Jeff Schultz

By Jan

February 3, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

Jeff——You writing Obama’s memoirs is akin to Albert Haynesworth taking over Michael Phelps’ lap in the relay; or Phelps taking over Ricky Williams’ bong.

By Double Standard

February 3, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

I wonder if he was a black track star would the IOC and Sponsors be so forgiving?

By Shane

February 3, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this

I say so what alcohol is far worse for you anyway

By Jeff Schultz

February 3, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

Jan: I’m now thoroughly confused. … Double Standard: While I sometimes I think race is used as an excuse for things too much, you might have a point there. .. JS

By Richard

February 3, 2009 12:07 PM | Link to this

If it had been heroin or coke I might care but pot? Really? I’m supposed to care about that? Wake me when he pulls a Reuben Houston and is found with 96 pounds of it in his car.

There are only two questions to be asked about Phelps:

By dawgfan1911

February 3, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

The media works in a funny way. This so called swimming olympic hero gets to keep all of his endorsement deals after getting caught in pictures of him smoking weed, yet they say o dont worry about it, we know you are sorry for it. It’s not fair!!! This guy is getting a free pass and the media is to blame for this as well. His was smoking an illegal drug, which mean he bought it and probably knows of others who partake in it as well. Everything that looks good is not good and this kid has been allowed to get away with this because he is white and he is a positive image for white athletes. Shame on ESPN, FOXsports, any major newspaper, who have silently swept this story under the rugg.

By Jan

February 3, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

Jeff——-To un-confuse you, what I’m saying is: “YOU’RE NOT WORTHY!” Get it…Albert swimming for Phelps, and Phelps thinking he can smoke like Ricky.

By Joey

February 3, 2009 12:25 PM | Link to this

Regarding Phelps, Bill Simmons (ESPN Sports Guy) said. “I have a hard time with the value of Olympic gold medals when the US Basketball team players play multiple games for more than 2 weeks and get one medal. Phelps swims multiple races for 2 weeks and gets 8 medals.” I agree.

By BravesFan79

February 3, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

Double Standard: Funny i ask myself that question all the time when i see a story omitting the race of the perp after another old person is assulted and robbed by some thug.

Heres a hint…if it was a little old BLACK lady getting robbed by a white man…. there would be cries of “racism” everywhere. But since its “JUST ANOTHER white victim” theres no cries from the SPLC, or NAACP……. nope there 2 busy waiting for Don Imus to say “it figures” again!

But just ask the liberal media…. the mexicans and blacks arent capable of “racism”! Even tho mexicans are giving blacks a dose of their own medicine by standing up for themselves and killing them off in southern cali.

And who cares about smoking bud….id tell my kid to do that anyday over coke, pills, heavy drinking, and ciggs.

By BugKiller

February 3, 2009 12:31 PM | Link to this

Matt Leinart got and gets killed because the honeys he was with in the hot-tub were underage.

Not “Mark Chumura” underage (you know, jailbate), but under the legal age of consumption.

So, at a party at his house, a 24 year old man was supplying 18 year old girls with alcohol.

Hmmm… wonder why?

By Mark C.

February 3, 2009 12:41 PM | Link to this

I know why he’s getting a free pass. Because we don’t care about Olympic athletes once the Olympics are over anymore. This comes out during Beijing, everybody goes bonkers and we have to hear ‘No wonder he eats 12,000 calories a day jokes’ for two weeks. I’m glad it came out now.

By lburna

February 3, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this

Quoting Andre3000:

“Marijuana illegal, but cigarettes cool? I might look kinda funny but I ain’t no fool.”

There are enough things to worry about than whether or not an accomplished athlete, in a marginal sport, is taking bong rips. He’s 23, won 8 gold medals, trains like crazy, and is sitting on a gold mine.

Live the high life, Phelps. I though you were a rube prior to this, but I’m glad to know you’re not such a square.

By Vic Mackey

February 3, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure that race is the reason for a pass, but I’m sure it’s playing it’s part. On the other hand I think that the fact that Phelps is an Olympic athlete who only sees the spotlight every 4 yrs has more of a bearing on it.

He’s not competing on a national stage now and nobody REALLY cares if he smokes weed. Even the people who post on blogs and say they are outraged or disappointed — half are probably weed smokers themselves.

I think people are starting to see so many people on youtube and other sites where cell phone videos pop up that it’s getting to be mundane. I mean how many ot these “scandals” can you have before people just stop caring.

I think people are tired of the cheap news stories of the week, we have other more pressing things to worry about right now.

By Howard

February 3, 2009 12:49 PM | Link to this

Jeff…good commenst on Phelps. Is that guy so stupid as to think someone wasn’t using one of those stupid cell cameras on him the minute he entered that party house?? Did that idiot not realize those pictures would end up everywhere? I know his sponsors are giving him a free pass…but as consumers and fans…we do not need to! The guy is a jerk and idiot and I won’t watch him in anything anymore or buy one thing he endorses. And as for his assertion that he made a mistake or error in judgment…using a substance declared by the laws of the land that’s illegal? You committed a crime…errors of judgment or mistakes are when you forget an appointment, stub your toe, fall down while trying to walk on an icy street, etc. Smoking on a bong is not a mistake…it’s still technically an illegal act.

By MP

February 3, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this

You could tell during Olympic interviews that Phelps is about as dumb as a rock. He’s a 23 year old whose a momma’s boy.

The bottom line is weed is illegal and believe me South Carolina will cite him (if not have him arrested).

Weed is illegal because the vast majority of people don’t want it to be legal.

By Ken

February 3, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

The kid won freaking 14 Gold medals- so he,s not perfect!So he smoked a little weed- big deal!There is enough about this kid to admire without focusing on every wart. Every person reading this probably knows a good upstanding person that has took a puff or two or had a couple of shots too many in their youth so why should this reflect any worse on Phelps?

By josh gralton

February 3, 2009 1:00 PM | Link to this

Schultz if you win 8 gold medals and help us beat China you can get a free pass too!

By ANS

February 3, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

Who cares that Phelps smoked out of a bong. It doesn’t enhance his performance in any way. Everyone should back off and realize that pot isn’t “that” bad.

When was the last time you heard of someone smoking too much he had to go to the hospital? When was the last time you heard of someone smoking so much they got into a fight at a bar? Or pulled out a gun? Never. But you have heard of those stories with alcohol…

By P

February 3, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

maybe because everyone who smokes pot should get a pass.

The fact that our government is concerned with marijuana use at all is an absolute joke.

who cares? Puritans? Is this 1621?

Are we still burning witches?

Smoking is bad for you, especially if your an olympic swimmer… but that’s a you problem Michael P.

