Harmonson Law Firm - June 2023

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HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND JUNE 2023

MEMORIES OF MY DAD MY GOLF PARTNER AND NO. 1 FAN

This year will be my first Father’s Day without my dad, Pete. While losing a loved one is difficult, I want to honor my father without sadness and instead remember many fond memories we shared. No one else supported me like my dad, and I feel that my readers should get a chance to know a little more about him. If you’re wondering where my entrepreneurial spirit came from, my dad is certainly responsible. He had several businesses and was the perfect image of a salesman. We always said that this man could easily sell water to a fish. He was a charmer down to his core, making him a persuasive salesman. You weren’t buying from a stranger because, suddenly, you were buying from your new best friend! My dad always loved El Paso since it was where he spent most of his formative years. He graduated from Burgess High School and the University of Texas at El Paso back when it was Texas Western College. In 1990, after raising our family with my mom in Lubbock, he moved back to his stomping grounds of El Paso, where he would start his small business and build pools for

over 30 years. His love for this city meant I always had a connection here before I planted my roots. My father was a significant factor in pushing me to move to El Paso and start my practice. Fresh out of law school in 2003, I worked for a large law firm in downtown Houston but knew early on that large firm life wasn’t going to be for me. Then, on a visit to see my dad, I met another attorney, Tom Gilstrap, and learned that El Paso was an ideal place to practice law, raise a family, and live a more relaxed lifestyle. I had been working over 60-hour weeks at the downtown Houston law firm and didn’t see myself doing that until retirement. I took the leap, and now, 20 years later, El Paso has become my home and the city where my dream was realized. In every way, this growth was connected to my dad. Not only did my dad pass down his entrepreneurial mindset, but we also shared an immense love for golf! I grew up golfing with him, and this man played the sport for as long as he could. When he was sick and unable to play, he would still ride around on the golf cart with his friends and watch them swing away. We had a tradition of watching golf together, and our favorite was always the Masters Tournament. One of my first golf memories was watching Jack Nicklaus win his last green jacket at the Masters in 1986 with my dad. I’ll also never forget in 2021 when we made sure to catch the Masters, no matter what. That April was when I went down to New Orleans to buy a used Mercedes, and despite being ill at the time, my dad insisted he come with me. Ensuring it was okay for his health beforehand, we decided to make the trek together alongside my son, Clayton.

The three of us flew to New Orleans, did some sightseeing for a few days, then drove the Mercedes back home to El Paso. Despite driving home during Masters weekend, my dad kept all of us up to date on the tournament on the way back by watching on the Masters app on my iPhone! It was an event we just couldn’t miss. Even last year, when he was in the hospital, we watched Masters Sunday where Scottie Scheffler made his victory. Golf was always a way for us to connect and spend time together, and I’ll always be thinking of him during the Masters Tournaments to come. I’ll remember him as the supportive father he always was. This Father’s Day, I hope everyone is able to reach out to their dad. It’s never too late to reconnect, and since our time is limited, it’s best to make amends when you still can. I hope you are able to spend valuable time with your loved ones this Father’s Day. Cherish your family for as long as you can!

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SO, YOU EXPERIENCED A

Dressed in protective goggles, blue booties, and a matching vest, this incredible rescue dog became a symbol of hope in Mexico. Frida, a cheerful yellow Labrador retriever, was a devoted member of the Mexican Navy known for her search and rescue skills. Trained to find people trapped under rubble after earthquakes, Frida always worked hard to save lives. Frida became a national hero when a devastating earthquake hit Mexico City in 2017. The 7.1 magnitude earthquake took more than 300 lives and injured many more. While sifting through dangerous debris and aftershocks, Frida saved 12 people after finding them alive while uncovering more than 40 bodies during her lifesaving career. While the nation was devastated by the disaster, this smiley rescue pup brought worldwide attention to the tragedy. Frida’s dedication (and impeccable style) quickly made her an internet celebrity, and soon, murals of the lifesaving canine graced the walls of Mexico City. Even Captain America, aka Chris Evans, gave Frida a shoutout on Twitter, adding, “What did we do to deserve dogs?” The hero dog then traveled the world, helping countries suffering from the aftermath of disastrous earthquakes. Frida saved lives in Haiti and Ecuador before retiring from her position in 2019 at 10 years old to live the rest of her days in comfort and love. Sadly, the Mexican Navy announced Frida’s passing in November 2022 due to old age. She was 13 years old. In her honor, a magnificent bronze statue of Frida, clad in goggles and boots, stands in front of the Mexican Navy office in Mexico City. On the day of her death, the Mexican Navy changed

What Now?

Many people are at a loss regarding legal action after a truck accident, especially when major companies use shady tactics to make you appear at fault or diminish your claim. That’s why the information you have is crucial. Before you consult with an attorney, you must get your records organized. But what exactly do you need? All the Facts Truck accidents are intense and stressful; after a collision, you may find it hard to recall all the details of what happened. Note what occurred during and after the accident as soon as possible. The sooner you can record the event, the better! You never know what details may help your attorney fight for

your case. Some factors to remember include the moments leading up to the collision, what was said at the scene, the time, the weather, and your injuries and/or symptoms. Police Records A police report will usually include the accident’s main details, the vehicles’ positioning, and their perspective on the cause of the collision. Request a copy of this report to give to your attorney since it contains a plethora of information.

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their Twitter banner to an illustration of Frida and spread the hashtag

“#HastaSiempreFrida.” Frida will always be remembered for her lifesaving work and the hope she embodied for the entire world.

