The Reality Reports

The Original Colors: White And Black When you watch a tennis match today, you probably notice the bright yellow-green balls bouncing across the court.  But did you know that tennis balls were not always this color? Before 1972, tennis balls were usually white.  Sometimes, black tennis balls were used, especially on grass or clay courts where white balls could blend into the background.  These early color choices were practical for players and spectators who watched matches in person, but things changed as technology advanced.

Discovering Caribbean Culture:   Virginia CaribFest 2025 is set to bring the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Caribbean to Downtown Norfolk on September 26 and 27.  This annual festival, now in its twentieth year, is a celebration of Caribbean heritage and community.  It is a time when people of all backgrounds come together to enjoy music, food, and traditions from across the islands.

A New Way To Order Pizza: Pizza is one of the most popular foods in America. People have been ordering pizza for years, but the way we do it is changing.  SliceLife.com is a website and app that connects people with local pizza shops.  Instead of calling a big chain or using a delivery service that charges high fees, SliceLife.com makes it easier and often cheaper to get your favorite slice from a neighborhood pizzeria.

The Ban That Changed An Art Form:  For much of the 20th century, New York City was famous for its art, music, and fashion. However, one art form was forced to hide in the shadows. Tattooing was illegal in the city from 1961 until 1997.  This meant that people who wanted tattoos had to find artists who worked in secret, often in apartments or hidden shops.  The reason for the ban was fear about health risks and the spread of disease. At the time, people did not have as much knowledge about how to keep tattooing safe and clean.

Understanding Snake Venom: What Makes It Dangerous Snake bites can be very dangerous, especially if the snake is venomous. Venom is a special type of poison that some snakes use to catch their food or protect themselves.  When a person is bitten by a venomous snake, the venom can cause serious health problems, like trouble breathing, pain, swelling, or even death if not treated quickly.  The only way to stop the venom from hurting someone is to give them a special medicine called antivenom.

The Old Belief: Babies Couldn’t Feel Pain For much of the 20th century, doctors around the world believed that newborn babies could not feel pain.  This idea was based on the thought that a baby’s brain and nervous system were not developed enough to experience pain like older children or adults.  Many experts thought that when babies cried during medical procedures, it was just a reflex, not a real response to pain.  Because of this, doctors often performed surgeries and other painful procedures on infants with little or no anesthesia.

What Is Red Meat Allergy: Red meat allergy, also known as alpha-gal syndrome, is a rare and unusual allergic reaction.  Unlike most food allergies, which are caused by proteins, this allergy is caused by a sugar molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose, or alpha-gal for short.  This molecule is found in the meat of mammals such as cows, pigs, and lambs. People with this allergy can have serious reactions after eating foods like beef, pork, or even products made from these animals.

What Does A Professional Bed Tester Do: Imagine getting paid to sleep in luxury hotels all around the world. That is the life of a professional bed tester.  These people have a unique job: they travel from place to place, checking out beds in different hotels.  Their main task is to test the comfort and quality of beds, mattresses, pillows, and even the sheets. They make sure that guests will have a great night’s sleep.

Early Life: A Tough Beginning Donald Goines was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1936. His parents owned a laundry business, so his family was not poor, but life was not always easy.  When he was only fifteen, Donald lied about his age to join the Air Force. He served during the Korean War, but while he was there, he developed a heroin addiction.  This addiction would shape the rest of his life and his writing.

The Story Behind Dallas BBQ:   Dallas BBQ is not just a restaurant; it is a New York City tradition.  Founded in 1978 by the Wetanson family, Dallas BBQ has grown from a single location to a chain of popular spots across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.  The restaurant is known for serving Texas-style barbecue, but it is also famous for its friendly vibe and big portions.  For decades, families, friends, and tourists have chosen Dallas BBQ when they want good food and a good time.

The Forgotten Crisis That Shaped Modern America: The 1970s marked one of the darkest periods for America's inner cities. While suburban families enjoyed prosperity, urban neighborhoods faced complete collapse.  This decade witnessed the transformation of once thriving communities into symbols of urban decay that would define American cities for generations.

What Is Pestie :   Pestie is a company that helps people get rid of bugs and pests in their homes without hiring expensive pest control services. Instead of sending someone to spray your house,  Pestie sends you everything you need to do it yourself. This includes professional-grade pest control products, clear instructions, and the tools you need to apply the treatment.  Pestie’s goal is to make pest control simple, safe, and affordable for everyone.

Breaking The Myth That Independence Means Going It Alone: Many people believe that being strong means handling everything by yourself. This idea comes from movies, books, and stories where heroes save the day without anyone's help.  But real life works differently. The strongest people actually know when to reach out to others. Think about it this way: even the best athletes have coaches. Successful business owners have mentors.  Students who get good grades often form study groups. These people understand that asking for help makes them better, not weaker.

Apple cider holds a special place in both American history and modern kitchens.  This simple drink made from pressed apples has evolved from a daily necessity to a seasonal favorite that brings families together during autumn celebrations.

What Is Colonial Penn Life Insurance: Colonial Penn is a well-known life insurance company based in Philadelphia.  It mainly offers life insurance to people ages 50 to 85, focusing on helping families pay for final expenses, like funeral costs.

