Daily Skimm: In the cold November rain

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November 18, 2021Read in Browser

Daily Skimm

Skimm’d from the cheesiest lunch ever

Quote of the Day

“It’s gotta be a bit” – Penn Badgley after his show’s title “You” stumbled a news host. If You know, You know.

Censured

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The Story

What you post online stays online.

Where are you going with this?

Bear with us. Last week, Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) posted an animated video on social media of him killing progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and assaulting President Biden. The clip includes visuals from popular Japanese anime, “Attack on Titan.” The move sparked outrage on the Hill (and beyond). Yesterday, the House voted 223 to 207 to censure Gosar. And booted him from two committee assignments – affecting his ability to shape legislation. It’s the harshest punishment a House member can receive other than being fully expelled.

What does this mean?

Democrats teamed up in a public rebuke of Gosar’s actions. Think: that “Shame” scene in “Game of Thrones.” It’s the first time the House has censured someone in over a decade. In 2010, members of both parties teamed up to censure Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-NY) for ethics violations. Earlier this year, Reps. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) faced threats of being censured because of comments perceived to be anti-Semitic. Now, Gosar’s censure is ringing the bell on workplace harassment – and not even those in Congress are immune.

Go on.

Last year, then-Rep. Ted Yoho (R-FL) called AOC a "f***ing b*tch." And Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY) faced death threats for voting to impeach then-President Trump. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said threats against women are the equivalent of “workplace harassment.” And the lower chamber’s resolution noted it as a “global phenomenon” meant to silence women from seeking political office. As for Gosar, he called the video a “symbolic cartoon.” And has yet to apologize. Meanwhile, House Republicans are warning of retaliation should they take back the chamber in the midterms.

theSkimm

Congress is a workplace. Threats of violence, abuse, and harassment toward other members only add to strained political tensions. And keep those elected to represent their constituents from doing their job.

And Also...This

What’s ringing the alarm…

Drug overdose deaths. Yesterday,the CDC said over 100,000people in the US died of drug overdosesduring a 12-month span. The new record is more than the toll from car accidents and gun deaths...combined. Over the years,synthetic opioids like fentanyl – which can be 100 times more potent than morphine – have helped fuel the opioid epidemic. Now, health experts say the pandemic hasexacerbated the crisis– with isolation partly to blame. And with drug overdose deaths increasing by 30%,the Biden adminis getting involved.

Let's plan: The admin will work with states to boost access to naloxone – a drug that can reverse overdose effects.But health experts want more funding to expand access to treatment centers and medications to treat opioid addiction.

Eyes on big pharma: In September, the Sackler family (aka the owners of Purdue Pharma) won some legal immunity from future suits related to the crisis. Meanwhile, major pharmacy chains (CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart) are facing legal action for their alleged role.

Who’s got an update…

US Catholic bishops. Yesterday, they approved a statement on Communion for the first time in 15 years.The sacrament is when Catholics go up to the altar during Mass to receive the body of Christ (a wafer) and the blood of Christ (wine). It's one of the most sacred rituals in Christianity.Earlier this year,the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)voted to draft guidance that could limit the sacrament for those whose views don't align with church teachings. Including, Catholic politicians who publicly support abortion rights (like President Biden).Now, the USCCB’s leaving it up to individual bishops to make the call.

Who everyone is talking about...

Peng Shuai.Earlier this month, the Chinese tennis star publicly accuseda former top gov officialof sexual assault.It’s the first time anyone’s made such an allegationagainst a member of the Chinese Communist Party. But Peng hasn’t been heard from since her post on social media.And the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has not been able to reach her.Now, a lot of people – including fellow tennis star Naomi Osaka – are asking ‘where’s Peng?’ Chinese state media shared an email in whichPengallegedly said she is “not missing”and backpedals on her sexual assault allegations.But the WTA chairman says he’s not buying it.

Who people are remembering…

Young Dolph.Yesterday, the rapper was shot and killed in Memphis, TN. He was 36. Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Robert Thornton, Jr, was known for albums including "King of Memphis" and "Rich Slave." Officials said Dolph was at a cookie shop when someone reportedly drove up and shot him through a window. And called it "another example of the senseless gun violence" in the country. The rapper's talent agency remembered him as an "icon" and "beloved artist" who will be missed.

Who’s not dancing on tables…

Quentin Tarantino. Earlier this week, Hollywood studio Miramax sued the “Pulp Fiction” director for copyright infringement. The studio had learned that Tarantino wanted to sell NFTs based on the 1994 cult classic. But Miramax says he handed over the rights for the film years ago. (Talk about ‘Pulp Friction.’) It comes amid a broader question of who owns the rights to sell NFTs – a market generating billions in sales.

