Skimm'd while talking to Bumble's Whitney Wolfe Herd on our new pod

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Skimm'd while talking to Bumble's Whitney Wolfe Herd on our new pod

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Quote of the Day

"Hoe" – The word Facebook's algorithms flagged on a gardening group's page before realizing it's a tool. Cue the music: Hoes in this greenhouse. There's some hoes in this greenhouse.

Delta


The Story

The US has a variant problem.

You have my attention.

Earlier this month, the delta variant – the one first documented in India – became the dominant COVID-19 variant in the US. Now, it accounts for more than 80% of new cases. And the CDC's sounding the alarm. That's because delta is about 60% more contagious than the variant first found in the UK. And cases are up across the US.

What about vaccines?

They're still believed to be highly effective at preventing severe disease or hospitalization. Over 99% of those who died in the US last month from the virus were unvaccinated. The good news: roughly half of the US population is vaxxed. But many Americans are still hesitant. Some are concerned amid news of blood clots and autoimmune disorder risks. Others have been met with misinformation. Fox News, whose hosts have been accused of promoting skepticism about vaccines, is starting to take note. Host Sean Hannity recently announced he believes "in the science of vaccination." And pleaded with viewers to get pricked because "enough people have died."

What happens next?

Cases have been going up – a trend that does not look like it's going to change anytime soon. The WHO and CDC can't agree on messaging for whether vaccinated people should wear masks indoors. But LA County isn't taking chances: it's already reinstated an indoor mask mandate. Other places in the US are nudging people to mask up, even if they don't require it. The reason: delta is concerning. In India, a recent study found that the official COVID-19 death toll of more than 414,000 people could be a vast undercount. And that the real toll could be in the millions.

theSkimm

The US has made huge strides in combating the virus. But two big challenges – vaccine hesitancy and coronavirus variants – are converging, and threaten to put historic progress on hold.


Psst...If you're thinking of traveling this summer, here's how the delta variant could affect those plans.

And Also...This


Who's got people talking…

Harvey Weinstein. Yesterday, the convicted rapist was extradited from New York to Los Angeles to face 11 more charges of sexual assault. In 2017, The New York Times and The New Yorker first reported allegations of sexual misconduct against the disgraced Hollywood producer. More than 80 women came forward with similar stories – reenergizing the #MeToo movement. Last year, an NYC judge sentenced Weinstein to 23 years in prison for rape and sexual assault. LA prosecutors said 'we have a case against him, too.' Weinstein could appear in court today for allegations he assaulted five women between 2004 and 2013. A trial is expected later this year. Weinstein, who maintains everything was "consensual," faces up to 140 years in prison.

What has people concerned…

The Bootleg Fire. The Oregon wildfire has been burning for two weeks – destroying at least 70 homes, dozens of buildings, and over 340,000 acres (about half the size of Rhode Island). It's the largest wildfire this year – fueled by last month's heat wave and prolonged drought. It's still only 30% contained. And is so intense it's creating its own weather patterns. Like thunderstorms and possible fire tornadoes – both of which complicate containment efforts. Local officials are pointing the finger at climate change.

Who wears shorts, shorts...

Athletes wear shorts, shorts. Over the weekend, the Norwegian women's beach handball team wore shorts instead of bikini bottoms...and got fined over $1,700 for it. Organizers said they wore "improper clothing." But critics, including members of Norway's gov, called the requirement for them to wear bikini bottoms "sexist" and "ridiculous" – especially since the male players can wear long shorts and tanks. As if that wasn't enough, in comes another comment on a woman's attire. Double Paralympic world champ Olivia Breen said she was left "speechless" when an official at the English Championships criticized her sprinting shorts. This time, for being "too short and inappropriate." The 21st century called, women can wear whatever they damn well please.

Who's going buckwild...

The Milwaukee Bucks. Yesterday, they beat the Phoenix Suns 105-98. Now, they get to call themselves NBA champs for only the second time in the league's history.

Who's saying 'come on, Jeff, get 'em'...

Jeff.

Take It Outside


'Tis the season for spending every possible moment outside. And whether you're headed to the park, campsite or your backyard, QVC can help you create the ultimate dining setup. They've got deals on all sorts of stuff that make cooking, hosting, and hanging easier. But hurry. They're only available for a limited time...


