Do Vast Lungs Equal a Monster High?

Mix of herbs sprayed with psychotropic compound is legal, for now

(NEWSER) - The “fake weed” sweeping the US isn’t marijuana, but it packs a stronger punch—and it’s legal. “K2” or “spice” is a mix of herbs and a chemical compound that’s sold as incense at—coincidentally, we’re sure—the same price as real pot. The scientist who discovered the compound tells LiveScience it’s 10 times as potent as THC, the active ingredient in your traditional weed. He thinks kids in Europe got the idea of “doping this incense.” More»

THC concentration has been climbing for decades

(NEWSER) - Marijuana’s average potency, as measured by the concentration of psychoactive component THC, has broken 10% for the first time after decades of steady increase, a government report says—and is expected to keep increasing, CNN notes. Potency will likely plateau at some 15% in the next 5-10 years, though some pot already has potency above 30%, scientists found. More»

Will give away weed wacker, shred fans' 'incriminating' pics

(NEWSER) - A Milwaukee hockey team will host a “Don’t Be Like Mike” night next week to discourage fans from following Michael Phelps’ dubious example, the Journal Sentinel reports. Graduates of the DARE program—as well anyone named Michael, Phelps, Mary Jane, Cheech, Chong, or Weed—will get a $2 ticket. The Milwaukee Admirals will also give away an autographed weed wacker. More»

(AP) - The fallout continues: Michael Phelps has been suspended from competition for three months by USA Swimming in the wake of his bong photo. Meanwhile, Kellogg's will not renew its contract with the swimmer when it expires at the end of the month, Advertising Age reports. The Wheaties maker says Phelps' image is "not consistent with the image of Kellogg." More»

Goody-goodies, black or white, see minimal hit for taking hits

(NEWSER) - Those who think Michael Phelps would be facing harsher treatment if he were black are “stuck in the 1960s,” Jason Whitlock writes for Fox Sports. “Image is everything whether you're black or white.” Only bad boys get hung out to dry when controversy calls—Phelps was “quick with the contrite, toke(n) apology and he maintains a boy-next-door image.” More»