Nightcrawlers are commonly known as earthworms as well as megadriles. These creatures, which belong to the phylum Annelida and class Oligochaeta, are popular for their distinct burrowing action. The species tend to live underground because exposure to direct sunlight is harmful and fatal to earthworms. To know why do nightcrawlers come out in the rain, it is necessary that we take a look at the different theories that are conceptualized by some scientists to explain this unique behavior of earthworms.

Theories Related to the Burrowing Action of Earthworms

Why do nightcrawlers come out in the rain? Scientists have developed various theories concerning this unique behavior of earthworms. One of the most popular theories related to the burrowing action of nightcrawlers is that rainwater can affect the supply of oxygen underground so earthworms come out to survive. Some scientists believe that when soil absorbs rainwater, a shortage in oxygen happens. To get enough supply of oxygen, nightcrawlers come out in the rain.

Another interesting theory that can explain this distinct behavior of nightcrawlers is that these creatures go out of soil right after rain so they can transfer to other place easily because the ground or soil at this time is wet. Earthworms take this opportunity to build new colonies in other locations, which is most of the time important to their survival. In addition, this is the best time to transfer to other places since most predators stay inside their shelters after rain.

Aside from these theories, some experts also agree that the rainwater causes the soil to become acidic. When the soil becomes acidic, staying or living underground can be fatal to these creatures. For this reason, nightcrawlers come out in the rain to prevent from suffering the harmful effects of acidic soil.

Important Information About Earthworms

The burrowing action of nightcrawlers is beneficial to humans. This distinct behavior of creatures is important to enhance soil fertility. Some studies in America found that when earthworms stay underground, these creatures excrete casts that improve the nutrients in soil. Some of the important nutrients present in nightcrawler casts are nitrogen, phosphates as well as potash.

Above all, when nightcrawlers come out in the rain, the creatures open channels or passages that allow other nutrients and minerals to be enter and be absorbed in soil. With all these information, it is safe to conclude that the burrowing behavior of earthworms is very important to enhance the soil nutrients that are essential to the successful cultivation of plants.

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To Make her Feel Special

Mothers do just about everything for their families. Right from cooking, cleaning to inculcating good values to her children, mothers do all that is required to impart warmth and comfort to their loved ones. They take care of nourishing both the body and the soul.

A mom does all the hard work willingly and what’s more, she does them without pay. In many homes, the mother gets the day off on Mother’s Day and the husband and kids do all the household chores. This is one way people can show moms that they know what she is doing, and love her for it. By giving back, you not only give mom a helping hand but you also show respect for her. It is a wonderful way to express our gratitude and appreciation for all the selfless love she bestows on us.

To Show Appreciation

Mothers become nurses when any family member gets sick. They are there to offer advice, be it on relationships, trouble at school or work. For working moms, they also have to balance their career with the chores at home. One more reason why we celebrate Mother’s Day is to show her how much we appreciate all the work she is putting in for the sake of the family.

Spending Quality Time Together

Mother’s Day is also family day. Too often, children are preoccupied with school and playmates and the husband is usually preoccupied with work. This day allows everyone to just spend time together. It is a good chance to bond with the other members of the family. We could bake cakes, watch  movies or go to the park. Everyone could get together and share a meal. No matter how you spend the day, it usually means the same thing – spending quality time with each other. In today’s fast paced lifestyle, this is something that is no longer experienced often. You can take advantage of this day to just be with the family, with the emphasis on making it special for mom.

Mom Needs to Have Fun Too

Another reason why we celebrate Mother’s Day is so that our mothers get some much deserved time to relax. On Mother’s Day they can just go shopping with friends or go to a spa. The family can take her  to the movies or go for dinner at a fancy restaurant.

Daddy and the kids can plan and buy mom a nice present or if she’s into sports, take her to a ballgame. Of course, you do not have to go out to make this day memorable. If she prefers, mom can just spend the whole day in bed, watching TV or reading her favorite novels. This is her day, so she can spend it in any manner she likes.

A Time to Display Affection

People celebrate this day to show their affection. As anyone with a mom will tell you, one never ceases to be a mother. It doesn’t matter if her offspring is 3 years old or 30. The love and affection they show will never change. On this day, children and husbands can show her they feel the same way.

