Take a look at our April newsletter!
Makin’ It Better NEWSLETTER
April 2023
Oregon Workers’ Compensation | Personal Injury | Social Security Disability
1139 Exchange St., Astoria, OR 97103 • 503-325-8600 • JoeDiBartolomeo.com
It’s the Little Things in Life STRATEGIES TO LIVE SIMPLY
Today, our lives are filled with distractions. You may hear the ping of your phone when an incoming call or text hits your inbox or feel it buzz and vibrate in your purse or pocket daily. You might surf the web and scroll social media to pass the time. It’s like we’re living in a virtual reality — and I’m not talking about the headset or gaming equipment! No matter where you are — the grocery store, a restaurant, a concert, a family and friends gathering, or other social events — you see people’s faces lit up by the screen of their phones. Living in a world full of distractions and constant entertainment can sometimes cause us to lose sight of the people around us and the good things in our lives. Other times, you may feel pressure to portray a particular lifestyle on social media, which creates unwanted stress.
Once you’ve outlined your values, create a routine and invest your time in meaningful things to help you grow and achieve your
goals. So, the next time you feel the urge to scroll aimlessly on your phone in the presence of your friends and family, ask yourself: “Does this support or diminish my values?” Hopefully, your answer will help you participate more in activities that benefit you. Finally, carve out time to practice gratitude. It’s an easy trap to compare your life to those you see online. Instead, take a step back and think about all the unique life experiences and people you have. Every day, write down a few things you’re grateful for. These can be as simple as getting out of bed in the morning or as complex as you’d like. When you reflect on your life and the good things in it, you develop a deeper appreciation for what you have. Once we pull ourselves out of our phones and look at the world around us, we start living in the present more completely! Living a simple life allows us to disconnect from our smartphones and other devices and enjoy more time to do what we love. We become more grateful and experience less stress and anxiety. So, take some time this month to reflect on your daily routine and find ways to incorporate a simpler way of life into your schedule. When you first start, it will be challenging to change your habits. But with patience, dedication, and time, you will reap the benefits of living simply.
Is there anything we can do instead? Or are we destined to live in an online world disconnected from the real one we’re standing in?
Living simply is one of the best ways to stay present in the moment and live a happier and more fulfilling life. I’m not talking about throwing out your electronic devices and not using technology altogether. Going back to the Stone Age won’t help us! Instead, simple living is adjusting your lifestyle, being mindful of what you pay attention to and purchase, and changing your thinking. How do you live a simple life? The first thing you want to do is evaluate the lifestyle you have now. What is your everyday routine? What do you look at on your phone? Understand your routine and habits so that you can modify them. After reviewing your daily routine, create a list of everything important to you. Write down your values, goals, and who and what you care about. Be sure to keep your list somewhere where you can view it often. When important things are front and center, it’s easier to align your habits and behavior with your values.
–Joe Di Bartolomeo | 1
The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE! HOW TO PROPERLY RECYCLE YOUR ELECTRONICS
What electronic devices can you recycle? You can recycle computers, laptops, monitors, cellphones, TVs, radios, tablets, printers, and other devices. But that’s not all! You can also recycle air conditioners, heaters, microwaves, digital cameras, circuit boards, VCR/DVD players, calculators, and more. How can you reduce, reuse, and recycle these devices? If your electronics are still in good condition and function properly, you can donate them to friends, charities, or community outreach programs. Some cellular companies allow you to turn in your old phone when you buy a new one — and you can even get some money back if your phone isn’t in shambles! Just be sure your personal information and data are wiped from your devices before giving them away. You can also send your electronics to a specialized facility that will wipe your data and recycle your devices. Search online for electronic recycling in your area to find businesses and organizations that offer this service. However, ensure that whatever facility you use is environmentally friendly. So, the next time you upgrade to a new phone, tablet, or computer, or when you get a new microwave and other electronic devices, recycle or donate them! The environment will thank you for it.
When you think of recycling, you may think of the blue bins you use to recycle plastic, paper, cardboard, or glass. But did you know that you can also recycle electronics and other devices? Here are some statistics about electronic waste (e-waste). • Around 12% of our electronics are appropriately recycled each year. This means that over 80% of devices are put in the garbage or sent to Asia or Africa to be burned. However, burning these devices releases harmful toxins in the air that can affect us, other living organisms, and the environment.
• The most hazardous electronic toxins are mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, selenium, chromium, and flame retardants.
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E-waste is increasing yearly — we generate around 40 million tons worldwide. Our cellphones are filled with precious metals such as gold and silver. The U.S. throws out $60 million worth of these metals each year.
