Michael Vick and Squeaky Fromme

In a previous post, I wondered if Michael Vick would be subjected to race discrimination in his attempt to play in the National Football League again. If so, it didn’t occur in Philadelphia, since he’s now been signed by the Eagles — to the disapproval of some who want the dog killer shunned for life. Bill Bowser has a thoughtful post on the Vick situation.

The hiring of Vick has overshadowed the release from prison after 30 years of Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme, who attempted to assassinate President Ford in 1975. Her trial received additional notoriety, because she was a disciple of Charles Manson, the cult leader who killed actress Sharon Tate and eight others in 1969. Although Fromme was living with Manson at the time, there was no evidence she participated in the murders.

During Fromme’s trial, she tried to call Manson as a witness, tried to represent herself, engaged in violent outbursts, and threw an apple at the judge. Vick looked saintly during his court proceedings by comparison.

After her conviction, she attacked a fellow inmate with a hammer and escaped from prison, only to be recaptured two days later. She was eligible for parole almost 25 years ago but refused to apply. Finally, an automatic parole hearing occurred, leading to her recent release.

Though most people would presumably regard Squeaky’s crime as more serious than Vick’s, PETA notwithstanding, a lot of time has passed since Squeaky was convicted, not so much for Vick. Squeaky has been all but forgotten. Vick is like an open sore.

It’s unlikely there’ll be much commotion if Squeaky gets a job, unless it’s with the Secret Service. The contrast between the barely remembered, untalented Squeaky and the despised, very talented Vick reminds us what matters most in the world of sports, the world of employment, any world: the almighty dollar.

1. 

   ACU Frank says:

   August 17, 2009 at 11:52 am

   I got pretty excited when I found out Squeaky had been released the day before the Mayor of Milwaukee was assaulted at the Wisconsin State Fair. I mean, that’s a plot twist that would have really got her back on the front pages! Alas, it was not to be…
2. 

   John Phillips says:

   August 18, 2009 at 9:49 am

   Frank,

   You’re always thinking, inside and outside the box. I hadn’t made the Squeaky-Milwaukee connection. Almost a good catch on your part.

   Time will tell what, if anything, we hear out of Squeaky. Surely, all sorts of media are trying to get an exclusive interview. I’d certainly watch or read it. Call me weird, but I’ve always wondered what’s in her mind.

   Thanks for your comment.

   John