Things to do in Quartzsite: Unearthing the Rugged Wonders
Quartzsite: Unearthing the Rugged Wonders of Arizona’s Desert
In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Quartzsite, Arizona, stands as a rugged and alluring destination, beckoning adventurers to unearth its hidden wonders. Desert Wolf Tours says that this desert oasis promises a journey filled with natural marvels, outdoor thrills, and glimpses into the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Imagine lacing up your Hiking boots and embarking on a trek through the Buckskin Mountains, where towering saguaro cacti stand as sentinels against the rocky terrain, and winding trails lead you through a maze of canyons and hidden oases. As you navigate the desert paths, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse array of wildlife that calls this arid wonderland home, from the elusive desert bighorn sheep to the majestic golden eagle soaring overhead.
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled escape, the vast expanses of the surrounding desert offer a playground ripe for exploration. Join a guided ATV or Jeep tour and prepare for an exhilarating ride as you conquer rugged terrain, navigate steep inclines, and carve through the soft, golden sand. Imagine the thrill of pushing your limits and embracing the raw power of the desert landscapes.
Quartzsite is a haven for rock hounds and mineral enthusiasts, with its abundance of quartz, agate, and other precious gemstones scattered throughout the desert. Embark on a rockhounding adventure, scouring the vast expanses for hidden treasures that have been shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years. Imagine the excitement of uncovering a dazzling crystal or a rare mineral specimen, each one a unique piece of the Earth’s history.
For those seeking a cultural experience, the Hi Jolly Monument pays homage to the region’s storied past. This towering pyramid-shaped structure, constructed from discarded materials and found objects, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its creator, Hadji Ali. Explore this remarkable landmark and marvel at the intricate mosaics and whimsical designs that adorn its walls, each one a reflection of the desert’s rugged beauty and the resilience of its inhabitants.
As the day draws to a close, Quartzsite’s starry skies beckon stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. Join a guided stargazing tour or simply find a secluded spot away from the city lights, and let the twinkling celestial display take your breath away. Gaze up at the infinite expanse of stars, marveling at the vastness of the universe and the beauty that surrounds you in this desert haven.
With its rugged terrain, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for adventure, Quartzsite offers a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled thrill, a serene escape into nature’s embrace, or a chance to unearth hidden treasures, this desert gem promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul, beckoning you to return time and again to unravel its secrets and discover its rugged wonders.
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Ask a financial coach: What types of savings buckets should I have?Ask a financial coach: What types of savings buckets should I have?
Saving money is hard. We get it. The truth is, most of us never feel like we have “extra” cash lying around that we can just hide away in a savings account. So, if you’re wondering how to start, congratulations. That’s an important first step to creating a budget and savings plan to help you manage your financial future.
GIVE YOUR MONEY A JOB
Look at the money you have and give every dollar a single job. Set money aside money for bills, groceries, gas, energy bills, utilities, and phones—all your monthly expenses. As you track your spending, you’ll see where the money goes and get a clear picture of what’s left for non-monthly expenses.
Paying closer attention to your spending habits will also help you identify spending that may not be necessary or important. Can you unsubscribe from some of those streaming service apps? Do you actually use that gym membership? Are those impulse buys on Amazon really that important? As you dial this nonessential spending in, your savings will increase.
Consider the following groups of expenses when it comes to savings:
THINGS YOU HAVE TO SAVE FOR
These are non-monthly expenses that you know will occur at some point. Some of them are entirely predictable, and others are
not. Examples of both types include:
Predictable Non-Monthly Expenses:
- Annual car registration
- Holiday shopping
- Annual subscriptions
Unpredictable Non-Monthly Expenses:
- Car repairs
- Medical and dental bills
- Vet bills
THINGS YOU WANT TO SAVE FOR
Now that you’ve covered the essentials, let’s get down to the fun. Start by identifying the things you want to save for. Consider starting small, like saving for new clothing or tickets to a show you really want to see. But you can start planning for a trip to Paris or a ski vacation in Aspen too. Set up your accounts, and watch the balances grow. Your budget can help you make this happen.
