SHOWERED WITH WATER THEN ELECTROCUTED, HOW ABOUT THAT RAPE STAND , HMMM LETS ATTACH THAT AND SEE HOW THESE COWARDS ENJOY IT. Don't forget the protest tomorrow the 20th in front of NFL headquarters in NYC because its going to take action to bring this where it needs to go . The NFL who I might add are ALSO a bunch of COWARDS to take so lightly this crime that if they opened their eyes the evidence is right in front of their freakin faces , turning the other cheek will not work here .

Posted by: Jill T. | July 19, 2007 05:51 PM

Can we slow down a second? I hate animal cruelty as much as anyone, but Vick hasn't been convicted, only indicted. If he's guilty, yes, he should be jailed AND banned from the league, The endorsements then will dry up as a matter of course as they should.

ps why would anyone waste money on Nike products anyway since most of the price reflects advertising costs including, of course, celebrity endorsements? In fact, I would suggest companies like Nike are cruel TO PEOPLE because they target ghetto youth whose families can ill afford such outrageously priced goods.

Posted by: brad gelder | July 19, 2007 06:00 PM

As a teacher, I am especially concerned with his being a role model for kids. This is horrible because then kids think animal cruelty is acceptable because someone they admire is doing it.

For those of you so concerned with forgiving, Vick has not asked for forgiveness. For those of you saying wait until he is convicted of these crimes before judging, well, for your information, many people guilty of horrible crimes have not been convicted in court. Vick has been torturing and killing dogs for years, it is only until now that he has finally been indicted.

The NFL commish and the Falcons are a disgrace because they are supporting him, hence they support other NFL players that commit these types of crimes. Very bad message to send to young people:that money over-rides any consideration. Violence is alright as long as you are an over-paid quarterback. That is an indictment against our morally bankrupt nation. Very sad.

To caren:

I really think YOU need to get a life and a heart. You are so filled with hate; get some help. Hopefully you do not meet up with mysogynists.

Posted by: Ana | July 19, 2007 06:39 PM

People, no worries, Mike will meet his kind in prison. And he won't enjoy that process too much :-)

Posted by: Richard Mayer | July 19, 2007 07:19 PM

I've visited several 'pro sports' websites and am very disheartened to report that 'due process' is more important to the majority of pro ball players than moral/ethical integrity.
As an elementary teacher who sees all too often the increasing number of foster kids and other children who don't have heroes, let alone enough food on the table at the end of the day, it's beyond my comprehension that this jerk should live a life of luxury, and be allowed, with tons of credible evidence, to electrocute, drown, body slam and/ or shoot dogs he's already murdered. And, oh, by the way, play ball while RG wants to pretend this is yet another Duke Case and not take immediate action? Let's face it, there are 40 bodies (last report) buried in and around this charming man's home. What's to doubt?
WHAT is our society coming to? RG should be the man he purports to be and run this psychologically impaired individual - out of town! (Or tie him to a goal post, partially drown, electrocute, hang, body slam, then shoot Vick once or twice to get his point across - testicles first).
I'm so upset - I will never again follow pro football with my students unless Vick is held to full accountability.
And so far, I see very few pro ball players/officials taking a stand - (I understand, it's all about due process and the almighty dollar, not character).
Could somebody please list the names of this gentleman's sponsors? I'll do whatever I can to hold them accountable, too - even if it's simply never buying another NIKE product in the rest of my life.
(Sorry - I'm so disgusted with this pro sports humanity, or lack thereof.)

Posted by: Sherry | July 19, 2007 07:41 PM

Michael Vick needs to be put in jail along with the rest of these animal abusers and torturers. What horrible human beings.

Posted by: elyse S. | July 19, 2007 08:06 PM

He should rot in hell.Vic you are a pice of shit! How about we throw you into the pit and let your sadly abused dogs have some revenge on your weak pathetic ass!!!

Posted by: Michele | July 19, 2007 08:46 PM

Verizon Wireless and Ford among others are official sponsors of the Atlanta Falcons, Check the website to confirm. Then you should decide where to spend your discretionary income.

Posted by: andy | July 20, 2007 12:17 AM

JADA, Why would PETA ban the ownership of pit bulls? The dogs on their own don’t choose to fight and kill other dogs or people. The individuals (like Mr. Vick) that raise these dogs (by fear and torture) to fight and kill are the ones that need to be prosecuted and punished. If raised in a good environment, pit bulls can be sweet and caring companions just like other breeds of dogs.

As for the innocent children being mauled to death by Pit Bulls, I think enough people have voiced their outrage when this type of tragedy occurs and again you can blame the individuals that raise these dogs to be fighting dogs since these are the vicious Pit Bulls who attack people.

