美联社新闻一分钟 2008-06-24（在线收听）

1. There is more trouble on the way for Lincoln County, Missouri. It's here where residents are still days away from the crest on the Mississippi River. Meanwhile, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa this city library is a total loss. An entire floor is now a wasteland of waterlogged books and shelves.

2. John McCain is proposing to give 300 million dollars to anyone who can develop a car battery that goes far beyond current technology. His idea for a government prize is aimed at solving the country's energy crisis.

3. It's a growing chorus of international condemnation of Zimbabwe. That's after the opposition leader decided to pull out of Friday's presidential run-off because of the danger to voters. The move is likely to allow President Robert Mugabe to continue his 28-year rule.

4. And this British man says he is so heartbroken after his marriage ended. He's decided to auction off more than just his possessions on Ebay. He wants to sell his old life. He's offering his house, car, a trial run at his job, and an introduction to his friends for one lucky bidder.

WORDS IN THE NEWS

1. chorus: n.

a chorus of thanks/disapproval/protest etc

something that a lot of people all say at the same time.

2. pull out: v.

If you pull out of an agreement, a contest, or an organization, you withdraw from it.

3. possessions: n.

Your possessions are the things that you own or have with you at a particular time.