The Reality Reports

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other parts of the body. It happens because of thick, sticky mucus that builds up and causes problems.

New Year’s traditions are a window into the diverse cultures and beliefs that shape our world. From simple acts of gratitude to elaborate rituals, each custom tells a story.  This article explores the origins and meanings of some of the most interesting New Year’s traditions across the globe.

What Is Coulrophobia: Coulrophobia is the intense fear of clowns. Instead of bringing joy, clowns can cause fear and anxiety in many people around the world. How Common Is Coulrophobia: Coulrophobia is one of the most common fears. Both kids and adults can feel this way. Many children are afraid of clowns, and some adults hold onto this fear for years.

Maintaining good health becomes more important as we age. Understanding how your body functions at different stages of life can help you prevent diseases and improve your overall well-being.

What Is Balut: Balut is a traditional delicacy that holds a special place in Filipino culture. It consists of a fertilized duck egg containing a partially developed embryo.  Typically boiled and served warm, balut is a well-loved street food in the Philippines. Many locals enjoy it as a late night snack or as a side dish paired with beer.  Though it may seem unusual to outsiders, balut is considered a nutritious and flavorful treat by many Filipinos.

"Lime Green: Brighten Your World, Energize Your Life " Lime green is our choice for the color of today. It’s a bold and eye-catching color that makes a statement in the world of fashion.  This bright, neon-like shade is often used to add a playful, trendy vibe to outfits. It pairs well with neutral tones like black, white, and beige, making it stand out even more.

The Strategy Behind Luxury Destruction: Some of the world’s most famous designer brands, like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, have a surprising practice: they destroy unsold products at the end of each year.  While this may seem wasteful, it’s a deliberate move to protect their brand image. Luxury brands thrive on exclusivity.  If their products were sold at discounts or overstocked, it could damage their reputation as high-end, unattainable goods.

"Fuchsia: Where Bold Meets Beautiful" Fuchsia is our choice for the color of today. It’s a bold and eye catching color that mixes bright pink and purple. In fashion, it’s known for adding energy and excitement to any outfit.

Building strong relationships is key to a happy and fulfilling life. Whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues, relationships shape how we experience the world.  The good news is, improving your relationships doesn’t require complicated strategies. You can strengthen them with one simple habit: active listening.

In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first generic version of a once-daily GLP-1 receptor agonist injection.  This medication is designed to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes and is intended to be used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Poverty is a complex issue influenced by systemic factors like access to education, healthcare, and opportunities. However, personal choices and habits also play a role.  While not everything is within our control, understanding how certain behaviors contribute to financial struggles can help break the cycle.

Here are a few significant historical events that took place on December 23rd: George Washington Resigns As Commander-In-Chief: On December 23, 1783, George Washington formally resigned his commission as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, demonstrating his dedication to civilian governance and laying the groundwork for democratic leadership in the United States. "A Visit From St. Nicholas" Published: The poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," also known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas," was published anonymously in the Troy Sentinel in 1823, helping to popularize modern Christmas traditions and the image of Santa Claus.

If you're looking to break free from unhealthy relationship patterns and cultivate deeper connections, "How to Be the Love You Seek" by Dr. Nicole LePera is a must read.  In this transformative book, Dr. LePera, a #1 New York Times bestselling author known for her integrative approach to psychology, offers a fresh perspective on healing relationships.  She explains how unmet needs from our earliest relationships can shape our current ones, often leading to cycles of pain and dysfunction.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made a significant breakthrough by approving Zepbound (tirzepatide) as the first medication for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity.  Developed by Eli Lilly, Zepbound provides a new treatment option for millions of people who suffer from this condition.

What Is Coconut Water: Coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young, green coconuts. Unlike coconut milk, which is thicker and contains more fat, coconut water is light and refreshing.  It is naturally rich in nutrients like potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which play a vital role in maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance.  These qualities make it a popular choice for those seeking a natural and healthy drink.

Beethoven Premieres Iconic Works: On December 22, 1808, Ludwig van Beethoven conducted a groundbreaking concert in Vienna, unveiling his Symphony No. 5, Symphony No. 6, and Piano Concerto No. 4 in a single evening. The Dreyfus Affair Begins: In 1894, the Dreyfus Affair erupted in France when Captain Alfred Dreyfus was falsely accused of treason, sparking a significant political scandal.