A Place With Deep Roots:   Mohonk Mountain House sits in the Shawangunk Mountains of New York, just 90 miles from New York City.  This Victorian castle resort has been welcoming guests since 1869, when Albert Smiley bought a small inn on Lake Mohonk and began expanding it with his twin brother, Alfred.  The Smiley family still owns and operates the resort, making it a rare example of a family-run destination that has lasted for over 150 years.

A Cool Mix Of Nature And Art: This photo shows a clear glass ball with a chunk of golden-brown crystals or tiny rocks inside. It looks like a piece of the earth floating in space.  The smooth glass and the rough, shiny material inside make the image interesting to look at.

Why Choose Renting Over Owning:   Many people think that owning a car is the best way to get around. But what if you could have a different car for every occasion, without the big costs and responsibilities that come with ownership?  Using car rentals as your personal car collection is a new trend that is changing how people think about transportation.  Instead of buying one car, you can rent different vehicles whenever you need them. This approach gives you more choices, saves money, and makes life easier.

Why Bananas Ripen So Quickly: Bananas are a popular fruit because they are sweet, easy to eat, and healthy. But one thing many people notice is that bananas can ripen very fast.  This happens because bananas give off a natural gas called ethylene. Ethylene helps the fruit ripen, turning green bananas yellow and making them softer and sweeter.  Sometimes, bananas ripen so quickly that they become brown and mushy before you can eat them all.

A Surprising Solution For Rainy Days:  Japan is known for its creative and practical inventions. One of the most interesting is the umbrella vending machine. Imagine walking down the street, and suddenly it starts to rain.  You do not have an umbrella, but you see a vending machine nearby. Instead of snacks or drinks, this machine offers umbrellas.  In Japan, this is not just a dream but a real solution that helps people stay dry during unexpected showers.

How Tom Hanks Discovered Typewriters: Tom Hanks, one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, is also a passionate typewriter collector.  His fascination began in 1978 when he brought a plastic typewriter to a repair shop in Cleveland.  The shop owner told him it was just a toy and showed him what a real typewriter looked like. Hanks left with a sturdy Hermes 2000, sparking a lifelong passion for collecting these unique machines.

Why Healthy Eating Can Be Expensive: Many people want to eat healthy, but the cost of good food can be a big challenge. Organic fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious items often cost more than regular grocery store brands.  This can make it hard for families and students to stick to a healthy diet. Whole Foods Market is known for its high-quality foods, but it also has a reputation for being pricey.  However, the store’s 365 brand is changing the game by making healthy eating more affordable for everyone.

Why Money Matters: Most people feel lost when it comes to money.  Rachel Richards, a former financial advisor, wrote "Money Honey: A Simple 7-Step Guide for Getting Your Financial $hit Together" to make personal finance simple and less scary.  Her book is full of real stories, humor, and step-by-step advice that anyone can follow, even if you know nothing about money.

A Trusted Name In Pool Supplies : Leslie’s Pool Supplies is a name many pool owners know and trust.  Founded in 1963, the company started as a small operation in California and has grown into the largest direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry.  With over 975 stores across the country and a strong online presence, Leslie’s makes it easy for anyone to find what they need for their pool or hot tub.

What Is Oar Health : Oar Health is an online service that helps people who want to drink less alcohol or quit drinking completely. Instead of going to a doctor’s office, you can get help from home using your computer or phone.  Oar Health connects you with licensed medical professionals who can create a treatment plan just for you and, if it’s right for you, prescribe medication like naltrexone, which is proven to help people reduce their drinking.

Understanding The Boston Proper Brand:   Boston Proper is a fashion company that has focused on designing stylish, high-quality clothes for women over 40 for more than 30 years.  Founded in 1992 and based in Boca Raton, Florida, the brand started as a catalog business and now operates mainly online, offering a wide range of women’s apparel and accessories.  Boston Proper stands out by creating clothing that is both trendy and age-appropriate, helping women feel confident and comfortable in every stage of life.

How Small Changes Create Big Differences: Every single day, the world transforms in ways most people never notice. While you sleep, eat breakfast, or scroll through your phone, thousands of tiny changes stack up like building blocks.  A new business opens down the street. Someone plants a tree in their yard. A student learns something that will change their future career.  These moments seem small, but they're actually the ingredients of history.

A Tough Moment: This photo shows a young child sitting on the ground with a bowl of food in their lap. The child is wearing an old sweater with brown and white stripes, along with baggy pants covered in dust.  Their shoes are dirty and worn out. Everything in the photo shows that life has not been easy for this child.

What Is Wonder.Com: Wonder.com is a new kind of food delivery service that is changing the way people eat at home. Instead of just bringing food from one restaurant, Wonder.com lets you order from several restaurants at the same time.  This means you can have pizza, sushi, and burgers all in one delivery. Wonder.com works with more than 20 restaurants, offering a wide range of choices for customers.  The company wants to make it easy for anyone to enjoy different types of food without leaving their house.

Arriving at your destination is exciting, but waiting at baggage claim can be frustrating. Many travelers want to know how to get their suitcases off the carousel before everyone else.  While there is no magic trick, there are strategies you can use to increase your chances.  Here are some practical tips that can help your luggage show up first, explained in a way that’s easy to understand.