I think James Brown is a fine choice for the interview. He did exceptional stories on HBO's Real Sports and being a Harvard Graduate I would guess he is just as educated and intelligent as anyone else who works for 60 Minutes.

Hi Drew, Except he doesn't work for 60 Minutes -- which is my point. Thanks. Z

It's great that Vick is being given the chance to play. I think Baltimore should give him a serious look. Face it, it's not like we haven't given thugs and criminals a second chance to play for the Ravens before.

Tom Shepke
Federalsburg

Hello Tom, Your point about Baltimore "giving thugs and criminals a second chance to play for the Ravens" is well made. But I bet it is too uncomfortable for Baltimore fans to talk about. Let's see what happens here with it today -- or on sportstalk radio where it is easier to be a booster. Thanks. Z

He was convicted on GAMBLING charges - NOT dog killing. You must have him confused with Stallworth - he kills humans, but that's OK!!!! Move ON! This is old news, LET'S PLAY SOME FOOTBALL.

He confessed to torturing and killing dogs. It is difficult to call something that has not yet happened -- the Sunday interview that I am writing about -- old news. But, yes, let's ignore the horrific past and move on to the fun and games. Z

Graphic and Horrific crimes? Dogs, cats and whatever else animal you can think of do not die any better deaths at animal shelters. Stop trying to drum up horrors.

So CBS says there Vick placed no conditions on them. But James Brown doesn't work for CBS, and he got the deal for the interview. In what way does this mean that Vick placed no conditions on Brown?

Vick committed a crime, he served his time, enough is enough. Everyone deserves a second chance. I am a dog owner, I love dogs, what he did was wrong there is no question about that, however, what does it say about humanity if we cannot forgive a man for his mistakes. Everyone gets caught up in some thing that they shouldn't get caught up in, every now and again. All I say is give the man a chance to redeem himself. Who's to say that he can't turn his career around, retire in good standing, and then join you raving lunatics at PITA (who seem to care more about animals than humans). His actions could end up saving thousands of dogs around the world in the future, if you Crazy's try to team up with Vick and use his fame for good, rather than prevent him from his right as a citizen of america to redeem himself.

Hi Joe Moe, I think systematic torture of helpless animals is not something "everyone gets caught up in now and again." I accept your point about forgiveness, and I am sure you will find a lot of folks here today who share your view. But I think this is not a let's-wipe-the-slate-clean-and-move-on kind of act Vick committed. Z

Can we all let Vick have some releif?

I've got two dogs, both are pit-bull mixes, they are like children to my wife and I. They sleep in our bed, they go everywhere we can take them with us, and we constantly give them love and attention because we love them like family.

So to think about anyone treating dogs as Vick did is disghusting to me.

THAT SAID

The guy served his time, this cost him more than most people will ever make... And frankly I didn't see anyone complaining about dog fighting before Vick got caught. So unless your going to persecute EVERYONE who fights dogs, shut up and move on.

I write about media. The show 60 Minutes is part of that media beat, and it is only putting one dog-klling dog torturer on TV Sunday night, Michael Vick. That's what I'm writing about, Charlie. Thanks. Z

Good column. I find myself in the same position. I hate what Vick did (and think the NFL should have not allowed him to return until 2010 --after Vick shows he can stay out of trouble for a year...), but am interested to see the interview.

I don't think that having JB do the interview is going to be perceived well though. Not for 60 Minutes, JB or MV. It seems like cronyism between the subject and interviewer, cherry-picking an interviewer by Vick's agent, and CBS trying to bolster ratings for their NFL package, rather than 60 Minutes reporting on a news story.

I won't claim to be impartial regarding Vick, but I am more disappointed with how 60 Minutes is handling this. Maybe they will next start bringing in Entertainment Tonight "reporters" to cover their frequent celebrity stories?

Hello Andre. That's it, I wish I had said that. Thanks. Why not let Britney Spears have her favorite ET host interview her on 60 Minutes? Great, thanks, that's the comparison that nailes it. And I should say, I am a fan of James Brown in his role as sports show host -- bout 60 Minutes is asking for questions to be raised with this choice. Thanks. Z

Vengeance is the Lords. Not yours or mine. Keep in mind that that holo your are wearing is supported by the horns that remind us that we are not perfect and all fall short.

Bravo, David. I agree wholeheartedly with everything you are saying. This whole thing stinks of a cover-up fluff piece and I am shocked that "60 Minutes" would risk credibility like this. The only way this piece will be "fair and balanced" is if they show the beaten and broken of the dogs he tortured and murdered and the undercover videos of what really goes on at dogfights. They should also show the highlighted court documents where Vick admits to taking part in the hanging, beating, drowning and an*l electrocution of the dogs who didn't perform up to his standards. He is a monster and should never be allowed to set foot back on the field.

