Harmonson Law Firm - June 2024

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HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND JUNE 2024

Swing, Miss, and Laugh

But here’s my take: Let the kids be kids! Winn and his teammates might not have the slickest skills, but they’re having the time of their lives.” EMBRACING THE SIMPLE JOYS OF LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL

Ah, June! That magical month when the sun seems to shine just a bit brighter on the freshly mown grass of baseball diamonds across the country. It’s National Little League Baseball Week, and that’s got me strolling down memory lane, back to my days on the dusty fields of Lubbock, Texas. Growing up, I wasn’t exactly what you’d call a baseball prodigy. I played for the Southwest Little League Lions team — definitely not the ritzy league, but we were scrappy and had heart. I started out in right field, which, let’s be honest, is where you stick the kid who’s more enthusiastic than skilled. The ball rarely ever sailed my way, but I was just thrilled to be part of the team.

entrance music for their batters and coaches who look like they’re gearing up for the World Series. Honestly, it’s almost as hysterical as the Cookie Monsters swinging at air.

The thrill escalated when I got “promoted” to first base. That was a big deal for a kid who spent most games daydreaming and watching

But here’s my take: Let the kids be kids! Winn and his

clouds drift by. I even got to pitch once. Let’s just say my career as a pitcher both started and ended that very same day. Through it all, I harbored this dream of hitting a home run. Unfortunately, that dream

teammates might not have the slickest skills, but they’re having the time of their lives. They don’t mind when they lose; they’re just out there for the fun and the friendships. In a world where kids often spend more time glued to screens than scampering in the sun, I think there’s something wonderfully simple and vital about just playing ball without the pressure.

never did quite make it around the bases. I was just a skinny kid, lacking the heft to really send the ball flying. Despite never hitting that home run, those Little League days were packed with fond memories. My best friend and next-door neighbor, Homer, and I would ride to Wagner Park for practice on my grandma’s old tandem bike. Those rides were almost as fun as the games themselves! After every Saturday game, whether we won or lost, our parents would take us to the local Mexican restaurant, La Bodega, for a celebratory meal. It marked the end of my illustrious baseball career, but those moments have stuck with me.

I sometimes think about how different it is from my Little League days with Homer. We were little terrors, sure, but we were always outside, always laughing, always dirty. It was about the game, sure, but it was also about being together, growing up through every strikeout and stolen base.

So, here’s to National Little League Baseball Week, to celebrating those long summer days of youth, and to teaching our kids that sometimes, the best part of the game isn’t winning — it’s just playing.

Fast-forward to today, and it’s my son Winn’s turn at bat. He’s wrapping up his second season with the Cookie Monsters, a team of 5- and 6-year-olds who are hilariously clueless about the mechanics of baseball. Watching them play is a riot, especially compared to the ultra-serious energy of the teams they face. I’ve seen teams play

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Recovering from an accident is not only physically taxing but can also plunge you into financial stress, especially if you’re unable to work. Our firm is dedicated to supporting injured workers, and we often counsel our clients on the complexities of recovering lost wages. Here’s a quick guide on what you need to do to be successful. A GUIDE FOR INJUR HOW TO SECURE YOUR LOST WAGES A

Recently, people have been spending big on Father’s Day, and many wait until the very last minute. Last year, Americans spent a record $22.9 billion on Father’s Day, up nearly 10% from the previous year, according to an industry survey. And more than half of consumers don’t start shopping until the week before Father’s Day, while 3.5% wait until the very last day before the holiday, according to another survey. The second survey also revealed that over 75% of shoppers struggle to think of good Father’s Day ideas. Most settle on outings, clothing, gift cards, personal care items, or electronics. Here are three low-budget ideas you can do with your kids that are sure to charm any dad, offered by What’s Up Moms, a top parenting site on YouTube co-founded by vlogger Elle Walker. INTERVIEW CARDS If your kids are preschoolers, have them answer questions about their father and record their answers on notecards. Things like, “How old do you think Daddy is? 100? What is one thing Daddy says? What does Daddy do for work? Why do you love Daddy?” The simplicity and innocence of your children’s answers will warm Dad’s heart more than any store- bought gift ever could. SHOPPING SPREE Give each child $10 to pick out something for Dad, all by themselves, then take them to the nearest big-box store. Walker’s youngsters came up with a mirror, a pair of swim trunks, and crib sheets, and they clearly loved being empowered to make choices. PHOTOS FROM A KID’S PERSPECTIVE You may be surprised at some of the angles children choose and the tender moments they capture, “even if they’re not wow-worthy,” Walker says. Her daughter caught a captivating shot of her husband, Ross, napping with their preschool son resting on his shoulder.

STEPS TO RECOVER LOST WAGES

1. Medical Documentation

The first step in claiming lost wages is to obtain a note from your doctor detailing the extent of your injuries and the expected duration of your absence from work. This documentation is vital as it verifies your claim by linking your inability to work directly to the accident. 2. Document Your Earnings Maintaining records of your pay stubs before and after the accident is crucial. For hourly workers, these documents help demonstrate a clear discrepancy in earnings. Salaried employees might not see a change in their paycheck but could use paid time off during recovery, which is also claimable as lost wages.

The situation becomes more complex for self-employed workers due to fluctuating income, making it challenging to prove lost earnings. However, with the right approach and documentation, it’s not impossible.

