cannabisnews.com: Phelps Takes a Hit










  Phelps Takes a Hit

Posted by CN Staff on February 04, 2009 at 08:18:13 PT
By Kathleen Parker 
Source: Washington Post 

Washington, DC -- It's hell being a celebrity, especially if you're young and find yourself at a party, where marijuana and cameras should never mix. And it's not exactly heaven being sheriff of a county with escalating drug crimes and pressure to treat all offenders equally.Thus it is that Olympian swimmer Michael Phelps and Sheriff Leon Lott of South Carolina's Richland County are being forced to treat seriously a crime that shouldn't be one.
As everyone knows by now, Phelps was photographed smoking from an Olympic-sized bong during a University of South Carolina party last November. As all fallen heroes must -- by writ of the Pitchforks & Contrition Act -- Phelps has apologized for behavior that was "regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment," and has promised never to be a lesser role model again.Check.Lott, meanwhile, is threatening action against Phelps because ... he has to. Widely respected and admired as a "good guy" who came up through the ranks, Lott is in a jam. Not one to sweat the small stuff, he nevertheless has said that he'll charge Phelps with a crime if he determines that the 14-time gold-medal winner did, in fact, smoke pot in his county.The sheriff's job will be made both easier and tougher by evidence that includes a photograph of Phelps with his face buried in a smoke-filled tube and what Lott has called a "partial confession." Phelps has said that the photo is legit. The only missing link, apparently, is the exact location of the party.What's tough is that Lott probably doesn't want to press charges because it's a waste of time and resources. He's got much bigger fish to fry, but several recent drug-related crimes -- including at least two high-profile murders -- have captured community attention.And the law is the law. Therein lies the problem.Our marijuana laws have been ludicrous for as long as we've been alive. Almost half of us (42 percent) have tried marijuana at least once, according to a report published last year in PLoS Medicine, a journal of the Public Library of Science.The U.S., in fact, boasts the highest percentage of pot smokers among 17 nations surveyed, including The Netherlands, where cannabis clouds waft from coffeehouse windows. Among them are no small number of high-ranking South Carolina leaders (we knew us when), who surely cringe every time a young person gets fingered for a "crime" they themselves have committed.Other better-known former tokers include our current president and a couple of previous ones, as well as a Supreme Court justice, to name just a few. A complete list would require the slaughter of several mature forests.This we know: Were Phelps to run for public office someday and admit to having smoked pot in his youth, he would be forgiven. Yet, in the present, we impose monstrous expectations on our heroes. Several hand-wringing commentaries have surfaced the past few days, lamenting the tragic loss for disappointed moms, dads and, yes, The Children.Understandably, parents worry that their kids will emulate their idol, but the problem isn't Phelps, who is, in fact, an adult. The problem is our laws -- and our lies.Obviously, children shouldn't smoke anything, legal or otherwise. Nor should they drink alcoholic beverages, even though their parents might.There are good reasons for substance restrictions for children that need not apply to adults.That's the real drug message that should inform our children and our laws, rather than the nonsense that currently passes for drug information.Today's anti-drug campaigns are slightly wonkier than yesterday's "Reefer Madness," but equally likely to become party hits rather than drug deterrents. One recent ad produced by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy says: "Hey, not trying to be your mom, but there aren't many jobs out there for potheads." Whoa, dude, except maybe, like, president of the United States.Once a kid realizes that pot doesn't make him insane -- or likely to become a burrito taster, as the ad further asserts -- he might figure other drug information is equally false. That's how marijuana becomes a gateway drug.Phelps may be an involuntary hero to this charge, but his name and face bring necessary attention to a farce in which nearly half the nation are actors. It's time to recognize that all drugs are not equal -- and change the laws accordingly.Source: Washington Post (DC)Author:  Kathleen ParkerPublished: Wednesday, February 4, 2009Copyright: 2009 Washington Post Contact: letters washpost.com URL: http://drugsense.org/url/VdtusaGpWebsite: http://www.washingtonpost.com/ Related Articles: Big Bong Theoryhttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread24457.shtmlDoes Embattled Phelps Deserve a Break?http://cannabisnews.com/news/thread24456.shtmlMichael Phelps, Hypocrisy, & Drug Policyhttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread24455.shtml