Hi, Thank you. Yes, people want to ignore the sytematic and even ritualistic torture of these poor animals. Someone needs to speak for them in connection with this prime-time interview. Thanks for doing so here. Z

As someone who saw first hand the abuse those dogs went through (the medical attention they needed as well as the psychological care), I'm so glad you said "But I think this is not a let's-wipe-the-slate-clean-and-move-on kind of act Vick committed." Ghandi once said that the greatness of a nation can be judged by how we treat its animals. I think the same about a person. You are right -- it was the "systematic torture of helpless animals" for profit, for entertainment, etc. I know many people say he's done the time, but I don't think he should be allowed in the NFL (I don't think most people convicted of felonies should). What he did was morally bankrupt. I hate to see he's getting any money or attention to tell his story. I don't really care who asks the questions.

Thank you, R., for that testimony on behalf of the victims of his crimes. Z

Yea betting on dog fighting is a gruesome and horrific crime but shooting a docile deer who doesn't even know he's a competitor in a "sport" then posing with the kill as if it was an accomplishment is an acceptable sport. Yea ok. And that Peyton Manning is a great guy.

Hi Dave, I think I get your point, but I never mentioned Manning or deer hunting. I wrote about Vick and dog killing and torturing. Thanks. Z

Im having a fantasy in my head this morning with Vick being interviewed on 60 minutes by the Chris Plummer version of Mike Wallace while a Pacino-esque Lowell Bergman produces. Vick would feel the heat more than that of a blind side safety blitzing. But in reality we all know that a sympathetic song and dance will be played out on Sunday night. Its a ratings game. CBS News is taking a page out of the ESPN/Big Ben story and modifying it. Sick but thats what news is today. A journalist asks a few tough questions and gets black balled over to PBS or Nat Geo doing documentaries the rest of their time.

Yes "z", youre right. Everyone doesn't get caught up in the systemic torture of animals. However, we do all get caught up in doing wrong. And the reality is, as much as society would like to categorize different offenses, no wrong deed is better or worse than the other on...except to the self righteous.

Hi AL, I disagree. But thanks for making the point and doing so in a such a civil manner. Maybe I simply do not have a large enough religious perspective. But I say again, who will speak for those poor animals who suffered and died at Vick's hands -- and for his amusement, according to court testimony? Thanks. Z

You really need to just stop hiding behind the facade of JB not working for 60 minutes.

That is a fact. We don't hide behind facts. We bring them into the light of day, and let readers make of them what they will. Thanks. Z

Re: the comment above about no one complaining about dog fighting before Vick got caught--that is simply not true. Those of us who love and respect all God's creatures, especially dogs, have been trying to put a stop to dog fighting for years. Vick's case brought it to the forefront of the media and the minds of people who weren't aware of how bad the problem is. And for that, something good came out of it. But, at the same time, if Vick hadn't been caught and punished for what he did, he would still be doing it today. He wouldn't have stopped if he had just gotten a slap on the wrist. And we do believe that everyone that fights dogs should be punished to such a degree that they stop the practice and educate younger generations so that we can end dog fighting once and for all.
As far as the 60 Minutes interview goes, I think they may be compromising their integrity. But, I'll reserve judgement until I watch the interview. I suspect it'll be all softballs, though.

Last I checked he served his time. And to add I doubt his time would have been anywhere near as long if he wasn't a celebrity/ well known professional athlete. I doubt Baltimore fans have a problem with Vick. There are too many real issues in the world to be overly concerned about a man who has done his time.

Michael Vick went to prison, did his time and is now out. That's fine. But that doesn't mean he should get a second bite at the apple as far as an NFL career is concerned. He had the golden ticket before, so to speak, and threw it away on a cruel, psychotic, illegal "side project." Someone commented about him being convicted of gambling, which is true. But there are plenty of less sociopathic ways to gamble, earn extra money, go into "business" with your thug pals, etc. - running a dog-fighting ring and actively participating in the inhumane treatment and deaths of several dogs isn't necessary. Since his return to the NFL seems inevitable, here's hoping he sustains a nasty, painful, horrific injury early in his second-chance career and is forever retired from football. Perhaps then he can spend his time doing what he should be doing - volunteering at animal shelters and teaching kids about the ethical and legal issues surrounding dog-fighting.