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RED EMPLOYEES AFTER A WORKPLACE ACCIDENT

3. Employer Verification If possible, obtain a note from your employer confirming the days you missed due to your injury. This adds another layer of credibility to your claim. For those who are paid in cash and may not report this income, it’s essential to regularize your earnings declarations to strengthen your claim. Remember, unreported income can severely weaken your case. EXPERT TESTIMONIES In cases of catastrophic injuries where the worker loses the ability to work entirely, the calculation of lost wages becomes even more complex. This is when the expertise of vocational experts and economists becomes indispensable. These professionals can help quantify the future losses based on your current and projected earnings, enhancing the strength of your claim. A TEAM OF EXPERTS ON YOUR SIDE Navigating the claims process for lost wages can be overwhelming. We can guide you through the legal complexities, help gather necessary documentation, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured and are unsure about your next steps, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation. Let us help you secure your financial stability as you focus on your physical and emotional recovery.

If there’s one thing my family and I can’t get enough of during the sizzling summer months, it’s catching an El Paso Chihuahuas game. There’s just something about baseball that brings out all the nostalgic summertime vibes. We’ve been following the Chihuahuas for years ( even though it’s been a while since they’ve really wowed us with their standings ). But let’s be honest, win or lose, we’re there for the fun of the game and the electric atmosphere. The community spirit at the ballpark is contagious, and there’s no better way to spend a warm evening than under those bright stadium lights with a hot dog in one hand and popcorn in the other — absolute game-day essentials! The ballpark is nestled in downtown El Paso’s heart, which has truly blossomed over the years. The city’s done a fantastic job with the place, adding two new hotels that liven up the area even more. It’s perfect for a post-game stroll with the family, soaking in the vibrant local scene. And if you’re just out with friends, downtown doesn’t disappoint. There are tons of little bars around where you can chat about the game’s best plays or debate that one controversial umpire call. For a change of pace, I highly recommend checking out San Jacinto Plaza. This historic park, located right at the corner of Oregon and Mills Street, has been beautifully redesigned. It’s now home to pathways and bridges, gaming areas where you can engage in a fierce battle of ping-pong or chess, and even a café to grab some local treats. Trust me, on those blisteringly hot days, a cold lemonade from the café is a game-changer. SUMMER NIGHTS AND STADIUM LIGHTS Catching Baseball Games and Family Fun with the Chihuahuas

DELIGHTFUL BANANA BREAD This comforting, fruity favorite transforms overripe bananas into a moist, delicious treat perfect for breakfast or a snack.

INGREDIENTS •

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder

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1 cup granulated sugar

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2 large eggs

Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun way to pass the time, a Chihuahuas game is the way to go. Sure, they might not be topping the charts right now, but they sure know how to put on a show. It’s the thrill of the pitch, the cheers of the crowd, and those small, shared moments of joy that make it all worthwhile. So this summer, if you find yourself in El Paso, come on down to the ballpark. Bring your family, meet up with your friends, and let’s keep cheering on our Chihuahuas. It’s all about enjoying the game and making those summer nights count!

1 tsp baking soda

2 cups mashed ripe bananas

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1/2 cup butter, softened

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. 2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.

3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 4. Add eggs and mashed bananas and mix until blended. 5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until blended. 6. Stir in walnuts. 7. Pour batter into prepared pan. 8. Bake for 65–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving.

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501 E. Nevada Ave • El Paso, Texas 79902 WWW.CLARKHARMONSONATTORNEY.COM 915.584.8777

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Little League Is More About Memories Than Home Runs

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3 Easy Father’s Day Ideas Recover Your Lost Wages Effectively After an Injury Sudoku

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Delightful Banana Bread Why We Love Summer Baseball in Downtown El Paso

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Perfect Spots for a Laid-Back Holiday

HIDDEN GEM VACATION DESTINATIONS Off the Radar

Are you tired of visiting hyped-up vacation destinations or getting lost in a big city or crowded national park? If so, consider a holiday at a less congested, more laid-back locale. These hidden gems offer beautiful views and exciting excursions — all without the headaches that come with vacationing to big-name destinations! PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK Make an excursion to Pinnacles in California to enjoy the splendor of nature without having to share space with millions of tourists. With over 30 miles of hiking trails crisscrossing rocky hills and river-strewn caverns, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for memorable adventure. Despite its wondrous views, Pinnacles was named the 15th least-visited national park in 2023, with just over 340,000 annual visitors. CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK Make your way to Oregon and dive into the deepest lake in the country! Crater Lake National Park’s namesake was formed when a volcanic eruption triggered a mountain to come apart in spectacular fashion. You can stay at plenty of campsites and find excellent fishing in the lake’s pristine and seemingly bottomless water. If you are a fan of hiking, fishing, or breathtaking views, then Crater Lake is for you.

CRATER OF DIAMONDS STATE PARK If you have ever felt envious of the prospectors who made their riches during the California Gold Rush, then pay a visit to Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where you can discover your own hidden gems! You can discover rare rocks and minerals in a massive field birthed by volcanic activity, including diamonds, amethysts, garnets, and quartz. The best part? Anything you find, you can keep! Seekers have found more than 35,000 diamonds at the park since it opened in 1972, and with some luck, you could add a few more to that tally!

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