By Jeff Schultz

February 3, 2009 1:20 PM | Link to this

Joey: Several of us have made this point about medals before. I wrote in Beijing that people who claimed Phelps was a better Olympian than Jesse Owens based on his medal count was unfair because Owens didn’t participate in eight events in Berlin. … Marc C. From a fans’ perspective, you’re at least partly correct. But that doesn’t explain the reaction from all of the other entities: Olympic committees, swimming federation, sponsors, etc. … Howard: Yeah, I always wondered about situations like this. If I was Michael Phelps and I decided to get high in a college dorm room (remember, this is just hypothetical), wouldn’t I make sure all of the camera phones are left outside the room first? Seriously, what kind of person gets high (or drunk) with a guy, then takes his picture and gives it to a newspaper? …. JS

By Ken

February 3, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

Question of the day bloggers-why is pot illegal and not cigarettes?Or alcohol? Any intelligent answers?

By KrisG

February 3, 2009 1:31 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan 79 - -

You lost. Your party lost. And if your party ever has a prayer to win again, they will have to dump people like you. Have a nice day.

By Winkie

February 3, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

Phelps ain’t the smartest guy in the water, just the fastest. And the richest. And the most pampered. And the most prominent role model. And that’s the saddest thing of all.

By honest_abe

February 3, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this

you guys are all missing the point. any other high (no pun intended) profile athlete caught smoking weed would get KILLED! they would lose sponsors, get some kind of suspension in their sport and probably fine them as well.

this has nothing to do whether or not weed should be illegal. this has nothing to do with whether or not weed affects his performance. the bottom line is weed at this moment is illegal. and phelps stupid arse smoked some and got caught smoking it. hey i’m not sayin lets crucify the kid but i’m just agreeing with jeff that he’s getting a free pass only because he’s america’s hero.

shame on all the white people over the age of 30. heh

By pat

February 3, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this

This is so unbelievably petty I cannot believe anybody bothers to be concerned. So he smoke pot, so does most of the country. So what, who gives a rip?

Serious question, do we not have better things to worry about or is the world is such good shape that we have time to micro-manage Michael Phelps’s life?

By The Truth

February 3, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this

If it was Usain Bolt in that picture the IOC woulda stripped him of his medals.

Shoot, they already had the IOC chairman getting on his case for his braggadocio. I not going to claim racism but….well you know.

By Mr. Mackey

February 3, 2009 1:41 PM | Link to this

Remember class….Drugs are bad ok?

By no id

February 3, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

I agree..@The Truth

By sd

February 3, 2009 1:51 PM | Link to this

I would have been more surprised to have learned that Phelps didn’t smoke it.

Hes a 23 year old kid. They all do and its not a big deal. Its not like he was caught smoking a cigarette. That would have been much worse in my opinion.

By kendallmeeks

February 3, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

he’ll be let off, i see if it was a no name then USC would have charge them. i don’t care what can of celebrity he is ,he still violated the law.but on no one else won 8 gold metals.he’s no different from anyone else charge him just like anyone else. i’m not saying throw the book at him but he must be charge the same as anyone else. the OSC they said he apologized and won’t do it again, man get real he’s young and and he will do it again. smoking pot whats the big deal anyway i just think if he committed it then do the time or whatever comes from it

By Cakey

February 3, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

Well this sure explains the enormous appetite..lol..

By JOsh

February 3, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I would like to suggest to Phelps the new incinerator with the duel release tips. It goes down a lot smoother and better for the lungs. USA USA USA!!!!!!!!!!

By Jim

February 3, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

Hey Hypocrites where ever that falls…. I would say that it is virtually certain that the last three Presidents have smoked pot…so have half the folks in America between 16 and 70….ALL of Hollywood heroes…ALL of your Music Idols….

Bottom line…though maybe he shouldn’t have (burned one” (or more)….he did, he is just a kid, and he shouldn’t be burned at the stake….

PERIOD…

At least he didn’t kill dogs and try to get his bong thru security at the airport…so he isn’t a trash, thug, idiot like our last QB….

Give him a break….

By RJ

February 3, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this

Stop calling Phelps a KID! He’s a grown man that made a stupid decision and should be punished. This gets under skin. Why did T-Mobile drop Charles Barkely for a DUI but Phleps gets free walk?! Double standard! Whites get a pass and blacks must suffer. Heck, Vick was “suspected” of having marijuana and everyone wanted him to suffer. You stop being a kid at 18!

By Dylan w/o the dead

February 3, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

I know everyone is trying to avoid it including schultz but really isnt the world view of marijuana as a drug at the heartg of tghis magtgtder. If hed ha

By The Grinch

February 3, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

The fact that this is even news at all is absolutely absurd. Yes, he’s an idiot for standing in a room full of people and hitting a foot long bright red bong instead of being a bit more subtle about it, but otherwise this should be a non-story. The fact that it’s upsetting as many people as it is is what’s really disturbing. “Reefer Madness” wasn’t a real documentary, folks. It would have been far more disturbing to me to see him smoking a Marlboro.

By flats

February 3, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

Anyone that can produce that kind of bulge in a spedo can do anythang they want.Vick killed dogs and tortured them …THAT IS WHAT YOU CALL A FELONY!!!!!!!

By The Snark

February 3, 2009 2:03 PM | Link to this

Please don’t boot the kid for smoking pot. I would really miss the Jamaican bobsled team.

By RJ

February 3, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget that he also drank illegally in 2004 and was driving drunk. Not quite a role model after all. And no…not everyone has smoked pot like most of you want to think…I chose not to.

By Jason

February 3, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure why companies are paying him to begin with: I can’t imagine anyone buying a particular brand because “Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps” endorses it. Come on. In any case, I don’t foresee this incident affecting sales at Omega, Speedo, et al.

By michael

February 3, 2009 2:06 PM | Link to this

Please, he should get a free pass. Like someone already said, he is 23 and almost all people that age do this sort of thing at this age. I find it ridiculous that this drug is illegal anyway, how many go into rehab for smoking hippy lettuce. Get real. He is a typical 23 year old kid. Give me a break. All of these people who say they are disappointed in him for doing need to get a grip. This drug should not be illegal. The only thing he did wrong was hang around with some idiot who took a photo of him, that is where his judgment was poor, not for smoking pot.

By langford

February 3, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

Folks need to lighten the f**k up. As Willie Nelson says, if the good Lord made it, how can it be illegal!

It is certainly not a performance enhancing drug. This guy gave up a lot to represent the USA and win those medals. Good for him for kicking his heels up and enjoying being young.

We would be a lot better off without so much judgment and moralistic bullsh*t in our society.

By Dan

February 3, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

Hey RJ have you heard of Marion Barry? and phelps wasn’t (or has yet to be) arrested/charged.