Hi Lindsay, Thanks. He was convicted, according to an AP story on the day of the conviction, for running a "cruel and inhumane dog fighting ring." That was the language of the court -- and the judge specifically cited the torture and killing of dogs that did notmeet Vick's standards of performance by Vick himself. So, you are right, he was convictye3d of one heckuva lot more than gambling. And I agree that it would have been nice to see him actually trying to make amends by volunteering at animal shelters or helping care for abused animals.Z

I don't watch or follow football at all, but as a part of society, religious background aside, creation speaks for itself and we should respect all creation even animals. I think that CBS should have been responsible for their own interview, but I guess the guy who got the interview had connections, have to give him credit for that. I worked at a vet hospital for a short time and animals dogs, cats, etc. have a wide range of emotion and feeling. All the vets I know would go out of their way to help any animal in crisis, in fact one just lives a few doors down from me. The saddest thing I ever had to watch was the vet having to put a dog down, but that was because all medical options had been used up and the dogs life had come to a point where prolonging life would just cause suffering. Michael VIck was cruel and wrong in his actions. I don't think he should be in the NFL. Sorry Z that as a critic you have to watch the interview, I might just to see how this plays out.

Hi Sherry, Thanks for this testimony about the feelings, emotions and suffering of animals. I couldn't agree more. Z

The fact that we are discussing Vick's return at all is mind blowing to me. The amount of money a guy like Vick makes, should be motivation enough to fly straight and keep his nose clean. Players of his caliber are being paid millions and handed the world on a silver platter. The fans, NFL and media put "super athletes" like Vick on a pedestal. If you want to be on the pedestal, you should be held to higher standards as well. Michael Vick should not be allowed to return to the NFL, so there should not even be an interview.

I agree about higher standards and the responsibility of fame. I wonder if the kids in Baltimore who tortured dogs and cats (I am purposefully being vague so as not to arouse the feelings of pain animal lovers feel in reading these accounts) got the idea from hearing about NFL hero Michael Vick's behavior. Oh, but we must not dare say guys like Vick have any responsibility as role model. Thanks, Rich. Z

This "interview" should be the golden opportunity for Mr. Vick to apologize to the people of the United States for his savage and monstrous cruelty to animals, and clearly discuss his new life-long mission to prevent animal cruelty and dog fighting in particular.

If he does not-he can go home and read about football in the Sunday papers.

As a media critic you are doing your job by voicing your opinion,so people need to keep in mine that what you have written is your opinion.So here is my opinion MV has served his time for the crimes you have so eloquently discribed for all the anti-vick folk out here,so how much of Vicks hide is enough for you and the folk who think the same?

Ummmm...how bout the cab beater Patrick Kane. Thank goodness he didn't have his hockey stick or the poor cabby would have spent several weeks in the hospital. Humans, still count for something too...but lets not bring that up.

Excellent article. You bring up many points that other journalists have not.
I doubt 60 Minutes will show photos of Vicks dogs that he tortured and killed while laughing. I also doubt that 60 minutes will talk about Vicks methods of killing which included burning, hanging, drowning, electrocuting and stomping to death animals that didn't fight well, and enjoyed watching bait animals (pets) getting killed in the ring. His involvement was long, bloody, and personal. The 60 Minutes interview is an attempt to gull the public into forgetting his disgusting cruelty, and ease the way for him to play football again.

Everyday I read a horror story about human death and look the next day and there is no follow-up to the story. We have had athletes commit many many crimes on humans, getting nowhere near the publicity, punishment or fines Vick has received for a crime committed against dogs. What does this say about America's priorities? Patini publically admits to paying for an abortion after a one night sexual stand. What type of punishment does he deserve for paying for the "humane termination of a human life" People let's stop exaggerating Vick's crime against dogs and get real!!!

He did the crime, he served his time and seems to have learned his lesson. For those who cannot get passed this, I think you need to put your actions where your mouth is. There are dog fights going on everyday anywhere south of the mason dixon line, just like there are bull fights, cock fights and deer hunts. If your soul is so torchered by these truths, do something about them and stop making Mike the scapegoat for all of the worlds ills.

"But, yes, let's ignore the horrific past and move on to the fun and games"

Do you agree with reperations for the horrific past of slavery, which worldwide up to $200 million Africans died? And of the ones that survived the trip, they endured 400 years of torture through generations in America alone? American industries, tobacco, cotton, etc. thrived because of slavery and the entire white race benefited, including to this day. Mike Vick paid 49 dogs $1 million dollars restitution. That's hillarious pay dogs reperations but not human beings! Not that I agree with reperations or the what MV did...But my educated guess is that although MV was convicted of brutally killing dogs; it did not go down exactly as believed. The guy got caught up in a web of bad judgement starting with his choice of friends, and maybe even embracing an accepted culture of dog fighting in the South. Does that make it okay, no. Did he pay for his deeds, certainly. So, let the man move on already! But I understand you have to be controversial to attract people to your blog.

