Daily Skimm Issue

September 29, 2021

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Skimm’d while catching up over coffee

Quote of the Day

“Take the Money and Run” – The name of empty frames given to a museum, which had paid an artist $84,000 to create art. Because absence makes the art grow fonder?

Circling Back

The Story

The US’s top military leaders are taking the mic.

What is this about?

Afghanistan. A month ago, the US ended its nearly 20-year war there amid a chaotic withdrawal of over 120,000 people – including about 6,000 American citizens. But the Biden admin’s evac prompted widespread condemnation from people across the aisle – and the world. The deaths of 13 US service members and at least 169 civilians only added to the public rebuke. As did the US drone strike that accidentally killed 10 Afghans. Lawmakers called for an investigation. Now, the top military officials who helped call the shots in Afghanistan are giving As to lawmakers’ Qs.

Sounds like they were in the hot seat.

Yesterday, the Senate Armed Services Committee grilled them about President Biden’s decisions. Head of Central Command Gen. Frank McKenzie testified that he advised Biden not to fully withdraw. And rec’d that 2,500 troops stay in Afghanistan. This contradicts Biden's earlier comments that “no one” advised him to keep troops there. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called the whole evacuation plan a “strategic failure.” And Defense Sec Lloyd Austin said the Taliban takeover took the US “by surprise.” Meanwhile, the White House is saying Biden took into account “a range of viewpoints” when he pulled troops out of the country. And that as the commander-in-chief, he gets the final say.

So, what now?

Officials say they’re monitoring any signs of ISIS and al-Qaeda rebuilding in Afghanistan. And that they’re working to evacuate some 100 Americans still in the country. All three officials are scheduled to testify again today before a House committee. In the meantime, women’s rights in Afghanistan continue to deteriorate. Over 220 female Afghan judges are in hiding, fearing they could be targets of the Taliban. Female students have been barred from returning to their studies at Kabul University. Others are being segregated from their male peers. And Afghanistan’s financial system is on the verge of collapse.

theSkimm

America’s longest war didn’t end in a US victory or an organized exit. Now, lawmakers are holding top military officials accountable for actions that killed innocent people and have reversed over a decade of progress in Afghanistan.

And Also...This

What’s blowing the whistle…

This report.Yesterday, an independent commissionsaid thatWHO aid workerssexually abusedwomen and girls while working in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Between 2018 and 2020, workers helped respond to the Ebola outbreak there. An investigation came after reports in which more than 50 women accused aid workers of abuse. Now, the new report identified 83 alleged perpetrators – including 21 employed by the WHO – who exploited women and girls as young as 13. And that they impregnated 29 women, forcing some to have abortions. Some women were also allegedly promised jobs for sexual favors. Now, several abusers have been fired. And the WHO's director-general apologized to the victims, calling it “inexcusable” and promised to hold the perpetrators accountable.

What’s saying ‘you should’ve gotten the jab done’…

Novant Health. Earlier this week, the North Carolina-based hospital system said it firedabout 175 employeeswho refused to comply with its vaccine mandate. In July,it said it'll require COVID-19 vaccinations for itsemployees and gave a Sept 15 deadline to get the shot. Or, risk getting fired. More than 99% of roughly 35,000 employees decided to get inoculated. But dozens of others refused to roll up their sleeves, leading to one of the largest mass firings of unvaxxed hospital staff to date.

What’s next?: The hospital system stood by its decision, saying it has a “responsibility to protect” its patients. But as more hospitals require vaccines, some health officials believe it could lead to staffing shortages.

...Oh, and New York's vaccine mandate for health care workers went into effect this week. And Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) is prepared for anything.

What Gen Alpha is likely not looking forward to…

Extreme weather.A new study says that children born in 2020 will end up experiencing two to seven timesmore extreme climate events than those born in 1960. Yes, global warming's to blame. And yes, it'll keep getting worse. Think: more heat waves, droughts, floods, wildfires, and tropical cyclones. Unless humanity (ahem, world leaders) acts. Everybody, just listen to Greta.

Psst…we Skimm’d how climate change can impact your money and health.

While Netflix is getting into games...

Amazon is getting into robots.

What's a genius idea...

A Celine Dion documentary.

Thing to Know

Occupational Phenomenon

How a global group of public health experts classify burnout. You might know some of its symptoms, like exhaustion, brain fog, detachment, insomnia, and stomach pains. Fun stuff.

