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             Tourists Converge on Washington to See Cherry Blossoms

   by VOA News

   Tourists are starting to converge on Washington for one of the
   capital's greatest Springtime celebrations: the blooming of the cherry
   trees.

   The U.S. Park Service says the recent cold snap did not affect the
   bloom dates for the trees.  The blossoms could last up to ten days,
   weather permitting.

   "It is just a gorgeous day and they said it would be peak blossoms, and
   it is about halfway, I'd say.  Its pretty, but I'd say by the weekend
   it is going to be even prettier," said Connie Santora, a visitor to the
   nation's capital who was gazing at the flowering trees.

   This year's peak bloom period coincides with the opening of the
   National Cherry Blossom Festival.

   The cherry trees are a symbol of an enduring relationship with the
   people of Japan, who gifted the trees to the United States.

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   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/tourists-converge-on-washington-to-se
   e-cherry-blossoms/3252722.html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/tourists-converge-on-washington-to-see-cherry-blossoms/3252722.html