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Comment #72 posted by Hope on February 10, 2009 at 13:39:36 PT
This news makes me sick.
Many of us live in places where people can and do act like this. We must never ever forget that Daryl Gates and people like him are still alive, still spewing vile vitriol, and they still, literally, want to execute every single human being that has, or ever will, use "drugs". There are many like him. They want to dig ditches, line people up, shoot them, and bulldoze them under in the ditches.Some people have become accustomed to a bit of freedom in some places. I think it's amazing. It seems so foreign to me and I'm kind of in awe at the concept. I'm in one of those places where there are still many people who believe in the Gates method and other such hatefulness.
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Comment #71 posted by Hope on February 10, 2009 at 13:28:31 PT
Arrests being made in Phelps party case...
http://blogs.salon.com/0002762/Eight arrested so far.
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Comment #70 posted by FoM on February 08, 2009 at 09:12:33 PT
 Hope 
It was really funny and a perfect answer.
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Comment #69 posted by Hope on February 08, 2009 at 08:21:21 PT
Cars
It was cool. I really liked it.It's good to know you're keeping up with what's happening with the newest people and enjoying it as well. Over the years, I have really enjoyed a lot of the TV and movies that I felt were appropriate for children to watch.
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Comment #68 posted by Hope on February 08, 2009 at 08:16:10 PT
Lol!
"When you win 14 Olympic Medals you can smoke pot too."That's wonderful!
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Comment #67 posted by FoM on February 08, 2009 at 07:31:02 PT
Hope
Maybe I should watch Disney sometime. I buy movies like Cars, Wall-E and fun movies when I can. I've watched Cars quite a few times! LOL!ON SNL Seth said something like what to tell the children that want to smoke pot like Michael Phelps.When you win 14 Olympic Medals you can smoke pot too.
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Comment #66 posted by Hope on February 08, 2009 at 07:21:33 PT
SNL
I wanted to see it, but missed it. Been in major Gammi mode for several days. I did see Dora the Explorer. I'm up on that for a while now.Your missing out, FoM, if you don't watch Disney, Nick, and Noggin every once in awhile. Even if you don't have to.
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Comment #65 posted by FoM on February 08, 2009 at 07:11:37 PT
Hope
They did a skit on Michael Phelps and smoking marijuana last night on SNL. I think he will be ok and will channel his frustration into swimming and maybe breaking a world record in Rome this summer.
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Comment #64 posted by Hope on February 08, 2009 at 07:05:58 PT
Michael Phelps
is on my mind and in my prayers this morning, of course.Googled phelps this morning.Looks depressing.Just getting started on reading them. 
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Comment #63 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 11:43:54 PT
Hope
He said he has been talking to other athletes that have been in the same situation. I'm sure they will help him cope. 
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Comment #62 posted by Hope on February 06, 2009 at 11:39:05 PT
Personally...
In the realm of self control and discipline, and reward for a job well done, among "things" and "substances" as rewards, I can think of few more pleasant rewards than kicking back and enjoying some cannabis. Not fattening. No hangover. Delightful.I suspect Michael Phelps will never let himself enjoy anything again like he enjoyed the attention, adoration, and hoopla of his extraordinary work in the Olympics.He's learning some hard lessons about people and life... and surely, he knows enough about self-control and discipline and "Being trained by it" to survive this. 
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Comment #61 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 10:58:47 PT
Hope
My horse analogy probably seems weird but since I spent so much time working with horses it's easier for me to explain that way. Michael Phelps needs to be self disciplined when he is in training but when he isn't in training that should be something totally different. 
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Comment #60 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 10:38:19 PT
Hope
I think of how we train a horse to be controllable yet proud. We don't want to break their Spirit because then all you have is a submissive animal with no life in their eyes. We do that to people and right now it is Michael Phelps.Spirit is important to keep people reaching a little further and thinking a little deeper and then constructive and progressive change will happen.
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Comment #59 posted by Hope on February 06, 2009 at 10:31:40 PT
Mother or human nature...
I really would like to comfort him.
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Comment #58 posted by Hope on February 06, 2009 at 10:30:27 PT
We haven't given up our humanity and compassion
for another human being, just because of him taking a hit of cannabis.People are crazy, and I'm not talking about Phelps. I'm talking about the people that have their panties all in a wad because of anyone's cannabis use.Oh no! The sky is falling! He used marijuana!I hate to say it... but some people are really being major dimwits over this. But then again... there are plenty of them. They've been around for a long time and they're still dimwits. I never get used to seeing them virtually crap all over themselves about it, though.
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Comment #57 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 10:06:33 PT
Hope
I look at Michael Phelps searching eyes in the recent interview and my heart goes out to him. I guess it's the mom in you and me.
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Comment #56 posted by Hope on February 06, 2009 at 09:55:19 PT
Cutsey and immature?
They're trying to ruin someone's life and they're being cutesy about it.No lack of practiced and accomplished asses in the world today, that's for sure.
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Comment #55 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 09:37:44 PT
Just a Rant
As I'm looking for news about Michael Phelps I keep seeing articles that really bother me. Cutsy little comments or titles that are immature and waste bandwidth and a readers valuable time aren't needed. Get to the point. Why do we handicap people at all because of a little marijuana use?
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Comment #54 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 09:21:42 PT
Are Sports Becoming Too Politically Correct?
February 06, 2009URL: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/120466-are-sports-becoming-too-politically-correct
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Comment #53 posted by Hope on February 06, 2009 at 09:05:12 PT
Congress and Phelps and Cannabis
I've been thinking of the death of Len Bias, a tragedy in so many ways.Do you suppose Congress will horrendously kick up penalties for cannabis prohibition after this grand debacle? You know Phelps has already lost a contract or two already because of the substance. The heinous, vile, dangerous stuff!!! People are suffering! Someone lost a commission! He's a F...... Role Model!!! He has to be punished enough to send a big f...... message!!! So dangerous!!! This is serious!!! This is money!!! Find out who had that party, where and everyone that was there. There will be people to blame and they will be blamed! We need major enhancement on anti-cannabis laws to send a message!!!(Walking a few feet, not a mile, again, in Joe Biden's mouth, this time.)Boys and girls in Congress! Here's your big opportunity! Kick up those marijuana laws! Raise hell! Bellow and bawl about it! Make someone pay!!! Make em pay big!!!Those dang drug dealers and bong makers and people that like to have parties! Dang em! Go get em! It's your job! It's your duty! Punish em! Send em a message!!! Make the news! Appoint committees! Have meetings! Have press conferences! Oh the outrage! Express your outrage! Show it! Raise old billy about this! Send messages!!!! It's time to send MESSAGES!!! Big time!!! 
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Comment #52 posted by FoM on February 06, 2009 at 06:37:23 PT
OverwhelmSam
The article link you posted confused me. I didn't know how I could have missed it and did a search. Here it is but it was from 2008.http://cannabisnews.com/news/thread24163.shtml
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Comment #51 posted by OverwhelmSam on February 06, 2009 at 06:23:13 PT
JoeCitizen
Good information on the history of the tenth amendment. But the argument has been ruled on in a US District Court. See:http://www.times-standard.com/ci_10461558?source=most_viewed
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Comment #50 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 18:42:53 PT