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How to Receive SSD Benefits While Employed
Most people think that you can’t work when receiving federal disability benefits, or else you lose your monthly allowance. Yet, this isn’t entirely true. The Ticket to Work program allows those on Social Security Disability (SSD) to start their journey back to the workforce without losing their benefits. This federal program can financially support those who want to earn more in a new career. How does it work? The Ticket to Work program lets SSD beneficiaries decide if working is right for them and if they can expand their income in a new career. Most people who already receive SSD benefits are qualified for Ticket to Work. This project’s advantages include free job counseling, placement, and training. Employment Networks (EN) or your state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency offers these free job support services to Ticket to Work participants.
become financially independent in the future. Ticket to Work is a valuable plan because you will still receive your disability benefits while working until you can fully provide for yourself. How much can I earn while on SSD? You won’t lose your benefits just from participating in Ticket to Work. Additionally, Social Security cannot assess your disability qualification or discontinue your benefits due to improved health when you are still in Ticket to Work. However, you can lose your SSD benefits while in this process if your work salary is sufficient to be independent. This salary limit is not set and is different for every case. Is Ticket to Work right for me? Ticket to Work is for anyone ages 18–65 on SSD who earnestly wants to return to the workforce and increase their income. If you’re unsure about this procedure, visit ChooseWork.ssa.gov or contact our team at (503)325-8600 for guidance with your specific case.
Should You Apply for Ticket to Work? 1 4.16.23 13563 274
This agenda is entirely voluntary and specifically for those who want to
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The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
Building a solid lawsuit requires strong evidence and proper legal advice. However, you don’t have to leave the work entirely up to the professionals! Here are some ways to ensure you receive the most substantial compensation possible for your situation. Gather all your evidence. When it comes to evidence, the more you can provide, the better. Always make a doctor’s visit to have your injury evaluated and documented so you can prove the damage you experienced due to the accident. Other evidence you should gather are police reports, mental health records, photos, videos, and eyewitness reports. BUILD A STRONG CASE AND EARN MORE 4 Ways to Maximize Your Compensation
Stay silent on social media. The last thing you want is a Facebook post of you diving into a pool when you claim to be badly injured. Whatever you post on any social media platform can be used against you in your case. That’s why it’s crucial to refrain from posting online, especially details about the accident, until after the case has ended. Keep all communication about the lawsuit between yourself and your lawyer. Value your claim. There’s no reason to sell yourself short when valuing your claim. Aside from damages like medical bills and missed wages, emotional damages and loss of bodily functions can also be considered additional damages. Your lawyer can help you discover which damages can help build your case. Reject inadequate settlements. If the defendant offers a settlement you know is undervaluing your claim, you can reject it and prove that your case deserves more. Ask your lawyer to explain to the defendant that the settlement is inadequate and firmly assert that you have the evidence to support your claim. Expressing confidence in your case and negotiating settlements can lead to better compensation for the injuries you sustained.
PUZZLE
This recipe is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights when eating healthy seems impossible. The buttery cod is low-fat and a great way to include healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in your diet. Inspired by TasteofHome.com Cod and Asparagus Bake
Ingredients
• Oil for baking pan • 4 4-oz cod fillets
• 1 lb thin asparagus, trimmed • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved • 2 tbsp lemon juice • 1 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest • 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. In a 15x10x1-inch baking pan brushed with oil, place cod, asparagus, and tomatoes. 2. Brush cod with lemon juice, then sprinkle with lemon zest. Sprinkle cod and vegetables with Romano cheese. Bake until fish flakes easily with a fork, about 12 minutes. 3. Remove pan from oven; preheat broiler. Broil cod mixture 3-4 inches from the heat source until vegetables are lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
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503-325-8600 JoeDiBartolomeo.com
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
1139 Exchange St. Astoria, OR 97103
What’s Inside
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How Can You Live a Simple Life?
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Our Landfills Are an Electronic Wasteland What Is the Ticket to Work Program?
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How to Maximize Compensation in Your Personal Injury Case Cod and Asparagus Bake
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Combating Spring Allergies
and skin to remove any traces of pollen. Do not cut the grass, pull weeds, or do any gardening. NIPPING SPRING ALLERGIES IN THE BUD When Pollen Strikes Remove pollen from indoor air. It’s inevitable that pollen will get inside your home and vehicle. To combat this, utilize your air conditioning or invest in a certified allergy air filter! A dehumidifier and/or an air purifier will help to lower the pollen spore count in the air. Rinse out your sinuses. When pollen overwhelms your sinus passages, one of the best things to do is to rinse out your airways. A sinus flush with a saline solution is one of the easiest and most effective ways to eliminate the pollen that irritates your respiratory system. Take over-the-counter medications. After checking with your doctor or health care provider, choose an over-the-counter medication that is right for your symptoms. Medications like oral antihistamines, oral decongestants, and corticosteroid nasal sprays are all beneficial in reducing the effects of seasonal allergies.
Spring has arrived! However, rebirth and renewal aren’t the only things in the air. During spring, trees, weeds, plants, and grasses release small grains of pollen into the air to fertilize other plants. Because the pollen is small and light, it travels through the wind and frequently causes allergic reactions. Symptoms of seasonal allergies include congestion, sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, an itchy throat, watering eyes, and irritation in the roof of your mouth. If you’re prone to experiencing allergies all spring long, here are some useful tips to keep them at bay. Reduce your exposure. During spring months, keep the windows in your home and car closed. On particularly windy or dry days, avoid spending time outdoors, and do not hang your clean laundry outside to dry. After you have been outdoors, remove your clothing and wash your hair
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The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
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