Posted by: Scout | July 20, 2007 12:54 AM

Michael Vick needs to be suspended from playing in any NFL games immediately! If the commissioner can suspend Jones and Henry for their actions. There is no way Michael Vick can be allowed to represent the NFL and and the sponsors he has contracts with. I can't see this guy suiting up for any games this year or ever again for that matter. He is sub human, his actions go against everything we humans hold morally sacred.

Posted by: Guillermo Saddler | July 20, 2007 08:37 AM

I am extremely upset and actually ashamed that American people are always so fast to just "jump on" the bandwagon. Most of you have convicted Michael Vick without so much as a trial. This is way beyond whether he did it or not, because from reading this message board, opinions and biasis have already been formed. Have any one of you even taken the time out to think "what if he didnt do it?" Of course every person who has ever been charged and convicted of a crime is ALWAYS guilty. Of course everyone who commits a crime is always charged. OJ didnt do it of course because he was not convicted (yeah ok). Dick Chenney's former advisor of course should not be punished after he has be tried and convicted in a Federal court and wont do 1 day of time cause he was immediatly pardoned (what a waste of our taxpayer dollars). Of course dont worry about a war that was started over the oil in the Middle east under false pretenses, falicies, and lies (that thousands have now died over and noone will ever be even brought to court to answer for it).

Now the Federal government charges a man who has no prior criminal record with dog fighting charges and we are up in arms. of course he must have did it because the government never gets it wrong!!! How far we have fallen!!!

How come we are not up in arms everytime one of our soldiers dies in the middle east (I thought a man's life was more important than a dogs)? How come we are not up in arms everytime one of our politicians molest a little boy or is caught taking a bribe???

For the record I am not Michael Vick fan not do I even care for the Atlanta Falcons. I am however an advocate of innocent until proven guilty!!!

Next time most of you are in church look inside yourself before you begin convicting others. Next time you kneel to pray ask God for the forgivness that you have not granted others. Next time you thank God, thank him for giving you the opportunity to prove yourself worthy of entering his divine presence and hope he wont just review a tape of your life and convict you and pass you over!!!

Posted by: Ron Johnson | July 20, 2007 08:40 AM

Michael Vick is a monster. Everyone else above me has said it so well.. A parasite who should be removed from society. To think children look up to him is disgusting.

I have written letters to the following companies, short but sweet
"I will boycott your products and urge others to do the same as long as you have a relationship with Michael Vick"

I've sent letters to those I have found as his sponsors: Nike, Rawlings, EA Sports and Kraft..

And those who advertise with the Falcons...
Coke, Delta, At&T, Cingular, (some eye lasik place) anyone who I can find that is listed on their website. I might be missing some.. if I am please let me know...

And.. Home Depot (the big one) Arthur Blank was the former CEO and co-founder.. they are quick to dismiss the relationship... but I think if many write letters to them too.. they will put pressure on Blank because their business will suffer...

It's sad that the only way you can make a difference sometimes is to threaten someone's pockets.. not by just doing the right thing.

Posted by: Char | July 20, 2007 09:27 AM

Gosh you people make me so sick i think that people like most of you are not fit to have a say in anything that happens in this world. You all act like you know what Vick did and that he is guilty when NONE of you know any of the evidence or facts yet. Unless you all like to go to dog fights. All of you talk about animal rights and animal rights but none of you care about the rights we humans have in america such as innocent until proven guilty. So since you dont believe in it there is no reason for it to be applied to any of you ever. So that means you are all nothing but a bunch of terrorist fighting for so called animal rights instead of for god or some other nonsense.

Posted by: greg | July 20, 2007 12:29 PM

Hi, I'm writing from Argentina. I have no words to express my feelings about this hideous person! How sick is his mind? But I'm not sure it's fair the word 'sickness' in this case, although I think this guy is a sadist monster.. I just cannot understand his behavior (and his friends').
I've already sent the mail to the commissioner, but I still feel it's not enough.
Viviana.

Posted by: Viviana | July 20, 2007 12:36 PM

Everyone-
Write or call Senator Byrd's office-and tell him thank you for making the statement about Vick-perhaps he can influence the NFL further, in getting rid of Vick! Also, write or call Nike-they just halted the release of Vick's 'new shoe'. Tell them, they need to forget the 'Vick shoe' permanently. We need them to show how significant this is and send Vick a clear message, by loosing his endorsement deals.

Senator Byrd Speaks Out About Dog Fighting


WASHINGTON (AP) -- U-S Senator Robert C- Byrd says dogfighting is barbaric and the "hottest places in hell" are reserved for those who promote such activities.

Byrd fought tears as he lashed out against dogfighting in a speech today at the U-S Capitol.

