AP 2011-02-18（在线收听）

1. It's the battle of the budgets with Republicans calling President Barack Obama's deficit cutting plans too timid. His spending plan adds to deficits this year and next. The GOP is saying Americans want dramatic cuts.

2. Egypt's ruling military council wants labor leaders to stop strikes and protests, letting the country return to normal. Thousands of state employees are protesting for better pay and working conditions. All of this comes just after the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak.

3. They spent 257 days locked in a windowless steel capsule. Researchers are simulating a journey to Mars. Once there, the Russian mission planted flags on a simulated red planet.

4. Some key assignments are set for the royal wedding in April. Prince Harry, brother of Prince William will be the best man. The sister of Kate Middleton, the fiancée, will be maid of honor. But the cake will not come from the family baker.