THE MORNING LOOP: 08.04.11

Happy Birthday President Obama x Bubba Smith Dies x Jay-Z Didn't Purchase BBC Clothing

Happy birthday President Obama! He turns the big 5-0 today and his birthday wish has already been granted. "You know, what I really want right now is to -- to get a debt ceiling deal for my birthday," Obama said in an interview. "That's kind of sad, I know."

Now that the debt ceiling crisis is behind us (sort of), Congressman David Wu is set to resign after allegations that he had an unwanted sexual encounter with an 18-year-old. Wu says his actions were consensual. Still, according to the National Journal Wu intends to step down today.

Randi Zuckerberg, sister of Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg, is leaving Facebook after six years to start her own social strategy company. Zuckerberg served as Facebook's Director of Marketing, helping launch several initiatives including Facebook Live.

Former NFL star Bubba Smith died in Los Angeles yesterday. He was 66.

Jay-Z is expanding his empire. Still, unlike previously reported he did not purchase Pharell Williams' clothing line, Billionaire Boys Club. Instead, Hov is working with Williams to enhance the brand. "Partnering with @4real4rell on BBC" follow him.. (Not "buying" as GQ erroneously reported.)," he tweeted.

Photo of the Day

One of the most highly anticipated albums this year is Jay-Z and Kanye West's joint rap album "Watch the Throne." The LP is set to drop on August 8.

Trending Topics

1. Tropical Storm Emily: Bad weather is set to hit Haiti and the Dominican Republic today.
2. Jerry Lewis: The actor retires as MDA chairman. Won't host telethon.
3. Kraft Foods plans to split into two companies.
4. Powerball: The lottery game could earn someone $160M
5. Barack Obama: Happy birthday, again!