By flats

February 3, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this

BULGE!

By Cairo

February 3, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this

Water bottle at the airport- no weed found? Crucified on the Blogs… Bong in hand, mouth on the tip, admission to smoking and picture; O that is okay he is just a kid and no harm done. And YOU PEOPLE wonder why minorities cry foul play. Why should we care about what he does, it is his life? Jeff, thanks for having the nerve at attempting to bring this to light. Phelps is a THUGGED OUT WEED HEAD!! He and Matt Leinart must be related…

By BossLady

February 3, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this

Phelps was tested so many times during his participation in the Olympics that it was not funny. He was not, I repeat was not on drugs when he competed and received his awards. Okay, he might not have done a good thing with smoking the pipe, but in these days young adults are prone to do these things. It sort makes him normal or average when you think about it. Should he be allowed to participate next time, if he passes the drug testing required at that time then he should.

By bali

February 3, 2009 2:17 PM | Link to this

jeff, listen would you write my memoirs.Maybe that could turn into a full time/ partime gig for u until Barrock comes to his senses and gives u a call . Just curious , I wonder if mike got a buzz on the first hit from that bong. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

By BDubs

February 3, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

langford:

Uhmmm, isn’t your last statement (“We would be a lot better off without so much judgment…”) your own personal judgment?

So…are you arguing against yourself here???

Hmm…sounds like somebody needs to go back to Communication 101.

By honest_abe

February 3, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

having heard him interview several times that wasn’t the first time he smoked some wacky tobaccy…

seriously though, the same (white) people that killed mike vick for a water bottle need to be just as p** at seeing phelps take a hit from that bong. i didn’t think it was appropriate for vick to smoke weed and i don’t think its right for phelps to be smoking either. period. god knows i could care less what they do in their spare time but it’s just a downright crime to put millions upon millions of dollars at stake just because you want to be stupid.

By flats

February 3, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

CAIRO…Stop all your fussing man….Did u see the bulge phelps was sporting during the olympics?

By Pass It

February 3, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

I’d like to know what Phelps had in the bong, and if he wouldn’t mind passing that $h1+ when he’s done.

By blkshephered

February 3, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

Ok. It aint like he killed a dog, No one died, was tortured,kidnapped and tortured(boy george) a girl was raped(mike tyson, kobe bryant), he date raped a girl, he killed someone with his car, He Named his son HITLER(idoit to the tenth power), he has oral sex in the oval office(and he kept the speedos he was wearing after semen wasted on them)He didnt try to sell a senate seat, He hasnt cheated the IRS …yet. Maybe just maybe he can get weed legalized? Whats the big deal? Alcohol kills more people in auto wrecks than weed ever did.

By MoZEEK

February 3, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

BURN that Kush!!!! I’m smoking right now!!!!

By CJ

February 3, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this

Name a successful pot smoker other than Jimmy Buffet? See - drugs = losers. Phelps is a young idiot.

By sd

February 3, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

For the record, no one was p** at Mike Vick for smoking reefer. We were p** because it was report that he tried to go through security at the airport with it.

I don’t care if Mike Vick smokes reefer at all. I don’t care if Michael Phelps does either.

Vick was an idiot for taking a fake water bottle (which by the way, water bottles are also not allowed on airplanes) through security.

Phelps is an idiot for not breaking that guy’s camera.

For ME, maybe not everyone, but for me, it has nothing to do with race.

The law is wrong, not Phelps.

By Uncle Tom

February 3, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

Is this considered doing drugs?

By Brooke

February 3, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

The ad boys on Madison Ave. don’t want their all american boy getting a bad rap because “boys will be boys in their eyes: No one will care until he a.)shoots somebody b.)fathers two or more children from diff. women c.)oh I know kills an animal d.)is photographed at a KKK gathering

By moZeek

February 3, 2009 2:33 PM | Link to this

It could have been tobacco.

By reservoirDAWG

February 3, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

CJ, Bob Marley, Jerry Garcia, Bill Clinton, Eric Clapton, Bill Clinton, Jimmy Page, Bill Clinton. What was the question again?

By CommonSenseRules

February 3, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

Okay. Can we all stop dancing around the “Facts of Life”, here? An adult Olympic athlete knows what time it is, for crying out loud! If Phelps had a permanent tan the medals would have been snatched so quickly that he would have to wear a brace from the whiplash.
I am so sick of the excuse-making that accompanies the “Great White Hopes” in this country that it makes me nauseated. The racist clowns making excuses for Flipper-foot need to just give it up. If Phelps were black he would have been thrown under the bus without a second thought. Apologies? We don’t need no rich white boy’s stinkin’ apologies!

By sd

February 3, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

CJ, You might be surprised to learn who partakes and who doesn’t. In fact, you’d probably be shocked.

By Snake Pliskin

February 3, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this

Maybe he didn’t inhale. Anyway,it’s just a freaking weed…….with a street value estimated at 650,000.

By Skip

February 3, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this

As long as Phelps doesn’t get on stage to sing wearing mom-jeans and show us that he’s gained a little bit of weight… there is no problem with his behavior.
…er….I forgot….what were we talking about?

By Roy

February 3, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

So he smoked pot, big deal? Some years ago TIME had an article about big time drug dealers/trafickers in South Florida and their attorneys who got them off scott free all the time. All Phelps did was get a little buzz, big deal. Hey, I was in Egypt last year and ran across some great hash from Sudan, oh man was that good!!!!!

By sd

February 3, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this

“If Phelps had a permanent tan the medals would have been snatched so quickly that he would have to wear a brace from the whiplash.”

You can say that as many times as you’d like, doesn’t make it true. The IOC declared after Shawn White was caught that they do not consider it to be a “performance enhancing drug”. Therefore, they do not strip medals for it.

Now, it is possible that public perception would be worse if this was a black athelete. I don’t know. There is no way to know that. But I will take your word for it, and condemn that behavior with you.

I just want you to know that the IOC does not treat black atheletes differently than White atheletes and that regardless of skin color, no medals would be stripped.

By leland

February 3, 2009 2:45 PM | Link to this

Dear Mr. JS—#10 little bit funny, #5 little bit funny, #4 more funny, #1 little bit funny. Your pal, Leland

By NY2GA, Inc.

February 3, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

Is he getting a free pass? Yes, he is. And he is getting a free puff, puff pass, too. LOL.

At least we know that he wasn’t smoking during his Olympic events because if he did, he’d probably be swimming so slow that he would not have won anything.

By B Boy

February 3, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

I just feel like if this was Venus/Serena Williams for example, they would be crucified.

Let Lebron James or Kobe Bryant get caught with a blunt. Man please. Talk about a double standard.

