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FAMILY FAVORITES Comics Evolve Across Generations The Truth About Lyman Beginning a Journey Starts with Dedication to Transparency 2860 Piedmont Road, Suite 275, Atlanta, GA 30305 lymanfirm.com The Lyman Firm Newsletter TELEGRAPH Amicus Curiae www.LymanFirm.com 404-267-1986 February 2019 The Lyman Firm Newsletter T: 404 267 1986 F: 470 745 0699
MAY 2024
Comic books and graphic novels are a tradition in my family. For years, I enjoyed some of the same adult science fiction and fantasy comics my father used to read in the 1970s. Now, I’m reading with my children the graphic novels and comics that are popular with kids today. As we celebrate Free Comic Book Day on May 4, when comic book shops around the country give away free comics, it’s a good time to recognize the huge influence comic books and graphic novels have had on my family and our culture as a whole. in my younger days. I lead The Lyman Firm as a proud curator of justice for the everyday person, somebody who might not have gotten a fair shake before they met me. I believe one person can be the face of a greater movement, I was always an avid reader as a child. I was devouring novels by third or fourth grade. My dad back then was a fan of Heavy Metal , a glossy, full-color, monthly science fiction and fantasy magazine that debuted in the U.S. in 1977. Heavy Metal began as a licensed translation of a French sci-fi magazine, and it contained beautiful, high-quality artwork by European artists. The magazine had a major cultural impact, influencing the creative imagery of filmmaker George Lucas and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle co-creator Kevin Eastman and elevating the entire comic book genre beyond just superheroes. My dad followed the series for many years and kept copies of the old issues, some of which I still have. I was sad when Heavy Metal ceased publication in 2023 and have been trying to find something to replace it. I love reading science fiction books in general, and Heavy Metal published the kind of fantasy and futuristic writing I enjoy. One month’s issue would be completely different from the next, and I liked the variety. Also, the magazine offered a certain amount of graphic violence, but its message relied on colorful, vivid imagery rather than the “Pow!” and “Bang!” text bubbles in Batman and other superhero comics. We are continuing the family comic book tradition with my kids, who are 9 and 11. My son loves the Godzilla comics, written by many different authors. My daughter is a little younger, and I make time to read with her. My kids enjoy the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series, Jeff Kinney’s funny, comic book-like novels about a middle-school weakling who has a tough time with school but manages to get through it. We also like the “Dog Man” series, “I believe one person can be the face of a greater movement, and these are the everyday people — the heroes — I work for as I drive our cases forward to the fullest extent within our legal system, fighting for what’s right.” G eorgia is a blue-collar state — a grassroots mix of farmland, mountains, and urban development representing ever-expanding opportunities. Being a native of North Atlanta, I have spent most of my life in this fair state, cultivating both my character and my profession as I grew up. Now, I have a distinct opportunity to help those around me in ways I hadn’t anticipated and these are the everyday people — the heroes — I work for as I drive our cases forward to the fullest extent within our legal system, fighting for what’s right. My passions weren’t always for courtroom thrills, though. Growing up in Smyrna, I sought to chase a different kind of rush: the roar of the racetrack. I wasn’t half bad either, eventually taking my hobby for auto racing from amateur status in 2004 all the way to semi-pro in 2007. Unfortunately, like so many other things that went down along with the economy the following year, my racing career crashed in 2008. Shattered by the abrupt end to my racing journey due to a lack of financing,
James and three-year-old daughter Cleo — I am fully immersed in the fun-loving, homely, and exciting life of my family. They are my foundation, and without them nothing would be possible. But I also have a second family of sorts in my clients, whom I treat with the respect and attention a person is owed whenever they find they’re backed in a corner and need help. The pleasure I get from representing good, honest people in the courtroom is unrivaled when compared to the other fields of profession I’ve engaged in life. Oftentimes, I ask a client to share the names of the attorneys they’ve worked with on other cases. Almost none of them are able to muster an answer — the names of their lawyers completely lost in the tides of life’s trials.
I began to look for a new avenue to pour my passions into.
