Daily Skimm: Knowing is better than wondering

August 18, 2021

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Skimm’d from the family planning aisle

Quote of the Day

“I don't think Hannah will ever go there again” – A man, who wrestled an alligator to save his dog. No limits to friendship.

Rebrand

The Story

The Taliban is trying to rework its image.

Who’s convinced?

Not many. Yesterday, the Islamist militant group held its first press conference since taking control of Afghanistan. Their spokesman tried to convince the world that they've changed since they last held power in the '90s. The group promised to respect women’s rights...within its strict interpretation of Islamic law. And that women can go to school and work...within that same “framework.” And while the Taliban wants a free press...it doesn’t want reporters to work “against national values.” They’re saying ‘forgive and forget’ to those that opposed them or helped the US (like diplomats and Afghan allies). But many Afghans – especially women – are skeptical.

Do you blame them?

Nope. Many are still terrified of a regime that used public stonings, amputations, rape, and forced marriages to control them (more on that here). Now, women have virtually disappeared from the streets of Kabul. The prices for burqas have reportedly skyrocketed. One of Afghanistan's first female mayors said she's waiting for the Taliban to "come for people like me and kill me." It comes as a UN rep reportedly said the group has already started “house-to-house" searches for people on its target list. One women’s rights org called on the Biden admin to get Afghan activists and their families out of the country.

How is that going?

Not great. The US estimates that anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 Americans are still in the Kabul area – not including the thousands of troops that are already there. And the tens of thousands of Afghans who helped US troops throughout the war. The Pentagon hopes to move between 5,000 to 9,000 people out of Kabul per day. But tens of thousands are still seeking refuge. The Biden admin has reportedly ordered 1,000 troops to Qatar – where hundreds of Afghans have been transported – to help process visa applications.

theSkimm

With the Taliban back in power in Afghanistan, women's rights and safety are at risk. The Taliban says they've changed. But as the rush to leave the country shows, few are willing to stake their lives on it.

PS: When the Taliban last held control of Afghanistan, the impact on women was devastating. Here's what their return could mean for women now.

And Also...This

Where there are COVID-19 updates…

The US. New COVID-19 cases are at the highest level since winter. The number of average weekly deaths reportedly doubled earlier this month. But the country's still divided when it comes to staying safe. Florida's investigating two school districts for requiring masks. Even after nearly 9,000 students and staff from Hillsborough County Public Schools had to go into isolation after either testing positive or coming in contact with someone who did. And in Texas, staunch mask critic Gov. Greg Abbott (R) tested positive for COVID-19.

...Oh and speaking of COVID-19, New Zealand is in a nationwide lockdown after the country confirmed its first COVID-19 case since February.

What people are watching…

Haiti. The death toll from Saturday’s 7.2 magnitude earthquake is now at least 1,941 people. More than 9,900 others are injured. The massive earthquake has left the Caribbean island reeling – overwhelming hospitals. Tropical Storm Grace has hampered search and rescue efforts. And left survivors struggling to keep safe in shelters. The US has pledged its support, sending helicopters to help deliver resources. It all comes as UNICEF has estimated that the earthquake has affected about 1.2 million people in Haiti, with many families separated, in need of shelter or struggling for access to clean water and health care.

PS: Haiti is no stranger to powerful earthquakes. Here’s why they’re common.

Whose cart is bigger…

Amazon’s. It’s now apparently the world’s top retail seller outside of China. Thanks in part to stay-at-home Americans shopping from home, Amazon's now topped Walmart by about $44 billion. Jeffrey Bezos, you did it.

...Oh and speaking of shopping, US retail sales dropped over 1% last month as government stimulus checks came to an end.

PS: We Skimm'd ways to shop smarter online – and be kinder to Mother Earth in the process.

Who was a real 10…

Maki Kaji. Last week, the “Godfather of Sudoku” died at age 69 from cancer. He was known for creating the popular 1 through 9 numbers puzzle. And dedicated his life to spreading joy through puzzles.

Who are proud dads…

Pete and Chasten Buttigieg.

Thing to Know

59%

That’s the percentage of adults around the world who prefer snacking over eating meals, according to a recent study. Psst...that number jumps to 70% for millennials. We can't help it that we're so hungry.

If you can relate, check out SnackMagic. They make gifting snacks and sips easy. The best part: Recipients can build their own box from a menu of over 1,000 unique, under-the-radar options. Including banana bread superfood cookies, jackfruit chews, and chickpea puffs (yum). It’s basically the perfect solution for offices and work events – whether you’re back IRL, fully virtual or have a hybrid situation. Btw, SnackMagic is treating Skimm’rs to 10% off. (Sorry.)

We’ve all said it: “I should work out.” But instead of feeling guilty every time you choose Netflix over burpees, start small. As in, just 15 minutes of movement, twice a day, five days a week. That’s enough to get major mental and physical health benefits. It’s science. Our guide has more workout work-arounds. Now drop...and give it a read.

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

1. A card you’ll want at the front of your wallet. Because it gives you unlimited 2% cash rewards with purchases. Emphasis on ‘unlimited.’ This card’s also got a zero-dollar annual fee and 0% intro APR for over a year. New card, who dis?*

2. The perfect place for an end-of-summer escape. If you’re into pristine white sand beaches, nature boardwalks, and epic sunsets, that is. Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades on Florida’s Paradise Coast truly have it all. Pack your bags.*

3. Everyday bags for those back-to-school vibes. And other accessories we’re obsessed with. This collection by Hammitt is chic, versatile, and includes tons of errand-friendly pieces. Like a mini backpack with pockets for days. PS: Skimm’rs get a complimentary leather protectant with code SKIMM.*

4. How to get that hydrated, dewy look while you’re on the move. Skincare that’s commute-friendly? We’re listening. This TATCHA serum stick and touch-up balm from QVC is designed to relieve dryness and feelings of tightness. And it’s on sale for a limited time. Shop on.*

5. Our 10 favorite leggings to work out, lounge, and live in. Say hello to your new second skin and goodbye to the sweats you’ve been living in. Psst...we’ve also got pairs under $50.

6. Up to 60% off shoes at FitFlop. But that's not all: From now until August 21 you'll get an extra 15% off with code EXTRA15. We're eyeing this pair of slides to enjoy the last few weeks of summer in.

*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.

Side hustlin'...Kelly B (MI). She’s got a career in software. But recently completed instructor training for lyra (aerial hoop) and is now teaching beginner private lessons. Hoop to it.

Gavel gavel...Kelli L (OH). She’s taken her experience in law to start The Career Files. It provides training and coaching to help young lawyers transition from law student to practicing attorney. Learn more.

(Some) Birthdays...Clare Kim (NY), Tricia Doyle (NY), Andi Brooks (MT), Christina Wiens (TX), Jorge Morales (TX), Olivia Jagniatkowski (NJ), Nancy Fitzsimmons (NJ), Kenji Prince (OH), Anne Kerns (MO), Sara J. Owen (MI), Elise Steinharter (MD), Nanette Nirenberg Schriftman (PA), Peggy Jackson (MN), Alexis Lambdin (MI)

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

It's hard to avoid feeling FOMO after spending so much time socially distanced. But setting boundaries is important. Here's why.

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

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Daily Skimm: Knowing is better than wondering