美联社新闻一分钟 2008-06-25（在线收听）

1. The government says US home prices fell in April at their fastest rates since 1991. Meanwhile, the Senate has overwhelmingly voted to speed up work on a 300-billion dollar foreclosure rescue plan. And a private survey says consumer confidence is at its lowest point in 16 years.

2. More than 800 wildfires are burning across northern California. Officials say they were sparked by lightning. Hundreds of homes are threatened.

3. Divers exploring a ferry that overturned during a typhoon in the Philippines have found bodies. More than 800 people remain missing. Only about 50 survivors have been counted.

4. More than 300 thousands baby cribs are being recalled. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says people should immediately stop using the cribs made by Jardine. Wooden slats and spindles can break, causing children to become trapped. The cribs were sold at Toys R Us, Babies R Us and other stores.

WORDS IN THE NEWS

1. foreclosure: n.

Foreclosure is when someone who has lent money to a person or organization so that they can buy property takes possession of the property because the money has not been repaid.

2. diver: n.

A diver is a person who swims under water using special breathing equipment.

3. crib: n.

A crib is a bed for a small baby.

4. spindle: n.

Any of various long thin stationary rods.

(A rod is a long, thin metal or wooden bar.)