Setting up Your Sub-Accounts
Determining your savings categories will help you budget accordingly so you can track your progress and know where you’re at when you need to access funds to pay a bill or deal with a problem. Consider the following categories to start:
Emergency savings
Ideally, setting aside three to six months of income in case of a job loss or disaster would be great. But it’s a lot. A $1,000 emergency fund is a good place to start but consider aiming higher once you get there.
If you’re risk-averse, a bigger emergency fund category can give you more peace of mind. If you have large financial responsibilities like kids or a house that needs maintenance or repairs, a bigger emergency fund might make sense.
Health and medical savings
Set aside funds to cover copays, uncovered balances, prescriptions, eyeglasses, elective treatments, and other cash outlays that Health insurance doesn’t pay in full. Consider a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA). Both are designed to help you cover qualified medical expenses, but they are different.
What is an HSA?
Designed to cover qualified medical expenses, an HSA can either be sponsored by an employer or opened by an individual. To open an HSA, you must:
- Be covered under a qualified high-deductible healthcare plan (HDHP)
- Not be covered by medicare or any plan that is not a qualified HDHP
- Not be claimed as a dependent
HSA contribution limits for 2024 are $4,150 for single individuals and $8,300 for families.
What is an FSA?
An FSA also allows you to save for medical expenses, but you don’t need to be enrolled in a high-deductible plan to qualify. Your employer only has to offer an FSA benefit. The FSA contribution limit for 2024 is $3,200 regardless of whether it’s for an individual or a family..
CAR REPAIR OR NEW CAR SAVINGS
This one’s pretty straightforward. If you own an older car that requires regular maintenance, set aside enough to cover expected repairs, oil changes, tires, wiper blades, etc. Consider setting more aside in case a big repair is necessary. There are reliable estimates for annual car repair costs online. You may also consider setting aside funds for a new car down payment if that’s your goal. Calculate the price and decide what you can afford. The larger the down payment the lower your monthly loan payment will be.
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Canopy Credit Union | What types of savings buckets should I have?
Environmentally Friendly uses of shipping containersEnvironmentally Friendly uses of shipping containers
Sustainable Solutions: Environmentally Friendly Uses of Shipping Containers with Giant Lockbox
Giant Lockbox, a pioneering force in the Shipping container industry, is committed to promoting environmental sustainability through the innovative reuse and repurposing of shipping containers. With a focus on eco-friendly practices and a dedication to excellence, Giant Lockbox offers a wide range of environmentally friendly uses for shipping containers. From sustainable housing to green infrastructure projects, the potential for reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact is vast. Let’s explore some of the ingenious ways in which Giant Lockbox is harnessing the sustainability of shipping containers to create environmentally friendly solutions.
Green Buildings: One of the most environmentally friendly uses of shipping containers is in the construction of green buildings. Giant Lockbox specializes in transforming shipping containers into sustainable structures that minimize energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions. By repurposing shipping containers, builders can incorporate recycled materials into construction projects, reducing the need for new resources and minimizing waste. Green buildings offer benefits such as improved energy efficiency, reduced environmental footprint, and healthier indoor environments for occupants.
Off-Grid Living: Shipping containers are also used to create off-grid living spaces that rely on renewable energy sources and sustainable practices. Giant Lockbox can customize shipping containers with features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and composting toilets, allowing residents to live off the grid with minimal impact on the environment. Off-grid living promotes self-sufficiency, conservation, and a closer connection to nature, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious individuals.
Urban Farming: Shipping containers are being repurposed into urban farming facilities to grow fresh produce in densely populated areas. Giant Lockbox can modify shipping containers into hydroponic or aquaponic farms, providing a controlled environment for growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs year-round. Urban farming reduces food miles, conserves water, and promotes local food production, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system.
Community Gardens: Shipping containers are also used to create community gardens and green spaces in urban environments. Giant Lockbox can convert shipping containers into garden sheds, tool storage units, or communal gathering spaces for community gardens. Community gardens promote Social cohesion, food Security, and environmental stewardship, providing opportunities for residents to connect with nature and each other while improving the local environment.