As we grow older and further away from our teens and 20s, we begin to realize that life isn’t always about going fast, both literally and metaphorically. It was during my post racing downtime that I realized I wanted to go back to school at Georgia State. After spending years as a writer and editor, I discovered and followed my newfound calling and began practicing law after graduating from law school. After years of unparalleled grit, drive, and success in the field of law, I was fortunate enough to be able to open my own practice in January of 2018. This new venture has even allowed me to work alongside my brother, a paralegal and case manager, in what has been one of the most exciting periods of my life. For now, our plans for the future include an imminent expansion of the firm and growing the company in ways that still allow us to keep our fundamental values and operations in check.
Dav Pilkey’s graphic novels about a crime-fighting half-dog, half- man character. The themes in many of these comics and graphic novels are constructive and encouraging for kids, emphasizing the importance of empathy and doing good. And any kind of reading is good for kids. Comics and graphic novels also are helping my kids avoid a problem that didn’t even exist when I was a kid — too much screen time on their tablets. I don’t allow my children any screen time during the week. They don’t like my rule, but I think it’s a good move for now until they’re old enough to regulate their screen time themselves. As a lifelong reader, it’s exciting to me to see them immerse themselves in reading. Fortunately, these comic books and graphic novels fill their evenings with constructive themes and some worthwhile reading practice. If you have ever been a fan of graphic novels or comics, consider dropping by your local comic book store on May 4. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you find. That’s when I tell them that there are a million different lawyers out there doing a million different things, but when I take on your case for a serious injury or a wrongful death suit, you’ll remember me as a man who gave you the best possible chance while shooting you straight every step of the way.
At home with my wife Lindsay beside me, and our two children — our five-year-old son
-Thomas Lyman -Thomas J. Lyman
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MARIE CURIE’S DEDICATION TO SCIENCE A Legacy of Resilience and Brilliance
couldn’t be real scientists. It was the first of many accomplishments to improve gender equality for the masses.
Marie Curie, born in 1867 in Warsaw, Poland, left an undeniable mark on the scientific world. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to receive Nobel Prizes in two scientific fields. Her groundbreaking work in physics and chemistry reshaped our understanding of the universe at large and paved the way for future generations of women in science. Born Marya Sklodowska, she was the daughter of teachers and was curious from a young age. She worked as a governess for her sister as she pursued her doctoral career in Paris. She
Madame Curie, unfortunately, lost her collaborator and husband in a road accident in 1906. She took her late husband’s position as chair of the physics department at the Sorbonne and continued as a single mother of two daughters. Just five years later, in 1911, Curie secured her second Nobel Prize, this time in chemistry. She discovered radium and polonium, two elements that significantly
advanced our understanding of radioactivity, further cementing that women could succeed in science.
was determined to channel her curiosity into higher education, though women were not encouraged to attend school, especially in science. But in 1891, she followed her sister and moved to Paris to attend school in Sorbonne, where she met and married Pierre Curie, a fellow scientist who became a lifelong collaborator. In 1903, she won her first Nobel Prize alongside her husband and Henri Becquerel for their research on radioactivity. The recognition became historic, not just for Curie but for all women. This win challenged the prevailing belief that women
Her extensive exposure to radiation throughout her career took a heavy toll on Curie’s health. She passed away from leukemia in 1934 after helping allied efforts in the First World War. Her pioneering spirit, dedication to research, unyielding perseverance, and intellect continue to inspire countless scientists today, especially women in STEM. Madame Curie will always be remembered as a symbol of scientific excellence and the relentless pursuit of knowledge for the greater good.
Wannabe Bank Robber Calls Ahead, Orders Cash to Go Dialing for Dollars
the bank when the managers initiated a lockdown. The accomplice passed the teller a note and collected about $900, but police stopped him as he left the bank. The fleeing accomplice was undoubtedly disappointed when the bag exploded
Any bank robber knows you have to hurry through a heist to escape. A crook in Connecticut tried a novel time-saving technique: calling ahead.
