Arts group honors Michael Vick at gala

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Saturday night, Michael Vick fans opened their wallets to get a chance to meet the NFL star. Vick was supposed to be the honored guest at the Southeastern Virginia Arts Association Gala. The event was held at the Half-Moon Terminal in Norfolk.

A spokesman for Vick told WAVY.com that event organizers were told months ago that Vick would not be attending the event. Chris Shigas said Vick was grateful to be honored by the group, but he made it very clear to organizers he would not be in attendance.

Tickets went for $100 a piece. Several people were upset and walked out.

The money for the event was supposed to help pay some of the $33,000 owed to police officers who provided security at the last Afr'Am festival, which is also organized by SEVAA.

The association says Vick is a hero. Last month, SEVAA director Michael Muhammad told WAVY.com, "People talk about Michael Vick as a convicted felon, well so was Jesus Christ, yet he was able to do things above and beyond the naysayers to the point that we all recognize him today as Lord and Savior."

WAVY.com tried to contact Muhammad, SEVAA board members, and organizers to get questions answered about Vick and the money raised.

SEVAA responded by sending a news release thanking those who attended the event and reiterated how happy they were to honor Vick.

The release said, "This event marked one of many that we will host or take part in to give exposure to the tremendous under exposed talents of African-Americans here in Southeastern Virginia and beyond."

In addition, we talked with the attorney representing the police officers who are supposed to be getting paid with the money raised at the event. Attorney Martin Thomas Jr. said he has not heard from SEVAA about the money.