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.
SUDO KU
SOLUTION ON PG. 4
2 • www.ClarkHarmonsonAttorney.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator