Fashion

An ER Doctor’s Advice on How to Vote in Person Safely

“I would say that voting in person is perfectly safe as long as you take the same precautions you would in any other socially distanced or monitored setting.”…

This Election Day, it’s never been more important to make a voting plan. For many concerned about potential COVID-19 exposure, that meant voting by mail; but even for those with the time and ability to vote in person, health can still pose a concern

New York City ER doctor Dara Kass, an associate professor of emergency medicine at Columbia University Medical Center and a Yahoo News medical contributor, has been on the COVID-19 front lines since the start of the pandemic. We reached out to Dr. Kass to ask how in-person voters can keep themselves safe and minimize risk while making sure their vote is counted.

First thing’s first: From a health standpoint, is it better to vote by mail if you have the option?

No! I would say that voting in person is perfectly safe as long as you take the same precautions you would in any other socially distanced or monitored setting. As long as you come in prepared for the space around you, there’s nothing unsafe about voting in person; obviously it’s always safer to stay home, but you have to do a risk-benefit analysis about staying home versus having a voice in a democracy.

Is early voting potentially less crowded, and, thus, safer than voting on Election Day?

We don’t really know as of now, because there are fewer early voting locations, but probably the best thing to do is try to vote early and see how lines are. If you go and you feel safe, vote then, and if not, come back the next day. It definitely seems good to try to vote as early as possible to mitigate anything going awry, because if you wait until Election Day, you’re stuck with whatever happens on that day.

What health and/or medical supplies should in-person voters be prepared to bring with them to the polls?

Masks! Maybe make sure to have double-layered or filtered masks, if you get caught inside a space and aren’t able to be outdoors. I would recommend that if people want to be very prepared, they can consider bringing eye protection—goggles or glasses, or face shields—for extra security. I would have hand sanitizer with you in case you touch a surface and want to sanitize between hand washes, although there is a question about some ballots reacting to hand sanitizer, but you can use it while waiting in line.

Another thing to think about is bringing snacks with straws, because you might be waiting for a while and want individually wrapped, quick things to eat. The straw really helps minimize the need to take off your mask while you’re waiting, so think about protein shakes or other liquids.

Do you know of any precautions that poll workers can take to make things safer from a COVID-19 standpoint?

Poll workers’ precautions should be similar to the precautions that voters should be taking. The most important thing is mutual respect; we need people to listen, wear their masks, [and] keep a distance. If you respect poll workers and the job they’re doing, you won’t get in their faces or ask them to solve problems they can’t solve, because we’re all doing our best.

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Fashion

Raekwon Unveils “The Emperor’s New Clothes” With All-Star Lineup

Raekwon, a legendary rapper known for his role in the Wu-Tang Clan, has just announced his long-awaited eighth studio album, titled “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” set to be released through Mass Appeal. Although no singles have been shared yet, the album is already creating a buzz and is highly anticipated this summer. It’s been seven years since Raekwon last released a solo album, and this new project feels more like a grand return than just another release.

He’s teamed up with a mix of familiar faces from the Wu-Tang Clan and some fresh talent in hip-hop. Listeners can look forward to clever lyrics and captivating stories filled with raw emotion. Raekwon has invited his Wu-Tang brothers Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Inspectah Deck to feature on the album, ensuring a classic blend that fans love. He’s also brought in well-respected artists outside of the Wu-Tang family, like Nas and members of the Griselda collective, Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, who are known for their gritty style.

Adding to the variety, singers Stacy Barthe and Marsha Ambrosius will provide soulful vocals to complement Raekwon’s hard-hitting verses. The album’s production features talented names like Swizz Beatz, Nottz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Frank G, and Roadsart, promising a rich, cinematic sound that matches Raekwon’s lyrical skills. Even with such an impressive lineup, there’s still a sense of mystery around the album. There have been no early songs or previews released, just the announcement itself, which builds even more expectation.

But for Raekwon, this is part of his journey. He has always delivered powerful lyrics and relatable street stories without much introduction. The title, The Emperor’s New Clothes, suggests a fresh start and a daring vision that might challenge the current state of rap. With his experienced flow and storytelling still sharp, Raekwon seems prepared to reestablish his place among the top artists in hip-hop.

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Fashion

Wendy Williams Makes Stylish Splash At Columbia Supporting Her Designer

In a delightful surprise for fans and fashion enthusiasts, Wendy Williams made a rare appearance at Columbia University on Tuesday, and everyone couldn’t help but notice her. The former talk show host was in high spirits as she showed up to support her longtime friend and fashion designer, Mel Maxi. Wendy looked fantastic in a stylish black-and-white outfit that included a Yankee hat and her trademark flair.

Designed by Maxi himself, her outfit was not just chic but also had a personal touch that highlighted her vibrant personality. In a heartwarming moment recorded on video, Wendy told Maxi, “This is amazing! This was specifically designed for me… this is really hand done.” Wendy came to cheer on Maxi, who was set to give a lecture about fashion design at the prestigious university. Her appearance was a meaningful moment between two creative friends who have supported each other for years. Wendy’s presence emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration in the creative world.

As she walked by, a nearby fan shouted their love for Wendy, and she instinctively responded with her signature warmth and enthusiasm: “Thank you!” she exclaimed with a big smile. After being away from the spotlight for months, Wendy’s visit was a refreshing change for fans who have missed her lively spirit. There were no fancy events or flashing cameras, just Wendy enjoying the moment, supporting a friend, and reminding us all of the significance of showing up for the people we care about.

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