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HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND NOVEMBER 2024
A New Home for Harmonson Law DISCOVER OUR NEW OFFICE IN A HISTORIC EL PASO BUILDING
It’s hard to believe, but I’m sitting in the conference room of our brand- new office — well, “new” to us. In fact, this building is far from new. It’s old, with a rich history, and it’s been over a year since we started this exciting journey. After working from my kitchen table for far too long, it feels like a huge milestone to finally have a space that reflects where Harmonson Law is today. The building itself holds a special place in the history of El Paso. When we pulled up the flooring during the renovation, we discovered old newspapers dating back to the 1930s. It’s clear that this place has been around for a long time, and for many years, it was home to the law offices of Armendariz and Holguin. Albert Armendariz Sr., whose name graces the federal courthouse in downtown El Paso, practiced law here, and his son also worked here alongside another firm. This building has helped so many people find justice, and I’m honored to continue that tradition. When we had the opportunity to purchase this office last year, we jumped at the chance. We officially closed in August 2023, and it’s taken just over a year to get everything in place. The building definitely needed some love — a lot of love, actually! We worked hard to modernize the space while preserving its historic charm. Now, we have a beautiful new conference room, and it’s designed to allow us to better meet with clients face-to-face. I’ve been handling things virtually for quite some time, and while that’s worked, there’s something special about sitting down in person with a client. I’m excited to get back to that.
The location is ideal for us, too. We’re close to downtown but not quite in it, which makes the office more accessible to folks on both sides of town. I’ve always been based on the west side of El Paso, so this shift brings us to a more central spot. It’s also a great area for legal professionals, with plenty of other lawyers in the neighborhood. I like to think of it as a “lawyers’ corner” of El Paso. While I’m grateful to have worked from home when needed, I’m more than ready to get out of the house and into this cozy new space. It’s still got that house-like charm — in fact, it started as a house before becoming a law office many years ago. Now, it’s got a new lease on life, and we’re thrilled to be here. As Thanksgiving approaches, I can’t help but reflect on how thankful I am for this new transition. It’s a symbol of growth and progress for Harmonson Law. After a year of renovations, dust, and hard work, it feels great to have a place where we can welcome clients, help them with their cases, and continue the legacy of justice here. If you’re ever in the neighborhood and want to check out the new space, you’re more than welcome to stop by. Our new address is 501 East Nevada Ave., and we’d love to give you a little tour. It’s not just a building — it’s a piece of El Paso history, and we’re honored to be part of it.
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SHOP ’TIL YOU DR
AWARD-WINNING DEVICE PROMISES CLEANER WATER Science fairs are exciting events for students to explore and research complex topics that interest them. While most kids focus on areas involving established research, others take the initiative to heart and work toward discovering something new that could change the world for the better. Earlier this year, two Texas teenagers decided to tackle the microplastics problem that threatens the environment and could adversely impact human health for years. Microplastics are small pieces of plastic that measure less than 5 millimeters in length. Recently, they’ve become a focal point for conservation efforts, as they’ve been found across oceans, in fish, and even in our bodies. Scientists are still determining the potential physical and toxicological risks microplastics pose to humans and other life forms. Since microplastics threaten our oceans and other bodies of water, Justin Huang and Victoria Ou from College Park High School decided to see how they could make a difference as part of their Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair project. The duo created a prototype system that uses ultrasonic waves to filter microplastic particles from water. The device they created was about the size of a pen and could remove 84%–94% of the microplastics during test experiments. Their project took home the top prize at the fair, earning them $50,000 in funding to expand on their project. The students plan to use the money to scale up and improve their device for use at wastewater treatment plants worldwide. Their efforts could go a long way toward making drinking water safe for people across the globe. The microplastic problem continues to grow daily, but thanks to the efforts of Huang, Ou, and other brilliant young minds, we can remain hopeful they’ll devise a solution to minimize the harmful effects. Only time will tell how much of a difference their actions will make.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET HU
Black Friday is that one day of the year when everyone hits the stores with the same intensity as athletes at the starting line of an Olympic race. It’s all about finding the best deals, grabbing those perfect gifts, and maybe getting your hands on that last big-screen TV before someone else does. But let’s not forget: Amidst all the excitement, chaos can happen, and injuries can follow. Stampedes, slippery floors, and falling merchandise are all recipes for disaster, and it’s no surprise that Black Friday has its fair share of hazards. Whether it’s a slip-and- fall or even being trampled in a crowd surge, retail environments come with risks. RETAIL INJURIES AND PREMISES LIABILITY If you or a loved one has been hurt during the Black Friday frenzy, it’s essential to know your rights. When you step into a store, the retailer is responsible for ensuring their premises are safe for all shoppers. This is called “premises liability.” It means store owners must take reasonable steps to protect customers from injury, whether maintaining safe walkways, securing heavy items on shelves, or controlling the crowds. Should a store fail to meet these standards and you get hurt, you may have the right to file a premises liability claim. TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE DURING BLACK FRIDAY As much as we love a good deal, it’s important to stay diligent and look out for potential dangers. Here are a few ways to protect yourself while shopping: 1. Avoid the Rush: If you know a store tends to get rowdy, consider shopping later in the day or online. Many deals are available through the weekend or even online on Cyber Monday.