Taking a cue from the take-out food craze, the wannabe bank robber called a bank in Fairfield, Connecticut, and demanded that $100,000 in large bills be prepared for him with no dye packs in the bag. If the orders were not carried out, the caller told the employee, “there will be a bloodbath.” Fairfield cops, who thought they’d seen it all, were dumbfounded. “You can’t make this stuff up,” said a spokesman for the Fairfield Police Department. Robbers have tried many routes when attempting to rob a bank, including entering the drive-through lane and terrorizing tellers through the window. But, “I’ve never had somebody call ahead and say, ‘Get the money, we’re coming,’” said a detective in the Fairfield case. In taking advantage of the telephone warning, the police were already at the scene when the robbers arrived. “I would classify these individuals as ‘not too bright,’” the police spokesman said.
in dye after throwing it on the ground. (Bank employees had disregarded the robbers’ phone order that no dye packs be tucked in with the cash. You just can’t get good service these days.) The accomplice and the robber who placed the call, who had been sitting in a car nearby, were both arrested at the scene without incident. The
adult suspect, Albert Bailey, was on probation for a different bank hold-up several years earlier. Both were charged with first-degree robbery and threatening in the first degree.
The employee who answered the robber’s call immediately hung up and called 9-1-1. The thief’s accomplice, a minor, was already inside
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TAKE A BREAK
PARENTING WITH EMPATHY
The Gentle Parenting Philosophy
Parenthood is the greatest challenge many people will ever face, and raising children today is tougher than ever before in the technology-laden and constantly shifting state of the world. There are many parenting methods, and the latest viral one, gentle parenting, deserves a closer look. This parenting philosophy focuses on a strong parent-child relationship, offering a compassionate alternative to traditional physical disciplinary methods. Gentle parenting emphasizes building a deep, intentional understanding of a child’s needs and the emotions that stem from them. Rather than punishing a child for acting out, gentle parents encourage their children to voice their concerns so they can get to the root of challenging emotions. They view behavioral challenges as opportunities for connection and growth instead of corrections to be made. Active listening, open communication, and constructive problem-solving foster a positive environment where children feel valued and understood. This empathy doesn’t mean that children can mistreat parents, either. It’s still important to set boundaries. Instead of strict rules supported by physical punishment, gentle parenting invites parents to collaborate with their children on decision-making. Involving children in discussions about expectations and consequences will ensure they understand the reasoning behind your rules and what breaking them means. This can encourage children to feel empowered and respected in the discipline process.
Grilled Red Curry Beef Satay With Peanut Sauce
Inspired by StarTribune.com
Ingredients
At its core, the most important aspect of gentle parenting
• 1 1/2 lb flank steak • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk • 2 tbsp lime juice • 1–3 tbsp Thai red curry paste • 1 tbsp fish sauce
For sauce: • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk • 1–2 tbsp Thai red curry paste • 1 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tbsp fish sauce • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter • 1 tbsp lime juice
is rejecting traditional punishments. Gentle parenting is about teaching children appropriate behaviors through positive reinforcement and
Directions 1. Freeze flank steak for 30 minutes. Cut crosswise, against the grain, into thin slices. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, curry paste, and fish sauce. Add steak and toss to coat. Cover and chill for 8 hours. 3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, curry paste, brown sugar, and fish sauce. Bring to a gentle boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add peanut butter and stir until well blended. Remove from heat and add lime juice. 4. Thread the marinated meat onto 12 long skewers. Grill until beef is medium rare, 1–2 minutes per side. 5. Transfer satay to a platter and serve with peanut sauce.
intentional understanding of emotions — inspiring good behavior by acting as a positive example rather than by fear of punishment.
By prioritizing empathy, open communication, and nonviolent discipline, you can raise children who are able to recognize, inspect, and voice their emotions in a peaceful manner. As parents embrace these principles, they contribute to the development of emotionally secure, confident, and well-adjusted children who will grow into great global citizens.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Unleash Your Inner Superhero on Free Comic Book Day!
