This blog was going to start with my feelings about how the new Phelps Support Page is going, and yes I will get to that, BUT...
My first order of business today surrounds the ordeal that inspired the Page to begin with, and that is that S.C. Richland County's Sheriff Leon Lott has decided not to pursue charges against Mike. For those new to the story, Sheriff Lott (Known for his tough stance on drug use) was adamant that Phelps be investigated as a result of his confession that the infamous S.C. party pic was real. I dont really need to say how many people in and outside Richland Co thought the Sheriff's ideas were somewhat pointless, including the Governor. You can read the AP article at the Baltimore Sun mainpage:
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/olympics/b%20al-michael-phelps-charges-216,0,3555362.story.
How do I feel about all this?
"...You aint livin what ya kickin, then ya worthless/Lookin from the surface, it may seem like I got reason to be nervous/Then observe my work and see my adversity was worth it." --Swagger Like Us
Needless to say the Phriends are very happy about this news. I guess I didnt write or talk much about it because I thought it was a waste of time. Only because I felt that Mike was pursued partly because he's famous. I was never sure the Sheriff had enough evidence to prosecute.
I guess the most surprising thing to me was seeing how this whole situation brought out true feelings from fans, semi fans, and non fans alike. Hardcore Phans stuck to defending MP at every chance :), semi fans either got a little disgusted or completely pissed, and non fans who just NEEDED something negative to talk about.
Getting back to the page, it's been up phive days and it's amazing to see the response! But I have to give credit to a certain someone because without their public thanks I dont think the page would've jumped to 3000 right after the thank you message. As of this posting, we have well over 23,000 members.
I've tried to just read what's posted and not interfere too much. But that's not easy when people decide to join a page just to give negative feedback on a page asking for positive feedback. But the true phans have been awesome and I just want to thank everyone who took time to let us and Michael know how much you still admire, respect, and have pride in him. I'm sure Mike, his friends, and family really do appreciate all of your kind words and prayers.
Mike sometimes says he likes to hear all comments good or bad, but I'm sorry he just won't see them on the page. If he does, they won't be there long. Why? Just read the title: Support Michael Phelps Now!
UPDATE: PPP Member Becky (an awesome info chick) just posted MP reaction to today's news:
Here's the full MP statement:I’m glad this matter is put to rest. But there are also some important lessons that I’ve learned. For me, it’s all about recognizing that I used bad judgment and it’s a mistake I won’t make again. For young people especially – be careful about the decisions you make. One bad decision can really hurt you and the people you care about. I really appreciate the support my family and fans have shown me and now, I will move forward and dive back into the pool, having put this whole thing behind me.