Asa Hutchinson
I looked it up and he was made head of the DEA in August of 2001. Bush was sworn in in January 2001. There is a big overlap with administrations it seems. John Walters was made drug czar in December of 2001.
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Comment #49 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 18:34:02 PT

Maybe This Will Help
The DEA is headed by an Administrator of Drug Enforcement appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the U.S. Senate. The Administrator reports to the Attorney General through the Deputy Attorney General.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drug_Enforcement_Administration#Organization
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Comment #48 posted by itsonlyaplant on February 05, 2009 at 18:25:11 PT

In charge
Isn't the DEA not under the DOJ? Did Eric Holder not just get sworn in as the new AG? The DEA may be indeed be run by Bush holdovers but if the AG was hand picked by President Obama then doesn't his administration run the DEA? I'm not sure of the hierarchy of the governmental bureucratic machine but it seems that if that is the case, Obama's team SHOULD have some say. As far as wasting so-called political capital (as Pres. O puts it); the Gonzalez v. Raich thing making it to the SUPREME COURT a couple of years ago and 13 states legalizing medicinal cannabis and others still decriminalizing cannabis shows this is not merely a "fringe" issue to be pushed aside. Jsut my 2 cetavos worth:)
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Comment #47 posted by dongenero on February 05, 2009 at 13:51:09 PT

