News: Daily Skimm: Find a happy place, find a happy place

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

Daily Skimm: Find a happy place, find a happy place

September 21, 2021

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Quote of the Day

"I really didn't have a fear of heights" – Nathan Paulin on his high-wire walk from the Eiffel Tower. That's inSeine.

Get the Lollipops Ready

The Story

There could soon be a COVID-19 vaccine for kiddos.

Somewhere, parents are crying tears of joy.

Probably. For a while, many children were believed to have been spared from severe illness. Since the pandemic began, over 5 million cases have been reported among children and teens. But the delta wave has increased hospitalizations among youngins. And at least 460 children have died from the virus. In some cases, others have gotten "long COVID" or an inflammatory disorder. While vaccinations have helped save adults from severe complications of COVID-19, only children 12+ have been able to get the shot. But that could be changing.

Explain.

Yesterday, Pfizer said their shot is safe and effective among 5- to 11-year-olds. The company carried out a trial of more than 2,200 children. And gave the majority two doses of 10 micrograms (a third of what adults receive) three weeks apart. The others got a placebo (in this case: doses of saltwater). Pfizer said the children who got vaxxed produced antibody levels similar to those seen in young adults. And that there were fewer side effects (think: fever, chills) in children. Now, Pfizer could ask the FDA for emergency use by the end of this month. And if all goes according to plan, parents may be making doctor visits by Halloween.

Sigh of relief.

Throughout the pandemic, parents have been juggling at-home schooling and work. And with class back in session, many are dealing with a tug of war over mask mandates. Now, parents could soon have some peace of mind about sending their children to school, play dates, or even grandma's house. But others may be hesitant. Regulators will be making sure that the shots are really good to go. Especially since heart inflammation has been a reported side effect. Although Pfizer claims no instances of the condition were found in their trial. Note: It'll be months before the company rolls out trial results for kids under 5. Meanwhile, Cuba's already offering shots to kids as young as 2. This month, the island started the world's first mass vax campaign for children – using its own vaccines. It's part of an effort to get 90% of their population vaxxed and its borders reopened before the end of the year.

theSkimm

Many families have been waiting for a vaccine to protect their children from COVID-19. Now, that could be a reality – just when the country is getting ready to loosen restrictions for our international friends.

And Also...This

What's been challenged...

Texas's abortion law. Yesterday, two people (who don't live in Texas – and don't support the law) sued a doctor there for performing an abortion. This is the first known person to be sued under the state's controversial measure. Over the weekend, the TX doc came forward and said he violated the Texas Heartbeat Act to help a woman who had a "fundamental right to receive this care." Remember: The law allows private citizens to sue anyone they believed helped a woman get an abortion. And awards at least $10,000 for a successful lawsuit. Now, these cases could reignite the debate on the constitutionality of the law – which is especially important since the Supremes refused to block it from taking effect.

...Oh and speaking of SCOTUS, more than 500 current and former female athletes called on the Supremes to protect abortion rights.

Where things are getting worse...

The southern border. This week, photos and video of the situation near Del Rio sparked outrage. In them, Border Patrol agents can be seen chasing Haitian migrants on horseback with what appeared to be whips. The White House called the images "horrific." For weeks, thousands of Haitians have been making the dangerous trek from South America to the US border in hopes of getting asylum. Many Haitians were already living in South America after the 2010 earthquake. But experts think the surge may have come from misinformation that the Biden admin is more welcoming to migrants. Now the massive influx of migrants has made it difficult for US immigration to process their claims. And many have already been deported back to Haiti to face uncertain futures. (Remember: the country is still reeling from a presidential assassination and back-to-back natural disasters.) Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers are reportedly calling for accountability at the border. And the Department of Homeland Security said they are opening an investigation into the incident.

What's hitting home…

Burnout. This month, a new study apparently found that the average American's workweek has gotten 10% longer. It's no secret that COVID-19 has changed how Americans work and function. But this study's saying it's pushed many to stay logged on longer than before. Experts reportedly say the blurred lines between home and work life have made things worse. Because WFBed isn't what dreams are made of.

Psst...There are several pros to working from home. But burnout – from anywhere – is real. Here are some tips on how to manage it.

Who's saying 'you're not alone'...

