Let’s see – a college kid does something sort of dumb, like so many other college kids. Why is it news? Because he is among the most elite athletes in the world today, Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps.

Now let’s be honest – taking a hit off of the bong was a dumb thing to do. But his response and that of the IOC are absolutely correct.

The International Olympic Committee expressed confidence Monday that Michael Phelps will learn from his "inappropriate behavior" and continue to serve as a role model after a British newspaper published a photo of him inhaling from a marijuana pipe.

Phelps, who won a record eight gold medals at last year's Beijing Olympics, apologized and acknowledged "regrettable behavior" after the picture was published Sunday by the tabloid News of the World.

"Michael Phelps is a great Olympic champion," the IOC said in a statement e-mailed to The Associated Press on Monday. "He apologized for his inappropriate behavior. We have no reason to doubt his sincerity and his commitment to continue to act as a role model."

Of course, the media has had a field day with the story, and really has not separated the issue of performance enhancing drugs from recreational drugs. Just call it one more sign of media cluelessness.

And for those of you who are surprised by my position – yes, I do support legalization (or at least decriminalization) of marijuana, even though it is a substance that I’ve never had any particular interest in using. I’d classify it along with tobacco and alcohol – substances that I either don’t use or don’t use often, but which I personally find inoffensive if they are used responsibly and in moderation.