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SOLUTION ON PG. 4
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ROP — SAFELY! URT ON BLACK FRIDAY
The holiday season in El Paso is filled with festive fun, and there’s no shortage of excitement as Thanksgiving approaches. The city comes alive with community spirit and celebration, from the iconic Sun Bowl Thanksgiving Parade to the YMCA’s annual Turkey Trot. And, with the return of El Paso WinterFest, downtown will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, complete with thousands of twinkling lights. Whether you’re watching a parade, joining a race, or enjoying the holiday lights, there’s something for everyone to make this holiday season unforgettable! Celebrate the Holidays With Parades, Races, and WinterFest Magic! HOLIDAY TRADITIONS LIGHT UP EL PASO
2. Watch Your Step: Crowded aisles mean a higher chance of tripping or slipping. Stay alert for spills, boxes, and other obstacles. 3. Know Your
Limits: That TV might be a great deal, but is it worth risking an injury to get through the crowd?
WHEN INJURIES HAPPEN If you find yourself injured while shopping on Black Friday, acting quickly is essential. Take photos of the scene, report the incident to the store, and seek medical attention. If you’ve been injured while out
SUN BOWL THANKSGIVING PARADE Thursday, Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving Day) SunBowl.org/events/parade
The Sun Bowl Thanksgiving Parade, a beloved El Paso tradition since 1935, draws over 250,000 spectators every year. Originally held on New Year’s Day, the parade shifted to Thanksgiving Day in 1978, becoming the largest community event in West Texas! Organized by volunteers, the holiday pageant features 100 festive units, including floats, equestrian teams, marching bands, clowns, and even a celebrity grand marshal. This event unites local service clubs, civic organizations, and businesses, showcasing our community’s vibrant culture and spirit. Don’t miss the fun and excitement of this iconic holiday celebration! YMCA TURKEY TROT EL PASO Thursday, Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving Day) RunSignUp.com/Race/TX/ElPaso/YMCATURKEYTROTElPaso Join the 48th Annual YMCA of El Paso Turkey Trot on Nov. 28 for a fun, festive, family-friendly race! Choose from a 5K Run with computer chip timing, a 3K Fun Walk, or a 5K Team Challenge. If you’d rather skip the early morning run but still want to support the event, sign up for the Turkey Trot Sleep In! For $35, you’ll receive a special pillowcase, a Turkey Trot bib, and a medal. Whether you’re running or snoozing, it’s a great way to kick off Thanksgiving Day with the community!
getting your Black Friday deals, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance. We’ll help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Happy (and safe) shopping!
EVERYTHING-SEASONED DINNER ROLLS No need to make rolls from scratch this season. Instead, dress up store-bought rolls with delicious everything bagel seasoning!
INGREDIENTS • Cooking spray •
20 frozen dinner rolls
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
EL PASO WINTERFEST Nov. 23–Jan. 5 EPWinterFest.com
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1 tbsp honey
•
2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
El Paso WinterFest is back, transforming the city into a dazzling winter wonderland from Nov. 23 through Jan. 5! Organized by the City of El Paso, this annual festival kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony in San Jacinto Plaza, followed by the Scherr Legate WinterFest Lights Parade and a festive concert. Enjoy over 1 million lights, a 55-foot holiday tree, oversized decorations, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and family-friendly activities. Since 2015, WinterFest has been a cherished tradition, bringing holiday cheer and unforgettable memories to El Pasoans and visitors alike!
DIRECTIONS
1. Coat a 13x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray and arrange frozen rolls in the pan to thaw according to package instructions. 2. Preheat oven to 350 F. Then, melt butter and honey together in the microwave or on the stove. Once the rolls thaw, brush butter mixture over the rolls and sprinkle seasoning on top. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden, and serve these tasty rolls straight out of the oven!
Inspired by RealSimple.com
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501 E. Nevada Ave • El Paso, Texas 79902 WWW.CLARKHARMONSONATTORNEY.COM 915.584.8777
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Join Our Journey to a Historic Law Office in El Paso
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Microplastics Meet Their Match
How to Stay Safe During Black Friday Frenzy
Sudoku
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Everything-Seasoned Dinner Rolls
El Paso’s Best Holiday Events
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A Big Wintertime Playground
The Unique Allure of Big Bend National Park
Most national parks are full of visitors from spring through fall. Big Bend National Park turns that schedule upside down.
Canyons. Big Bend is also a birder’s paradise, with 450 species sighted there on various occasions.
The park also offers an abundance of family- friendly activities. A legal Port of Entry enables visitors who bring their passports to cross the Rio Grande River and visit the shops and restaurants of a rural Mexican village, Boquillas del Carmen. Families also enjoy stargazing at the Sotol Vista Overlook, scrambling over the boulders on the Upper Burro Mesa, and trekking the Grapevine Hills trails to see Balanced Rock, a giant boulder seemingly teetering in midair between two smaller boulders. Kids can also see dinosaur remains at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit or explore the ruins of a mercury-mining ghost town, Terlingua.
The ideal time to visit this southwest Texas wonderland of wild river canyons and stunning mountain vistas is from October through May — the offseason for most national parks. But summertime temperatures in Big Bend soar to 105 degrees F or more, too hot for safe vacationing, while wintertime is mild and usually sunny. Many tourists and vacationers have recently discovered the park, driving visitation 16% higher since 2018 to more than 511,000 people annually.
Big Bend offers a diversity of sights and terrain. Elevations soar from about 1,800 feet
Five visitor centers are usually open through the winter. Construction of a new visitor lodge and water system will begin in late 2024, likely causing some disruptions. However, Big Bend has four developed campgrounds and many backcountry camping opportunities. Most campsites are filled six months in advance, so reserve a spot early for your winter camping adventure.
along the Rio Grande River to almost 8,000 feet in the Chisos Mountains. Boating and rafting trips along the Rio Grande, which Congress designated as a free-flowing Wild & Scenic River, take visitors through the spectacular Santa Elena Canyon limestone cliffs. Options range from a leisurely float lasting less than a day to a seven-day wilderness adventure down the Lower
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