Friday, February 28, 2020

Daily Skimm: 'Cause if I was a man, then I'd be the man

Skimm'd after an office happy hour

FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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  QUOTE OF THE DAY  

"Destiny's Child has never sounded so spooky" – A headline, about Jordan Peele's new movie "Candyman." If no one is around you, just put it in the queue.

LOCUSTS

The Story

Billions of desert locusts are swarming East Africa.

You said...locusts.

Correct. They're the world's oldest pest and its most damaging, destroying crops and threatening entire economies. But since last year, the problem has gotten worse. The suspect: climate change. Locusts thrive on warmer temperatures and heavy rainfall. And with more extreme weather conditions like recent cyclones, they've migrated more easily to parts of East Africa, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, and South Sudan. Now, swarms have also reached Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. For weeks, the UN has been warning of a humanitarian crisis.

Humanitarian crisis?

Yes: this is the worst locust outbreak in generations. And it's threatening crops and people's livelihoods. Even a small swarm (think: less than a square mile) can devour enough food for 35,000 people daily. That, in a region where about 19 million people already face food insecurity. The UN warns that the number of locusts could continue to skyrocket over the next few months. It's worried the outbreak will lead to even more food shortages as planting season begins in the spring.

How did things get so bad?

A combination of factors. Like we said, there've been unusual weather patterns linked to climate change. But what's making matters worse: some countries, like Kenya and Ethiopia, lack the tools to combat the plague (think: pesticides). And in Somalia, pest controllers can't reach certain areas due to the civil war there.

So what needs to happen?

The UN says it'll cost at least $138 million to contain the plague. But so far, donors have only committed a little over a third of that. Somalia and Pakistan have declared a state of emergency. At one point, China seemed ready to send an army of ducks to neighboring Pakistan to help contain the outbreak. But then it apparently decided 'nvm, pesticides work, too.'

theSkimm

Locusts swarms have ravaged countries in East Africa for years, but climate change seems to be making matters worse. Now, the region is on a deadline to keep this crisis from escalating as millions of human lives are at stake.

AND ALSO...THIS

What has everyone's attention…

COVID-19. The pneumonia-like virus has now killed more than 2,800 people and infected more than 83,000. Earlier this week, the CDC said the US may have its first "community spread" case after a California woman contracted the virus without traveling to an affected area or having been exposed to a known patient. Other countries have also taken precautions to try to curb the spread of the coronavirus, including Saudi Arabia. Yesterday, it banned pilgrims from entering the kingdom, months before the annual hajj pilgrimage that takes place at Mecca, that's attracted nearly 2 million people in the past.

  • Another alarm bell: A whistleblower is accusing HHS officials of having endangered some public health officials. The whistleblower says the agency irresponsibly had them evacuate quarantined Americans from China without protective gear. She also says she was unfairly reassigned after raising these concerns. HHS said it's evaluating the complaint.

  • Less face time, more FaceTime: Facebook has confirmed that it has canceled its annual F8 developer conference over concerns about COVID-19. But it may turn to live streaming to bring developers together.

Skimm This: Our latest podcast ep talks about the California patient and how the US gov is testing for COVID-19.


Where people can earn their "I Voted" sticker...

South Carolina. Tomorrow, Democratic voters head to the polls in the last primary before Super Tuesday next week. Eyes are on former VP Joe Biden, who's leading in the polls after an underwhelming performance in earlier races. He's followed by Dem front-runner Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and then billionaire Tom Steyer, who's reportedly spent millions to woo voters in the state. As we saw in this week's debate, race is a key talking point in South Carolina, a more diverse state than some others that have held caucuses and primaries so far.

  • Another spotlight on SC: Earlier this week, LGBTQ+ activists filed a lawsuit over a state law that largely bans sex ed teachers from mentioning homosexual relationships. The lawsuit sees it as state-sanctioned discrimination. And state officials also agreed it was on shaky ground.

Skimm More: Don't want to miss any major 2020 election dates? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when events like primary races and debates are going down. Download the app and start your free trial.


Why public health officials are concerned...

This survey. According to the CDC, about four in 10 American adults are obese – and nearly one in 10 is severely obese. The data, taken from 2017-2018, suggests that obesity rates are significantly higher than 50 years ago – when about one in 100 Americans were severely obese. The findings indicate that more Americans could be at risk for diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Some are also blaming the gov for not pushing measures that promote physical activity and healthier eating habits.


What's making us feel louder and prouder…

This family reunion.


What's singing 'you've got a friend in me'...

Earth...to the mini-moon.

ON THE SKIMM SCREEN

Comedy, drama, and reality...oh my. Did you know you could stream live TV on Hulu? Or binge basically all of your favorite reality shows? We partnered to help you figure out what to watch. Our next rec, coming right up…


"Keeping Up with the Kardashians" (E!)