Sheesh

By sd

February 3, 2009 2:53 PM | Link to this

If Venus or Serena were photographed smoking weed, there would be LESS talk about this than there is now. Why? Not because of their skin color, but because they are not as big of stars as the leading gold medal winner of all time.

I would not care if I learned that Venus toked all day by the way. I don’t care.

By CJ

February 3, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I think smoking pot is pathetic. It’s a cop out for those who aren’t capable of having a good time legally. I get s**-faced drunk, I don’t drive drunk, and have a great time without breaking any laws. Add to that, anyone with any flavor of smoke coming out of their mouth is instantly VERY unattractive. I don’t lock lips with ash trays.

By sd

February 3, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

And I am not saying racism is dead. All I am saying is that VAST majority of us have moved on.

If this was Tiger Woods on film smoking weed at a frat party in SC, I think the reaction would be pretty much identical.

By gdg73

February 3, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

tell me the difference between the Vick water bottle incident and this Michael Phelps incident. As I recall, Vick was crucified because the water bottle smelled like marijuana. Phelps is caught red handed and he is given a pass. You bloggers get offended when you get exposed for what you truly are. Who is the THUG now? I forgot, Phelps is the all-american kid; the guy next door and Vick was just one in the long line of N.Y.L.T.H. (think Ice Cube)!! Like OJ, T.O., Randy Moss, Chad Johnson, Albert Haynesworth, Pacman, etc.

By JayInAtlanta

February 3, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

It may not be a “big deal,” but I do sure smell a double standard and I was p** that he appeared to be getting a free pass. I think any other professional sports (NBA, NFL) are going after marijuana violations pretty heartily.

I can’t prove his treatment (sponsors supporting and standing beside him, no real response from the IOC) would be different if he were black, but I am pretty certain it would be, especially given he was also arrested for underage drinking and a DUI.

Finally, since this wouldn’t even be an issue if this were Amsterdam, it does bring our drug laws themselves into question. But that just proves the double standard.

By 660Griz

February 3, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

Phelps getting a free ride? Obama got elected! Just compare the ‘atrocities’ between the two.

By Zoomie

February 3, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

The sponsors’ responses are appropriate. Their responses correctly reflect the majority opinion across the civilized world concerning marijuana: it’s no big deal regardless of ridiculous, ill-advised laws. It’s no big deal that Phelps, Obama, Vick, or anyone else smoked (or smokes) marijuana. The cries of double standard on this blog are laughable. I don’t remember Vick being crucified, or losing his job, or losing sponsors over the picture of him with marijuana. I agree with Jeff on one point: I think the people that partied with Phelps and Vick, took photos, then realeased them are the real villains here. Freakin’ Judases!

By elainer7

February 3, 2009 3:00 PM | Link to this

Phelps is no different than anyone else in this country. What he did is ILLEGAL and he should be treated the same way as the average person would be. But, he will get special treatment because of who he is…. lots of discrimination in this country towards people with no fame and no money.

By sd

February 3, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

“tell me the difference between the Vick water bottle incident and this Michael Phelps incident.”

Again, I don’t care if Vick or Phelps smokes weed. I do care that Vick jeopardized his team by getting arrested. And I do think that Phelps should be more discreet.

By Me

February 3, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

No, really??? Someone brought race into this?? no way! Can’t believe it! That is such a surprise!

By sd

February 3, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

“Phelps is no different than anyone else in this country. What he did is ILLEGAL and he should be treated the same way as the average person would be. “

I agree. Nothing should happen to him, just like nothing would happen to you if someone posted a pic of you amoking on the internet.

By Juanita J

February 3, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Regardless whether marijuana is harmful or not, IT IS ILLEGAL. If Mr. Michael Vick can be sent to prison, stripped of his dignity, stripped of endorsements and his money for fighting dogs, yes! Phelps should lose his endorsements and certainly, not be held in high regard. Yes, we all make mistakes. I think that Phelps should get rehab, get on national tv and apologize to all his young supporters and stay out of trouble!! He is going to end up ruining himself if he continues to engage in this type of behavior. May the Lord be a light unto his path.

By Roekest

February 3, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this

This explains why he can eat so much food. It’s the munchies, dude!!!!!

By NLH

February 3, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this

I find it a worse offense that President Obama has picked three people for his cabinet that didn’t pay their taxes and one of them was even confirmed. If the government can look the other way and allow people to fill posts that have committed a crime, what’s the big deal about Michael Phelps? Isn’t President Obama supposed to be cleaning up government? What’s worse hitting the bong or owing $162,000 back taxes?

By JASon

February 3, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

By KJ

February 3, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

Wow, it took a whopping 4 minutes for the retarded race-baiters to come out in full force, a new record. (Hint: the vast majority of people don’t care that Vick had pot. They care about him torturing and killing innocent domesticated animals. Hope this helps.)

“The bottom line is weed is illegal and believe me South Carolina will cite him (if not have him arrested). “

This will just reinforce the belief that SC law enforcement is full of backwards hicks that have nothing better to do.

“It could have been tobacco.”

And… this will be the first words out of any high-profile celebrity’s mouth, the next time something like this happens. Phelps’ biggest mistake was being honest about it.

“Sorry, I think smoking pot is pathetic. It’s a cop out for those who aren’t capable of having a good time legally. I get s**-faced drunk”

MY BRAND OF MIND-ALTERING SUBSTANCE IS BETTER THAN YOUR BRAND OF MIND-ALTERING SUBSTANCE

(For the record, I’ve never smoked pot, but I don’t make retarded blanket statements about those who do)

By me

February 3, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

Vick was trying to TRANSPORT the pot!! Phelps was just hanging out at a party. Pot is nothing compared to drinking. At least with pot you are calm, drinking can lead to anger/violence. I’ve never met a stoned person who fought. Who cares if Phelps smoked a bit, however it was incredibly stupid that he let someone take a picture of him. So what he won metals, you don’t have to be smart to that. Let the kid go on with his life-there are worse things he could have done!

By No Big Deal

February 3, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

Kobe raped that chick (allegedly). Even if he didn’t rape her he’s still a scumbag for cheating on his wife. He’s black and 100 times more famous than Phelps. He’s got the #1 selling jersey and all his endorsements back. It’s not a racial issue, it only matters if people still want to buy the products you endorse.

By PBR=America in a can

February 3, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

Why does the racism card always get pulled on anything? When will it ever end? I personally believe that the people that pull the race card are some of the most racist people you will meet. Who cares if he was PHOTOGRAPHED smoking weed???? He wasnt arrested, tested positive in a drug test, or hurt anyone. It doesnt bother me that people think he did wrong put to pull the race card again…. that freaking retarded…. get a life people.