There are many reasons why we celebrate Mother’s Day. But the essence of the day is  to show love and admiration for mothers everywhere.

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Aside from being referred to as ‘Glorious Fourth’ or simply ‘the Fourth,’ the U.S. Independence Day also goes by the name ‘the 4th of July.’ As one of the highly anticipated holidays each year, this special event is characterized by inspiring speeches, amazing displays of fireworks as well as joyous musical concerts. For others, this day can be considered a perfect day to spend some really great time together with close friends, relatives and families. Thanks to the festive atmosphere and colorful activities, this event is simply one of the happiest days of the year. For people who want to know the reason why people celebrate the 4th of July, they can find the answer just by taking a quick look back at the history of the U.S.

The Major Reason Behind the 4th of July Celebration

Why do we celebrate the 4th of July? People commemorate the very moment when the U.S. got its independence from the United Kingdom of Great Britain. The adoption of the Declaration of Independence transpired on July 4, 1776, the exact date from which the name the 4th of July originated. After that, people considered this day a cause for celebration, particularly the establishment of an independent government.

There are public events organized nationwide in honor of the rich heritage, consistent laws as well as free people of the U.S. On this day, politicians all over the nation make public appearances to be part of the celebration. Balloons, clothing and streamers are used to decorate and improve the way people celebrate this momentous occasion. The colors white, blue and red can be found almost anywhere. In order to make this special day memorable, colorful displays of fireworks can brighten up public spots such as fairgrounds, town squares and parks. During the day, colorful parades occupy some of the major roads and streets in the city.

Other Important Information about the 4th of July

There is nothing much better than to complement all the festivities during Independence Day with patriotic songs. Leading the list of highly popular songs that people use for this special day is the national anthem entitled “Star-Spangled Banner.” Add to that, other songs that go well with this special event are also played like “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” “Stars and Stripes Forever” and “Dixie.” Besides these wonderful songs, there are other hymns that can fit right into this important holiday such as “America the Beautiful,” “God Bless America” and “ Yankee Doodle.”

During noontime of this annual event, the traditional salute to the union is offered. For every state in the U.S., a single gun salute is fired. Other fun and wonderful things to watch out for during this special day are the colorful displays of fireworks. One of the grandest events that coincide with this special day of celebration is the annual Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival. There are also firework displays in various parts of the country including New York, Washington D.C. and Boston, Massachusetts.

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The Reason for Eating Pancakes on This Special Day

Why do we eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday? In countries such as England and other locations, Shrove Tuesday is also called Pancake Day because it has been a tradition to eat rich foods like pancakes on this particular day. Before they engage in Lenten practices, they prepare themselves by conducting such festivities. On this special day, they serve food that contains sugar, eggs and butter, all of which are ingredients discouraged during a time of fasting such as Lent.

Known as Pancake Tuesday or Pancake Day, countries like the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom serve pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. This event is an annual tradition when people serve delicious pancakes that are thicker and bigger than French crepes. These delightful treats are served with caster sugar or granulated sugar. In the U.S., they are also served with lemon juice, while people in Canada serve them with preserves or maple syrup.

Additional Information and Other Relevant Details

This special day is not just about eating and feasting. In fact, many people use this event to raise money for social work, such as the case of Uniting Church in Australia. In the United Kingdom, the government tries to raise money for social works as well as social awareness by holding the Rehab UK Parliamentary Pancake Race. Another group that makes use of this special day very well is the Westminster School in England, which holds a special event called Pancake Greaze.

The date for this special event varies somewhere in between the 3rd day of February and the 9th day of March, depending on the liturgical cycle for the Lenten season. People celebrate this day differently depending on what location they belong. For instance, people serve doughnuts and pancakes during this special day of celebration in Lithuania. Meanwhile, the people of Hawaii have Malasada Day, wherein they serve huge volumes of doughnuts. In Iceland, people serve peas and salt meat for their so-called Sprengidagur, or simply ‘Bursting Day.’

