On February 2 of each year, the United States observes the unusual holiday of Groundhog Day, a day of hope that winter is over and spring is beginning. This tradition has been officially observed in the US since the 1800s, and is believed to have developed from European folk traditions in which a bear, fox, badger, or even hedgehog would serve as the symbolic meteorologist. Although other cultures and towns observe Groundhog Day (or something similar), the town of Punksutawney, Pennsylvania takes special pride in being home to the one true forecasting groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil. At the turn of the twentieth century, townspeople formed the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club to perpetuate the joyful rituals and events surrounding Groundhog Day. Over the years, these events have come to include a scavenger hunt, a talent show, and a ball Legend has it that on Groundhog Day the official weather forecasting groundhog awakens from hibernation and comes out of his burrow to look for his shadow. If he sees his shadow, six more weeks of winter are to come, and Punxsutawney Phill goes back to bed. However, if he does not see his shadow, Punxsutawney Phil takes this as a sign that spring has arrived, and he remains above ground. Of course, common sense tells us that February 2 is too early for spring to begin, and that while animals may be attuned to various elements of nature from which humans might learn, they are unlikely to act on their impincts based on a schedule set by a Gregorian calendar. Nevertheless, a visit to Pennsylvania to see Punksutawney Phil and all of the fun he inspires each year might just provide the touch of hope needed to reach the end of winter. What source would be most useful in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions over a number of years?
A. A memoir from a member of The Groundhog Club
B. A record of weather patterns in the last decade
C. An encyclopedia entry on mammals in the northeast U.S.
D. A historical survey of customs in Pennsylvania
This source would provide empirical data on the accuracy of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions by comparing them to actual weather patterns observed over a period of time.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is B.
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