By Michael

February 3, 2009 3:17 PM | Link to this

My client has been in jail for 34 days over a misdemeanor charge (false name) where he can’t make bail. Today the judge fined him and gave him probation despite the time in jail. No, I really don’t think Mr. Phelps matters.

By Trippin Out

February 3, 2009 3:20 PM | Link to this

Pot should be legal. I’ve been smoking it for almost 22 yrs. I have three college degrees and a successful job. All my affairs are in order. There is nothing wrong with it. I can see from a “role model” standpoint as to why this is viewed the way it is, but really….come on, so the kid busted his a* in the olympics and in his downtime hit the bong. It doesn’t mean he’s not working just as hard or doing just as well. People, get over it. I wish other things like the free to get anytime but Sunday at the store alcohol was more closely monitored. Ever heard of someone killing someone while behind the wheel after smoking a joint? No, because it doesn’t happen.

By P

February 3, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Perhaps the IOC is sticking up for him because thier athletes have long historys of pot smoking in the olympic villages and really, how would the IOC throw any stones….. Talk about your glass houses.

As far as the sponsors….the guy is going to go to the next olympics and dominate. Omega makes the best watches in the world and no relevant person really gives a second thought to mild pot use.

The guy has blood samples saved from when he was 12 to sample against current blood to test for all maner of substances. This incident will probably be a great learning experience for him.

For the record, did they ever actually prove Mike was carrying weed and what happened to his jewelery?

By Bryant

February 3, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

Of course there is a double standard, once again when the offender is white the sponsers seem to turn their heads. Whenever a black athelte is caught making a mistake he is nailed to the cross. Funny how white men are quick to forgive their own and downplay the overkill regarding the black atheletes. Remember Danny Headley, Hancock with St. Louis, the young Georgia Tech pitcher that died of an overdose. Thats right you forgot because you dont hear about it any more funny! Out of sight out of mind, but it will never be fair play sports fans.

By Bored enough to comment

February 3, 2009 3:26 PM | Link to this

OMG, a young guy smoking weed on a college campus. Start the presses! The fact that this is a story just reflects how news has become more focused on trashy entertainment than information.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 3, 2009 3:28 PM | Link to this

EVERYONE should get a free pass for smoking weed, whether white, black, or pink with purple polk-a-dots. In some situations, such as animal cruelty, yes there is a double standard for white and black athletes, at least to an extent. But we are talking about smoking weed. Come on now. By far the most ridiculous part about this situation is that the South Carolina sheriff wants to prosecute Phelps.

By P

February 3, 2009 3:32 PM | Link to this

Enough with the role model crap too.

Ben Rothlisburger just won the super bowl. I wish I was an NFL QB that won the super bowl too. I wish I had several million dollars.

I’m still not going to ride a motorcycle through the massive pothole laden streets of Pittsburgh and smash my head into a windshield.

Seriously everyone makes good and bad decisions…. “Role Models” who are such because they are good at something or become wealthy are not exempt from the occasional stupid act.

By pj

February 3, 2009 3:33 PM | Link to this

“But this shouldn’t be viewed as just some athlete under an enormous amount of pressure letting off a little steam.” why not??? or just an athlete that’s human partaking in a harmless substance created by god that was made illegal for no apparent reason by humans. Have you seen tv or movies for the last several years?
blkshepered, sd, and No Big Deal - WORD Skip - thanks for the laugh.

By flats

February 3, 2009 3:34 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah that BULGE!!!!

By William Christians

February 3, 2009 3:34 PM | Link to this

From what I hear this is just a publicity stunt as Phelps will be appearing in Canadian rock-band Nickelback’s video for their soon-to-be-released song This Afternoon from their new album Dark Horse.

“Looking like another Bob Marley day, Hittin’ from the bong like a diesel train….”

By Oil of Olive

February 3, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

Does smoking pot disqualify Phelps from a cabinet post in the Obama adminstration?

By pj

February 3, 2009 3:40 PM | Link to this

This was the most salient point, so far: this has nothing to do whether or not weed should be illegal. this has nothing to do with whether or not weed affects his performance. the bottom line is weed at this moment is illegal. and phelps stupid arse smoked some and got caught smoking it. hey i’m not sayin lets crucify the kid but i’m just agreeing with jeff that he’s getting a free pass only because he’s america’s hero.

Can you remember when Vick was suspected to have weed in a water bottle? People wanted to crucify him. Weed should not be illegal, but since it is, Phelps should expect the same punishment as any other person.

By jmt

February 3, 2009 3:41 PM | Link to this

White players always get the benifit of the doubt, this is not the first one, Bret Farve did the same thing and they love him and act like he has been a saint all his life, Joe Nanmath, Paul Horning and the list goes on and on, if you are black they bring it up every year for the rest of your life even if you have been clean for 10 years. Society is still very prejudice and they dont try and hide it anymore.

By nypeach

February 3, 2009 3:45 PM | Link to this

For all you who say that pot doesn’t hurt anyone, please. Every single one of my cousins who started out smoking pot graduated to a harder drug. And yes, they have gotten into car accidents, lost jobs, destroyed marriages, etc. It is not a harmless, victimless drug. Trippin out, you may think that smoking weed for almost 22 years hasn’t had a negative impact in your life, but believe me when I say that people around you would probably have a very different tale to tell. My cousins, too, think no one notices that they get high, or that they are functioning way below what they would be capable of if they weren’t under a fog. You go ahead and keep thinking it’s all good, but you are only fooling yourself. And just because you can hold a job doesn’t mean you’re not an addict. There are a lot of functioning addicts out there.

By flats

February 3, 2009 3:45 PM | Link to this

He can wear a spedo to MY thong bong party anyday!!!BOING!

By mamaj

February 3, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this

I just have one question. If what he was doing was so great, why was his mother crying?

By CommonSenseRules

February 3, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this

First of all, the election of Barack Obama is not general absolution for white bigotry in the U.S., nor some sort of magic wand to de-race the United States — or Europe, Asia, or the Middle East for that matter.

Forget ‘driving while black’. Breathing while black, with the accompanying assumption that folks with pemanent tans are inherently inferior and/or criminal, is alive and well in the U.S.A.

I’ll be willing to shift the dicourse that acknowledges the so-called race card is dead when those who wouldn’t have the sense to drop and roll if they were on fire stop denying that it is alive and well — and will be for generations to come.

By mike

February 3, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

I think the man is really getting off easy. It’s still a illegal drug no matter how some people try try to spin it. That’s good he was caught so every one can see he is a junky. If it was some one of any color other than white, it would be if they had just murdered a person. He’s no different from the other ones that do it. I think he needs to pay just like the others. People need to make sure he don’t get a free pass. Why don’t whites call him a thug for smoking it. We need to put pressure on people to do something about this man, because he isn’t a kid like their talking. He need to be prosecuted just like the other. Good for South carolina!!!!!