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Why the Structure Leans

The known facts are the following: in 1172, Donna di Bernado gave some money to the Opera Campanilis petrarum Sancte Marie. The funds were to be used for the construction of the tower. A year later the groundwork was laid down. The foundation was set on poor soil. The result was that less than a year after construction began, it
started to lean already.

Hardly had work begun when it was stopped. It wasn’t just due to the poor soil. The fact was that Pisa went to war against Florence. This would affect the history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It meant that for a century, work stopped.

The result was that the soil started to stiffen. While it continued to lean, the danger of it falling over passed. Had construction not been stopped, it would have collapsed.

Work in the 12th century

It’s still not clear who began the work, but it was continued in the 12th century by Giovanni di Simone. He started working on it in 1272 up to 1284. War followed and work was interrupted again.

By 1319 work had resumed and seven levels had been finished. Other architects that worked on it were Tommaso di Andrea Pisano, Benenato and Guido Speziale. All of these architects participated at various points during the history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The Real Architect

Numerous architects have been suggested as to the original designer of the tower. One of them is Bonnano Pisano. He was well known in Pisa for his works. The discovery of his name on a cast at the tower bolsters this claim.

However it’s possible that he just worked on the restoration. Others claim that it was Diotisalvi due to the style similarity. Some dispute this because Diotisalvi left his signature on his projects.

Facts and Figures

From the high side the structure is 56 meters high (186 ft). At the lower point it is 55 meters or 183 ft. It estimated to weigh 14,500 tons. A study of the history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa will show that it has 294 steps. The degree of inclination is at 3.9 degrees. It has eight stories with an outer diameter of 50 ft. There are seven bells in total.

The structure has undergone reconstruction several times. Part of the work done in the 1990s and 2000 was to refurbish and rebuild decaying parts. Another reason is to ensure that it doesn’t lean too much. The last work done indicates the structure can last another three centuries. During the reconstruction public visits to the site are not allowed.

The history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a remarkable story of how a potential disaster can be turned into a work of art. Whoever conceived of it, the outcome may have never been what he or she expected.

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Why is it White?

Tradition states that the edifice was originally grey in color. However the building was burned down in 1814 by the British. This was in retaliation for the burning done by the Americans during the 1812 conflict. To cover the burn marks, the entire building was repainted white all over.

But some contend that the building was already white years before the burning incident (in 1798 to be exact). According to the story, it was painted white to preserve the sandstone used to build it. If this is indeed the fact about the White House, then it was already white years before the burning.

The Naming

The name itself didn’t become official until 1901 with the decree of President Theodore Roosevelt. It was originally called the President’s House and there are actually some disagreements as to how it got the name. The most popular explanation is that it was so called due to its color. Others however, claim that the name was taken from the White House Plantation where George Washington met his wife.

A Short History

The idea for the building came from George Washington. Its planning was supervised by Charles L’ Enfant. The design was conceptualized by James Hoban and work started in 1792. It took eight years to finish. The facts about the White House will show that Washington didn’t actually reside in it. The first to do so was President John Adams in 1800.

Over the years, several parts were added to the complex. The west wing was added in 1902, which would become the focal point of the President’s activities. During the war years (1942) the east wing was added. In 1952 a bomb shelter was added as the Cold War intensified. Through the years there have been renovations done, some of the most extensive ones taking place in 1948-52.

Facts and Figures

There are 132 rooms in the edifice. There are also over 30 bathrooms, 8 stairways, and 28 fireplaces. There are 5 chefs working there. The facts about the White House will show it can also cater and serve up to 140 people.

570 gallons of paint were used on the outer façade alone. The second and third floors are the residence of the First Family. The ground floor is used for numerous functions. The west wing houses the Oval Office and where most of the staff is based. The East Room is where guests are hosted.

Other Information

The records will show that President James Polk was the first one to have his picture taken in the building. President Theodore Roosevelt (1901-09) became the first one to go on a foreign trip while staying in the residence. While Theodore Roosevelt was the first to go there in a car, Franklin Roosevelt was the first to fly in a plane.

The facts about the White House reveal a lot of interesting details about US history in general. For all the figures though, its meaning remains the same: it is where the President resides and vital policies are made.