I am writing about Vickk and an intreview on 60 Minutes. I am sorry I cannot follow where you are trying to take the conversation. Thanks. Z

Amen to the comment made by Rey at 12:21pm.

I wake up every morning finding myself tuned in to the Mike Vick story. James Brown is not a 60 minute employee and I find it hard to believe that they are doing this just for ratings or to please there NFL fan base. Did you ever think that maybe the only way he'd do it period was with James Brown and they possibly had no choice other than to accept the terms or loose the story. Vick was prosecuted, sentenced, and has served his time. I'm a southerner and pet lover. So, naturally I am knowledgable of the dog fighting culture. Here in Mississippi, dog fights go on all the time. Honestly, until Mike Vick was prosecuted, many people didn't know that this was even a crime. I agree that it is inhumane to kill helpless animals for any reason (hunting for sport included). PETA gains alot of exposure from a high profile athlete such as Michael Vick. But, I feel PETA itself is seeking vengance on a man who has served his time by law and has lost nearly everything. Michael Vick has a right to work. Football isn't just a game to him, its his occupation. Do we boycott the Bank of Commerce after a chairman is charged with domestic violence? Do we attempt to keep the trashman unemployed after he's been charged with public intoxication. Better yet, Do we view ralley and and picket when former CEO's are charged with child pornography or posession of drugs? In these harsh economic times, why attempt to keep another man unemployed. Michael has paid the ultimate price. His fall from grace was like none other. I think his race plays a major issue as well. I always hear people call Michael Vick a thug.. When has he been charged with carrying a fire arm, distributing cocaine, domestic violence, etc. Ben Roethlisberger was recently accused of sexual assualt and settling a civil suit, has been photographed drunk at college parties, and who knows what else? Matt Jones was charged with cocaine at the begininng of last season and only served a three game suspension at the end of the season. I think we should be fair. Leave Mike Vick alone. He made a mistake which he HAS paid for dearly. Let him work. He's served his time. Move forward world please.

If that is the only way Vick would agree to do it, then the choice is simple: You do not do the interview. You do not let interview subjects dictate who will do the interview. That is very basic. Thanks. Z

Good mornin' Z.,

Two cliche phrases come to mind in light of your T.V. critic's professional obligation to cover (watch and review) the much-ballyhooed, upcoming Mike Vick interview on this Sunday's CBS-"60 Minutes", namely you're royally skewered "on the horns of a dilemma" while jammed "between a rock and a hard place". (Maybe we could throw in you're "damned if you do, and damned if you don't" into the mix. HA! HA!)

Ethically and metaphorically speaking, both these 'uncomfortable postures' reflect, for many folks in the greater blogosphere, their genuine conflict-of-interest vis a vis the Michael Vick emotionally-charged, high-profile case.

Many, basically good folk, are stewing over, and trying sincerely to come to terms w/ the uncomfortable and odd dichotomy between two glaring, yet conflicting, aspects of Mr. Vick; one being his huge public persona and reputation as an, admittedly, charismatic, telegenic, handsome and extremely gifted, proven pro athlete, who has brought excitement and viewing pleasure to legions of NFL fans.

Yet, beyond this star-athlete image, and stellar track-record (OK, gridiron record), Vick has revealed this other, much darker, and uglier side of his personality and character, that being his brutal, malicious propensity for aiding and abetting (organizing and condoning) the systematic brutalizing and even killing of innocent animals--his proclivity being DOGS.

People out there are really torn by this seeming 'Jeckyl and Hyde' picture of Mr. Vick.

They're asking: How in heaven's name could a good-looking, awesomely wealthy and successful pro athlete, a huge hero to scores of young aspiring young athletes out there
of every hue in the wonderful rainbow of colors and ethnicities, at the same time, off the playing field, organize and fund the cold and calculating torture, brutalizing and ultimately killing of helpless dogs, in a syndicate of illegal, for-profit viscous canine fights to the death?

That vocal and vociferous minority out there who regard premeditated abuse, torture and killing of dogs as a minor human(e) transgression, and are more than willing to give Mr. Vick a PASS (that 2nd chance, if you will), have more of a vested, selfish interest, as football fanatics, in seeing this guy 'pass' his way back into the sacrosanct NFL, that mega-bucks generating, irresistible to many 'gamers', entertainment/ sports monolith.