DEA still run by Bush for all practical purposes
The DEA is still run by the Bush appointees at this point so, not a big surprise they would ignore Obama's position. The DEA is above the fray after all. They call their own shots....at least until Obama has an opportunity to address the DEA. I think he's been predisposed with some other somewhat important issues for the first 2 weeks of his administration.gloovins, tell us about all of your great accomplishments for the last 2 weeks? Sheesh!See comment #17
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Comment #46 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 13:47:45 PT

White House Says Medical Marijuana Raids Will End
February 5, 2009The White House said it expects those kinds of raids to end once Mr. Obama nominates someone to take charge of DEA, which is still run by Bush administration holdovers."The president believes that federal resources should not be used to circumvent state laws, and as he continues to appoint senior leadership to fill out the ranks of the federal government, he expects them to review their policies with that in mind," White House spokesman Nick Shapiro said. [Washington Times]It looks like we’re on the verge of a major victory for state medical marijuana laws. For over a decade, this battle has raged from the hills of California to the Nation’s Capital. It has been a defining cause, not only for the medical marijuana community, but for drug policy reform as a whole. There is no question that a great many challenges remain in our path, but let’s all take a moment to reflect on the fact that our president is poised to order the DEA to stand down. That is not something that happens easily or often. Today’s news suggests the pending culmination of a substantial effort by a broad coalition that is frequently perceived to lack meaningful political leverage. The political landscape is changing before our eyes and I believe we have much to look forward to.http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle_blog/2009/feb/05/white_house_says_medical_marijua
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Comment #45 posted by gloovins on February 05, 2009 at 13:42:12 PT

Our tax dollars at work....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUOd2I87ix0http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mnCdNvhX-M
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Comment #44 posted by gloovins on February 05, 2009 at 13:17:26 PT

Politics as usual.......
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/feb/05/dea-led-by-bush-continues-pot-raids/Obama the liar, er, politician....They will say ANYthing to get elected folks,...
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Comment #43 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 12:26:04 PT

Cannabis Really is Universal
All The Buzz: Pot Scandal Jolts Japan's Sumo World***February 5, 2009
  TOKYO (AP) — Sumo wrestlers with pot bellies, yes. Sumo wrestlers with pot? Now that's harder to grapple with.In the past six months, four wrestlers have been kicked out of the ancient sport for allegedly smoking marijuana, creating the biggest drugs-in-sports scandal that Japan has ever seen.Although three of the wrestlers who have been expelled from the sport were from Russia, the arrest last week of a 25-year-old Japanese athlete who goes by the ring name of Wakakirin for possession of marijuana has raised concern that use of the drug may be more widespread than originally thought.URL: http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/international-33/1233863654205760.xml&storylist=topstories
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Comment #42 posted by fight_4_freedom on February 05, 2009 at 11:13:35 PT

No FoM
My internet is hooked up through my cable line. It's good to hear that yours is working better now.Sorry if this video/blog from MPP was already posted.http://blog.mpp.org/?p=292The video is a clip of Bruce Mirken from MPP on CNN talking about Michael Phelps.
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Comment #41 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 09:57:36 PT

Leave This Young Man Alone!
They must stop breaking people's Spirit.***Intense Scrutiny has Phelps Weighing Whether He Will Swim in 2012 Games***Swimmer speaks out in first interview since photo of him smoking from marijuana pipe was published in tabloid.February 5, 2009 In his first interview since a photo surfaced showing him smoking from a marijuana pipe, Michael Phelps said yesterdaythat the intense public scrutiny has him contemplating whether he will swim in the 2012 Olympics.Phelps, who said that he "clearly made a mistake" and that the past week has been both embarrassing and uncomfortable for him, spoke with The Baltimore Sun inside Meadowbrook Aquatic Center after finishing his daily workout. While he still has goals he wants to achieve in the sport, he said, he's going to discuss it with his family and his coach, Bob Bowman."This is a decision of mine that I'm not going to make today and I'm not going to make tomorrow," Phelps said. "It's going to require a lot of time and energy and a lot of thinking for myself - but also talking to Bob and talking to my family and just deciding what I want to do.URL: http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/olympics/bal-te.sp.phelps05feb05,0,3171313.story

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Comment #40 posted by unkat27 on February 05, 2009 at 08:57:13 PT