It's…the show that turned a big family into a very big brand. Flip back to season one for a wild time capsule.


Plus…you'll get to see what happened behind the scenes during moments that made headlines over the past decade. So much to keep up with.


Watch with...your momager.


Know that…you kan katch klassic moments and keep up with the new ones on Hulu. Because Hulu Has Reality TV. Like, a lot of reality TV. Start your free trial at Hulu.com.

SKIMM READS

"Things in Jars" by Jess Kidd


It's as creepy as the title sounds and we're here for it. In Victorian-era London, an accomplished female detective is tasked with solving a kidnapping. The catch? The missing child is suspected of having supernatural powers, making the hunt to find her a lot more complicated. Get into a dark, twisted fantasy to close out the last full month of winter.

SKIMM PICKS

For when your boss sends you to a week-long conference…

Business as usual. But don't forget to indulge a little. Cambria Hotels have locations in most major cities. Plus they offer local craft beers, free Wi-Fi, rooftop bars, and outdoor lounge spaces. So you can get that WFH feeling wherever you're working from. Get away.*


For when your favorite part of cake is the icing…

Same. This online bank offers unlimited 1% cash back and 1% interest as the icing on top of their other perks. Like no ATM or monthly maintenance fees. Last year, their customers earned $860 on average in rewards. What's that saying about having your cake and eating it too? Ice ice baby.*


For when you've followed the #MeToo movement closely...

A podcast ep for you. Gretchen Carlson joined our latest episode of "Skimm'd From The Couch." She talks about fighting workplace harassment, eliminating corporate NDAs, and how she handles critics. Listen in.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

SKIMM'RS

Census and sensibility for...Lauren M (VA). She served as lead author on one of the first comprehensive reports on life expectancy for the US Census Bureau. The report was published earlier this month after two years of hard work.


21 questions for...Lauren A (PA). She's a co-host for a horror movie podcast that talks about the mistakes made by characters in movies. You know, the ones that make you say "WHY would you go to the basement?"


(Some) Birthdays...Nancy Lane (NY), Cristy Hollin (PA), Carlos Kanter (NY), Leah Kessler (CA), Lucy Schulson (MA), Dustin King (PA), Erica Nimensky (NJ), Brittany Chicoteau (FL), Dustin King (NY), Mike Hitchcock (NB), Jillian Coffey (TX), Jenna Raduns (IL), Rachel Miller (NY), Melissa Homsher (NJ), Han Nee Than Tun Aung (NY), Caroline Bowles (SC)


*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

SKIMM SHARE

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Thursday, February 27, 2020

Daily Skimm: Holly, you and I are soup snakes

Skimm'd while scanning…

FEBRUARY 27, 2020

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Together with BED BATH & BEYOND
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Skimm'd while scanning…


  QUOTE OF THE DAY  

"He's made it clear that we are all just to call him Harry" – An event host, introducing the Duke of Sussex at a conference. Drop the "Prince." It's cleaner.

COVID-19

The Story

Dozens of countries are scrambling as COVID-19 continues to spread.

Where do we stand now?

The coronavirus has now reached six out of the world's seven continents (not Antarctica). The pace of the outbreak in China, where COVID-19 originated, seems to be slowing. But there are now more than 82,000 cases and at least 2,800 deaths worldwide. Earlier this week, new coronavirus cases were reported in Europe, including in Spain, Austria, Switzerland, and Croatia. Some cities in Italy are still on lockdown following an outbreak that's killed at least 12 people. On the other side of the world, a case was confirmed in Brazil, the first known case in Latin America.

What about the US?

There are now at least 60 cases of the virus, including the 42 Americans who were aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship. Earlier this week, the CDC's director said the public should prepare for a potential pandemic. And San Francisco's mayor declared a state of emergency. But that's not all…

Go on.

Yesterday, President Trump addressed the spread of COVID-19 in the US, saying the admin's no. 1 priority is the health and safety of the American people, and added that a vaccine is in the works. He also appointed VP Mike Pence to lead the US's team of public health experts and doctors working to combat the coronavirus.

theSkimm

COVID-19 has rattled governments and global markets. But in the meantime, officials say the best way to protect yourself includes doing what's necessary every cold and flu season: wash your hands, take care of yourself, and be prepared.

AND ALSO...THIS

What gets to close its wallet if it wants to…

The Trump admin. Yesterday, a federal appeals court ruled that the Justice Dept can withhold money from states and cities that don't cooperate on immigration enforcement. Back in 2017, the DOJ said it would withhold grant money from sanctuary cities that refused to give federal authorities access to jails or let them know about an undocumented immigrant's release. Seven states and NYC sued, and a lower court ordered the DOJ to release the funding. But yesterday, a federal judge overturned that ruling, saying the federal gov gets to set the terms for the grant money it offers. The DOJ applauded the move, calling it a "major victory for Americans."

