Skimm'd while businesses reopen

theSkimm50 West 23rd Street, Suite 5B; New York, NY, 10010, United States Update Profile

APRIL 30, 2020

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Skimm'd while businesses reopen


  QUOTE OF THE DAY  

"I had to think of a new and creative way to embarrass my children" – Sarah Michelle Gellar on why she dyed her hair pink during quarantine. Cruel Intentions? More like 'Cool Intentions.'

A NEW HOPE

The Story

A major study is raising hopes about one drug's ability to fight COVID-19.

Which one?

Remdesivir. Yesterday, early results from a study on more than 1,000 hospitalized patients found that it sped up recovery by an average of four days. It's unclear if the antiviral drug can prevent deaths. Still, Dr. Anthony Fauci compared its potential impact to the first drug to treat HIV. And said the drug will set a new "standard of care" for coronavirus treatment. The FDA hasn't approved it yet. But it's reportedly on track to give the drug an emergency use authorization. And is in talks with its maker – Gilead Sciences – to get it to patients ASAP. But some are hesitant.

Like who?

Like WHO. The World Health Organization erred on the side of caution and declined to comment on the study's results until it gets more info. Meanwhile, a separate study in China found the drug didn't help. But researchers said the trial was stopped early as the outbreak there slowed and they couldn't enroll enough patients. And it's not the first COVID-19 treatment to face some questions.

Go on...

Enter anti-malarial drugs, like hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine. President Trump's talked up using the drugs for COVID-19, and asked the FDA to fast-track its testing last month. But there's been debate around its effectiveness and safety, and doctors worry it does more harm than good. Last week, the FDA issued a warning against using these drugs outside of hospitals or clinical trials after reports of death and serious heart problems surfaced.

theSkimm

The race to find a treatment for COVID-19 is on. And some are hopeful about remdesivir. But with countless lives at stake, some are urging caution.

AND ALSO...THIS

Who's still got explaining to do…

Former VP Joe Biden. He's facing growing pressure to address a former staffer's sexual assault allegation. Last year, Tara Reade was part of a group of women who accused Biden of inappropriate touching. Last month, she expanded on the allegation, accusing him of sexually assaulting her in the '90s. Biden's campaign called the allegation "false" – but women's rights advocates reportedly want him personally to issue a statement.

  • The latest: This week, two people came forward to corroborate elements of Reade's claims. And an old "Larry King Live" ep resurfaced in which Reade says her mom called in anonymously to discuss the situation.

  • In his corner: Some prominent Dems. That includes several thought to be in the running for Biden's VP pick, like Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Stacey Abrams. As Abrams said, "I believe Joe Biden."


What's yelling 'timber'…

The Commerce Dept. Yesterday, it said GDP dropped 4.8% in the first quarter – the steepest drop since the Great Recession. Reminder: GDP is the total value of things made and services provided in a certain time frame. Think of it as a country's economic report card. Until recently, the US was in its longest economic expansion ever recorded. But with stay-at-home orders grinding businesses to a halt, GDP's been struggling. Next quarter could be worse, with some analysts anticipating a 38% drop. If that happens, we're officially in recession territory.


Psst...see what a recession could mean for your wallet – and how you can prep – here.


What's hitting its expiration date...

Federal social distancing guidelines. Back in March, President Trump announced the 30-day guidelines, which included staying home, avoiding nonessential travel and large gatherings, and advising states to close bars and restaurants. They expire today. This comes as many states' stay-at-home orders have recently expired or are set to expire in the coming weeks. Here's what to expect as economies reopen.


What Ross Geller would lose it over...

Spinosaurus. For years, paleontologists have dug into the question of whether this 14,000-pound big boy was able to swim. Now, a new study says 'yup, it's a Schwimmer.' Scientists found a fossilized tail two years ago in Morocco that indicates the dino hunted underwater. Dun dun.


...Oh and just when you think your inner kid couldn't be happier, introducing frontline action figures.


When we could all use a hot girl summer right about now...

Beyoncé has entered the chat.

THING TO KNOW

Six to eight years

The average lifespan of mattresses, according to the National Sleep Foundation.


Raise your hand if you've had the same mattress since you were a teen. Same. It's probably time to replace it. Enter: Avocado Green Mattress. Their mattresses are good for the environment, and good for sleepers. They're certified non-toxic. Aka they're made with organic materials like latex, wool, and cotton. Instead of synthetic materials that aren't biodegradable. So you can trade in your teenage dreams for sweet ones. Skimm'rs get $200 off any mattress until May 18 with code SKIMM200. Meet your mattress.

SKIMM MONEY

If your parents taught you anything, you won't do something just because all your friends do it. If all your friends sell their investments…read this before doing the same. We Skimm'd when to cash in your stock. And when you might want to hang on.

PRESS PAUSE

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting us all in different ways. No matter your situation, sometimes you just need to press pause. Enter: our picks to help you take a break…


1. Your fave pics, framed. Get a bunch for a gallery wall. Or try some canvas prints. You can do it all with Shutterfly. Because all Mom wants for Mother's Day is you(r face). Order now to get your gift on time. Picture perfect.*


2. "Normal People" on Hulu. The beloved book (and Skimm HQ fave) turned into our new TV obsession. So we talked to the cast about the adaptation. And can confirm: Marianne + Connell are perfect.


3. Ramadan dishes. Whether you're observing the holiday or just in need of some dinner ideas, these recipes will be waiting for you at sundown. We're eyeing the sticky toffee pudding.


PS: Sign up to get a list of things to do, watch, eat and more to your inbox every Monday.

SKIMM PICKS

For when you've been making an effort to get dressed each morning...

Don't forget shoes. Like from this sustainable company. They make stylish canvas sneakers in all your favorite colors. Like rose, yellow, and white. To add a bit of brightness to your day. Hurry before they sell out again. Skimm'rs get 15% off. Lace up.*


For when you've already baked all the bread...

Next up: your taxes. You can file online with H&R Block. And if you get stuck, they have Online Assist. It's unlimited, on-demand help from a tax pro, whenever you need it. Get it done.*


For when WFH means you have time for a longer shower...

Make it count with this company. They send razors, shaving cream, body wash and more right to your door. Without the pink tax. Aka their starter kit is just $9. Oh, and Skimm'rs get 10% off. Get it all.*

*PS This is a sponsored post.

SKIMM'RS

In times like these, community matters more than ever. Let us know how you (or someone you know) is making an impact by helping others.


Sending a-lock of love to...Leah R (GA). She's a hair stylist in Georgia – where some nonessential businesses are allowed to reopen. She spoke to us about what it's like to go back to work during the time of COVID-19. And all the precautions she's taking to keep herself, her employees, and her customers safe. Watch here.


Thanks for the pawsitivity…Olivia A (MA). She works for How I Met My Dog, an online matching platform for adopters, foster families, and rescue dogs. The company was co-founded by her mom and is run by women. Learn more here.


(Some) Birthdays...Susan Lyne (NY), Brittany Elias (NY), Faezeh Ashtiani (IL), Tais Tillman (CA), Fathima Khan (VA), Travis Carnes (NE), Hannah Lang (FL), Lily Keefer (IL), Jeannie Daniel (CT), Kari Krause (CA), Caroline Samp (MA), Cynthia Jones (SC), Patti Higgins (NJ), Kay Krause (CA), Gina Ippolito (CA)


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