Z., as much as you detest the cruel and inhumane past actions of Mr. vick, you are obliged to cover the story, yet if you had your druthers(? spelling), as you've stated in earlier posts, you would much prefer to pass on watching the "60 Minutes" piece on Sunday.

I view your current dilemma kind of like a paramedic, or CSI-type investigator, who by the very nature of his or her chosen profession must, day-in-and-day-out, face unspeakable and horrific situations (the aftermaths of car accidents, violence, homicide, disaster), yet deal w/ and process it in their own, personal way, as pros, even though deep-down at the heart of their very being, they would prefer to not have to be there, as witnesses to the trauma and gruesome mayhem.

Z., I look forward to your, hopefully "fair and balanced" take on Monday, on what to me is just the first calculated, and pecuniary-driven first steps in Michael Vick's 'coming-out party'.

YIPEE!!!!! Mike is back, guys! Ain't that just 'dope'? Gooooooooo Titans! (or whoever)

If Vick goes on to redeem himself as a fully re-instated member of the NFL, and comes up w/ a winning '09/ '10 gridiron season, sadly, for those former fence-sitters who couldn't quite support his comeback, but still secretly yearned for his return, the ugly Vick dog-brutalizing episode will have faded into the woodwork as a forgotten non-issue in the collective, sports-rule, consciousness.

For these folk, winning is everything, and short-term memory, and immediate glory, out-trumps long-term memory, and sustained personal integrity every time.

Thanks again Z. for providing this valuable and lively forum.

Try to keep you Sunday dinner down as you watch the "60 Minutes" 'side-show'. That acid-reflux can be a real pain.

ALEX

Hi Alex, I am writing from somewhere between a rock and hard place...Thanks again. Z

The best you can do is say "I'm not writing about deer" or "I'm not talking about other dog killers" but then you say "old news. But, yes, let's ignore the horrific past and move on to the fun and games. Z". So by that account you support a Government apology for Slavery perpertrated by your ancestors. "old news. But, yes, let's ignore the horrific past and move on to the fun and games. Z". Post after post keeps telling you the man paid for his crime. You don't run 60 minutes and last time I checked 60 Minutes was not run by democracy. So how about not writing about the 60 minutes piece before it's aired. No one cares that YOU think James Brown shouldn't be the interviewer. JB has the education and track record to be on 60 minutes, why? Because 60 minutes says so.

Sorry, once again I aam having trouble with your logic. You lost me with the leap from Michael Vick killing dogs to your assertion that I either do or do not support reparations for slavery. Sorry. Z

What a great player Michael Vick is. He had done much for the NFL and Falcons. I think Falcons made a huge mistake of letting him go, NFL commissioner is acting like girl who is teasing Vick. Things Vick can do no one knows about but Vick, things he did are plain idiotic. Considering money and fame vs. adrenaline he got out of dog fighting, i say he didn't know it would bring so much attention and potential prison time, witch he got more than i think he should. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH CRITICISM, talk as much as possible, but don't take it personal. To me it seems that the writer thinks that Vick killed a cute little puppy out of pure amusement, he would've killed different species. He killed dogs after they fought, one or both had severe injuries. What Vick has is called a disease he enjoyed seeing dogs fight, i know its a rush but society proves it to be immoral.

Well apparantly he does NOW work for Sixty Minutes....as im sure he's not doing it for free. Whats the beef with that? SIxty minutes for years has evolved as correspondents have died....and others have been tried on for size and fit before becoming more routine member. I think you have a lil Minute envy their Z. Let the well respected and the well trusted (especially in sports circles)Harvard man do his job.After all it is that trust and his emminent competence that landed him the interview with a controversial figure who has polarized many. Which after all what 60 minutes is really about. Try to not prejudge....which given your commentary seems a tad difficult for you.

Does Michael Vick Deserve a second chance?
Watch this preview for VICKtory to the Underdog

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjostWvg9tU

http://strangleholdmerch.com/vicktory-to-the-underdog-p-191.html

VICKtory to the Underdog was Nominated for three awards.

Best Soundtrack Feature,Best Documentary, and Best Social Commentary Award.

VICKtory to the Underdog
WON BEST SOCIAL COMMENTARY

“Vicktory To The Underdog” takes an in depth look at world renowned tattoo artist “Brandon Bond” and his dog rescue efforts – particularly rescuing the infamous Michael Vick fighting dogs.
Rather than focusing on the dog fighting problem, the movie sheds light on solutions leading to “Vicktory” for all the underdogs in the movie – tattoo people, pitbulls, parolees and all the other people in this world that society has turned their back on through ignorance and racism.
The movie also examines the life of Brandon Bond and his struggle with balancing fame, fortune and the Rock-N-Roll tattoo lifestyle with a more fulfilling life that focuses on the betterment of both animals and society as a whole.
Featuring celebrities like Debbie and Danny Trejo, Michael Berryman, Pixie Acia and Donal Logue, the movie takes you on an incredible journey you will never forget!

