Guns have a special place in American culture, and though not everyone agrees on whether or not they are a good thing, there is no mistaking that they will be part of the cultural landscape for some time. To answer the question, no, not everyone has a gun. 【小题1】

Americans use guns for one of two uses: either for sport, where they can use them on firing ranges or for hunting in approved areas, or for self-protection. The latter is where most people begin to take sides, either arguing for the removal of guns from society or allowing more people to have them. There are organizations and community groups for both sides and both sides have strong feelings.

Legally, there are restrictions on gun owners. 【小题2】 Only certain kinds of weapons can be purchased by the public, and that excludes automatic weapon and military grade weaponry. Gun owners must transport their weapon in a safe way, unloaded and in most cases, out of sight. Special—concealed carry permits from the police station must be obtained for people who want to wear weapon, and most people are rejected for this kind of permit. 【小题3】 Criminals steal guns or buy them illegally to commit crimes, and the news is full of terrible stories of what happened next. Occasionally a child will get a hold of legal weapon and accidentally hurt themselves or others.

It is important to remember, however, that the news stories that make the United States seem like a dangerous place are deceiving; guns are not everywhere or constant. 【小题4】 After all, America is a safe place to live.

The dinner party is disappearing according to an article in The New York Times. “How can this be?” You might wonder. Don’t we meet with friends to taste food in the hottest restaurants? Aren’t we invited by friends to enjoy home-cooked meals? And we throw parties for friends on special occasions, don’t we?

【小题1】It is more formal and usually hosted in one’s home. Invitations are sent out ahead and hosts prepare food with great care. A beautiful tablecloth is spread out on the dinner table, which is then set with expensive cutlery (餐具). Guests dress up for the occasion and are expected to carry on a conversation at the table.【小题2】

Is it because people are too busy to cook for others and then invite them to the table? Perhaps, but there are many food lovers nowadays, and TV programs teaching people how to cook are very popular.【小题3】According to Judith Martin, a US writer, people have been brought up to express themselves rather than to exchange ideas. They don’t know how to share their experiences and feelings with others in a proper way.【小题4】

In her opinion, its influence has been harmful to human communication. “People don’t even respond to dinner invitation anymore,” she said. “Not only do they cancel at the last minute, they do it by text message.”

Things have changed a lot today. Perhaps the dinner party has just become a different kind of thing. However, it needs only be more than some food, a table and a location.【小题5】 Even if we are using ordinary plates and are not wearing party dresses, we can still enjoy food and share our ideas of life, love and culture, can’t we?

Famous food festivals around the world

Food festivals are held all around the world every year, and people from different parts come to these festivals in large numbers to satisfy their taste buds (味蕾).

The Galway International Oyster (牡蛎) and Seafood Festival

Galway, Ireland

September 26 to September 29, 2020

This is the world’s longest running oyster festival, first appearing in 1954. Apart from the excellent seafood that is served, the festival also features some exciting events such as oyster-eating contests, live music, tasting parties, etc.

The International Mango (芒果) Festival

New Delhi, India

June 30 to July 2, 2020

This festival is a celebration of everything about mangoes. It features different kinds of mangoes and various food items that are made from them. The festival also holds a number of special events such as mango-eating competitions, mango-tasting events, quiz competitions, and plenty of traditional and folk performances.

The Garlic(大蒜) Festival

The Isle of Wight, England

August 17 to August 18, 2020

This is one of the largest events that the Isle of Wight hosts each year, and it shows recipes made from garlic. Some foods made out of garlic and garlic beer are available (可得到的) there. The festival also features live music and a country fair.

The Crave Sydney International Food Festival

Sydney, Australia

October 1 to October 31, 2020

This festival attracts a number of famous international chefs each year as visitors to experience the best of Australian food. From fine dining at famous restaurants to street food to cooking classes, this event has a lot in store for a visitor.