#25 
"In a nut shell, the federal drug laws are unconstitutional."Yes, they are unconstitutional. The main reason why so many states have gone along with the "unconstitutional drug laws" for so long is due to power politics and control over federal grants for corporate-managed state projects. What I am referring to is whenever a state has needed money for a huge project, such as highways, utilities, cities, parks, etc... the only way they could get the money they needed from the feds was by cooperating with the DEA and the federalist-party politicians and rabid prohibitionists that continue to promote the unconstitutional drug laws. This gets back to the "private" control over the Federal Reserve, which the federalist prohibitionists maintain. Many people have suggested that private control over the Federal Reserve is one of the biggest problems with the US today. Most recently, Ron Paul and Dennis Kucinich have suggested it should be be taken out of private hands and be put back into the hands of the government. It should be understood that the Federal Reserve was never meant to remain in the hands of private corporations to begin with. The roots of the reason why it was privatized in the early 20th century was to organize it for national projects which involved many states in a time when the nation needed to be unified to compete with Europe, the USSR and Asia. But i don't think it was ever intended to be abused by vampires and vultures like the DEA today.

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Comment #39 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 08:45:59 PT

Hope
I saw on MSNBC a lady news broadcaster from Texas say that it's hard to punch a person in the face when they are smiling at you. I thought that was good. Smile and love and understand that people are scared and we might make it thru this mess. We are one and we need each other more then ever.
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Comment #38 posted by Hope on February 05, 2009 at 08:42:14 PT

Thanks.
Again.
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Comment #37 posted by Hope on February 05, 2009 at 08:41:36 PT

Actually...
The article I was looking for wasn't about Phelps at all. It was about the president and the issue.
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Comment #36 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 08:41:26 PT

Hope
I just found it to post. You got it. 
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Comment #35 posted by Hope on February 05, 2009 at 08:40:15 PT

Found that piece I was looking for.
Thank you.http://www.usnews.com/blogs/heart-to-heart/2009/02/04/legalize-marijuana-obama-was-right-to-say-no.html
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Comment #34 posted by Hope on February 05, 2009 at 08:30:27 PT

Pitiful E-mail 
She apparently took it well. I don't want to offend her. She just wrote back and said "Sorry about that". She may mean she's sorry I think it's crap... but she doesn't sound like she's hating me.I'm looking for and I can't find that post you made yesterday about commenting at I think it was USA Today or US News and World Report... or something. It was a Dr. B. Healy on the Phelps scandal. Could you find it and re-post it, please?
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Comment #33 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 08:13:46 PT

Hope
Our country might collapse but it isn't Obama's fault. He will try to fix it but it could be too late. Whoever was elected President would be in the same boat. Hate serves no good purpose. I hope the haters get over it soon and get on with trying to survive.
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Comment #32 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 08:09:28 PT

fight_4_freedom
Do you power your computer with a phone or data card? I have a data card plugged into my desktop and it's so much better then DirecWay. I don't know how to push my cell to Verizon though. Heck I don't use it. I keep it turned off. I can hear my land line. LOL!
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Comment #31 posted by Hope on February 05, 2009 at 08:01:18 PT

Rose colored and crap tinted glasses...
People are still devising those damned pitiful why it's the end of the world because Obama was elected e-mails. I did what I've always wanted to do with them this morning. My cousin sent me another one and I usually try to ignore them. This morning I did what I always wanted to do, but didn't. I replied, "That's crap".She's probably mad at me... but I get so sick of it.
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Comment #30 posted by fight_4_freedom on February 05, 2009 at 07:59:21 PT

I also have alltel FoM
So I am extremely happy about the merger. Most of the people I know either have a verizon or an alltel phone, so it won't cost me much to call anyone I know pretty soon. I think they said March 1st is the first day that the mobile-to-mobile networking between alltel and verizon will go into affect.
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Comment #29 posted by Hope on February 05, 2009 at 07:57:19 PT

FoM
"My speeds have doubled."That's great! I'm tickled for you.
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Comment #28 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 07:43:31 PT

Off Topic
So much pain we've all suffered recently but I am starting to look thru the world with rose colored glasses once more.Yesterday I put a CD together covering some of the good songs during the Campaign and other songs that say something to me and I am listening to them now.Also yesterday I was able to push my data card onto Verizon since they merged with my carrier Alltel. My speeds have doubled. That makes me happy too. I have a niece coming home from Texas today to see her sister. Today is a good day.
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Comment #27 posted by JoeCitizen on February 05, 2009 at 07:39:44 PT

