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MAY/JU
NE 2024
The Lasting Impact of My Dad’s Gentle Guidance His Example Shapes My Parenting Today
Being a dad isn’t easy, but somehow, mine made fatherhood look effortless. As Father’s Day approaches, I can’t help but look back at the profound influence my father had on me, not only during my childhood but also now as I navigate fatherhood myself. My dad, an ER doctor, managed to balance a highly demanding career with being an exceptionally involved parent to me and my four siblings. To this day, I do whatever I can to make him proud and lead by his example. Despite the long and unpredictable hours in the emergency room, he was remarkably present for us, whether it was attending our sports games or sitting down to discuss our schoolwork. His commitment to us was unwavering, and through his actions, he taught us how to carry ourselves and operate in the world. Now, as a father with three young children of my own, I find myself channeling my father’s teachings. Parenting brings constant questions and unknowns, especially as children grow and their worlds expand. Fortunately, my dad’s extensive experience raising five children provides a reliable blueprint for me to follow! Sports and academics played significant roles in our family life, and they continue to do so with my children, who are 12, 8, and 5 and all
play sports. While we were expected to do well in school, my parents never pressured us when it came to sports. My dad always emphasized sportsmanship over winning. He cared less about how well we performed and more about whether we respected our coaches, worked well as a team, and, most importantly, had fun. These values are what I enforce with my own children today. With his hectic schedule, my dad never coached any of our teams, but he also stayed off the field because he wanted us to navigate obstacles on our own. He wasn’t concerned with our scores or stats; what mattered was how we handled ourselves. Surprisingly enough, he never missed a game unless he was on the clock, and he always approached his role as a spectator with a calm demeanor. Unlike some parents who become overly involved, shouting from the sidelines or pressuring their kids, my dad simply watched, clapped, and offered support. Looking back, this took a tremendous amount of stress off my shoulders, and now, I see how kids can become terrified when their parents cross that line! As I parent my children, I adopt my father’s method of asking after each game, “Did you do what the coaches said? Did you play hard?
Lastly, did you have fun?” It’s a simple yet
powerful way to reinforce positive experiences without dwelling on the negatives.
Dad with my sister, Katie
I treasure this gentle, unspoken method of leadership and role modeling that I learned from my dad. It has not only shaped how I raise my children but also influences my professional life. In both arenas, I’ve learned the importance of being supportive, encouraging gratitude, and paying it forward, whether to my own children, clients, or strangers. As we all navigate the complexities of life, let’s take a moment to acknowledge those who’ve guided us. This Father’s Day, I’m especially grateful for my dad’s lessons, which continue to
resonate in my daily life and work. Here’s to all the fathers who quietly shape the future, one child, one game, one lesson at a time.
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4 Fascinating Historical Food Facts
Food is central to every culture. The what, why, and hows of culinary history are diverse and fascinating. From the forgotten Roman condiment to the short-lived hot soda, there’s no end to the depth of interesting food facts. No. 1: Double-Dip Faux Pas The nobility of the Ottoman Empire followed a complex but rational code of culinary conduct. After washing with soap and water, they ate primarily with their hands. Once the meal began, they followed rules much like ours. Double dipping and lip-smacking were frowned upon, and eating more than one bite of a dish was rude, too. Luckily, meals had dozens of unique dishes. No. 2: The Lost Condiment The Romans left behind a vibrant legacy. Aqueducts are still used throughout Europe, while their language is the basis of many other languages. One thing that hasn’t stood the test of time is garum. They poured this condiment on almost everything they ate. Made from fermented fish, garum’s salty, fishy flavor no longer appeals to the average Westerner’s palate. No. 3: Hot Beverage Fail Dr. Pepper, like most sodas, is best enjoyed cold. This means there are fewer soda sales during the winter when people opt for comforting, warm beverages. To remedy this, the soda company tried to push
hot Dr. Pepper in the 1960s. Meant to be served warm with lemon, they marketed it to magazines, television, and radio. The campaign was unsurprisingly unsuccessful.
No. 4: Roaming Ramen Ramen is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes, but it doesn’t actually originate from Japan. The noodle soup comes from China, where it is known as
shina soba. It became popular in Japan after World War II. The country had undergone a food shortage for years but had finally started importing supplies. Chinese food was believed
to be nourishing and filling, so street vendors offering cheap but delicious ramen became a mainstay. Once instant ramen was invented, the noodle soup became associated with Japan worldwide. Whenever you sit down for dinner, consider how you eat and the odd traditions you unconsciously observe. We’re all part of a marvelous culinary culture and should celebrate what makes us unique.
HOW TO GET FASTER ASSISTANCE FROM THE SSA Still on Hold With Customer Service?
