It May Not Be Perfect, But It’s the Best in the World A TRIBUTE TO THE AMERICAN JUSTICE SYSTEM
Who doesn’t love the Fourth of July? A holiday to celebrate our great nation smack in the middle of summer is exactly my cup of tea. It’s a good thing the Founding Fathers decided to sign the Declaration of Independence in July, because I couldn’t imagine celebrating Independence Day during any other time of the year. In addition to being a great chance to kick back with friends, enjoy the sunshine during the day, and catch the fireworks in the evening, the Fourth of July is a chance to recognize what makes this country so special, both throughout history and now. The daily news cycle can be relentlessly negative — that’s what gets the ratings, I suppose — but during the Fourth, we have a chance to remember the incredible qualities of this nation and the amazing spirit of its people. Patriotism looks different for everyone, but I’d like to think that, at heart, we are all proud to live in the United States. I know I sure am. As an attorney, I deal with the American justice system every day. You might assume that would make me indifferent or callous to the way we practice law in this country, but it’s just the opposite. Over time, I only grow more impressed with our legal principles. Is it perfect? Of course not. At its core, though, the American judicial system is based on fairness and doing things the right way. Everyone in this country is afforded due process by law. We are entitled to a presumption of innocense and a jury trial where you must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. In a court of law, a regular civilian who’s been injured can battle a massive insurance company and win. There is no other arena I can think of that offers such a level playing field and prizes truth above all more than a courtroom does. Ideally, most of us will never need to step foot in one. But if you do, you’ll want to have faith in the Patriotism looks different for everyone, but I’d like to think that, at heart, we are all proud to live in the United States. I know I sure am.
institution itself, as well as in your attorney. In many countries, people don’t have that luxury. Thankfully, we do, and we should all be grateful for it. America is the country of baseball, jazz, hamburgers, and Shark Week. Besides our justice system, there are so many parts of American culture to celebrate. While you’re enjoying your favorite American pastimes this Fourth, however, I hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate the institutions and principles upon which this nation is based. Without them, and without the Founding Fathers who devised them, we wouldn’t be where we are today. The Constitution states, “in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.” These goals, which are as noble today as the day they were written, are behind everything our government seeks to do. When it comes to the justice system, I’d say they’re succeeding.
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Happy Fourth, everyone!
–John Holland 864.582.0416
HIKING WITH YOUR KIDS Watch Their World Expand With Every Step
expand their vocabulary and learn how things work. When they learn they can explore independently and ask about the world around them, they’re gaining the confidence to teach themselves. BRING ALONG SOME TOOLS OF DISCOVERY Getting your children to engage in nature while you’re out hiking can be as simple as bringing a magnifying glass along with you. Let your kids look at leaves, rocks, insects, or anything else you might come across on the trail. You can also bring binoculars to help them look at a bird that might be perched a little too high up. Another option is a bug holder to let your kids catch smaller insects, such as grasshoppers or pill bugs, and give them a close-up look. KEEP SAFETY IN MIND While you’re out on the trail, it’s essential to make sure that both you and your family are safe. Wear breathable, noncotton material and sturdy shoes that don’t expose your toes. It’s important to dress according to the weather. For example, if the day is sunny, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and apply plenty of sunscreen on any exposed skin. Bring your kids’ favorite snacks and water bottles for everyone to stay hydrated. It’s crucial that you also bring a fully stocked first-aid kit in case someone is injured on the hike. Starting with one of your local hiking trails can be a rewarding way to spend the day with your kids. You can watch their excitement as they expand their world with new discoveries.
Hiking has many benefits as a family activity, such as mental health improvement, strengthening your relationships, and experiencing new sights and discoveries together. It’s also great exercise, and you get plenty of quality time, fresh air, and sunshine. Here are three guidelines to help you and your kids have fun on your next hike. ENCOURAGE THEIR CURIOSITY One of the best ways to have your children learn about the world is letting them explore it. Being there for your children and encouraging them to ask questions about flowers, bugs, or animals you see on the trail will help them Testimonial HEAR FROM LESLIE “Rob was great and helped me when I thought we were going against what seemed a losing battle. My 4-year-old was hit by a car in front of our home and was sent off in an ambulance for immediate surgery. My 4-year-old was found at fault, though the driver admitted to being distracted looking for a dog, and a lot of kids were riding their bikes with her. What? Yes, and I couldn’t believe it. It didn’t make sense! But how could I ever go against a police report?! “For three months, I pondered and prayed, not knowing what to do. Day after day, seeing all my daughter went through — two surgeries from a broken femur bone — and knowing the situation in full, I knew I couldn’t sit there and do nothing. That’s when I decided to go ahead and see if there was any hope. “I found Rob Usry and went with him based on his reviews and success with his clients. This is a field I know nothing about, and I prayerfully left it in his hands and hoped for the best. I found Rob very helpful and accessible if ever I had questions. He made it a very smooth process, and in the end, he won my case and was able to get just about all the insurance money Ava needed. (We probably could have won all of it, but I didn’t want to take it to court. It wasn’t worth it for the amount left.) I was very pleased.
“I know that had I tried to go this alone, I would have been no better for trying. It was a comfort to know I had someone who knew what they were doing on my side and who was willing to fight for me. I didn’t want it to get ugly. I understand it was still an accident, and I know I’ve had close calls myself — it happens. But I felt it still needed to be dealt with and brought to a just and fair close.