A lightweight, portable grill system ($129.95). Which comes with three charcoal pads that provide up to 60 minutes of grilling time each. Punny apron sold separately.


This pair of freezer chilling cups ($20.97). Hold the melted ice. Lock in the special price.


Serving trays that hold everything in place ($27.83). Great for bringing wine and cheese to the patio. But also ideal for bringing movie night munchies to the living room.

9 to 5ish with theSkimm

Introducing our refreshed pod: "9 to 5ish with theSkimm" (formerly "Skimm'd from the Couch"). As of this week, we're taking things up a notch. Our career podcast has a new look and a new name. Every Wednesday, our co-founders and co-CEOs Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg are digging into the biggest career Qs they wished they had asked. Like how to find your confidence or bounce back from a 'no.'


First up: Whitney Wolfe Herd. We spoke to the Bumble founder and CEO about how she launched her biz. Plus, her advice for anyone looking to start their own. Headphones, in.


Oh, and keep an eye out for our next two episodes with 2008 Olympic gold medalist Nastia Liukin and TV sensation Gayle King.

Skimm Your Life

1. Colorful, fan-fave kicks that feel as cool as they look. This brand's comfy, all-season sneakers are back in stock after a 26K waitlist. Plus, they've got chic slip-on styles for your last-minute looks. Bonus: Skimm'rs get 15% off for a limited time. Run, don't walk.*


2. Problem-solving products Skimm'rs actually rely on. From a handy grout pen to patches that'll heal pimples, say hello to the items you won't ever regret buying.


3. Your most-purchased home items of 2021. Because a cozy, clean, and organized home is the happiest kind. Check out your must-haves of the year so far.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm'Picks

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


1. How to give your swimsuit collection a much-needed refresh. This brand's got 93 unique styles, all made from recycled materials, with UPF 50+. And their signature suit, The Sidestroke, is back after a 10K waitlist. PS: Skimm'rs get $10 toward their purchase. Swim-win.*


2. Where to get answers to (almost) any question. Like why sushi is rolled or how wine bottles help us see stars. This company lets you stream thousands (yep, thousands) of videos on tons of different subjects. And Skimm'rs get a free trial. Grab that popcorn.*


3. Delicious, booze-free drinks to sip poolside. This brand makes their craft, alcohol-free cocktails with organic ingredients and zero refined sugars. All inspired by your faves (hiii, Aperol spritz). And Skimm'rs get a free bottle with any order over $50. Cheers.*


4. Page-turning books you and your book club should read ASAP. The results are in. And these reads deserve to be at the tippy-top of the list. Bookmark 'em.


5. Genius bag racks that'll make you feel like you have a third hand. They'll clip onto and hold up baggies so you can fill 'em with leftovers or ingredients you wanna store in the fridge. No more mess.

*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.


Spreading awareness...Andrea M (FL). She created The Sylas Project in honor of her son who passed away from a tragic drowning. This year, the org has launched a small online boutique – Hey Little Sun – and will be using 25% of the proceeds to fund the project's swim scholarships for families in need.


Going green...Sam V (NJ). He launched MICE – Montclair Initiative for a Cleaner Environment. It's focused on completing small tasks (like picking up garbage) that make the environment better for animals and humans.


(Some) Birthdays...Riley Bonis (OH), Claire Grummon (NY), Andrea Baker (TX), Ashley Starks (IL), Pearly Ittickathra (IL), Liz Dawson (OK), Kelsey Vredeveld (MI), Ariel Zahler (NY), Shane Ryan (DC), Carlee Bunkers (MT), Stephanie Rozycki (NJ), Emma Kuhl (PA), Rosalie Dech (VA), Hannah Brizzi (PA), Lisa Hancock (FL)


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

Skimm More

We texted with Heidi Klum about her favorite TikTok trend. Plus, theSkimm of her show, "Making the Cut."


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

  • Listen to our news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week.

  • Tune in to our podcast "9 to 5ish with theSkimm" for tips to navigate your career.

  • Subscribe to our "Skimm Money" newsletter to keep up to date with your wallet.

  • Sign up for our "Skimm Your Life" newsletter for curated shopping, reads, and entertainment recs.

  • Follow us on the gram, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.

  • Download our app to get it all in one place.

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