Dealing with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be daunting, especially when you’re already grappling with the challenges of a disability. We understand the frustration of long wait times and the maze of bureaucracy. That’s why we want to offer valuable insights into navigating the SSA system more effectively. Challenges With SSA Customer Service It’s no secret that reaching the SSA has become increasingly difficult. Wait times on the SSA’s toll-free line have spiked dramatically — from an average wait of three minutes in 2011 to a staggering 33 minutes in 2022. Moreover, about 15% of callers receive a busy signal when they try to get through. Strategies for Better SSA Customer Service Navigating the SSA system requires patience and strategy. If you need to contact SSA customer service, here are some practical tips to help you interact more effectively: 1. Be Prepared: Before you call the SSA, gather all the information you might need during the call. This includes any life changes, relevant documents, and questions. Being prepared can increase the chances of resolving your issues in one go. 2. Call During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid long wait times, try calling the SSA during non-peak hours. The line is usually busiest during the
first week of each month and on Wednesdays after 5 p.m. Calling later in the week and later in the month might result in shorter wait times, especially during early operating hours. 3. Schedule an In-Person Appointment: If your concerns require a detailed discussion, consider scheduling an appointment at an SSA field office. While it might take a couple of months to get an appointment, personal interactions can often resolve complex issues more efficiently. 4. Utilize Online Resources: The SSA website offers resources and tools to answer your questions without speaking with a representative. From checking eligibility to updating personal information, the online portal can save you a significant amount of time. Why Legal Assistance Matters Navigating the SSA’s complex system can be overwhelming. This is where having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference. We can review your application, ensure completeness, and represent you in proceedings, improving your chances of a successful outcome. At Keefe Disability Law, we are dedicated to helping our clients successfully navigate the SSA system and obtain the benefits they deserve. If you are struggling with your SSDI application or have questions about the process, do not hesitate to reach out for professional assistance.
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Spring Herb Soup With Orzo and Pancetta
Welcome to the Keefe Disability Family, Niya! New Paralegal Enhancing Client Relations
INGREDIENTS
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 4 oz pancetta, diced 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 tsp fennel seeds
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
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8 cups chicken broth 1 15-oz can cannellini beans, drained
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
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1/2 cup dry white wine 1 cup uncooked orzo 2 large garlic cloves, minced
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1 1/2 cups chopped parsley Pecorino Romano cheese, grated (for garnish)
We are thrilled to welcome Niya Ahmad-Parks to our dedicated team as our new paralegal and case manager! Niya, who joined us a month ago, not only brings with her a readiness to grow but also a background in communication that enhances our commitment to excellent client service. Niya’s journey into the legal field is as unique as the skills she brings to the table. With a bachelor of arts in communication from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Niya’s academic career equipped her with essential communication skills. She credits her communication professors for their influential role in her journey, which now serves as a cornerstone of her daily client interactions. When asked about what she enjoys most about her work, she confirmed that it’s the personal interaction, hands down! “I love talking to the clients,” she shares. “A lot of our clients are very comical, and they always put a smile on my face.” It’s often through these shared laughs and discussions that she and the clients find more common ground, sparking a lasting connection beyond their case. At the core of her professional philosophy, Niya emphasizes kindness. “I always put kindness at the forefront of everything that I do,” she explains. This approach not only endears her to clients but also aligns perfectly with our firm’s team values. Niya believes in the power of positivity and strives to bring light to others through her work. Niya is excited about the prospects within the legal field. “I want to continue to do work that makes a difference in people’s lives,” she asserts. Her aspirations include not just professional growth but also personal adventures, hoping to continue traveling the world and enjoying great food along the way. Outside the office, Niya is an avid thrifter, always on the lookout for hidden gems at local thrift stores. She also enjoys culinary explorations and quick trips to cities across the country. Just recently, she took a spontaneous trip to Florida to escape the gloomy weather, soaking up the sun and recharging on the beach. Niya is more than just our new paralegal; she is a vibrant addition to the Keefe Disability Law family. Her blend of professional skills and interests adds a dynamic layer to our team, and we look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on our clients and our community!
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Lemon wedges
DIRECTIONS 1. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook 4–6 minutes. Add onion, salt, and pepper; cook until softened, 8–12 minutes. 2. Add wine and cook 4–5 minutes. Add orzo, garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper; cook, stirring constantly, 2–4 minutes. 3. Add broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook until orzo is al dente, 8–10 minutes. 4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cannellini beans; cook about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in chives, tarragon, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Top with cheese and lemon.
Inspired by FoodAndWine.com
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Share Your Story! Do you want to share a story about your disability claim, experience with Keefe Disability Law, or just a funny story in general? Contact Andrea at 1-800-776-2929 or via email at Patrick@KeefeLaw.com, and you could be featured in our next newsletter!
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inside this issue
1 2
The Quiet Strength of a Supportive Dad
Food History Facts That Will Amaze You
Beat the SSA Customer Service Wait Time
3
Meet Niya, Our New Paralegal!
Spring Herb Soup With Orzo and Pancetta
4
Paws and Paths
Gear Up Your Pup for a Hiking Adventure PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
Boots While some dogs may resist wearing boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed. Waste Bags Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. Emergency Harness Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must-have hiking gear for your canine companion. Food and Water One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks. First-Aid Kit Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse.
• 1-800-776-2929 • KeefeLaw.com
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