Disaster Relief: Shipping containers are valuable assets in disaster relief efforts, providing temporary shelters, medical clinics, and storage facilities in areas affected by natural disasters. Giant Lockbox can customize shipping containers with essential amenities such as bedding, sanitation facilities, and medical equipment, allowing relief organizations to respond quickly and effectively to humanitarian crises. Container-based disaster relief solutions are durable, versatile, and sustainable, providing essential support to communities in need.
Art Installations: Shipping containers are increasingly being used as artistic mediums in public art installations that raise awareness about environmental issues. Giant Lockbox can customize shipping containers into interactive sculptures, murals, or temporary exhibitions that promote sustainability and environmental conservation. Container-based art installations engage the public in conversations about waste, consumption, and the interconnectedness of humans and the environment.
The environmentally friendly uses of shipping containers are diverse and impactful, offering solutions for sustainable construction, off-grid living, urban farming, community development, disaster relief, and artistic expression. With Giant Lockbox’s expertise in container customization and commitment to sustainability, the integration of shipping containers into environmentally friendly projects is becoming increasingly common and Effective. Join Giant Lockbox in harnessing the sustainability of shipping containers to create a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for generations to come.
What Medical Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability?What Medical Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability?
Being unable to work due to medical conditions can be very stressful, worrying about how to maintain your life and pay the bills, as well as medical costs. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is there to ensure people do need to find themselves in those situations, but what conditions qualify for SSDI benefits?
While there is no set and firm answers regarding what conditions are covered by social security disability or not, there are guides and a baseline definition that can act as a rule of thumb:
SSDI recognizes an illness or injury that prevents a person from working for at least a year or that will likely cause death.
Social Security Disability & the Administration Blue Book
As mentioned, there is a guide the Social Security Administration uses and people can look through to know whether they qualify for SSDI benefits: The Social Security Blue Book. Officially known as the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security, it lists the medical impairments the SSA considers severe enough to prevent someone from working and lists the medical criteria for determining if a person can receive disability benefits.
You can find the Social Security Blue Book here:
Disability Evaluation Under Social Security
Medical Conditions that Qualify for Social Security Disability
If a condition is listed in the Blue Book, it automatically meets the definition set by the SSA and qualifies a person for Social Security disability insurance. Here are some of the impairments and conditions listed that automatically qualify someone:
- Musculoskeletal System: Conditions that affect the bones and muscles, such as back injuries and other dysfunctions of the joints and bones.
- special Senses and Speech: Conditions affecting vision, hearing, and speech.
- Respiratory Disorders: Such as asthma, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, and cystic fibrosis.
- Cardiovascular System: Including chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, and recurrent arrhythmias.
- Digestive System: Conditions like liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal hemorrhaging.
- Genitourinary Disorders: Kidney diseases and other conditions related to the reproductive and urinary systems.
- Hematological Disorders: Disorders of the blood, such as anemia, hemophilia, and bone marrow failures.
- Skin Disorders: Eczema, burns, and other dermatological conditions.
- Endocrine Disorders: Conditions related to hormone-producing glands, such as thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary gland disorders.
- Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: For instance, Down syndrome.
- Neurological: Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy, among others.
- Mental Disorders: Such as schizophrenia, autism, depression, anxiety, and intellectual disorders.
- Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases).
- Immune System Disorders: Including lupus, HIV/AIDS, and rheumatoid arthritis.
It’s important to remember that only being diagnosed doesn’t guarantee approval for disability benefits and that the SSA requires specific medical evidence, and documentation before benefits are approved.
Secure Your Medical Benefits
The application process for SSDI is complex, and many applications are denied the first time. When that happens, a person can pursue the appeals process, which many find success with, especially if legal representation has been secured.
Here at Marken Law Group, we understand how stressful getting your rightful SSI benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during such an uneasy time. We have represented hundreds of claimants in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and California to obtain what is rightfully theirs. We focus on your individual needs rather than treat all cases as the same, bringing our extensive experience to help guide you through.
If you want to better ensure you get the SSDI benefits you’re owed, contact us below and work with social security Attorneys who know how to navigate the system and fight for you.