By Doodahman

February 3, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

Michael Phelps is an Olympian we should follow his lead!

By Tom

February 3, 2009 3:56 PM | Link to this

A pothead is a pothead is a pothead! This guy is smoking the biggest bong, clearly not caring who sees….and he’s a positive role model for kids…lol…on what planet!

By soma

February 3, 2009 4:01 PM | Link to this

Stop using age as an excuse. Is age the reason for the wall street mess. What if it’s a robbery or driving under the influence, carrying a gun, stealing ,getting pregnant…..AGE? …stop the madness. Everyone should be responsible for their actions.

By flats

February 3, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

Let the hotty do his thang…BOING!

By Lisa

February 3, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

Give me a break. This story is getting so blown out of proportion. Far more coverage than there ever was about President Obama’s cocaine use in his twenties.

By ThreeSheets

February 3, 2009 4:09 PM | Link to this

To bad he was not busted for possession. He is getting a free ride. Prisons are full of those who possessed pot and enjoyed the smoke. Argue all you want. The dude is stupid and lucky.

By whocares

February 3, 2009 4:09 PM | Link to this

Jeff, maybe if you smoked some you could chill out and calm down about this.

By Snapperhead

February 3, 2009 4:14 PM | Link to this

Give it a rest people. First of all he did not get caught smoking weed. He got his picture taken holding a bong up to his face. There is no evidence in that picture that he is actually smoking weed. Just give it a rest.

By carter

February 3, 2009 4:14 PM | Link to this

I feel it is a damn shame that someone can get away with this, when my son get charged with less than an oz of mj and has 12 months probation and pay fines up to 2500 dollars is totally ridiculous, had he been white he would have probably gotten a slap on the wrist and sent on his way but because he is a poor black person he received this harsh punishment, when will justice prevail for everyone regardless of race. BS this will never end

By BUSHWACKER 76

February 3, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

If he keeps doing bong hits he won’t be able to swim from one end of the pool to the other without oxygen!!

By carter

February 3, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

I feel it is a damn shame that someone can get away with this, when my son get charged with less than an oz of mj and has 12 months probation and pay fines up to 2500 dollars is totally ridiculous, had he been white he would have probably gotten a slap on the wrist and sent on his way but because he is a poor black person he received this harsh punishment, when will justice prevail for everyone regardless of race. BS!! this will never end

By KJ

February 3, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

Prisons are full of those who possessed pot

Really? Prisons are full of people who were busted for nothing more than a pot possession charge? You have any statistics to back this up?

No, of course you don’t, because it’s not true.

As mentioned, I don’t smoke, but I’d like to see it legalized, just to pi$$ off all the idiots that massively overreact to it.

By Pye

February 3, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this

If he were Black the IOC would have all his medals & endorsements stripped before the 6pm news

By ThreeSheets

February 3, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

You look it up KJ. Use that massive brain of yours.

By KG

February 3, 2009 4:23 PM | Link to this

he is only 23 so he is still young and immature. i don’t think he should be stripped of his medals. it’s not like he was smoking crack or something.

By Pye

February 3, 2009 4:26 PM | Link to this

He’s young i’m sure this won’t happen again. Have a warm evening all

By Tawanna Brawley

February 3, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this

I agree, this is worse than Michael Vick. Phelps should get the chair, and Vick should be released, and have Peachtree Street renamed after him.

By Trippin Out

February 3, 2009 4:32 PM | Link to this

Well, I if being an addict is what it’s called then so shall it be. No one in my life has been affected by my “habit”. NO ONE. The ones closest to me know about it and they could really care less. I don’t drink, I don’t do hard drugs, so WTF? I enjoy it and it DOES NOT hinder any part of my life whatsoever, so why should I stop. I’m not trying to fool anyone. Just living my life and tired of all the negative publicity that weed gets.

Lets NOT forget things that are made with it. Hemp clothes to treatment for patients with fatal cancer and so much more.

By No_libs_allowed

February 3, 2009 4:34 PM | Link to this

So he smoked weed, big deal!! It in no way diminishes what he accomplished at the Olympics and after all that hard work and training he deserves a little partying. It should be legal anyway.

By KJ

February 3, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this

“If he were Black the IOC would have all his medals & endorsements stripped before the 6pm news”

Wow, I had no idea the IOC owned all of Phelps’ endorsement companies. I’m learning so much from this blog!

“You look it up KJ. Use that massive brain of yours.”

Nope, you made the claim, you get to back it up. That’s how things work in the real world, you should step into it sometime.

By Clay

February 3, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this

The current President of United States of America snorted cocaine.

By Eli

February 3, 2009 4:38 PM | Link to this

I don’t condone what he did. The problem with South Carolina charging him is how do they 100% know what he is smoking. I’m not naive saying that he was smoking tobacco. However, if you were to go buy a bong right now it is for tobacco use only. Unless this South Carolina Chief was there he can’t prove it. He just wants to be on ESPN and in the news because I’m sure nothing happens in that small town. He didn’t flat out say I smoked weed. He said he was sorry and made a mistake. He could be sorry for smoking tobacco. Now, I believe 100% he was smoking pot, you just can’t prove it just for holding the bong to your mouth. Maybe he was pretending or he didn’t inhale. Bill Clinton didn’t inhale. I agree that race could have something to do with it but I don’t 100% agree. It’s easy to use race as an excuse. The rules are rules. He is not training and I’m pretty sure that marijuana isn’t considered a “performance enhancer”. So, no rules were broken. He could lose sponsors and his boneheaded mistake could cost him millions but he won’t get charged and he’ll be in the Olympics in 2012.

By DawgGirl32

February 3, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

He’s not stupid for smoking pot. He’s stupid for smoking it on a college campus where people can take pictures of him and have them published. If you’re going to do it and you’re a high profile athlete, do it in the privacy of your own home. I agree with many of the posters that if it were a cigarette it would have been a much bigger deal to me. He used poor judgement, he apologized, let’s move on. The reason why his sponsors are letting him off the hook is MONEY. Duh. People don’t care that he hit a bong and his sponsors know that. In the end, they need him just as much as he needs them.

By Double Standard

February 3, 2009 4:42 PM | Link to this

Barry Bonds vs. Roger Clemens oh and by the way, they linked syringes to this clown who lied! And no one is trying to put an asterisk by his name. Thought I add that! Maybe because it was a bong and not a blunt, FOS!