Proceeds for this film will be going to Villa Lobos Pitbull Rescue. http://www.vrcpitbull.com

"Yes, people want to ignore the sytematic and even ritualistic torture of these poor animals." -Z

What, you don't think that's been thrown in everybody's faces since Vick was prosecuted way back when? Moral values are relative, and like it or not, there are still cultures that celebrate dog fighting. Heck, you could make the same argument that human beings are being tortured and set against each other in high school sports. They even die too. Every time you take a bite of meat, you ought to know what torture and killing went into it, and some do take a false moral high ground in that regard as well. We are predators and we kill to eat. We also enjoy seeing not only animals fight, but people as well; whether it be in a mixed martial arts cage or on the side of the road. There is no higher plane. No moral high ground. We are animals, and don't pretend otherwise. Moral boundaries are simply imposed sanctions used by controlling bodies to keep folks in line. They change with each and every new generation. But with all that said, if a man does the time, why do you need to beat more out of him?

I will say this again,
Michael Vick is a low life THUG, whether his skin color is blk, brown,green, red, white,gold , silver, or the color like pig's dropping.
His evil act toward innocent/voiceless dogs made him an evil monster in our eyes.
He should not hold a job that will show his face in public, in fact, i think he is the MOST HATED MAN IN AMERICA.
He deserves nothing but die painfully the same way he killed/tortured those innocent/voiceless dogs.
SHAME ON GOODELL, SHAME ON THOSE PEOPLE WHO THINK HE SHOULD STILL PLAY FOOTBALL FOR NFL.
SHAME, SHAME, SHAME.

I dont really care what Vick did
He went to jail and has been run through most of the ringer except the completion of Goodell's (do get me started on that one)
I don't care what my ancestors did either, wasn't there and never will be
All that aside, I just want to see if the guy can play again or not.
I sure don't care about pita - just check out petakillsanimals.com

Vick has paid is death to society. In America we do our time for the crime laid down for the accusser. He's done that and if we don't like it or the person then the only thing a citizen of the United States can do is to have the law change and until then he is only doing what he is allowed to do and that is to get a job. The State kill hundred of dogs and stray animal every week and nothing is said about that. It is time to move on and let this man live is life.

Does Michael Vick Deserve a second chance?
Watch this preview for VICKtory to the Underdog

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjostWvg9tU

http://strangleholdmerch.com/vicktory-to-the-underdog-p-191.html

VICKtory to the Underdog was Nominated for three awards.

Best Soundtrack Feature,Best Documentary, and Best Social Commentary Award.

VICKtory to the Underdog
WON BEST SOCIAL COMMENTARY

“Vicktory To The Underdog” takes an in depth look at world renowned tattoo artist “Brandon Bond” and his dog rescue efforts – particularly rescuing the infamous Michael Vick fighting dogs.
Rather than focusing on the dog fighting problem, the movie sheds light on solutions leading to “Vicktory” for all the underdogs in the movie – tattoo people, pitbulls, parolees and all the other people in this world that society has turned their back on through ignorance and racism.
The movie also examines the life of Brandon Bond and his struggle with balancing fame, fortune and the Rock-N-Roll tattoo lifestyle with a more fulfilling life that focuses on the betterment of both animals and society as a whole.
Featuring celebrities like Debbie and Danny Trejo, Michael Berryman, Pixie Acia and Donal Logue, the movie takes you on an incredible journey you will never forget!

Proceeds for this film will be going to Villa Lobos Pitbull Rescue. http://www.vrcpitbull.com

I don't see how anyone could compare deer hunting or animal shelters euthanizing dogs or cats to what Vick did.

Read about how Vick and his cronies "disposed" of undesirable dogs that they felt didn't have what it took to be successful in the ring.

Vick had such a passion for dog fighting that he spent hundreds of thousands of a dollars on it, only to get a few thousand in prize money.

As a QB Vick was not a leader in Atlanta. You would hear about other QB's in the league working out with receivers during the offseason. That was not the case with Vick.

The Falcons were either drafted or got receivers through free agency. All of them were unsuccessful. Roddy White was considered a bust until Vick left.

I don't think it is right for James Brown to be doing the interview on 60 minutes. I resepct Tony Dungy immensely, but he needs to stop talking for Vick. Vick needs to talk for himself. I wouldn't be surprised if he and JB are practicing interviewing as we speak.

