Daily Skimm: He did the monster mash

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October 26, 2021
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Quote of the Day

​​"We'll give Bear extra pats" – A dog's handler after Bear received an award for saving koalas from the Australia wildfires. The goodest boy.

The Facebook Papers

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The Story

Leaked documents are painting a clearer profile picture of Facebook.

What's the status?

The social media company's been in the news for all the wrong reasons for months. But recently it's because of former FB employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen. When the product manager left the company, she took thousands of internal documents with her. And spoke out – on everything from Instagram's damaging impact on teens' mental health to how Facebook fueled hate, misinformation, and political unrest. Now, over a dozen US news orgs are publishing a number of stories from redacted versions of the docs. We've Skimm'd it for you:

Jan 6: Facebook worked (not very hard) to stop the spread of misinformation before last year's election. But it reportedly rolled back a number of emergency measures after the 2020 elections. On Jan 6, Facebook staff watched chaos unleash. And tracked nearly 40,000 false news incidents per hour. One employee even said FB's been "fueling this fire for a long time." But the company denied responsibility for the Capitol attack, which left five dead and injured 140 officers.

Global reach: The company's apparently got some major language barriers. There aren't enough content moderators who speak local languages and can flag harmful content around the world. And FB's failed to establish AI solutions to address the problem, leading to violence in Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, and India. At one point, Apple threatened to remove FB from its app store over reports of people using it to sell and trade maids in the Middle East. And CEO Mark Zuckerberg apparently complied with gov demands in Vietnam to censor "anti-state" posts during last year's elections.

Other notifications: As in, it's not all terrible. Some of the news just shows a poke, er...peek into Facebook. One of the company's priorities: make Facebook cool again. Internal docs show the company stressing that it's more popular with boomers than zoomers. And that it's throwing everything and a pair of low-rise jeans at trying to rebrand its image (and maybe even its name). That includes debating whether to remove the "like" button on Instagram. And apparently tweaking the News Feed to include content from outside users' personal network.

What's next?

There's pressure on Zuckerberg himself to testify. Again. Meanwhile, the company maintains that it's not an evil overlord and that it's "no different" from other social media sites. And it's showing receipts: An exec apparently reminded people the company spends $13 billion on over 40,000 jobs to "keep people safe on Facebook." But the SEC, which has the docs, could look deeper. And has the power to fine Zuckerberg or remove him as chairman – though it's not clear how likely that would be.

theSkimm

Facebook's platforms (including WhatsApp, Instagram) are more than just a way to share baby pics and check in on friends. The company reaches billions of people every day – shaping their opinions on everything from politics to hate. And this latest batch of info could have a lot of folks eyeing the delete button. 

PS: Even if you know it's harmful, it's hard to step away from Instagram. We Skimm'd how to keep your social media use in check.

And Also...This

What's not getting better…

Climate change. Yesterday, a UN report found that concentrations of greenhouse gases hit a record high last year. Even with a temporary slowdown of new emissions during the pandemic, carbon dioxide was almost 150% higher than pre-industrial levels. The report comes nearly a week before global leaders meet for COP26 climate talks. And days before the G20 leaders meet in Rome. Now, the UN's warning that the world is "way off track" from its target to cut emissions in an attempt to reduce global warming. And some scientists say the world needs to cut its emissions in half in order to get rising temps under control.

 

Where the plot is thickening…

Saudi Arabia. Earlier this week, a former senior Saudi intelligence officer had some tea to spill about the House of Saud – aka the Saudi royal family. Especially about Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). Earlier this year, a US intel report found that MBS approved Jamal Khashoggi's killing – a journalist who'd been critical of the kingdom. Now, a former intel officer is saying MBS also boasted he could kill the late King Abdullah. And hinted that he could get a "poison ring" from Russia that'd do the trick. (Note: King Abdullah died of stated natural causes at age 90.) The Saudi gov's denied the claims. And accused the former official of lying.

What's a real blockbuster…

This Lego bust. This week, police broke apart a Lego trafficking operation. Seattle police said a shop owner was reselling 171 stolen Lego sets worth thousands of dollars. Prosecutors charged him with trafficking stolen property. Experts pieced together that Lego trafficking has become a major concern. Now, the store owner reportedly faces up to 10 years in prison, a $20,000 fine, or both. Sounds more painful than stepping on one.