  • Brace for impact: The grant money gives states and cities $250 million a year for criminal justice efforts. Now, these states and NYC stand to lose money that would reportedly go to things like improving 911 call systems and reducing gang violence in prisons.


What people are talking about…

The Molson Coors shooting. Yesterday, a gunman opened fire at the brewing company in Milwaukee, WI, killing five people before dying by suicide. It's one of the state's worst mass shootings. Police say the 51-year-old man was an employee at the company, and are investigating a motive.


What's making history...

The Emmett Till Antilynching Act. Yesterday, the House passed the bill in a 410-4 vote. It makes lynching a federal hate crime. And was named after 14-year-old Emmett Till – murdered in a racist attack in Mississippi in 1955. The bill is considered long overdue, since nearly 5,000 people, mostly African Americans, were lynched between 1882 and 1968, with states failing to punish perpetrators in 99% of cases. Now, after 120 years of failed efforts to criminalize lynching on the federal level, this bill would make lynching punishable by up to life in prison, a fine, or both.

  • Sending a message: This latest push comes in the wake of racist and anti-immigrant attacks in Charlottesville and El Paso. And the bill's author says it sends a "strong and clear message" against bigotry. It now goes to the Senate, which will vote on it as early as this week in honor of Black History Month. It's expected to pass.


Where immigrants increasingly have a voice...

The US. A new report found that a record number of immigrants – 1 out of 10 Americans – are eligible to vote in the 2020 election. The study comes as Democratic candidates try to appeal to a diverse set of voters, with many immigrants represented in early voting states like Nevada – states that have the power to help shape the election.


Who's turning in her racket...

Maria Sharapova. Yesterday, the five-time Grand Slam champion announced she's retiring from tennis at the age of 32. During her decades-long career, she reached no. 1 in the WTA rankings. But it wasn't all love. In 2016, the tennis star failed a drug test and was later suspended for doping. She announced her retirement after a series of injuries, and says she's now ready "to compete on a different type of terrain."


What deserves a Dundie...

This children's book.

SKIMM MONEY

Why do you need a real estate attorney? And what's the difference between a broker and an agent? We break it down here. Because you want a dream team by your side when you're making a major life decision, like buying a house.

THING TO KNOW

2035

The year the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says they'll completely eliminate animal testing. Aka when something (like a chemical) is tested on animals in order to figure out if it's safe for humans.


In the meantime, lots of companies have sworn off the practice. Like Native. A brand that makes clean personal care products and never tests on animals. Check out their new toothpaste that's foamy, minty, and free of synthetic ingredients. And Skimm'rs get 20% off at checkout. Bristle while you work.

SKIMM PICKS

For when your baby has started to sleep through the night…

Hallelujah. Now it's time to do your taxes. We partnered with H&R Block to make you a crib sheet (sorry, had to). Psst...we also have info for newlyweds, homeowners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. Yes, please.*


For when leftover V-day candy has you feeling bloated...

Sugar, we're going down. This Metabolism Super Powder is here to help you back up. It's from a wellness company that wants to help eliminate bloat and ramp up your digestive system. You can add it to your smoothie. Plus, Skimm'rs get 20% off. Try it.*


For when it's time to register for the wedding gifts...

Start here. This store has nonstick cookware, Instant Pot, cash, and honeymoon funds, plus experiences, and more. And you can register online, in-store, or on their app. Easy peasy. Oh, and Skimm'rs get $100 after $500 in gifts are purchased. Get going.*

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

SKIMM'RS

Ctrl-Alt-Success for...Tara H (CA). She landed her dream job as a Technology Specialist at a high school with more than 2,000 students.


Sweet, sweet, sweet victory for…Caroline H (AK). She's a legislative staffer in the Alaska State Legislature. A bill she crafted just passed and is on its way to be signed into law. Gavel, gavel.


(Some) Birthdays...Alex DiIorio (OH), Sara Blakely (GA), Bill Mack (NY), Joanna Meng (CA), Lara Cooley (NY), Caroline Davis (GA), Nadia Prinz (CT), Dawn Wood (IL), Jessica Clavijo (WI), Heidi Shenk (OH), Diana Sweeney (WA), Suzanne Snider (CO), Christine Nieves Rodriguez (PR), Madison Koogler (TX), Sarah Baker (UK)


*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

SKIMM SHARE

Skimm HQ is trying out new dinner recipes. Share theSkimm with your friend who's all about delivery.

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Skimm'd something we missed?

skimmthis@theSkimm.com

Issues?

help@theSkimm.com

Copyright (c) 2020 theSkimm, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:

theSkimm Inc. 50 West 23rd Street, Suite 5B

New York, NY, 10010, United States

See our full sponsor agreement


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