“I feel Rob did this in a very dignified way, and we were able to accomplish our desired goal.
I would highly recommend Rob Usry. I was terrified to go the attorney route, but I’m so thankful I did. Thank you, Rob, for all you did for us. Job well-done!”
–Leslie S.
www.bhollandlawfirm.com
A Safe Road for Everyone
TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS AND DRIVERS
TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS Pedestrians should stay on sidewalks and in other areas designed for them. When those options aren’t available, walkers should stay as far left as possible, while those on wheels should stay to the right. You should also cross in designated crosswalks rather than sneaking across the middle of a street. Nobody should ever assume that a driver can see them. Try to make eye contact to register your presence to drivers before crossing. If walking at night, wear clothing that is easily visible from a distance. Distracted walking can be almost as dangerous as distracted driving, so staring at your phone or throwing in your headphones should be avoided. TIPS FOR DRIVERS The same rule of recognition applies to drivers. You need to look for pedestrians everywhere, especially where you least expect them. Take turns slowly, and try to spot people before they are too near your car. Always stop at crosswalks, and never attempt to pass, as the car in front of you may be stopped for a pedestrian you can’t see. School zones and residential areas tend to be filled with children who can pop out at a moment’s notice, so you need to exercise additional caution in these areas.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), 2018 was a particularly dangerous year to be a pedestrian. It reports 6,227 pedestrian deaths on U.S. roads over the course of last year — the highest total in more than 25 years. It’s not hard to see why pedestrians hit by cars can suffer serious injuries or death. Compared to a person, a car is essentially a massive, fast-moving wrecking ball. Because of the irreparable damage that can result from these accidents, it’s vital that both pedestrians and drivers obey the rules of the road and watch out for one another.
If you’re a pedestrian who’s been injured by a motor vehicle, call our office today to find out how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Titus 2:7 And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Proverbs 21:2 People may be right in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their heart. Good News
JUICY LUCY SLIDERS
Ingredients
Directions
1. Divide beef into 16 evenly sized balls. 2. Rip cheese into roughly equal pieces, creating 16 equal portions. 3. Using your index finger, create a small indentation in each ball. 4. Fill indention with cheese and pinch meat around to seal. Then gently form balls into 3/4-inch-thick patties. Season patties. 5. Meanwhile, heat a cast-iron skillet to medium-high. 6. Lightly coat skillet with oil and cook patties in batches. Brown one side undisturbed, about 3 minutes. Carefully flip and cook until desired doneness, about 3 minutes for medium. 7. Serve on toasted potato rolls with your favorite accompaniments.
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2 lbs. ground chuck beef, 20% lean
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8 slices melting cheese (like American, Swiss, Muenster, or cheddar) 16 small potato rolls, toasted Salt and pepper, to taste Your favorite burger accompaniments
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Inspired by Bon Appétit Magazine
864.582.0416
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
* This newsletter is intended to educate the public about personal injury, workers’ compensation, criminal defense, and family law issues. You can copy and distribute it as long as you copy the entire newsletter. But the newsletter is not intended to be legal advice; you should ask a lawyer about your specific case. Every case is different, and all case outcomes depend on unique facts and laws.
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INSIDE this issue
1
The Justice System and Our Way of Life
2
Hiking With Your Kids
Testimonial
3
How Pedestrians and Drivers Can Coexist Safely
Juicy Lucy Sliders
4
The Madden Curse
If you no longer want to receive this newsletter, call Pam at 864.582.0416 or email rob@bhollandlawfirm.com .
ON THE TRAIL OF THE MADDEN CURSE TRUTH, LIES, AND SUPERSTITION
There is no urban legend in the world of modern video games as well- documented as the so-called “Madden Curse.” The curse revolves around the highly sought-after cover spot of the popular NFL video game “Madden NFL,” formerly known as “John Madden Football.” While the games date back to 1988, the curse is said to originate with the 1999 version. Garrison Hearst, a popular running back at the time, broke his ankle shortly after being featured on the cover of the 1999 edition. This was the first in a long line of injuries and personal issues that resulted in the rumor gaining traction. Soon, the idea that the game’s seemingly innocent cover could have devastating effects on a player’s career was widespread. Once a substantial honor in the world of football, the Madden cover spot has become one of the sport’s most feared superstitions for fans. The players, however, seem to find the correlation more amusing than scary. Most of the athletes in contention for the spot still consider it to be a great honor, choosing to brush off the rumors as coincidence. Despite the ambivalence of many players, there does seem to be a correlation between the cover and player issues. Of the 22 players who have been featured on the cover, 16 of them have suffered from significant issues in the season that followed. While the causes varied, with severe injuries, contract disputes, and personal issues all afflicting different players, something about the spotlight appears to have disturbed the powers that be. In fact, sometimes these issues occur shortly after the game is released in stores.
Whatever the true cause, the curse seems to have taken a dip in recent years. Only one of the last five players has been affected, a stat that bodes well for this year’s star: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The real answer probably lies somewhere between fact and fiction. The increased pressure of national attention is bound to make players tense up every once in a while, and in a game as physical as football, any distraction can end in disaster.
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