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Reason Behind the Celebration of St. Patrick’s Day

Why do we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? The primary reason for the celebration is to commemorate the feast day of Saint Patrick, a Christian missionary who later on became the patron saint of Ireland. It is held every 17th day of March, which is believed to coincide with the time of his death. English-speaking countries, individuals of Irish ancestry and the Irish people are just few of the many groups that devotedly follow this special annual celebration.

This special day of celebration is grounded fundamentally on religion. Eastern Orthodox, Anglicans and Roman Catholics are some of the religious groups that held this special festivity every year. Besides its designation as an official holiday in Ireland, other countries also celebrate this day although not as an official holiday including Argentina, Australia and United Kingdom. Some of the usual practices in celebrating this special day include drinking alcohol, wearing green and attending mass.

Also called Saint Paddy’s Day, people celebrate this feast differently depending on where they are located. For instance, this day is celebrated as a religious holiday, both for the Roman Catholic Church as well as for the Church of Ireland. Today, it is celebrated more as a secularized event rather than a religious observance. It has transformed into a lively, colorful and joyous festivity marked by music performers, bands and floats.

A Look at How Different Places Celebrate This Wonderful Event

In the U.S., people wear green items and clothing to celebrate this day. Various places in the country like Chicago, New York and Indiana color their rivers, canals and fountains with green dye. In Uruguay, people drink lots of beer and dance to lively beats when celebrating this special day. In New Zealand as well as in Australia, individuals who wish to drink beers and alcoholic beverages occupy the streets starting from the afternoon all the way down until nighttime. They also wear various kinds of green clothing and accessories.

In Great Britain, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated with heavy drinking, colorful parades and exciting horseracing. In Canada, various sports teams in professional basketball and baseball wear green uniforms and jerseys. In Argentina, heavy drinking and parties are held all throughout the country.

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There are a lot of facts about worms that people are not aware of. Most just think of them as these slithering and disgusting creatures. But there is more to them than meets the eye.

Why the Worm is Slimy

The reason is that their bodies are lathered with mucus. This dissipates and turns into oxygen. It goes into their bodies, allowing them to breathe. In other words the creatures inhale and exhale through the skin. That’s why they need to be wet. It’s the only way they can breathe. If the mucus is removed, the earthworm will die.

Characteristics

Other important facts about worms that should be realized is that the term doesn’t just refer to one type. There are earthworms, roundworms and flatworms. Caterpillars and maggots are also sometimes included. In general usage, any creature that has a cylindrical body and is legless is classified as a worm. Other characteristics include body segments and bristles.

Other Facts and Figures

Their sizes vary greatly. The longest in the US is the Nightcrawler. It can reach lengths of up to 30 centimeters. Those in Canada can reach lengths of up to 120 cm. Some of the longest ones are in Australia. Some adult species can go beyond 300 cm. Based on current studies there are over 2,500 variants in the world today.

Other interesting facts about worms are their varying sizes. In an acre of land, there can be half a million or a million of them. Most of them live in moss, damp areas and beneath the ground. Some of them are of the parasitic type.

On the average, a typical worm can live for 13 years. But some have been known to survive for 50 years or more. Some types have as many as five hearts. Contrary to popular belief, cutting them in half doesn’t mean they will divide in two. The rear end will not survive. The one with the head will, because it will generate a new tail.

Movement

The bristles act as their legs. These body parts allow them to move around various surfaces. Another interesting fact about worms is that they are able to sense light. They are able to do this with the help of receptor cells. These are very sensitive to light and also detect vibrations in the ground. All of them can move in forward or backward directions. However the tendency is go forward.

Reproduction

The common belief is that they are asexual. More accurately however, they are hermaphrodites. Even though they possess male and female genitalia, a partner is still required for reproduction to take place.

Benefits

They may be repulsive, but these creatures perform a vital function. They can be used to remove dirt and scraps. They also help in fusing vital components in the soil. This helps plants grow. In some cultures, they are seen as delicacies and are eaten by people.

These are just some of the facts about worms. As with other organisms in nature, it goes to show that every creature has a purpose.

