WATER COOLER

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

■ The Russian government bans the works of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard for threatening "the traditional spiritual values" of its people. Sort of like how the works of Jackie Collins do here.

■ Las Vegas magician The Amazing Johnathan u25B6 is traveling to Russia to perform at a birthday party. Making copies of "Battlefield Earth" disappear would probably be a real crowd-pleaser.

■ The creators of "South Park" are threatened for depicting the prophet Muhammad in a bear suit. We'd show you a picture, but ...

■ "Glee" salutes Madonna. Coming soon: Iggy Pop guest-stars in a very special "Hannah Montana."

JOHN PRZYBYS (jprzybys@reviewjournal.com)