What's not Hertz-ing Tesla's gains…

A $1 trillion market cap.

Come Again

Happy True/False Tuesday. Today's installment: Experts estimate the clit has about 8,000 sensitive nerve endings. Time to take your guess.

Okay, time's up. Yes, it's true. Oh, and that's double the amount of a penis, btw. Talk about a pleasure powerhouse. If you could use some help tapping into it, try Vella Women's Pleasure Serum. It delivers CBD deep beyond skin to relax the vaginal smooth muscle tissue. Which can help you have more intense orgasms more often — whether you're flying solo or playing with a partner. And who would say no to that? Bonus: It's condom compatible, vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and 30% off for Skimm'rs with code SKIMM30. Yes, really. Go on.

Thing to Know

870 years

About how long it actually took to build Rome, from its legendary founding in 753 BC to the empire's height in 117 AD. Read: not a day. And, tbh, it's still a work in progress. 

Good things tend to take time, intention, and teamwork. It's why our friends at Gevalia embrace the power of slowwww. Aka taking time to enjoy life – and coffee. Case in point: their slow-roasted blends, which are made to be savored with others. Because better > bitter. Every time. So try not to rush yourself today. And be sure to take a real break. Like, one without screens or stress...but with some delicious java and good company. Drink up.

Time to Start Shopping for...

Winter weather. That's right — it's never too early to grab new waterproof boots or make sure you've got a pair of text-friendly gloves ready to go. To help you prep for chilly temps, we rounded up everything you'll need to stay as snug as a (stylish) bug in a rug. Check out…

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

1. Products you'll want if you spend all day in front of screens. We feel you on the deepest of levels. And unfortunately, so do the effects of blue light. Thankfully, RFLCT's products are meant to up your skincare routine with added protection. Learn more.*

2. The perfect sweater if you like to be snuggled at all times. Good luck leaving the house with this brand's comfy, oversized stroopwafel knit. It's made with the softest, 100% recycled cashmere yarn. For the most luxurious, move-me-from-this-couch-I-dare-you vibe. Here's 15% off with code Skimm15.*

3. How to save up to $500 on your next getaway. This flight club sends you the best deals for when you're feeling travel-ready. Like a round trip to Costa Rica from $187. Or Paris from $275. Join for $1 for the next 12 hours.*

4. ​​Crisp, refreshing wine that actually has no alcohol. Helloooooo brighter mornings. This brand's sparkling white and rosé wines are low in sugar, gluten-free, and taste like the real thing. Plus they're made with natural ingredients. And ship right to your door. Happy happy-hourin'.*

5. Tons of Amazon Basics and Basic Care products on sale today. Like this warming pet bed, these hand sanitizing packets, and this hand weight set. And so much more. Cha-ching.

6. Perfect gifts for the world traveler in your life. Aka this posthumous release by Anthony Bourdain with expert advice about where to eat, what to do, and what to avoid. And a scratch-off travel poster to keep track of their adventures. Wanderlust: activated.

*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.

Sweet toothers unite...Sharol E (CA). She curates chocolate tasting kits featuring artisanal and single-origin chocolate bars with Earth-friendly packaging. You can sign up for a monthly subscription here

Bells will be ringing...Amira M (FL). She's spent years renovating a 146-year-old property in Daytona Beach. And transforming it into The Foxtail Estate, a boutique bed and breakfast, and wedding venue. Check it out.

(Some) Birthdays...Jessica Trief (NY), Betelle Hailemariam (DC), Will Shain (MA), Bryan Lazarus (CA), Rebecca Karsenti (FL), Mia Bella Allegra (IL), Alex Rossberg (IL), Christi Jenkins (AR), Bryan Simpson (FL), Jenna Rozenblat (GA), Tim Elsner (TX), Alannah Mannix-Slobig (IL), Mary Martin (MI), Kristin Reagan (IN)

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

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Daily Skimm: I think my battery must be low

Skimm'd while signing up for our weekly recs
October 25, 2021
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Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

"I call them my golden seeds" A farmer on growing a 2,000-pound pumpkin. Squashing the competition.

Hollywood

The Story

The shooting involving Alec Baldwin has the film industry reeling.

Go on.