Does Vick deserve another shot in the NFL? Not up to me. If I was an owner or a coach I wouldn't want anything to do with him. Vick's told the media that the thing he was most proud of during the 2006 season when the Falcons missed the playoffs was him setting the single season rushing record for QBs.

How many Superbowl QBs from the last 20 years were known for their rushing skills. The guy is overrated.

To quote Nathan Winograd: Michael Vick has the information which can deal a crushing blow to dog fighters and dog fighting in the United States. He can make a profound impact on the lives of dogs being abused and tortured today. In fact, there could be a dozen arrests and closures of dog fighting rings by now thanks to the information he could potentially provide to HSUS and federal investigators. He knows who the dog fighters are. He knows where the dog fights are held. He knows where they are getting the dogs. He knows where they are getting the animals used as “bait.” He knows where they live. He knows where they keep the dogs. He knows where they buy and keep the instruments of torture. He can stop it. A person as deeply involved in the U.S. dog fighting racket as Vick could implicate many other dog fighters and provide valuable information that could shut them down.

http://www.nathanwinograd.com/?p=1768

Great point. Thank you. Z

And what qualifies Mike Wallace to do an interview with Mike Vick? oh because he is on 60 Minutes? Please. James Brown has covered football for a long time and that's why he should do the interview. Unless, you would rather have him interview President Obama about healthcare. Because using your logic, that's what would happen.

Actually, Mike is retired from 60 Minutes. And again, I do not follow your logic at aall. Sorry. Z

Donald J wrote that Roethlisberger is "settling" the litigation against him. On the contrary, he is aggressively contesting the charges and has displayed no interest in a settlement.
But back to the main point: The blog post in question here is not about the facts of the Vick case. It's about the journalistic merits of the interview.

Thank you, so much for that reminder. I think some folks have lost track of that. Z

all this for what? when u got a man that spent 30days in jail for killing a HUMAN. EVERYONE GET REAL?

Yo Winston (Hudson),

I don't know if your 'intro' to today's 3:04pm/ EDST-posting on this blog was merely an unfortunate Freudian Slip, or just a case of sloppy typing skills, but I think you meant to say Vick had paid "his debt" to society, but it read, "is death". ---OOPS!

I guess you just kinda had DEATH foremost on your mind, when you babbled on, trying to defend Mr. Vick's right to "move on" and "get a job".

Winston my man, the majority of animal lovers, dogs and cats, by far, being the most popular and numerous of all pet species in the U.S. and Canada, would, in a perfect world, hands-down prefer a blanket "NO KILL" policy at all city pounds and animal shelters, period.

But this Utopian ideal is currently untenable and totally unrealistic.

If the lion's-share of pet owners would have their pets neutered and spayed; if there wasn't such a huge monetary incentive to (irresponsibly) breed dogs and cats, ad infinitum, i.e., illegal puppy mills; if folks would just think twice before taking on the onerous responsibility of caring for, and nurturing a new pet to full adulthood and beyond, before they suddenly decide that they can't cope w/ their charge, behaviorally, and ultimately give up, sending the poor creature to the pound and a likely death-sentence---- perhaps THEN, we could reduce, exponentially, the out-of-control proliferation of cats and dogs, and the staggering euthanized pet-numbers that accrue each year in America.

It also doesn't help that certain entire breeds of dogs, namely Pit Bull Terriers, Rottweillers, and Dobbies, are constantly demonized as killers, when it has been shown that it's generally the irresponsible, brutal and negative training by the dog's 'master' that is the determining factor in moulding a dogs behavior to the 'dark-side'.

Most puppy don't start out as mean, vicious, out-of-control dogs, they are taught to be that way, by their unfeeling, faux-macho owners.

Just like little children are not born racists, or bigots, but learn it by negative reenforcement, and modeling hateful behavior as they mature, from either their bigoted relatives, or their ofttimes racist peer group.

But I digress.

Winston, your garbled, almost undecipherable comment gave me a mild headache, just making trying to make some sense of your argument, but I did kind of get the gist of your appeal: I) that basically Mr. Vick deserves that "2nd chance" at gridiron-greatness 2) that he's done the crime, but served his time, and 3) let's all just conveniently forget that he ever abused, tortured, or condoned the killing of innocent and helpless animals, his preference being DOGS.

Sadly, there are countless others out there in the blogosphere who have the exact same warped sentiments as you, and have chosen to look the other way, as well.

Maybe you and that hiding-in-the-shadows "Anonymous" who posted just prior to you, and referred to the much-maligned animal-rights group PETA as "pita", (last time I checked ----a form of Middle-Eastern flat-bread), could pool your intellects and spelling prowess and compare notes.

