Obama's Birthday: 50 Years, 5 Parties

On Wednesday night, President Obama raised morethan $3.6 million at three birthday-themed Chicago events on the eve of his 50th birthday.

There was a video teleconference, a musical fundraiser with a round of "Happy Birthday" led by Jennifer Hudson and a private dinner. Hopefully he told people the price of admission could count as his gift. Concert tickets went for $50, while dinner guests shelled out the maximum donation of $35,800 to the Democratic National Committee. Take a look at the Washington Post's photos from the event.

The president didn't make it back to the White House until after midnight, and officially turned a year older while aboard Air Force One. Thursday means two more private events back in D.C. Plans include a party hosted by his staff and a celebration with family and friends at the White House (paid for by the Obamas).

What did the Obama really want for his birthday (besides those hefty campaign contributions)? From a few extra approval points to a framed birth certificate, check out The Root's ideas.

Read more at the Huffington Post.

In other news: Gunman at Virginia Tech? Campus on Lockdown.