Disability Help Center - San Diego - August 2019

Disability Help Center - San Diego - August 2019

HELPING HAND

DisabilityHelpCenter.org

August 2019

SINGING IN THE KEY OF JOY! MY MAGICAL WORLD OF MUSIC: O n Aug. 4, 1901, famous trumpeter, composer, and vocalist Louis Armstrong was born. Armstrong’s passion for jazz inspired those

years, in addition to trying to master these instruments, I spent as much time singing as I possibly could. Musician Lou Rawls once said, “Music is the greatest communication in the world. Even if people don’t understand the language you’re singing in, they still know good music when they hear it.” To me, in addition to being the greatest form of communication, singing is also a way to lift your spirits when you feel down, and it’s one of the best ways to feel connected with those who listen or join in. Now that I have children of my own, music plays a huge role in our home. In fact, all of my children play an instrument and sing. They now play lead in their concerts and sing for school and church events. I love sharing my passion for music with my family, and I enjoy assisting my kids with their practice and watching their skills improve. While I had always planned on bringing my love for music into my home as a wife and mother, ample scientific studies corroborate musicians’ claims about the benefits of playing instruments and singing. Researchers and doctors have found that exposing infants and babies in the womb to music helps build the neural bridges used to process information and personal thoughts. In fact, studies have found that babies even have a preference for the same music they heard in the womb once they are born! Other studies report that early music exposure and instruction have benefits on the development of perceptual skills, which affect language and literary abilities and fine motor coordination. It’s for these reasons, along with my own personal experiences enjoying music, that I believe all schools should devote time and resources to a musical program

around him to embrace music with the same gusto, and, while I’ve always been more of an admirer of the classical composers, I can’t help but regard Armstrong’s true enthusiasm as an impetus for my own decision to immerse myself in the magical world of music. I was only 6 when I started taking piano lessons, and I was smitten right away. The early stages of learning an instrument like the piano are wonderful because you get to hear the benefits of your hard work with your own ears. A few measly notes quickly grow into full-fledged songs, and, after all these years, I still think learning how to play an instrument is one of the most rewarding experiences a child can have.

“A few measly notes quickly grow into full- fledged songs, and after all these years, I still think learning how to play an instrument is one of the most rewarding experiences a child can have.”

students of all ages can enjoy. In my mind, learning an instrument, singing more often, or even just checking out different musical genres can better the lives of everyone. It’s never too late to give it a try!

After playing the piano for two years, I decided to take up the violin, and, eventually, the guitar. Growing up, I remember countless days full of lessons and hours upon hours of weekly practices. Fortunately, all that practice paid off when I was top of my music classes at school and the first to land a spot in our concerts — all the way from elementary school to high school. During all these

–Elizabeth Packard

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AMERICA’S WEIRDEST AIRBNBS

When Airbnb was founded a little over a decade ago, the developers hoped to provide an alternative to traditional travel accommodations. Today, with annual revenue in the billions, the service is an industry unto itself. While most people use Airbnb to “live like a local” while traveling, you can find some truly wacky lodging options if you spend some time searching the platform. Here are just a few of the many contenders for the title of “Weirdest Airbnb in the U.S.” For ease of searching, the listings here have the same titles as they do on Airbnb.

hangar surely takes the cake. You’d be forgiven for thinking it was a theme restaurant featuring eclectic aviation. Memorabilia lines the walls with a bar front and center, and the bed is in a loft high above the ground.

DOG BARK PARK INN B&B Cottonwood, Idaho

As you approach the Dog Bark Park Inn, you won’t have to guess if you’re in the right place. After all, how many buildings are shaped like beagles? When describing the space on Airbnb, the hosts make no bones about who this rental is aimed for. “Stay in a giant dog!” they say. In addition to being inside a massive wooden dog, you’ll find canine-themed games, books, and more. Talk about ruffing it.

