Bush & Company

It would be disillusioning to believe that President Obama, to gain political points, commended Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie for signing Michael Vick. In any case, he's lost others.

Perhaps Mr. Obama's words, spoken on a call to Lurie about his alternative energy project for the team's stadium, were taken out of context or blown out of proportion. He says he just believes in a second chance for one who's paid his debt to society.

Perhaps it's in his nature to take on faith that the heinous Michael Vick, who not only engaged in dog fighting, an illegal as well as an inhumane and profitable activity, but tortured and executed the animals, as well, has mended his ways. It's doubtful, however, that one capable of such acts is rehabilitatable, despite scripted assurances to the contrary and court-ordered volunteer work for the Humane Society.

This person should never be allowed to own an animal again and laws should be considerably strengthened and expanded. 23 months in a federal prison on the charge of dogfighting is woefully inadequate.

Why doesn't the president counter his damaged reputation by adopting homeless and abused dogs himself?

Yet more reprehensible than the president is owner Lurie,

who for profit rehired the monstrous Vick.