Читать книгу: «My Discovery of America 1993 – 2004», страница 5

That same year, the United States celebrated the centennial of the writing of "America the Beautiful" by Katherine Lee Bates. In Falmouth, the centennial celebration lasted 22 days – from July 22, 1993, the centennial of the writing of "America the Beautiful," to August 12, 1993, the birth date of Miss Bates.

The Falmouth Historical Society presented a magnificent collection of photographs, books, letters, and memorabilia related to Miss Bates, her famous poem, her family, her life and school years in Falmouth, and her achievements as a teacher and poet.

The house where Miss Bates was born was a two and a half story Colonial with a Federal-style doorway. Built in 1810, it was one of the earliest houses in the village of Falmouth. For many years, the house served as a doctor's office and a residence, and at one point served as a lodging house.

The flag flying in front of her birthplace bore thirty-three stars—the same number as the flag at the time of her birth.

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The scenic Shining Sea Bikeway was one of the few local landmarks named after Katherine Lee Bates. There was simply no better way to cross Falmouth without a car, and it was my favorite route for morning runs. The trail stretched 10 miles (17 km) from the Steamship Authority ferry terminal in Woods Hole to County Road in North Falmouth.

EVENTS

I spent July 4, 1993, in Boston, watching fascinating Independence Day battle reenactments, exploring historic buildings, and listening to the reading of the original Declaration of Independence. One of the highlights, of course, was the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular – a symphony orchestra concert featuring classical and patriotic works. Its "1812 Overture" was accompanied by authentic cannonades and the ringing of church bells. Then the fireworks were launched directly from the Charles River.

Notably, "The Year 1812: A Solemn Overture," commonly known as the "1812 Overture," was written by the Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The piece commemorates Russia's successful defense against the French invasion of 1812. This fifteen-minute overture is best known for its climactic cannon salvo, the ringing of the chimes, and the brass fanfare finale.

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How can I forget the Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron of the United States Navy? I watched their aerial display at the show at the Dallas Naval Air Station / Hensley Field with my associate Mr. Roger Taylor. The aerobatics performance of the “Blues” was wonderful. The Naval Air Station in Dallas was one of fifteen major naval-reserve installations in the United States. It was located at the northwest end of Mountain Creek Lake, just west of Dallas. Established as a training field for reserve pilots, it and was named Hensley Field for Maj. William N. Hensley, who was on the first trans-Atlantic dirigible crossing in 1919 and was a flying instructor near Dallas in the early 1920s.

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IN CONCLUSION

Comparing life in Russia and the United States, I noted the following advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

Prosperity and opportunity to earn a good living.

Most people respect the law, and it works to ensure safety. You have the opportunity to stand up for your rights.

People around you do not brag about their income, which allows you to feel comfortable.

In any institution—private or public—you will always receive high-quality service.