Federal agents have charged Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and three others with procuring and training pit bulls for fighting in Virginia and elsewhere. Investigators say some losing dogs died in the pit or were later electrocuted, drowned, hanged or shot.

Byrd says he won't prejudge the men's guilt or innocence. But the West Virginia Democrat says one is left wondering who are the real animals -- the creatures inside or outside the ring.

As Byrd left the Senate chamber, a Senate page and T-V reporter shook his hand and thanked him, and a young woman had her photo taken with him.

Posted by: Tiffany | July 20, 2007 02:00 PM

That piece of crap. He is a dumb negro. He has brought shame upon our black community. They should hang him.

Posted by: Tyrone | July 20, 2007 02:20 PM

Everyone,

Call Nike as was mentioned before-they are keeping the Michael Vike lines (clothing) in their stores was their decision, they have halted the new shoe, but let them know that you will boycott all Nike products, if they don't pull all Vick merchandise and if they proceed with releasing the shoe! We've got to send a clear message to his sponsors!

Nike's HQ # is: 800-344-6453

News Release:

Vick's Troubles Suspend Release of Nike Product
ATLANTA - There are indications that Michael Vick's legal troubles could produce some financial consequences.

Nike has suspended the release of its latest product line named after the Atlanta Falcons quarterback, who is to be arraigned next week on federal charges of sponsoring a dogfighting operation.

Nike has told retailers it will not release a fifth signature shoe, the Air Zoom Vick V, this summer. A company spokesman says the four shoe products and three shirts that currently bear Vick's name will remain in stores.

While Nike still has a standing contract with Vick, the company has declined to speculate on its future with him.

Posted by: Tiffany | July 20, 2007 02:29 PM

Want to make a statement? Boycott Home Depot as Mr. Blank (Falcon owner) owns them. Also, they are the single most contributing corporation to the GOP. 'nuff said.

Posted by: Jsplff | July 20, 2007 03:07 PM

Micheal Vick is a disgrace to any multi billion dollar company should be ashamed of him. I would like to think that the NFL will suspend him. I wish the worst on him and any one else involved hes a punk and I would love for him to be put in a been with a couple of dogs and watch him "pass a test" and if he fails smash his body against the ground or eletricute him. his acts a dispicable and he should be banished from the nfl and have to repay his proceeds from and endorsments or pay he has recieved.today is a grim day for the nfl and the atlanta falcons... I hope that justice is served...He just like his brother a criminal!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Rob Frechette | July 20, 2007 03:51 PM

Hi! I'm writing from argentina..I'm too disgusted about this issue, I can't imagine how cruel a person can be... If I were there in USA I would sure go to all the public demostrations against this "person"... I don't think this case is a minor issue..ANY CRIME IS A CRIME!

Posted by: Francisco | July 20, 2007 05:04 PM

As much as my son and I have been looking forward to the NFL season, we WILL boycott if Vick is not fired.

I refused to support an organization that stands by a man indicted on charges of dog fighting. Up until the charges were first reported, my son was a huge Vick fan. Now, he's done with him and NFL. He was very upset when watching the news about Vick and his/our dog (Gandalf) was laying next to him. "How can a person hurt an animal like that?" was his question.

The Falcons and the NFL need to ask the same question.

Posted by: Lissette | July 20, 2007 05:35 PM

Please let Michael Vick and other worthless human beings know that the backwoodsmen in the movie Deliverance were not role models. Even so, they were a step up from Vick and his pals. Talk about a classless, clueless piece of nothing. All Falcon players should refuse to step on the field with Vick.

Posted by: Lisa | July 20, 2007 09:16 PM

You guys are a bunch of tree hugging liberals. You guys are the reason this country is going to hell. DOGs are not humans so stop humanizing them. Yea dog fighting is a little cruel but don’t make it more than what it is. There are worst things going on in this world and all I hear about is this crap. Everyone is blowing this way out of proportion. And what ever happen to due process?

All you idiots that are already condemning Vick isn’t a true American, and should consider moving to Sudan or somewhere where there justice system is unfair. I am sure glad our justice system isn’t as stupid as our court of public option. Every time this happens people already start condemning without even knowing the facts. You people aren’t lawyers or the DA. You don’t know the ALL the facts so what makes you think your option means anything.

Russell Simmons is an idiot and should just stick to making clothes and rapping or whatever he does. Why should anyone care what he thinks, I don’t need any clothing. Al Sharpton and PETA members are extremist, and extremist are simple minded. Just like most of you on this message board. Idiots

Posted by: Marc Edwards | July 20, 2007 09:55 PM

go to Nike.com or Nikebiz.com to send any emails, of course now is not a good