By Kitty

February 3, 2009 4:50 PM | Link to this

Trippin-out, You are so right on! MJ leading to hard drugs is silly; it isn’t MJ that leads to worse drug use, it is the addictive personality of the user, not the weed. Got an MBA, and if you handed me a joint right now I’d smoke it. P.S. As stated by an other blogger, bongs are sold for ‘tobacco’ use, if you even use the word “weed” in a ‘headshop you would get kicked-out. So the bong was for tab. not weed.

By gophelps

February 3, 2009 4:50 PM | Link to this

We have a black president put your race card away. The black and white thing is a getting old and played out. Stop b—-hing and make something out of yourself.

By WPWW

February 3, 2009 4:50 PM | Link to this

BravesFan 79 - Amen!!!

Schultz - nice censorship of my initial entry (attempt). There was no malice there…only valid information proving my point. Why the censorship of non cultural marxist conforming ideals (need I ask)?

By Well

February 3, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this

Let’s see. Both past presidents were known cocaine and weed users. They seem to have gotten a free pass and made it out okay. For all you anti-pot people. Go drink your booze and eat your pills, you hypocritical a-holes.

By KclubMember

February 3, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this

Michael Phelps is throwing rocks at the judicial system.Phelps thinks he’s bulletproof because of his celebrity status,and his ethnicity.Honestly,I don’t believe Michael Phelps will be punished because:1,He’s white,2,he’s enornmously popular,and 3,white athletes are not punished with the same magnitude as minority athletes.

By Juice

February 3, 2009 5:08 PM | Link to this

What’s the big deal,we’re talking about weed ,not Practice,WEED!.It’s not as if he’s having sexual encounters with men ,like our famous minister did all over the tube recently.Just looking at Phelps him he has weed smoker written all over his face, more power to him.I’m in my late 40’s and i smoked in my teens and twenties,and the only reason that I stopped is that the urinalysis tests got so accurate in the work place….Role Model? ,Half of the kids go home to alcoholic parents,to heck with the role model these days.Go on and blaze up Mr. Phelps..Like we used to say back in the day…Pass the J !

By WPWW

February 3, 2009 5:10 PM | Link to this

KclubMember … you say “white athletes are not punished with the same magnitude as minority athletes”….that’s because they don’t near as many crimes as (said) minority athletes!

By really?Really??REALLY???

February 3, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

Didn’t this come out in a British tabloid or something? In other words not the American new media or even any of our own garbage tabloids. That picture may not have even been taken in the states. You know there is a whole world out there and ther are some places (like Amsterdam if I’m not mistaken) where the evil, devil’s weed (LOL devil’s weed, created by God) is not illegal. So all of you saying he’s this and he’s that because marijuana is illegal need to understand that the illegality is all relative to the location.

By Kitty

February 3, 2009 5:15 PM | Link to this

What’s this ‘my people’ ‘you people stuff. If you are brown, you are ‘my people’. If you are yellow, you are my people, if you are human, then in fact you are my people. Where you including/excluding based on color? Shame on you if you were.

By deegee

February 3, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this

Since Mexican president Calderon declared war on drug traffickers in 2007, 6,836 people have died in drug-related violence. Drug traffickers are battling local authorities for access to US drug markets. All this so that Michael Phelps can blow off a little steam during his break from training. Pathetic.

By If' s and But's

February 3, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this

Name one black athelete that had his/her gold medal stripped because they smoked pot outside of the games. You can say “if this” and “if that” all day, but you can’t prove it because it’s not true. Warren Sapp smoked pot like it was going out of style in college - didn’t stop him from finishing 2nd on Dancing with the Stars! Talk is cheap and racism is a ready excuse…

By Foracel

February 3, 2009 5:37 PM | Link to this

Are you serious about Haynesworth,if so you and the FALCONS,should have your heads examined.There’s plenty of good defensive lineman in this year’s draft.Case in point Zach Potter from a little school Nebraska,Winston Salem State,MSU,Boise State,and other schools.I hope Falcons have their SCOUTS working,to get the best Defensive players.If Falcons,need help with the best selections,I’ll give them a list.

By Kris G

February 3, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this

I agree with deegee. Legalize it and end the “war on drugs” that creates a bullet-riddled market for something people will get anyway.

And no, there’s no reason to think any blacks would be stripped of medals. These are baseless claims. There is a racial element to this, but that is not it.

By Canibus Lecter Lecture

February 3, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this

Jeff - you are such a nerd. And I’m not name calling. I’m being descriptive. Get over it man.

By Capt. Trips

February 3, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this

the difference is that if he was a minority athelete, he would’ve completely denied it even though there is photo evidence of the incident. The public and sponsors dont like to be lied to, simple as that.

By MELVIN

February 3, 2009 5:58 PM | Link to this

HOW COME THIS SISSY SWIMMER BOY GET A FREE PASS FOR WEED BUT THEY THROW A GOOD MAN LIKE MIKE VICK WHO PUT ATL ON THE MAP IN PRISON?

WHAT ABOUT THAT HOKEY PLAYER HERE IN ATLANTA THAT KILLED HIS TEAM MATE?

SOMETIMES I JUST HATE THIS HOLE SORRY COUNTRY!

By EJ

February 3, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

People who break stupid laws will get a pass from me every time.

The guy busted his a*. It’s his body. It’s not my business.

So why would it be anyone else’s?

By jayluv

February 3, 2009 6:04 PM | Link to this

MV7 waterbottle was tested for weed residue. He lost the AirTran endorsement. Do you think there’s a double standard?

By raymond

February 3, 2009 6:10 PM | Link to this

What can they do to Phelps? You can’t make a case based on a picture.

By Kerry

February 3, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this

No, he’s not getting a break..quite the contrary. Certainly he was not the only individual toking there. But who cares enough to document the indiscretion committed by anyone not famous? Granted, he is guilty of very poor judgement, but, as usual, his fame will magnify the “crime” in a very inflated manner. The public’s voracious hunger for tidbits of celeb’s lives is so disgusting!

By CJ

February 3, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this

Ultimately, the moral of the story is, if you have millions and millions of dollars worth of endorsements, and no other marketable skill than swimming, don’t screw things up by doing illegal stuff!!!

He’s a freakin’ moron! If I had that kind of money, especially in this economy, I would do everything I could to preserve it and milk it for as long as possible!!!

By pfenno

February 3, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

The more I read these comments the more I believe the issue of being a racist no longer lies on the shoulders of the white folks. Does anybody remember OJ? Race aside, it was poor judgement.

By The Angry American

February 3, 2009 6:52 PM | Link to this

Even if the authorities investigating this don’t do anything, the simple fact is that Michael Phelps had no business putting himself in this position. And this isn’t the first time he committed “regrettable” behavior. He was busted for underage drinking and DUI some time after the Athens Olympics in 2004.