BRAND NEW STUDIO EARTHSHIP Taos, New Mexico

Earthships, houses run by clean energy and featuring reused materials, are a fixture of the Taos area. This one, which looks almost like a crashing wave with a living space in its undertow, combines the rustic charm of truly getting away from it all with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and in-home laundry. It’s a truly unique living space surrounded by pristine nature and not far from the historic Taos Pueblo.

MANCAVE APARTMENT/AIRPLANE HANGAR Geneva, Florida

Airbnb super hosts Dan and Deborah have no shortage of quirky properties for rent — including yurts and treehouses — but their apartment fashioned out of an airplane

HOW DO YOU COMBAT RISING FOOD COSTS WHILE STAYING HEALTHY?

BEANS This nonperishable, plant-based protein is coveted for fiber richness. If possible, be sure to rinse canned beans prior to consumption to get rid of the sodium content.

The United States Department of Agriculture predicts that in 2019, Americans will see an increase in food prices between 1–2% overall. Dairy prices are expected to rise 3–4%, vegetable prices will rise 2.5–3.5%, cereal and bakery prices will go up 2–3%, and fresh fruit will become 2–3% more expensive. Since these rising prices stem from big global issues like high oil prices and climate change, the modern American family can’t do much to reverse the trend. There is, however, something you can do to deepen your pockets: purchase more nonperishable food items. Many people dislike the idea of stocking their kitchen with nonperishables due to the belief that there are no healthy options, but this is far from true. Here are some great (and tasty) options to keep in mind the next time you head to the store.

NUTS AND SEEDS Other plant-based, nonperishable proteins come in the form of pecans, walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Speaking of peanuts, keeping peanut butter can prove to be handy (and healthy) as well. But, when choosing peanut or any other nut butter, be sure to select a product free of added sugars and oils.

OATS This whole grain is packed with fiber and offers a significant amount of nutrients. Contrary to popular opinion, you don’t even need a heating source. Simply pour oats in a small cup

and add water, allowing the water to absorb. You can, however, add other nonperishable food items to amplify flavor and nutrients, including peanut butter, applesauce, and cinnamon if handy. If you need assistance gaining access to these healthy, nonperishable food items, be sure to give us a call, so our advocates can pair you with one of our helpful resources in the community!

TUNA FISH Canned or pouched tuna is an overwhelmingly valuable nonperishable item. Both offer a great source of protein, but be sure to select tuna soaked in water rather than oil if you’re looking to reduce unwanted calories. Additionally, remember to look for cans with the MSC blue Certified Sustainable food label, BPA-free indication on packaging labels, and “light” or “white” tuna products are naturally low in mercury.

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THESE RESOURCES CAN HELP THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST SPREADING AWARENESS AND REDUCING THE STIGMA

Stop Soldier Suicide This resource is the first national, veteran-founded-and-led 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on military suicide prevention. With more than 45,000 veteran service organizations recognized by the IRS, getting help can be difficult, confusing, and time-consuming. In efforts to change that, Stop Soldier Suicide works one-on-one with troops, veterans, and military family members to help navigate the maze of services, programs, and assistance available. WEBSITE: STOPSOLDIERSUICIDE.ORG/ Contact: [email protected] There’s nothing more important to us this upcoming month and every month than to help our clients get the help they need. If you have questions, want advice, or just need someone to talk to, don’t put off getting in touch with our advocates here at the Disability Help Center. We are here for you.

Coming up next month, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, an event near and dear to our hearts will be held here at the Disability Help Center. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), more than 41,000 individuals die by suicide each year. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of background, gender, or age, and they often stem from an untreated mental health condition. We use this month to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness, ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention, and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services. That’s why we partner with several important resources in an effort to shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic. Help Therapist This resource offers mental health and counseling services in a home, facility, or office setting to individuals who would otherwise be unable to obtain treatment.