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An Energy Boost

Eating the right amount and type of food will add to your energy level. If you’ve ever had to pass up a meal, you feel weak and even nauseous. By getting the right foods, we give our body energy.

This allows us to work more efficiently. If our bodies were cars, the food we eat is the fuel that drives it. Of course, cars need good fuel types to work. In the same way, our bodies need the right kinds of foods. That is why nutrition is important. If we provide ourselves with the right diet, we’ll be healthier and more productive.

Providing Useful Compounds

When you have the proper nourishment you also get the right types of compounds and elements the body needs. These include carbohydrates. These elements are changed into glucose. In turn these become the energy that drives the body.

Other crucial compounds are proteins. If you eat protein rich food, these are transformed into amino acids. These are the elements that help the body cope with injuries. The more proteins you have, the stronger the resistance of the body. Most of these elements are present in your muscles. Protein also provides a boost for the nerves and several organs in the body.

The right nourishment also gives you plenty of calcium. This is another reason why nutrition is important. Calcium is vital in developing robust bones and teeth. It also helps in promoting good health overall.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals are also critical to the body. These have many and varied functions. In general, their main role is to hasten the chemical fusions needed by the system. Vitamin C aids the immune system, B complex is an added energy boost and Vitamin A is good for the eyes. Other vitamins like E and D also have their benefits.

Other essential elements you’ll need are antioxidants. You can get them from green and leafy vegetables. Protection against pollution and unbalanced diets, antioxidants can be found in various fruits.

Effects of an Unbalanced Diet

The reason why nutrition is important can be seen when it is not carried out properly. A person lacking in calcium will have weak bones. Too little protein and you will be sickly and weak. Too much carbohydrates and fats will make you overweight. Lacking in vitamins also brings about risks. Too much or too little of these elements can lead to disease.

One of the problems is that the ill effects can take years to arrive. People who are indulging in sweets now may scoff at the idea of getting sick. Unfortunately when the effects do they take their toll, it can be devastating.

By learning why nutrition is important, you can take the steps needed for getting good health. With a balanced diet, you’ll be healthy and robust for many years.

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Tax Issues

Some of the biggest problems involved taxes. Congress had no power over its implementation. This led to several difficulties. First of all, the states gave very little financial assistance to the government. This made it almost impossible for the government to

pay the soldiers who fought in the Revolution.
Without money, Congress was unable to maintain an army. This made it easy for the British to set up camp in some areas because there were no patrols. Without funding, the government ended up in debt.

Trade Issues

Another reason why the Articles of Confederation failed was the insufficient law concerning trade. The lack of supervisory control meant the states could impose different tariff levels.

This led to trade standoffs that nearly paralyzed the economy. This problem wasn’t just confined to interstate trade. It was also evident in foreign trade as well.

The result was utter confusion. States used different tax systems and rates when buying and selling goods from each other. The different tax rates also affected their trade with European countries. It came to the point when each state used its own currency. As each imposed heavy taxes on the other, trading almost grounded to a halt.

No Federal Courts

The inefficient judicial system can also explain why the Articles of Confederation failed. The federal court was not yet in existence. This meant that border disputes were hardly ever resolved. Each state set up its own laws. Because the states didn’t recognize each other’s laws, fugitives were able to escape punishment by relocating to the nearest state around them.

The One Vote Law

The Constitution also set a provision whereby each state was worth one vote in Congress. Eventually some states ended up with having larger populations than others. The bigger states started complaining that the system was unfair.

Other Problems

For Congress to approve a legislative measure, it needed the approval of 9 states. With the intense state rivalries, it became impossible to secure a majority. Congress also lacked the power to keep the states from establishing trade relations with other countries.

Another reason why the Articles of Confederation failed was that Congress didn’t have the power to manage the states. This became evident with the Treaty of Paris in 1783. It was supposed to mark the end of the American Revolution, but Congress couldn’t even get the states to sign them.

Lack of Government Power

In the end it boiled down to an uneven distribution of power. Too much power was given to the states and not enough to Congress.

For all its deficiencies, it was able to function as the template for the new Constitution. By recognizing the reasons why the Articles of Confederation failed, Congress was able to make the proper revisions in 1788.

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