Unsurprisingly, studies suggest burnout is majorly on the rise lately (hi, *gestures wildly at the world*). So it’s extra important to take time away from work to relax, rest, and recharge these days. Lunya’s durable, dreamily soft sleep and loungewear can help with that. Their Restore collection is made from mineral-infused organic cotton that actually supports the body’s natural recovery process. Oh, and Skimm’rs get $20 off any $100+ purchase. Treat yo’self.

This Is America

Home of the brave. Land of opportunity. The great melting pot. Everyone sees America differently, but no one can deny the country’s got an impressive underdog origin story. Of course, a lot’s changed since 1776. And you juuust might catch the nation’s geopolitical standing slippin’ now. Learn all about it in The Economist.

They’ve gathered opinion essays and compelling predictions for America’s future from global thinkers, like former American Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and twice former Pakistani Ambassador to the US Maleeha Lodhi. Plus graphics that illustrate how America’s military, cultural, and financial strengths compare to other countries’. Say US of ‘hey’ (had to) to their in-depth analysis here.

You’ve heard of COVID-19. But long COVID…that’s a whole ‘nother story. Instead of turning to Dr. Google for info, check out our guide on long COVID. Because it has the Skimm on symptoms, treatment, and emerging research, straight from an infectious disease expert. It also answers the question of why someone with a seemingly-mild case of COVID-19 could still be dealing with long COVID months after infection. Long story short: The immune system is complicated.

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

1. An online grocery store 1 million people love. Yes, really.Probably because this marketplace lets you shop your fave brands from home. Or browse by diet, like vegan or low sugar. Plus, Skimm’rs get $20 off their first purchase (and a little something extra).*

2. Something to add to your listening queue. This weekly podcast is full of real-world business advice and stories from industry leaders. Our episode rec? A deep dive on how Roku is changing up the ad game. Listen up.*

3. Fall fashions that take self-expression to the next level. Everyone has a voice. And this campaign by Tommy Hilfiger is inspired by those who use theirs to spread a message and change the world. Like Anthony Ramos, Jack Harlow, and Yara Shahidi. Pass the Mic.*

4. Accessories that’ll put the finishing touches on your outdoor lounge space. Add a little pop to your setup with this ceramic planter and this weather-resistant Adirondack chair from Walmart. They’re both chic, durable, and ideal for making late summer nights last. Shop on.*

5. Where to go when you need to talk to someone. This app connects you with a licensed provider that best suits your needs. From counseling to medication management. Just take this 60-second quiz to match with someone who can help. Plus, Skimm’rs get $120 off.*

6. Amazon products that are going viral on TikTok. From a kitchen gadget that’ll cook eggs perfectly to a very cool moon lamp, these products are trending for a reason. Now you can shop ’em all.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm'rs

It’s Hispanic Heritage Month. So we're honoring Latinx leaders and recognizing Latinx-owned businesses & orgs for doing great things for the world and for their communities. Nominate yourself or someone you know here.

Rave reviews...Edith R (NY). She’s a dancer specializing in EDM-based footwork called shuffling. And hosts outdoor and studio sessions to learn the dance without the pressure of being at a festival. Follow her on Instagram.

Add to cart...Theresa L (CA). She wants to highlight Mujeres Market, a community pop-up market featuring women of color, queer and transgender creators, and artists. Since their first Mujeres Market in 2017, they’ve been featured in different cities in Southern California. Check them out.

(Some) Birthdays...theSkimm's Alessandra Rey (NY), Bob Fiascone (IL), Haley Wahl (WV), Oriah Ben-Gal (FL), Tara Blackman (NY), Chloe Hays (NY), Jill Gwen (OR), Ruthie Perlman (SC), Haley Hahesy (OH), Meg Bellamy (FL), Natalie DiLillo (CA), Gwenn Porter (NE), Molly Kirwan (DC), Audrey Yee (MI), Hillary Engelman NY)

We asked Ben Platt to Skimm the plot of “Dear Evan Hansen.” Plus, the differences between the OG musical and the film. Hint: There are two new songs.

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Skimm’d by Rashaan Ayesh, Maria del Carmen Corpus, Mariza Smajlaj, Maria McCallen, and Clem Robineau

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