Regarding the 10th amendment
I'm not going to start a flame thread here, I'm just going to make this one statement about this.What OverwhelmSam said about the 10th amendment is one interpretation of it. There is another that says that the language of the 10th amendment does not modify other clauses in the Constitution, including the ability of Federal government to make all laws that are "Necessary and Proper" and "For the General Welfare" of the people, as well as the ability to "Regulate Commerce."Libertarians will claim that only the narrow reading of the 10th amendment is proper. But that point has been argued since BEFORE THE CONSTITUTION WAS PASSED, and remains in contention now.In The Federalist Papers, Alexander Hamilton argued for a sweeping interpretation of government powers. At the Virginia Ratifying Convention, Patrick Henry took the opposing (narrow) view.  James Madison sided with Hamilton at first, and then took Henry's view later when Madison became President.I will not argue either view here, I'm just pointing out that there is more than one opinion on this matter, and it has never been entirely settled in the history of our nation. Even the authors of the Constitution did not agree about it.I would, however, point out that drug laws endanger the General Welfare, they are not Necessary and Proper, and they are an improper restraint of Commerce.  So under either interpretation, they should be unconstitutional.JC 
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Comment #26 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 06:58:51 PT

OverwhelmSam
Thank you. I still only see a whirl when it comes to some issues. I don't have a legal mind. I think with my heart I suppose. I think that's ok since I've made it this far. LOL!
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Comment #25 posted by OverwhelmSam on February 05, 2009 at 06:51:54 PT

FoM
The majority of the laws passed by our federal government are null and void under the tenth amendment. The federal government can prosecute piracy and treason, arrange for our defense, make treaties with other nations, and make laws specifically spelled out in the constitution. Any other law made by the federal government is null and void. The states are starting to realize that they have jurisdiction over the federal government, as do the people. And the people have much more power over law in the states where the live. The federal government can not pass laws that supercede state laws, unless they deal with those authorities specifically cited in the constitution.In a nut shell, the federal drug laws are unconstitutional.
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Comment #24 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 06:41:54 PT

OverwhelmSam
I don't understand.
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Comment #23 posted by OverwhelmSam on February 05, 2009 at 06:39:39 PT

Legal Brief
Several states are beginning to assert their rights under the tenth amendment. Basically, the tenth amendment states that the federal government has power to enact laws related to the specific authorities delegated in the constitution, and any other type of law is VOID! That means that drug laws, gun laws, federal reserve, income tax, and a multitude of other illegal laws passed by the federal government are null and VOID! The states have the right to enact whatever laws they choose whether they agree with federal law or not. http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/legtext/49leg/1r/bills/hcr2024p.htmhttp://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?year=2009&bill=4009http://www.ok-safe.com/files/documents/1/HJR1089_int.pdfhttp://www.house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills091/bills/HR212.HTMhttp://data.opi.mt.gov/bills/2009/billhtml/HB0246.htmhttp://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2009/HCR0006.htmlhttp://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(21rmjiv1sl0wvw55yxurwl55))/documents/2009-2010/Journal/House/pdf/2009-HJ-01-22-002.pdfMore states are considering similar state legislation.
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Comment #22 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 06:32:36 PT

BGreen
Sometimes I wish I didn't see what I see. Real people will go to prison over this and that bums me out. I am happy that we are making progress but it's tempered because of people being destroyed in the process.
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Comment #21 posted by BGreen on February 05, 2009 at 06:26:33 PT

17 is great news, FoM, but you're so right on 18
That's true about every war, IMHO. I get slammed all of the time because of my John Lennon and Rodney King outlook on life. You know, can't we give peace a chance and just all get along?They argue that's a naive and idiotic viewpoint that would just get our country invaded because it would just never work.My argument is "how in the world do you know it won't work if we've never even given it a try."Nobody ever said we had to roll over and let ourselves be taken advantage of. That's a straw man argument that has no basis in reality. We just don't have to be the world's bully going around kicking the spit out of somebody just to prove we're the toughest.Take care, FoM, because it looks like we're finally making progress. I think a celebration is in order and that's what I'm going to do. I'll keep celebrating every time we move a step forwards.The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #20 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 06:04:41 PT

fight_4_freedom 
It is good news. I really feel sorry for people who will have their lives changed forever because of the Bush Administration. A dying horse is very dangerous. We have had more then 120,000 hits over the last 24 hours. I hope Obama's people are checking us out.
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Comment #19 posted by fight_4_freedom on February 05, 2009 at 06:00:09 PT