On Thursday, Baldwin fired a prop gun while on the set for his latest movie, "Rust." Which accidentally killed 42-year-old cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured the director. Normally, there are safety practices in place when handling firearms on set – even prop guns. While gun laws vary state by state, it's apparently up to studios and labor unions to set primary protection for film sets. In this case, precautions seem to have failed. The shooting left the industry grappling with how this tragedy could have happened. And who's responsible.

What do we know?

The investigation is still ongoing. But the tragic loss came hours after the camera crew had walked out to protest working conditions including over long workdays and safety concerns. Apparently, this wasn't the first gun issue on set: there were at least two other instances of guns misfiring in the days leading up to the tragedy. And right before the fatal shooting, the assistant director handed Baldwin a gun he said was "cold" – indicating it had no live rounds. In all instances, the rule of thumb is to treat all prop guns – including those with blanks – as if they're fully loaded.

So what happens now?

There are questions about who's liable. From the armorer to the assistant director to Baldwin himself – anyone who came in contact with the gun could face charges. Experts say it's unlikely that Baldwin could be charged if he didn't know the firearm contained live ammunition – unless he was found to be negligent. But there could be lawsuits. And some critics reportedly say gunfire 'authenticity' is easily done in post-production and doesn't require real weapons.

theSkimm

There've been at least 43 on-set deaths from prop guns since 1990. Now, this high-profile tragedy is shining a spotlight on the need for a safe work environment in every industry.

And Also...This

Where things are escalating…

Sudan. This morning, the country's military detained PM Abdalla Hamdok and other leaders in an apparent coup. After former President Omar al-Bashir was ousted in 2019, a new government was formed. And military and civilian leaders agreed to share power till elections could be held. But there's been major tensions. And just last month, there was a failed coup attempt by Bashir-loyalists – putting Sudan on edge. Now, thousands are in the streets protesting the military's actions. The internet has reportedly been cut off, the military has closed off bridges, and the airport in Khartoum is closed. And no one in the military has commented on the situation so far. 

  • The world reacts: The US said it is "deeply alarmed" by reports on the situation. And the EU expressed its "utmost concern."

Where there's a status update...

Colombia. Over the weekend, the country's armed forces captured major drug lord Dairo Antonio Úsuga aka Otoniel. He's the leader of the Gulf Clan – a major drug trafficking group and criminal organization. Otoniel's accused of killing police officers, recruiting minors, sexually abusing children, and more. And has long evaded officials. Now, Colombian President Iván Duque is comparing his capture to the fall of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar. And called Otoniel's arrest – in a country that produces 70% of the world's cocaine – "the biggest blow" against drug trafficking this century. But experts are skeptical it'll affect Colombia's drug conflict. And expect that a new leader will take over.

  • Coming to the States: Otoniel will be extradited to the US – where officials put a $5 million bounty on him. He's been on the DEA's most-wanted list for years. And is accused of importing tons of cocaine into the country for over a decade.

Where people want answers…

Oklahoma. Earlier this month, 21-year-old Brittney Poolaw was sentenced to four years in prison for having a miscarriage last year. The fetus was between 15 and 17 weeks – and was not able to survive outside the womb at this stage. A jury had convicted her of manslaughter amid evidence that she had used methamphetamine when she miscarried. But the autopsy reportedly said the miscarriage might have happened because of a congenital abnormality or the placenta detaching. And there was no evidence that the drug use caused the miscarriage. Now, Poolaw could appeal.

  • Not alone: For pregnant women, criminal cases have reportedly skyrocketed in recent years – with about 1,200 criminal cases in the past 15 years alone.

...Oh and speaking of women's health: Texas. Over the weekend, the Supreme Court agreed to fast-track its review of the state's controversial abortion law. And will hear arguments next week.

Who people are remembering…

James Michael Tyler. Yesterday, the actor – best known for his role as Gunther on "Friends" – passed away at the age of 59. He had been battling prostate cancer.

Who's got the peanuts and Cracker Jack ready...

The Astros and the Braves.

Staying Connected

Game nights. Scavenger hunts. Bedtime stories. It turns out, family bonding isn't just fun. Research shows it can help establish a foundation of security, boost self-esteem, and build social and emotional skills. 