WEBSITE: HELPTHERAPIST.COM/ Contact: [email protected]

Mental Health America of San Diego County This organization is dedicated to promoting mental health, preventing mental disorders, and achieving victory over mental illnesses through advocacy, education, research, and service.

WEBSITE: MHASD.ORG Contact: [email protected]

August Word Search WORDSEARCH

Corn is plentiful during the summer months, and this easy- to-make salsa is sure to be a hit at your next get-together. ROASTED CORN SALSA

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F L E M N P O K C A B R B X N Z B D H L A Z O N A E Q C R M L S N I C N S P L M W Z T E I I L E S K A H P M L E A V E S W S A T J L E U H U J A Y W I V R K F U C S T W T U E F H O U Q J Q T H N B Z A D U F J T D A A S E I E F J U T K G V S R W M R Y L O W D Q M J G X U F X O J V L F O Y W K J K S G D U Y F R Y H E K Q T Y T Q U Y I H G M N I L F M F Y O I A

INGREDIENTS • 2 medium ears of corn, shucked • 1 jalapeño or Fresno chile, seeded and thinly sliced • 1/2 red onion, diced • 1 large tomato, cored, seeded, and finely chopped • 1/4 bunch cilantro leaves, sliced • Juice of 1 lime • Kosher salt, to taste

DIRECTIONS 1. Heat a cast-iron skillet to high. Char corn, turning occasionally, for 10–14 minutes until kernels begin to blacken in spots. 2. Using a sharp knife, remove corn kernels from cobs and transfer to a large mixing bowl. 3. With a wooden spoon or potato masher, gently crush corn to release starch and juices. 4. Add jalapeño, onion, tomato, and cilantro. Mix to combine.

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SCHOOL SUMMER SUPPLIES TEACHERS

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5. Top with lime juice and season with salt. 6. Serve alongside your favorite tortilla chips.

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Disability Help Center 1833 Fourth Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 888-418-8860 DisabilityHelpCenter.org

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1

My Magical World of Music

2

Not Your Average Vacation Lodgings How Do You Combat Rising Food Costs While Staying Healthy?

3

These Resources Can Help Those Who Need It Most Roasted Corn Salsa

4

A Biking Adventure

RIDE INTO THE SUNSET

4 TIPS TO MAINTAIN YOUR BICYCLE

Hopping on your bicycle for a family bike ride through the neighborhood is a great activity for beautiful summer weather, but nothing spoils a fun day of riding more than a flat tire or dislodged chain. That’s why it’s important to keep up with bike maintenance, even if you typically stay close to home. By following these four tips, you and your family can enjoy a smooth ride all summer long. GIVE YOUR BIKE A ONCE-OVER. The best way to avoid any problems with your bike while riding is to inspect it thoroughly before you head out. Check each component and make sure everything is in working order. If you notice your handlebars are loose or your brake pads are worn, you’ll be able to make adjustments or repairs before hopping on. FILL YOUR TIRES PROPERLY. Proper bike tire pressure can seem ambiguous; many people just inflate the tires until they seem plump enough to ride on. But a bike tire will typically have the recommended air pressure in psi (pound-force per square inch) stamped into the side of the tire. For example, your tire might say Min. 85–Max. 135 psi . This may seem like a broad range, but it all depends on what you’re looking for: A higher psi will increase speed, while a lower psi will give you a smoother ride.

or diluted dish soap to wipe it down, and take extra care not to get any of it on

the chain. If the chain is dry to the touch, remove any debris that may be caught in it with a small brush or old toothbrush before applying a good bicycle chain lube.

INVOLVE YOUR KIDS. Encouraging your kids to maintain their own bikes will help them understand the importance of taking care of their possessions. Teach them to inspect their bike, clean and lubricate their chains, and regularly check their tire pressure.

KEEP IT CLEAN. Cleaning your bike regularly is essential in preventing premature wear and tear. When cleaning the body of the bike, use a damp rag with window cleaner

This summer, set yourself up for cycling success and make bike maintenance a priority.

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