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My Life in the Courtroom, the Home, and the Racetrack Marie Curie: A Pioneer’s Spirit 3 Wild Divorce Settlements Ways to Invest in Yourself After Retirement Bistecca Alla Fiorentina The Most Iconic Super Bowl in NFL History Grilled Red Curry Beef Satay With Peanut Sauce Dumb Crimes: Wannabe Bank Robber Places Phone Order for Cash
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Let’s Retire These Health Myths The Art of Gentle Parenting
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Not Just a Crime of Passion
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The 5-Second Rule Will Make You Sick 3 Health Myths You Probably Believe Promising Career Allegedly Upended by Secret Love The Twisted Tale of Lawyer Turned Triple Murderer
The official stance from the John Hopkins Arthritis Center states, “There is no evidence that cracking knuckles causes any damage such as arthritis in the joints.” Still, chronic knuckle- cracking can lead to reduced grip strength, so you might want to break the habit anyway. You’ve probably heard these myths for years, but just because something is common knowledge doesn’t mean it is true. With information so easily available, always take the time to research the facts, especially when it comes to your health. On Sept. 6, 2019, Harroz and Titus allegedly drove to the Chandler home near Oklahoma City. They cut the electricity and phone lines and broke in. The couple then went on a rampage, shooting each member of the family as they ran. Just days after the murders, Harroz’s brother turned over an AR-15 rifle to police, stating that the gun was “involved in a triple homicide.” The gun was traced to an Oklahoma man who said he’d sold the gun to Harroz and Titus, according to police. another client to plant a bag of “methamphetamine” (it was sugar) at the home of the victim, Tiffany Eichor, 43, who lived with her parents, Jack and Evelynn Chandler. The Chandlers found the bag and called the police; then, they installed security cameras.
We live in the golden age of information. The answers to many of life’s questions are just an internet search away. Despite this readily available wisdom, we still have a bad habit of believing health-related myths. Here are three popular health “facts” that are total works of fiction. A chilling story unfolded in Oklahoma City in 2021, filled with passion, betrayal, and murder. Keegan Harroz and her client- turned-lover, Barry Titus II, were arrested and charged in a triple homicide that shocked the country. Harroz was a renowned criminal defense attorney who had a compassionate touch with clients of all types. She graduated from Oklahoma City University School of Law
BOTTLED WATER IS SAFER THAN TAP WATER
Seeking out safer water alternatives increases the sales of bottled “spring water” each year. However, bottled water is more expensive, bad for the environment, and, as Dr. Morton Tavel of the Indiana University School of Medicine pointed out, over 50 percent of bottled water is just filtered tap water. The same effect can be achieved with a home filtration system. Of course, if the tap water in your area has been contaminated, bottled water is a safer alternative. However, in most circumstances, bottled water is no healthier than tap water.
THE 5-SECOND RULE KEEPS FOOD SAFE and worked as an assistant public defender before starting her own firm in 2014. There were signs of something darker swirling under the surface,
Obviously germs and bacteria don’t really wait five seconds to pounce, but snatching your chip off the floor fast keeps most of the germs away, right? Not according to a 2006 study published by Dr. Paul Dawson. He found conclusive evidence that when food comes into contact with a contaminated surface, bacteria are transferred immediately. Even one second spent She began to represent Titus in 2018 on drug, firearms, and domestic assault and battery charges. She began dating Titus shortly after. on tile, wood, or carpet is enough to infest your food with salmonella or another serious contaminant. In October 2018, Titus was arrested for domestic assault. Two months later, according to the criminal complaint, Harroz used though. In May 2014, she was charged with the domestic assault of her then-husband, allegedly kicking him twice in the face.
Titus and Harroz are still in jail; their trials are expected to occur sometime in 2024.
CRACKING YOUR KNUCKLES CAUSES ARTHRITIS
The larger community is still grappling with the aftermath of such a crime, many missing the family who was senselessly gunned down. The tragic murder of Tiffany Eichor and Jack and Evelynn Chandler is a reminder of the potential darkness that can lurk beneath seemingly ordinary lives.
The connection between knuckle-cracking and arthritis came from studies where participants self-reported their habits. Modern medical research has shown these results to be false.
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