We heard your weekends were getting a little lonely without us. So we’ll be coming to you every Saturday to break down the biggest talker of the week and give you the context you need to be part of the conversation. Plus, our recs to get the most out of your downtime.
So…what’s going on with masks? That’s the question of the week. Here’s what you need to know — so you can decide what to do.
The Story
Two years into the pandemic, we’re still as confused as ever. Since the start, states and the federal gov have given different guidance about what to do. Now, it’s mask talk that’s on everybody’s lips.
Go on.
This week, a federal judge threw out Biden's mask mandate for planes and transit systems. Some people celebrated. Others expressed concern. And the DOJ appealed. Now as the courts battle it out, it's a free-for-all. Many major airlines, Amtrak, and ride-hailing apps lifted their mask requirements. Other transit systems (think: in Los Angeles County and New York City) made the opposite call and kept them. Businesses can still make their own rules. Meaning, don’t throw out your masks just yet.
So, what should I do?
With a few exceptions, a lot is being left up to you. And while the science on masks is clear, many Americans want the pandemic to be over. Just look at this week’s reactions on airplanes. But it isn't. In fact, there's been a nearly 50% increase in cases over the last 14 days. Thanks to the continued spread of Omicron BA.2 and two new subvariants. Plus, experts say cases are being undercounted. Dramatically.
Where’s the gov in all this?
The CDC’s trying to provide better and faster info to help you make your own choices. The White House now appears more focused on living with variants rather than defeating them. Plus, the market’s caught up to demand: at-home tests, antiviral pills, and vaccines are now widely in stock. But questions remain about second boosters — mainly, when people under 50 will be able to access them. And TBD if (or when) kids under 5 will ever get their shot.
theSkimm
‘You do you’ seems to be 2022’s go-to response to COVID-19. But remember, the reasoning behind whether people mask up is often invisible to strangers. So don't be a maskhole.
Bookmark'd
The weekend means more time to do the things you love. For many of us, that’s reading. But we can’t Skimm it all for you. So instead, we’re giving you a look at the reads we’ve saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…
Maybe it’s the warmer weather. Or the tiny umbrellas popping up in our drinks. Either way, we are more than ready for summer sipping. If you can relate, you’ll wanna peep the QVC goodies that can take your happy hour game up a notch. We’re talking…
The right entertainment. The outdoors can be even better with activities, so we recommend bringing a few games. Think: spikeball, croquet, even Jenga.
Fun in the sun. Done.
Eyes On
Getty Images
Tomorrow, French voters head to the polls (again) for the second round of the country’s presidential election. Like in 2017, they’ll decide between centrist leader Emmanuel Macron (the current president) and far-right candidate Marine Le Pen. But this time, the race is expected to be much tighter — and the stakes much higher for France and the rest of the world. Things are about to get très intéressant.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Something vibey that’ll make you feel oh-mazing. Surprise: It’s a vibrator. But Dame’s Aer goes (and comes) above and beyond. Think: pulses of air that feel like the flutter of a tongue. Psst…Skimm’rs get 15% off. Get after it.*
2. Something that can help you relive your study abroad glory days. Or experience new ones. This language-learning app teaches you words and phrases you’ll actually use in conversation. And have you chatting like a pro in as little as three weeks. Go forth.*
3. Mother's Day gifts for every type of mom (or mom figure) out there. We've got things if she loves to travel, gifts for new moms, and so much more. Get to it.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm More
Earth Day was yesterday...but here's more from us about how to celebrate the planet every day.
PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.
theSkimm Loyalty Program
Design: theSkimm
We launched our new Loyalty Program and you’re invited to join. Engage with our content, earn points, and use those points to unlock rewards. Think: swag, exclusive content, sweepstakes, and more. Start earning and get in on it here.
Skimm'd by Rasheeda Campbell, Xian Chiang-Waren, Melissa Goldberg, and Clem Robineau