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A recent local news story involving one of our children’s former swim teachers who allegedly sexually assaulted a former student urged me to write this important post on a topic that can be difficult to discuss. No one wants to talk about something this tragic. But to keep our children safe, it’s vital to talk to your children about sexual abuse and how you can help ensure your kids stay knowledgeable, mindful, and safe. I’ve experienced these cases firsthand, and it can be startling how predators abuse a parent’s trust. I’ve worked on numerous cases involving child abuse at the hands of the clergy and other people given authority over children. My previous legal partner and I were the leading lawyers for claims against the Catholic Church in El Paso. We also handled many cases involving other denominations, schools, and even the Boy Scouts of America. I’ve never been afraid to fight for justice, even against larger institutions. Children should never be in danger, whether at school or in church. I’m sure you remember the terrible cases that recently occurred against the Southern Baptist Convention last year. Multiple leaders within the denomination were under investigation for sexual abuse, and it was an eye-opening experience for us all. Many adults even came out with their own experiences with sexual abuse as a child at the hands of the clergy. This issue isn’t only a Catholic church problem. Places of worship and schools should, without a doubt, be safe places for our children. Yet you should always be observant of the supervising adults and never have blind trust in another due to their position in church or school. If you have concerns about a specific mentor, never feel apprehensive about taking action. And never let your child be alone with a teacher, pastor, or other youth leader, even if you think that that person is trustworthy. Often, a predator will groom a parent before grooming the child. I’m not saying to never trust anyone, but trust should be hard won and never given without a heaping of parental supervision. Children Should Never Feel Unsafe WHY YOU NEED TO BE AWARE OF SEXUAL ABUSE

A TRUCK ACCIDENT

Any Contact Information You Acquired While you should always ensure that you receive the contact information of the truck driver and their company, you always need to request the contact information of any witnesses present. Their testimony can be an incredibly valuable asset to your case. Medical Records Truck accidents are drastically more damaging than regular car accidents. The truck’s size can lead to severe injuries, all of which should be clearly documented through medical records. It can be difficult to recall all of the symptoms and operations that occur after a truck accident. Official records are crucial to emphasize all you’ve suffered since the crash. Your Insurance Policy Lastly, your attorney should receive your insurance information to better understand what damages will be covered and what won’t. This information allows them to calculate your claim and how much compensation you deserve after experiencing a truck accident. The aftermath of a truck accident can be painful and frustrating. Our team is here to help alleviate the burden and guide you through your case. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a truck accident, call 915-584-8777 to set up a free consultation. We can help you organize your records and fight for your claim.

Seafood Pasta Salad

INGREDIENTS

While there is only so much you can do to protect your child, having a frank discussion about what they need to know when protecting themselves is essential. Especially since summer is now in full swing, you need to have this talk before they head off for summer camp because you won’t be there to watch over them. Explain to them that they should never be alone with any adult or always have a buddy with them, what to watch out for, and how they should always voice their worries and experiences with you and other mentors.

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4 cups fusilli noodles

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1/2 cup chopped red peppers

2 cups crab meat or shrimp

1/2 cup diced onion

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup shredded carrots

2 cups ranch dressing

2 cups halved cherry tomatoes

1 cup frozen peas, thawed

1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese (optional)

1/2 cup chopped green peppers

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large pot, bring the fusilli noodles to a boil and cook until al dente, then drain. 2. In a large bowl, combine noodles, crab or shrimp, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, peas, green and red peppers, onions, and carrots, then mix together gently. 3. Refrigerate the pasta salad for 3–4 hours. If salad is dry upon removing from refrigerator, add more ranch dressing. 4. Once you’re ready to eat, top salad with tomatoes and Parmesan cheese if desired.

While I hope you or someone you love never has to experience this abuse of power, know that our team is here and willing to do whatever we can to help your family. You can reach our compassionate and knowledgeable team at 915-584-8777.

Inspired by TheSpruceEats.com

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5505 North Mesa St., Suite 3 • El Paso, TX 79912 WWW.CLARKHARMONSONATTORNEY.COM 915.584.8777

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My First Father’s Day Without Him

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A Furry Hero in Mexico

Everything You Need Before You Call Us

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Sudoku

Seafood Pasta Salad

How to Protect Your Child From Abuse

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Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!

Check Out Some of America’s Best Zoos MONKEY AROUND THIS SUMMER

Summer is one of the best times of the year to travel. Kids are out of school and want to do something fun every weekend, which can be difficult to accommodate if you’ve already exhausted your local options. If you’re looking to travel, you can visit a beach, take in the sights and sounds of an amusement park, or spend some time with animals while visiting a zoo. Nearly every state in our country has a handful of zoos or aquariums, but some stand above the rest.

animals in America. Opened in 1899, the Bronx Zoo is responsible for many of the advancements relating to animal captivity. This was one of the first zoos to ditch cages for natural environments and create an animal hospital. With over 6,000 species, there’s an animal for everyone at the Bronx Zoo.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens While the San Diego Zoo is often boasted as California’s largest and best zoo, another zoo is worth checking out. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens outside Palm Springs has entertained visitors for decades. There are events at this zoo every day, one of the most popular being the keeper

Here are three of the best zoos you can visit in the U.S.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska, is consistently ranked as one of the top five zoos in the world. It prides itself on hosting rare, endangered animals you can’t see elsewhere. It has the world’s largest nocturnal exhibit, and one of the major highlights is the Desert Dome, an 84,000-square-foot indoor desert that maintains an authentic desert ecosystem. This is a must-visit for any animal lover in your family. The Bronx Zoo You don’t usually think about seeing exotic animals when you visit New York City, but the Bronx Zoo is one of the best places to view

connections and animal encounters, where you get up close and personal with the animals while learning more about their habitats and lifestyles.

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