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THE WATER COOLER

Here are a few things in news, entertainment and popular culture that we've been talking about lately.

* The Vatican launches a YouTube channel. Can't wait to see the video of Pope Benedict XVI giving pilgrims in St. Peter's Square a Mentos-and-Diet Coke blessing.

* The Chinese calendar flips to the year of the ox. With everything we face in 2009, why couldn't it be the year of the quick-witted multinational tiger with a doctorate in economics and unerring financial instincts?

* Embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich compares himself to Jimmy Stewart in "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington." More likely: Daffy Duck in 1953's "Duck Amuck."

* Russian ice dancer Ekaterina Rubleva's top becomes loosed during a routine at the European figure skating championships. But good for perfect 10s all around.

* First mom Michelle Obama bristles at "Sweet Sasha" and "Marvelous Malia" dolls created by Beanie Baby-maker Ty. At least the makers of those Bratz skanks took a pass.

By JOHN PRZYBYS (jprzybys@reviewjournal.com)

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