They claim two heads, even addled ones, are often better than one.

Oh, enjoy your hero, Mr. Michael Vick's NFL exploits on 'the tube' this coming season.

It's so rare that we get to witness a released, redeemed 'con-Vick-ed' felon back in society's good graces, raking in millions of dollars playing a silly little game, be it, admittedly, the most popularly-watched sport in the nation.

ALEX

FOOTNOTE:
Oh, I almost forgot that other convicted-felon, rapist and habitual brutalizer of women, (who ironically shares the same first-name as our Mr. Vick), pugilist Mike Tyson, got his 2nd, and 3rd and maybe even 4th chance to return to the boxing ring, but his popularity slowly ebbed as his irrationality, and anti-social behavior escalated.

Sadly, the great former World Heavy-Weight Champ, Evander Hollyfield has only half of one ear to vouch for that!

While I understand the outrage of the indefensible acts of carried out by MV, I wish you people who are so venomously outraged by these action of the responsible party would also show the same vigor, force and stamina when a human being is treated with such abuse or mistreatment. I truly believe that what MV did was wrong on every level I can not see how or why some many people find his action more deplorable then the acts of violence and mayhem that occurs everyday to people right in your own backyard, but I am not that naive to misunderstand where must people true feelings are on this issue. Look at all the comments on this issue of who is going to interview MV and the reasons for doing so compared to other life altering incidents that take place daily.

It's ok to kill a deers, rabbits, pigs and other animals, but we cross the line when we kill dogs. Unless it's at a animal shelter. If the rabbit or pig is a pet, you can't kill it, but if it running around outside you can. I don't understand animal laws?
You can shoot a deer with and bow and let it suffer of hours, but that's ok.
If you kill a person that would be ok to play again in the NFL, but not a dog. Think about that people.

Think about systematically torturing the dog before you kill it as Vick did. Thanks. Z

JB does work for CBS, he is not part of CBS NEWS. That being said his work on Real Sports as well as other networks like FOX and in DC shows he is far from just a sports guy talking head. How he got the interview I don't know, but the respect he has in the sports arena definitely has an effect. I do not think 60 minutes would jepeordize the integrity of the show for a fluff piece to bolster the NFL season starting. I doubt an interview with Michael Vick will increase ratings during the season.

JB is strong interviewer and I think many of you will be surprised.

Regarding Vicks future all I've seen is that Baltimore is Wacko for Flacco!

If James Brown asks the tough questions there's no problem with him doing the story, no matter if he's a 60 minutes guy or not. Often times, sources want to do interviews with people who make them feel comfortable. That's actually a good quality for a reporter to have (Half the job is getting people to open up to you on the record). Just because Vick (let's assume) is more comfortable speaking with Brown, doesn't mean Brown will pull punches. In fact, Brown's credibility as a journalist stands on this interview. He should have felt pressure to make sure he drilled Vick with tough questions. We'll have to wait and see if Brown actually did his job, but it's too early to say he shouldn't have done the interview, especially if he worked hard to get it.

Mr. Z
1st full disclosure: Falcons fan, ATL native, and not a pet owner.
I don't read anywhere in your blog where you give Mr. Brown any credit as a journalist, but merely a 'sports show host' impling lack of credibility and also impuning his journalistic objectivity.

Also, your responses seemed clearly biased against M. Vick. Granted his crime was exactly that, a crime and is inexcusable, but not unforgivable.
You ask whether CBS should have conducted the interview ... but I ask, which, if any, television media outlet is totally disconnected from sports (in general) or the NFL (specifically)?

Should the intent of a M. Vick interview (from the publics perspective) be to allow him to answer questions to our own satisfaction (which isn't really required) or visibly see him squirm on-camera to satisfy ourselves and vicariously get our 'pound of flesh', since we didn't see him in jail?!?!

your responses above really indicate which one you would prefer.

'60 Minutes' has a long history of journalism and some high-profile interviews, with the line of questioning not always satisfying the desires of people, but nontheless, serving some purpose.

mr.z just to let you and your friends now,those wrongful killings by police is what you need to pressure, and leave vick alone he paid the price already, move on and get at those killer cop you are sorry as...

Had to edit for coarse language. Sorry. Z

Have we forgotten about the 1800"s when a man life didn't mean anything and noone was screaming about that,and now some of us are saying some unbelieveable comments about this man, come on is this America the land of  the freeand the home of the brave let's get real people.

ever notice that the guys who participate and/or defend dog fighting and Cretans like Vick have nothing going on between their ears? They're always low on the education and intelligence totem pole.