PS: We've got more about NFTs and other trendy investments (hey, crypto and meme stocks) here.

Who’s saying this is ‘one long overdue leap for mankind’...

Jessica Watkins.

Thing to Know

BoPo

Internet speak for body positivity. Aka finding joy in your size and shape, just as you are.

Revtown’s all about BoPo. Which is why they referenced real-time feedback from women of all shapes, sizes, ages, and backgrounds to design their latest line of super comfy jeans. Rather than just using “industry standard” models. All six new fits are *chef’s kiss.* Aaaand sustainably made with their signature blend of denim and four-way stretch. So go on. Add a pair (or two...or three…) to cart. We’re prettyyyyyy positive you’ll love ‘em.

Host(ess) Now, Pay Later

If you’re doing it up this holiday season, you’re not alone. A recent Affirm study found that 48% of people will spend more money this year to make up for the fact that they couldn’t celebrate as usual in 2020. Luckily, Affirm† can help you buy everything you need to gift and host(ess) smarter. While spreading the payments into 2022. Here are some of our fave finds from their partners…

A Le Creuset grill pan that comes with a matching press. In case you’re serving steak for dinner. And wanna make paninis with the leftovers.

A faux fur throw that’ll keep all your guests cozy. And merry. And bright. No wonder it’s a bestseller.

A sleek brass bar set complete with stainless steel tools. For all your cocktail slinging needs.

†Your rate will be 0% or 10–30% APR based on credit, and is subject to an eligibility check. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required.

Skimm Money

Prices for everyday purchases have been on the up and up. (Hi, inflation.) That can make it feel like your budget is shrinking before your eyes. Time to give yourself some breathing room. Enter: these 10 tips for saving more money.

PS: For more money news and tips in your inbox every Friday, sign up for our Skimm Money newsletter.

Skimm Picks

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

1. How to make a complete recovery post-pimple. Physically, at least. This replenishing, antioxidant- and peptide-packed rescue balm melts into skin like first aid cream. So you’re as good as new in days, not weeks. Psst...Skimm’rs get 20% off with code NOVSKIMM. Go get ‘em.*

2. A delicious bev that can help boost your immunity. This wellness brand’s drink mixes are full of vitamins and electrolytes made to strengthen your immune system. With feel-good flavors (think: refreshing elderberry) that now come in eco-friendly, recyclable packaging. Plus, Skimm’rs get 50% off.*

3. How to make yourself stand out, à la CBS’s Shawna Thomas. Our latest ep of “9 to 5ish with theSkimm,” sponsored by Fidelity’s Modern Life, features insight (and inspo) on leaving a lasting impression from the Emmy and Peabody winner. Queue it up.*

4. The holiday gift kids reeeeally want. Which their parents will be glad they have. These smartphones and watches can help little ones stay connected and safe. Sans internet access, social media or games. Btw, Skimm’rs save 50% when they buy one today. Add to cart.*

5. An occasionally historical dramedy you won’t be able to stop watching. Season 2 of Hulu’s “The Great” is full of lovable and loathable characters trying their best-ish in eighteenth century Russia. Complete with crocodiles and rollercoasters. Yes way. All 10 eps drop tomorrow. Get ready.*

6. Festive advent calendars to help you count down to the jolliest time of the year. We've got a wine option, one packed with caramel candies, and a "Friends"-themed calendar too. The anticipation is building.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

PPS: Check out our selection of the best holiday gifts for everyone on your list.

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.

Holiday ready...Danielle B (NY). She self-published her second book this year, “Hanukkah in Your Hands.” She did just about everything herself and it even includes recipes from five chefs. Check it out.

Saying ‘I do’...Michelle M (ME). She left her job in higher education to go full-time with her wedding photography businesses. And made the move from NYC to Portland as she lives out her dream. Take a look.

(Some) Birthdays...Veronika Laketau (CA), Breezy Granzow (NY), Emma Payne (GA), Hannah Rosenwinkel (MN), Anna Jackanich (OH), Rachel Becker (VA), Carly Simonaitis (IL), Yone Hill (CA), Vanessa Maryott (TX), Morgan Young (MA), Lorraine Farrell (NH), Azra Skeljo (CA), Emily Walden (KS), Lauren Tierney (RI), Edle Seraspe (NJ)

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

Skimm More

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We've got news...

We’re getting ready to launch a brand new Loyalty Program and a revamped Skimm Community in 2022 for you to connect, engage, and continue living your smartest life.

Think: Exclusive programming and content, opportunities to earn and redeem points, access to perks, events and so much more.

Learn more here.

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

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