Amy Schumer. This week, the comedian revealed she had her uterus and appendix removed because of endometriosis. The condition – estimated to affect over 6 million women in the US – is when tissue typically found in the uterus grows outside of it. And could lead to painful periods, fatigue, and more. Now, Schumer wants to bring attention to the condition.

PS: Endometriosis is tricky to diagnose. In a "Skimm This" ep, we asked medical experts what it is and how we can treat it. Plus, we spoke to one Skimm'r about what it's like living with endo.

What's shifting its Focus...

iOS 15.

Rare and Radiant

A little sparkle never hurt nobody. And with the holiday season finally in our sights, we've got a suggestion for getting – or giving – some: Platinum Born. They make versatile, sophisticated platinum jewelry that works for everything from coffee runs and work meetings to weddings and formal dinners. These are the pieces on our wish list:

The hoops you didn't know you needed. And suddenly can't live without. They come in three sizes. But no shame if you wanna catch (read: have) 'em all.

A chic necklace that can also be a chic bracelet. Thanks to integrated magnets that can hold multiple shapes.

An elegant necklace with beads that shine bright like...well, you know. Psst...you can adjust the length so it falls just right.

Coming Clean

Brunch. School drop-off lines. Date night. No matter what you're getting "back to" this fall, Thrive Causemetics' 100% vegan makeup can help you put your best face forward. Sans parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Meet their best-sellers:

Mascara that makes lashes look like extensions ($24). No glue required. Bonus: the formula nourishes lashes so they get healthier – and longer – over time.

A cream-to-powder eyeshadow stick that brightens and opens eyes ($24). Perfect for nailing that "I got a full night's sleep" look. Pick from 13 shades.

Waterproof, smudge-proof eyeliner that lasts all day ($22). For bold, defined color that glides on smoothly. And sets in 30 seconds.

Psst...for every product purchased, Thrive Causemetics donates to nonprofits helping women thrive. Oh, and Skimm'rs get 15% off. Get glowing.

Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. How to give your space an IG-worthy refresh. This cult-fave brand's got curated, premium paints (that almost always sell out, btw) and supplies for your next proj. They also never offer discounts. But Skimm'rs can get an exclusive 20% off. D-I-Why wait?*

2. Tech that lets you keep tabs on your home while you're away. SimpliSafe just launched their new outdoor security camera. It's got advanced tech (think: an 8x zoom and high-def resolution), built-in spotlight, and a two-way audio system. PS: Skimm'rs get 40% off.*

3. Meals that don't require grocery shopping or takeout. We're listening. This meal subscription sends delicious, simple, six-step recipes straight to your door. You can choose from tons of different classic, veggie or family-style meals. And Skimm'rs can try it for just $1.99 a meal.*

4. Sustainable, perfect-for-fall clothes, shoes, and accessories. The leaves don't have to be the only things changing color this season. Meet the sneakers (hi, super comfy, celeb-fave Cariumas), beanies, leggings, and other items that'll turn your closet green. Psst...there's a special offer in there, too.*

5. Sex toys for every person and preference. So you can explore your body solo, explore your partner's body, and explore your body with your partner. Time to heat things up.

6. No-fail gifts for the special guy(s) in your life. The days of 'I don't know what to get him' are over. Say hello to foolproof gifts he'll adore no matter the occasion.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

Alpha vibes...Zafreen F (IL). She's the founder of The Pay We Deserve, which helps first generation women of color negotiate their salaries. She uses in-depth salary research and customizes scripting so women can negotiate with confidence. Learn more.

An Ace...Dave E (NJ). He's leading the Actions 4 ACEs campaign, an initiative to train teachers and law enforcement how to support students who've endured trauma. Because two out of three children have experienced an adverse childhood experience (ACE), but three out of three adults can help.

(Some) Birthdays...Haylee Freeman (TX), Jeremy Luskin (Brazil), Shoshana Dichter (NY), Isabella Romanazzi (IL), Iris Ben-Gal (NC), Marceline Mitchell (AK), Anne Mauney (VA), Bo Brackendorff (TX), Amanda Splettstoeszer (MN), Lindsay McNamara (NJ), Chelsea Newton (ID), Pat Rudovsky (MA), Alyssa Sanders (NE), Jennifer Hosty (OH), Carolyn Gause (SC)

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

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