Those people willing to give Phelps a pass, think about this—winning eight gold medals doesn’t put him above the law. If more hard evidence surfaces showing definitively that Phelps smoked, he needs to be treated like the adult he’s trying to be. He’s old enough to know better, and I don’t have sympathy for him.

By Spinx

February 3, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this

Did Obama admit to doing the same thing, he got a pass - is it because he black or 1/2 white? Who cares what the kid did, lots of Pro’s do lots worst

By Sherrie

February 3, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

Can you say double standard……….?

By Josh

February 3, 2009 7:26 PM | Link to this

Maybe Phelps is getting a free pass BECAUSE IT DOESN’T MATTER!!!! Does ANY sane, rational person think that our nation is better off because we criminalize marijuana while hypocritically allowing alcohol to be sold. I don’t smoke marijuana, but it’s so unimportant in the grand scheme of things. Thank god the Europeans are more enlightened about such things, because if the stupid uproar over what Phelps does 3.5 years out from the next Olympics gets any bigger, I may flee to Europe. Honestly, take a deep breath (pun intended) and get over it.

By zjc

February 3, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this

The use of cannabis leads to the use of harder drugs due to the development of connections within the black market. Once the development of this connection is established, worse substances will be made available to you. The notion that cannabis is a “gateway” drug is false. If it were obtainable at a drug store or gas stations like alcohol and cigarettes, the availability of harder substances would be nonexistent to the purchaser. Phelps, at the worst, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and in some countries of this world, not guilty of anything. Let it go people!!

By Lee

February 3, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

And now on to something completely different…

Jeff, was the allusion in #3 to “the day the music died” (or to “American Pie,” the song that commemorated it, anyway) on the fiftieth anniversary accidental or intentional?

By crabapplejoe

February 3, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this

Bryant wrote: Of course there is a double standard, once again when the offender is white the sponsers seem to turn their heads. Whenever a black athelte is caught making a mistake he is nailed to the cross. Funny how white men are quick to forgive their own and downplay the overkill regarding the black atheletes.” Hmmmm…how convenient you left Ray Lewis out of your “double-standard” “racism” argument. Let’s see, the dude is convicted of complicity in a double murder of two of his fellow human beings here in Atlanta….but got less sanctions and public outcry than did John Rocker who merely said he didn’t want to ride a train in New York. Then Lewis gets voted SuperBowl MVP the next year. Meanwhile, Rocker gets run out of baseball…and you want to lynch Phelps for a picture of a bong….I’ve got your “racist double-standards” figured out.

By Ted Striker

February 3, 2009 9:22 PM | Link to this

The police chief talking about “arresting” and “prosecuting” Phelps sounds like a cross between Barney Fife and the Sheriff of Nottingham.

An alternate viewpoint on this matter: Anyone having dirty laundry aired through major media publications isn’t actually receiving a pass.

On what the USOC and the IOC have or haven’t done in the matter: They’re about as predictable as a Fulton County jury.

Great lines contained in Andy Kennedy’s arrest video. Thank goodness we got it now, as opposed to having to wait till week 7 in this year’s COPS series.

By crabapplejoe

February 3, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this

CommonSenseRules wrote: “I am so sick of the excuse-making that accompanies the “Great White Hopes” in this country that it makes me nauseated. The racist clowns making excuses for Flipper-foot need to just give it up. If Phelps were black he would have been thrown under the bus without a second thought. Apologies? We don’t need no rich white boy’s stinkin’ apologies!” I hate to break it to you dude, but 14 medals means he ain’t no “Great White Hope”…he’s the real deal. I did notice you “brothas” had one “Great Black Hope” on the Olympic swimming team this year….good for you…si su puede and all. As far as “rich boy’s apologies” goes…you do remember your brotha Kobe and his slimey-a* apology for raping that white girl…with his wife at his side sporting her new $4 million dollar ring to keep quiet. Can’t remember whether Ray Lewis bothered to apologize for taking part in a double murder here in Atlanta on his way to being voted MVP in the SuperBowl the next year. Speaking of “Great Black Hopes” ya’ll really need to get some going in boxing. I think white folks are holding something like 17 of the 20 belts. Ali better be glad he didn’t have to fight those Eastern Europeans…the Klitsko brothers both would have whipped his a##. ROTFLMAO

By Baracked the Vote!

February 3, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

i gotta admit, just when i think the people in this world can’t get any dumber, all i have to do is log onto one of these blogs and recognize a new standard is set. Phelps was arrested for drunk driving at 19 and smokes weed. he probably parties every chance he gets and drives drunk on occasion, too. either that or he is the unluckiest dude in the world. by the way, “blkshephered** u left out, “he didn’t lie about WMD in Iraq.” what a moron

By 660Grizz

February 4, 2009 7:26 AM | Link to this

Let’s see here. Obama smoked pot and snorted cocaine. (We don’t even have to get into his close ties to terrorism.) This country has BET, Black History Month, and Black Beauty Pageants and NAACP. We(whites) elected a black president based on his resume of no experience and he was part of the most corrupt state government ever known to man. Black athletes and entertainers make millions because(whites) pay to watch. Slavery was abolished by a white man. If you really think about it, everything blacks have is due to the generosity or stupidity of whites. What is going to happen is blacks will continue to whine and play the race card until they can get away with murder. Oh wait, they have that already too. Every white person I know is all for equality. Problem is, blacks don’t want equality, they want special priviledges. My son was arrested for carrying a bag with pot residue. He spent a week in jail and had to pay $2500.

By WPWW

February 4, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this

pfenno - “Racist”/”Racism” are overused, (mostly) misapplied buzzwords used by the cultural marxists to induce “White guilt” & force compliance to the socialist spawned “PC” agenda! Don’t buy into their BS propaganda & tactics.

crabapplejoe - good points indeed! Not only would the Klitsko brothers have walked thru over-hyped, overrated Ali (in his prime), they’d do the same to Mike Tyson (in his prime). Speaking of combat sports, Fedor Emelianenko is the best MMA fighter on the planet…followed by UFC Welterweight champ Georges St.Pierre!

BTW, Rocker was crucified only for exercising his 1st Amendment rights (& speaking the truth). OJ, Ray Lewis & YObe Byrant committed crimes (murder & rape) and go a free pass….there’s the REAL double standard!!!

By sunsummer68

February 4, 2009 9:38 AM | Link to this

Doesn’t anyone have anything better to do than to have a rant online? I don’t care - so there is a picture of Michael Phelps doing something that most 20-somethings have done (or probably doing right now) quite regularly. There are far worse things happening in the world right now and I can’t believe I just wasted 5 minutes of my life with you people.