This is wonderful news
I just received that ASA release in an e-mail. And as usual, you beat me to it FoM!!!!
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Comment #18 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 05:42:33 PT

Just a Comment
I feel very sorry for anyone that is the last one killed in this war.
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Comment #17 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 05:24:32 PT

Press Release From ASA
White House Responds to DEA Raids, Vows to End Policy***February 5, 2009Washington, DC -- White House Spokesman Nick Shapiro reacted to new Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) raids at medical cannabis collectives in California, saying he expects President Obama to end that policy when a new DEA Administrator is seated. “The president believes that federal resources should not be used to circumvent state laws, and as he continues to appoint senior leadership to fill out the ranks of the federal government, he expects them to review their policies with that in mind," Shapiro said.The statement puts the Department of Justice and the DEA on notice of a change in federal policy, and indicates that continued raids may not be tolerated. "Americans for Safe Access acknowledges President Obama's continued pledge to end federal interference with state medical marijuana laws," commented Caren Woodson, Director of Government Affairs. “We look forward to working with the President and his Administration to enact long-term policies that support safe and legal access to cannabis for therapeutic use and research." Americans for Safe Access (ASA), the nation’s largest medical cannabis advocacy organization, sent policy recommendations aimed at harmonizing federal and state law and encouraging research to President Obama and Congress earlier this year.Shapiro’s statement followed a groundswell of public opposition and critical media following a DEA raid in South Lake Tahoe on January 22 and four simultaneous raids in the Los Angeles area on Tuesday. ASA members and other medical cannabis advocates responded with thousands of phone calls to the White House and an Internet campaign on the President’s web site, Change.gov, asking the President to fulfill his repeated campaign pledges to not use federal resources to interfere with state medical marijuana laws. Medical cannabis raids intensified under former President George W. Bush, with more than one hundred paramilitary style raids, new indictments, and letters threatening property owners who rent to medical cannabis facilities with prosecution and civil asset forfeiture. "More than 72 million people live in a state that has enacted laws that authorize the limited use and distribution of cannabis for therapeutic use," Woodson said. "The White House's comments have provided patients and their loved ones a sense of relief, and we hope the President and our Attorney General will keep this pledge in mind when considering appointments to the DEA and Office of National Drug Control Policy."For interviews with medical cannabis patients impacted by federal raids, defendants facing prosecution or sentencing, doctors, and researchers, contact Media Specialist Kris Hermes at (510) 681-6361 or Director of Government Affairs Caren Woodson at (202) 857-5350.Comments by Obama on ending medical marijuana raids: http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080323/NEWS/803230336ASA medical marijuana recommendations for President Obama: http://AmericansForSafeAccess.org/PresidentialRecommendations
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Comment #16 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 05:11:11 PT

The GCW
I voted for Obama and knew that he said what I just posted from Granite Staters. 
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Comment #15 posted by FoM on February 05, 2009 at 05:08:09 PT

The GCW
I wish I honestly knew where the line is drawn in the sand. In that video clip he also says.Excerpt: I think there are legitimate concerns in not wanting to allow people to grow their own or start setting up mom and pop shops, because at that point it becomes fairly difficult to regulate. http://granitestaters.com/candidates/video_obama_02.html

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Comment #14 posted by The GCW on February 05, 2009 at 05:02:12 PT

itsonlyaplant,
In the time it takes Me to write this, Obama could tell one of His people to call the vampires and tell them to stop sucking the blood out of sick people in California and stop sucking the blood out of California state laws and stop sucking the blood out of California citizens that supply cannabis to sick people and leave it for California to govern.I'm here at C-news for one reason: to help re-legalize cannabis. While I'm here, that's #1. I don't put health care, war, or anything else before cannabis prohibition issues -HERE. -If I want national health care; I'll go to nationalhealthcarenews.com.....I'll give the Prez a few more minutes to stop vampires from sucking blood. It's within His power.If Obama doesn't stop the vampires, I may start wondering if He is a vampire 2.He's already spent almost a trillion dollars; now it's time to drop a dime.He's had enough time to stop the evil.
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Comment #13 posted by itsonlyaplant on February 05, 2009 at 00:49:45 PT:

Just so it's known
I know we all have seen this clip MANY times, but I thought since there were raids today (AGAIN) on LEGAL sales of medicinal cannabis (thanks Paul for the info) it would be appropriate to dig it out yet AGAIN just in case anyone might have not seen it or would like to see it again.   2:11 in the clip he spoke some interesting words. Enjoy witnessing hipocracy caught on film and know it won't go away.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTWZ7W5w48s
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Comment #12 posted by Hope on February 04, 2009 at 22:22:30 PT

Phelps
"Right now, at a time like this, this is when you really know who are your real friends and family," said Phelps, 23. "And I have had a lot of support and that is something I am thankful for."When I found myself walking a few feet, not a mile, in his eyebrows, instead of his shoes, yesterday, or the day before, they were sad and worried eyebrows.I'm sure he's been miserable, upset, angry, sad, worried ... all over the place, emotion wise, about this.                                         
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Comment #11 posted by The GCW on February 04, 2009 at 19:50:58 PT

US CO:
Medical marijuana has become a growth industry in Coloradohttp://www.westword.com/2009-02-05/news/medical-marijuana-has-become-a-growth-industry-in-colorado/1In Denver's Westword.-Very informative."...Amendment 20, the only medical marijuana law in the nation that's a constitutional amendment...."

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Comment #10 posted by FoM on February 04, 2009 at 19:10:21 PT

mykeyb420
Don't you like Coldplay? I have Viva la Vida and I think it's good. It's not like Neil Young but he's my favorite musician.
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Comment #9 posted by mykeyb420 on February 04, 2009 at 18:52:00 PT

british
 I still haven't forgiven them for Coldplay
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Comment #8 posted by FoM on February 04, 2009 at 18:08:06 PT

Michael Phelps on Pot Aftermath
Michael Phelps on Pot Aftermath: 'By No Means Is It Easy'By David Ginsburg, The Associated Press Wednesday February 04, 2009URL: http://www.mlive.com/sports/index.ssf/2009/02/michael_phelps_on_pot_aftermat.html
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Comment #7 posted by potpal on February 04, 2009 at 11:15:54 PT

a giggle
I always get one when they stress 'former' toker(s)...hu huh...former tokers...aren't we all...;)
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Comment #6 posted by paul armentano on February 04, 2009 at 11:11:25 PT

for anyone wondering, there were 5 raids yesterday
Venice Alternative Healing, 421 Rose Ave, Venice The Nile, 1501 Pacific, Venice Marina Caregivers, 730 Washington Blvd. Marina Del Rey Alternative Caregivers Discount Dispensary, 122 S Lincoln Blvd #204, Venice Beach Center Collective, 310 Culver Blvd, Playa Del Rey There will also be a protest in L.A. shortly:LA EMERGENCY PROTEST - Feb 5th, NOON, Los Angeles Federal Building, 
255 E. Temple St.,

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Comment #5 posted by FoM on February 04, 2009 at 09:15:16 PT

mykeyb420
These days I am reading more about the mess Bush got us into then any other topic except our issue. Bush did something that might make it impossible to charge Karl Rove or anyone with anything.
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Comment #4 posted by FoM on February 04, 2009 at 09:12:54 PT

Sam
I know what you are saying. Since she is a conservative writer it seems better to me then some of the articles. 
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Comment #3 posted by mykeyb420 on February 04, 2009 at 09:12:19 PT

oh boy
Bernie Madoff stole 50 BILLION $$,,,GW led us to war under false pretenses,,,Wall street is STEALING 18 BILLION $$$$ from us as we speak, unemployment is out of control,,and the media is up in arms over Phelps smoking pot.  anyone have priorities anymore?????
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Comment #2 posted by sam Adams on February 04, 2009 at 09:09:12 PT

Wash. Post
so where's the editorial endorsing decrim or legalization?This is a case where even common sense can't override the ingrained worship of the One, the true Big Government! The Post just can't bring themselves to say the govt needs to shrink itself and butt out for once. Just can't do it. The words catch in their throat and they choke on it.

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Comment #1 posted by FoM on February 04, 2009 at 08:48:25 PT

Sensible
This seems sensible to me.Excerpt: Our marijuana laws have been ludicrous for as long as we've been alive.
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