Keefe Disability Law - May/June 2024

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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