Community
What Happened to the Vocal Community?
I have been thinking about this for a while, and I finally decided to put my thoughts into words. I have only been on Vocal for about a year and a half, so I was not around during what many people call the platform's best years. Even so, I became curious one evening and started reading older articles from longtime members.
By Tim Carmichael2 months ago in Writers
Patriots' coach Mike Vrabel speaks out on controversy
On Tuesday Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel made his first appearance since the photos of him and NFL reporter Dianna Russin surfaced. Vrabel said that he “had difficult conversations,” including his family, players, coaching staff and the owners. He stated that he talked to his players on Monday in a private session when they returned for the voluntary workout program. He stated that the meetings were productive and positive but they would remain private. “We believe that in order to be successful on and off the field, you have to make good decisions, and that includes me, that starts with me,” said Vrabel. He thanked the media for being so patient and understanding during this time. The photos that led to the incident first appeared on Page Six. They appeared to show Mike Vrabel and NFL reporter Dianna Russini alone at an adult-only Arizona resort before the annual coaches meeting that was being held in Sedona, Arizona on March 29, according to the New York Post. They appeared to show the duo holding hands, embracing each other and relaxing poolside. Vrabel made the unexpected media appearance when two players were only listed as expected to talk. Boston Globe reporter Ben Volin stated that on Monday, the team did not mention Vrabel would speak. Volin mentioned that he heard Vrabel was going to be available for a “side session,” following his statement. “Reporters were ordered to turn off all cameras, including phones, and were told to ask only football questions,” Volin continued. With the voluntary workouts having kicked off on Monday, the team’s plan was to have two players speak in front of the media. Vrabel cut that plan out so he could speak to media and address the controversy. “It was never my intention to have the players speak to you or address you before I did, so I asked (Patriots head of Media Relations Stacey James) to come today and talk with you,” Vrabel said to reporters. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy stated that the league doesn’t plan on reviewing Vrabel’s behavior as part of the league’s personal conduct policy, which states players, coaches and executives are required to avoid “conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in the National Football League.” This news comes after Russini stepped down as a reporter for The Athletic on April 14. Russini stepping down came about a week after the photos surfaced. “I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published. When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressing confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. In the days that followed commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts," said Russini in a statement to Executive Editor Steven Ginsburg.
By Anthony McCulley2 months ago in Writers
Thought Process. Top Story - July 2026.
Like every challenge that ever pops up, I was immediately intimidated by Paul's 'Explicate my Poem' unofficial challenge. I've been thinking about this one for days. I genuinely hate picking apart other people's work right in front of them. Makes me feel icky. 🥴
By Sara Wilson2 months ago in Writers
A Last Call
It was a drab and hot night in the Deep South for not even the night creatures were making a sound. Far off in the distance one could hear something, but in all the murkiness of the hot evening one could not tell. Usually there is a lot going on, but as mentioned on an excessively hot and humid evening no 'body' seems to want to hear those words 'Last Call' for that would mean that it was time to leave and a time to cry for one will not know when the next call will be for you or......
By Mark Graham2 months ago in Writers
How a water crisis changed Flint, MI forever
How a water crisis affected a once booming Michigan town What would you do if you began to experience skin rashes and the taste of foul-smelling water and having nothing done about it? Residents of a small Michigan town were dealt those cards
By Anthony McCulley2 months ago in Writers
Damar Hamlin collapses after collision
If you’re someone who is playing a sport this is a reminder to not take for granted the sport that you are blessed enough to have the ability to play. Damar Hamlin went face to face with a situation he never thought he’d see during a Monday Night Football game.
By Anthony McCulley2 months ago in Writers
The Getting To Know Each Other Game: Edition Five
Greetings Vocalites!!! Before we move onto the 5th edition of The Getting to Know Each Other Game, I want to spread a little love to each of you here. I am so grateful to be part of such a wonderful platform with so many wonderful and very talented people.
By Rick Henry Christopher 2 months ago in Writers