Single-parent families are becoming more common, with nearly 1 in 4 children living with just one parent.  While rewarding, single parenting brings challenges like managing time, money, and stress. Here are some simple strategies to help navigate the journey.

"Brown: The Color of Warmth and Timeless Style" Brown is our choice for the color of today. It's a warm, earthy color that brings a natural and cozy vibe to fashion. It’s versatile and can work for both casual and formal styles.

"The Six Triple Eight" PG-13 2024 ‧ War/Drama ‧ 2h 7m Overview : During World War II, the US Army's only all Black, all women battalion takes on an impossible mission: sorting through a three year backlog of 17 million pieces of mail that hadn't been delivered to American soldiers and finish within six months.

In a decisive move just hours before a potential government shutdown, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a temporary funding bill on Friday, December 20, 2024.  The measure, which secures federal operations through March 14, 2025, includes $110 billion in disaster relief and support for farmers but omits a provision to suspend the federal debt ceiling, an issue previously raised by President-elect Donald Trump. The bill passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support in a 366-34 vote and was swiftly approved by the Senate early Saturday morning, with a vote of 85-11.

Crisis R 2021 ‧ Thriller/Crime ‧ 1h 58m Overview: Three stories about the world of opioids collide: a drug trafficker arranges a multi-cartel Fentanyl smuggling operation between Canada and the U.S..  An architect recovering from an OxyContin addiction tracks down the truth behind her son's involvement with narcotics.   A university professor battles unexpected revelations about his research employer, a drug company with deep government influence bringing a new "non-addictive" painkiller to market.

Murder on the Orient Express PG-13 - 2017 ‧ Mystery/Crime ‧ 1h 54m Overview : A lavish trip through Europe quickly unfolds into a race against time to solve a murder aboard a train. When an avalanche stops the Orient Express dead in its tracks, the world's greatest detective Hercule Poirot arrives to interrogate all passengers and search for clues before the killer can strike again.

Finding the perfect Christmas gift doesn’t have to break the bank or take up all your time.  If you're in a pinch, JCPenney offers a variety of thoughtful gifts under $25 that are sure to please. Here’s a list of options to consider for your last-minute shopping:

Being a co-signer on a personal loan for a friend or family member is a generous act. It can help them get a loan they wouldn’t qualify for otherwise.  However, co-signing is a serious decision. It’s important to understand how it affects you, especially if the borrower does not repay the loan.

Are you trying to lose weight? If so, you’ve probably searched online for weight loss products. Most people think of diet pills when it comes to weight loss, but they’re not the only option.  Many people have used colon cleanses, also called weight loss cleanses, to shed pounds. You might want to consider trying one too.

"Black: Bold. Classic. Always in Style." Black is our choice for the color of today. It's more than just a color, it's a statement. Known for its timeless elegance and versatility, black can fit into any style or occasion. Whether you're dressing up for a fancy party in a sleek black suit or keeping it casual in a black hoodie, this color never fails to impress.  Black is also slimming, making it a favorite for anyone looking for a flattering look.

Each year, Americans consume over 2 billion pounds of chocolate. That’s more than any other candy type.  Whether it’s a quick snack, a dessert ingredient, or a gift, chocolate has become a central part of American culture.  Let’s explore why it’s so popular and how it impacts our lives.

"Teal: Where Serenity Meets Style." Teal is our choice for the color of today. It’s a versatile, captivating color that blends the tranquility of blue with the energy of green. It comes in light Teal and dark Teal.

"Silver: Shimmer and Shine" Silver is our choice for the color of today. A color that stands out for its elegance and charm. It’s often seen as glamorous and classy, making it a popular choice in fashion, jewelry, and decorations.  Its metallic shine catches the light, giving it a unique sparkle that’s hard to ignore.

Using similar sounding words incorrectly can lead to confusion in communication. Two such terms, "recurring" and "reoccurring," may seem interchangeable but have distinct meanings.  Understanding when to use each word can help you write and speak more clearly. This article explains the differences between "recurring" and "reoccurring" and why precision matters.

