Weekend News Roundup


News:
--> President Barack Obama held a White House meeting Saturday with the Dalai Lama, a fellow Nobel Peace laureate, hours after China called on the U.S. to rescind an invitation that could sour relations with Beijing.

The Tibetan spiritual leader has been in Washington for an 11-day Buddhist ritual. Thousands of expatriate Tibetans joined a 76th birthday celebration Wednesday for the Dalai Lama, who's just relinquished leadership of Tibet's government-in-exile.

The White House said the 45-minute private session in the Map Room showed Obama's support for preserving Tibet's culture and protecting human rights, as well reaffirming his belief that Chinese government should engage with representatives of the Dalai Lama to resolve their differences. (Via HuffPo)

--> While deficit reduction discussions continued over the weekend, no significant progress has occurred and the chances for a comprehensive deficit deal sought by President Obama in coming weeks appear remote.

Obama and congressional leaders will continue to negotiate a possible debt deal this week to clear the way for congressional Republicans to back an increase in the federal debt ceiling. Without a major deal, Congress would have to focus instead on a smaller agreement to raise the debt ceiling or face the unprecedented situation in 15 days of the government not having enough money to pay all its bills. The debt ceiling has reached its $14.3 trillion legally permitted maximum. More at CNN.

Celebrity news:
--> Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony are divorcing. The couple, parents to three-year old twins, Max and Emme, were married since 2004. Lopez and Anthony released a statement to People Magazine about their split.

"We have decided to end our marriage. This was a very difficult decision. We have come to an amicable conclusion on all matters. It is a painful time for all involved and we appreciate the respect of our privacy at this time."

Sports:
--> Japan beat the Americans out of the World Cup title in a riveting final Sunday night, 3-1 on penalty kicks, after coming from behind twice in a 2-2 tie. The star of the shootout was feisty goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori, who made two brilliant saves in the shootout.

All tournament long the teammates poignantly reminded the world they were playing for their battered country, still reeling from the devastation of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. (Via AP)

--> Casey Anthony released from jail into the unknown:

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