More good news: Even if you aren't comfy gathering with larger groups IRL as a(nother) unusual holiday season approaches, you can help your kids stay connected to relatives and friends. Yes, even virtually. Especially with help from Slumberkins. They design tools that foster interaction and reflection. Think: cuddly creatures, books, and affirmations. They've even got special heart-to-heart sets that help kids stay connected with loved ones near or far. Oh, and Skimm'rs get 15% off their first order. Check 'em out.

Thing to Know

47%

That's the percentage of American women who have life insurance, according to 2021 studies from research company LIMRA. A number that's gone down five years in a row. The real kicker? 58% of American men currently have it. 

But getting insured can help you protect your loved ones after you're gone. Ethos Life knows alllll about that. Their proprietary underwriting process quickly matches people with coverage that won't break the bank. And you just have to answer a few health questions online to apply. Read: no medical exams or blood tests. Plus, they're rated "excellent" by customers on Trustpilot and got an A+ from the Better Biz Bureau. Translation: It's protection you can really trust. Learn more.

True or false: You can't get pregnant while you're on your period.

Go ahead and circle "false." Because it is in fact possible to get pregnant from period sex. Particularly if you have an irregular cycle. But if you're trying, your best bet is to get it on during your fertile window, aka the few days leading up to and during ovulation. For a refresher on what and when that is, we have a guide for that.

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

1. Makeup that's so good, it's got 15K five-star ratings. That's…a lot of goodness. This award-winning mascara lengthens lashes immediately and strengthens 'em over time. So they miiiight get mistaken for extensions. Plus it's now available in a gorg, deep blue hue. Here's 15% off.*

2. A flexible vibrator that fits in the palm of your hand. Dame's Pom (get it?) is made with medical-grade, waterproof silicone and a powerful but quiet motor. It's also got five unique intensities. So you can customize to the (cli)max. PS: Skimm'rs get 15% off.*

3. Sugar-free, plant-based protein made with handcrafted vanilla flavor. Aka the really delicious kind. This brand's gluten-free protein powder is a perfect add-on to any daily diet looking for a lil' extra support. Plus, Skimm'rs get 20% off their first month when they subscribe. Yum.*

4. Cozy fall clothes under $50 you can wear to work. Maybe it's been a while since you've been back to the office. And maybe pants with zippers now seem like a foreign concept. If so, you're gonna want to check these out.

5. Meal plans for every type of eater. There are lots of kits in the sea and finding the one can be overwhelming. Here are our fave vegetarian, vegan, and meat-based options, plans for kids, and so much more.

6. Truly addicting reads we just couldn't put down. We're talking the ones you cancel all your plans to finish, the ones you stay up way too late to keep on reading, and the ones you complete in a single sitting by the fire. Page = turned.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

†Not a reduced calorie food.

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.

Natural glow...Bonnie S (CA). She started an organic and fair trade skincare brand. Think: body butter that is packaged in recyclable jars and boxes. Check it out.

Breathe in...Kim A (NY). She opened Sacred Space Astoria, a yoga studio and healing space in NYC. Kim works with clients at all stages in life to help them feel better in their body. Take a look.

(Some) Birthdays...Donald Gardner (NJ), Shulamit Shain (MA), Melissa Brenner (NY), Nicole Sarno (IL), Anthony Allegra (IL), Meaghan Coyne (NY), Maggie Jonas (WI), Julia Zimmerman (CT), Angie Kellin (MN), Colette Vance Wright (CA), Missy Sams (GA), Foluke Tuakli (MD), Sarah Romano Fleury (SC), Shayla Givens (VA), Kathleen Craider (OH)

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

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Last week on "9 to 5ish," we spoke to Tarana Burke, activist, author and founder of the Me Too movement, on how she approaches burnout and why balance is so important for productivity at work.

And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time...

Skimm Share
Friends don't let friends get bogged down in headlines. So click that share button to send theSkimm to your network. Because, as they say, sharing is caring.
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Skimm'd by Rashaan Ayesh, Mariza Smajlaj, Clem Robineau, and Julie Shain

Skimm'd something we missed?

skimmthis@theSkimm.com

Issues?

help@theSkimm.com


Copyright (c) 2021 theSkimm, All rights reserved.

TheSkimm, Daily Skimm, and all Skimm-based marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of TheSkimm, Inc.


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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