Laughter often comes from confusion, and today’s world of misinformed opinions provides plenty of opportunities for humor.  When these opinions clash, the results can be both funny and revealing, showing how misinformation spreads.

Fur coats have always been a symbol of style, luxury, and warmth. People wear them to stay cozy in cold weather or to make a fashion statement.  But fur coats also raise questions about ethics, the environment, and modern alternatives. If you’re thinking about fur, here’s what you should know.

Did you know that nearly 50% of Americans believe they are not getting enough protein? Imagine a person eating a granola bar, thinking it’s a protein powerhouse, only to find out it barely contributes to daily needs.  While protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health, many common foods are misjudged for their protein content. This article uncovers 14 foods often thought to be high in protein, revealing the truth behind their actual nutritional value.

"Maroon: A Timeless Blend of Style and Sophistication." Maroon is our pick for the color of today. It's a warm, dark shade of red that feels rich and classy. It is often seen as a color of elegance, strength, and confidence.  Maroon stands out without being too flashy, which makes it a great choice for many styles and occasions.

Every day, millions of chickens are slaughtered worldwide to meet the demand for meat and eggs.  These birds play a significant role in feeding the global population, but the scale of this industry often goes unnoticed.  Understanding these numbers and their impact can help us make informed decisions about our food choices.

The holiday season is full of joy and excitement, but it also brings opportunities for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting people.  Knowing about the most common scams can help you stay safe and enjoy the holidays without falling for fraud. Here are some of the top holiday scams and tips on how to avoid them:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making great progress in cancer research. It works by looking at large amounts of data, helping scientists find patterns that could lead to new treatments.

Gas prices keep changing, leading more people to choose electric vehicles (EVs) as an option. EVs have benefits over regular gasoline cars, such as lower fuel costs, less pollution, and a quieter ride.

A Brief History of Chess: Chess has been around for over 1,500 years, starting in northern India before spreading to Persia and eventually Europe. By the 15th century, it had become the game we know today.  Over time, it has grown into a global phenomenon, played by millions of people of all ages and skill levels. Chess has also inspired countless books, movies, and even online platforms where players compete with others from around the world.

" Sky Blue: Where Calm Meets Joy." Sky blue is our pick for the color of today. It's a beautiful and gentle color that’s perfect for fashion.

"Blush Pink: Soft, Simple, and Stylish." Blush Pink is our pick for the color of today. It's a soft, pale pink that adds a sweet and elegant touch to any outfit.

Grocery shopping is a regular task, but it can quickly become one of the most expensive parts of your budget. Many think saving money means cutting back on quality or skipping the foods they enjoy.  However, with some smart planning, you can lower your grocery bill while still enjoying nutritious and satisfying meals. Here are some practical tips to help.

"Beige: Simple, Stylish, and Always in Style." Beige is our pick for the color of today. It’s a classic and stylish color that never goes out of fashion. It’s warm, neutral, and easy to wear, making it perfect for almost any occasion.  Whether you’re dressing up for work, going out with friends, or just relaxing at home, beige works with everything.  The color pairs well with other shades, like black, white, or even brighter colors, and it looks great all year round.  Beige is simple yet elegant, giving off a clean, sophisticated vibe.

If you’re looking for a natural way to lower your blood pressure, there’s one fruit you should definitely add to your diet.  It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can support a healthy heart. What is this magical fruit? It’s bananas. Bananas are a powerhouse of health benefits, and one of their best features is how they help lower blood pressure. Let’s examine why they work and how you can enjoy them every day.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is set to meet with Tom Homan, who served as the "Border Czar" under former President Donald Trump, on December 12 to discuss the city’s ongoing migrant crisis.  The meeting is expected to focus on how to address the challenges the city faces with the large number of migrants arriving from the southern border.

Harlem, NY – Frustration is mounting among residents of a Harlem apartment building as they contend with an elevator that has been out of service for over a month. The lack of repairs has left many in the community feeling neglected and outraged.

"Dusty Rose: Where Elegance Meets Tranquility" Dusty Rose is our pick for the color of today. It’s a soft, muted shade of pink with a hint of gray, giving it a calm and gentle look.  It feels elegant and timeless, often reminding people of vintage styles or romantic settings.