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HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND JANUARY 2023
PUSHING EACH OTHER TO DO OUR BEST THROUGH ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRUST
As we ease into the new year with new goals and resolutions to keep, it is not surprising to learn that January is National Mentoring Month. A successful mentorship requires at least two willing participants. The mentor, usually (but not always) someone older, gives freely of his or her time and talent to help the mentee navigate a particular personal or professional problem or challenge. Fortunately, I have had the opportunity to be a part of successful mentorships that have helped me get to where I am today. It started in high school, and we had what I’d call a peer-to-peer mentorship. There was a group of us, and two people who come to mind are Holli Hatchett Booe and Kari Thompson Hayes. We formed a study group and would stay up late at night, usually at Holli’s house, to push each other to learn the material. Most kids were out late, but not like us. I guess we were nerds. But we studied hard and we had fun. Holli ended up being the valedictorian of our high school, and Kari and I — although we weren’t Nos. 2 and 3 — were still in the top percentage. It was the bond we made and the high standard we internally held ourselves too that was the recipe to our collective success. Fresh out of college, I got a job doing pharmaceutical sales. My first boss, Bruce Schuler, taught me that even at a young age, you have to take personal responsibility if you want to succeed. I was given a very large territory in West Texas and had to travel overnight every week. Bruce taught me how to sell, but it was up to me to actually deliver for the company. I was only 23 years old, but I produced for the company and built a small nest egg which helped me pay for law school.
It was tough the first year of law school, mainly because it was so new. There’s only one grade, your final exam, at the end of the day: You make it or you don’t. So, two or three months into the semester, you genuinely don’t know where you stand. There were two peers that I studied with — Jennifer Ott and Cris Mullins — and we held each other accountable, just like my study group in high school. We ensured we all understood the material and everything expected of us, and we did well! I ended up graduating second in my class from law school, so I do credit Cris and Jennifer for helping me get through my first year. Hopefully, I helped them a little in return. Post-law school, my first mentor was my boss Tommy Gilstrap. When I started working here in El Paso, he led by what I would call trial by fire. During my first week, I wrote motions and argued in front of the court for a multimillion-dollar medical malpractice case. Then in my first few months, I deposed an expert witness. Tommy taught me how to be a litigator by making me be one. After I left Tommy’s firm, the person who helped me start my firm and is a sounding board for me today is Stephen Stewart. We’re working on a New Mexico law firm together right now, and he has been someone I’ve continuously looked up to. He has been very successful in his career, and I think the most important thing he has is his positive attitude. He is always so calm and upbeat and has so much confidence in everything he does. I compare being a victim’s advocate lawyer to being a surgeon. But in the “surgery” of litigation, there is another surgeon, the insurance defense lawyer, who
is trying to kill the very patient you are trying to save. So, it can be stressful to say the least. With Stephen, he is always calm and cool which I am trying to imitate in my practice. Then there is Hadley Huchton, which I would call another peer-to-peer relationship. Hadley had never been on her own when she started working with us several years ago. I helped her soften the blow of leaving her prior firm by giving her a place to land and a stake in the outcome of our cases. I consider her to be the best medical malpractice lawyer in El Paso, and she has taught me a lot about litigation and grit, which I truly appreciate. In my life, I have tried to surround myself with people who push me to do my best. It’s important to remember that nobody’s perfect — myself included. No mentor will always be the perfect person. Such a person simply doesn’t exist. But you can learn if you have an open mind and a willing heart. Hopefully, you can also be a mentor to some good people in return.
Until next month, I wish you continued growth and happiness in all of your endeavors.
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DRIVER’S ED — B 3 WAYS TO TEACH YOUR TEE
Staying active is increasingly vital to our health as we age. But pain, injury, or the lack of an exercise location can limit how we keep fit. But luckily, there is an easy way to have an active lifestyle without lifting weights or joining a gym: volunteer! Here are three reasons volunteering can be your new favorite exercise if you’re looking to flex some physical, mental, or social “muscle.”
When your teen hits high school, there are many exciting things to look forward to. One of these exciting events is receiving a driver’s license. Some parents may be concerned about allowing their teens to drive due to the risks of driving — which is understandable. However, you can give your teen the strategies they need to become great drivers. In honor of January being Teen Driver Awareness Month, here are three tips for teaching your teen how to be a safe driver. Lead by example. While teens take driver’s ed courses in high school, you (the parent) will have the biggest influence. For the most part, parents are the ones driving their children around. Because of this, your
It moves you .
Volunteering offers different ways to move your body! Even small things like strolling through a park to pick up litter, navigating around a soup kitchen, or directing visitors at your local donation center keep you active. Most organizations are happy to modify more strenuous activities (like lifting heavy boxes or walking up a steep hill) to fit your abilities. So, even if you’re just beginning an exercise habit, volunteering is a perfect initial step in your fitness journey.
driving habits, how you react to things on the road, and how you deal with road conditions can impact your children. So, one of the best ways to encourage your child to practice safe driving habits is by showing them with your driving. Allow them to drive in all conditions . Some people may be nervous when getting behind the wheel because they don’t know what to do during certain traffic and weather conditions. To ensure your
Your brain expands.
When you volunteer with others, you usually have a common goal, like feeding the community, cleaning up a park, or planting a garden. Joining others to accomplish a task provides a significant brain boost, and studies show camaraderie increases positive thoughts and feelings. On top of feeling better, volunteering keeps your mind agile. By working hard to solve a problem, you’re using more neural pathways, which helps keep mental decline at bay.
SUDO KU
You form connections.
As we mentioned earlier, when you show up to volunteer, others usually attend for the same reason. Socializing with the group can help you feel less isolated and more connected to others, and some of these people may even become friends when the job is complete. If you want to get active but don’t know of volunteer opportunities in your area, visit VolunteerMatch.org and enter your zip code to find local in-person options. Help yourself and others by making volunteer work your go‑to exercise!
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BUT AT HOME EN SAFE DRIVING HABITS
teen is prepared for life on the road and what to expect while driving, they need to gain experience. Allow them to drive through heavy traffic and unique weather conditions. It will give them the insight and confidence they need to continue driving and practicing safe habits.
When we think about the rules of the road, most people focus on cars or trucks. But what some may need to remember is that cyclists also have a right to the roads! However, it can be dangerous, especially for those who use the roadways. Cyclists can ride their bikes on the sidewalks, interstates, and highways, unless the Texas Transportation Commission prohibits such use on the roads within its jurisdiction by order or resolution. Cyclists have the same responsibilities as car and truck drivers. That means traveling at safe speeds, being mindful of surroundings and potential hazards, using signals to convey intent, obeying traffic signs and laws, and so forth. But there are no light signals on a bicycle, so cyclists must use hand signals to indicate what they plan to do or where they want to go. The cyclists must use the following signs: SHARING THE LANE RIDE SAFE SO YOU CAN RIDE AGAIN
Let your teen take the wheel (literally). We’ve all heard the term backseat driving, and some of us may be guilty of this act. When riding with your teen, you may want to take the initiative and tell them what they should or shouldn’t do. However, allowing them to take the lead and follow their instincts is best. You don’t want to put them in danger, so tell them if there’s a hazard ahead. But give them the freedom to make their own decisions and use their judgment. While you can’t predict and change how other drivers react, you can provide your teen with the resources, insight, and confidence they need to become safe and well-rounded drivers. But accidents can still occur — no matter how prepared and safe you are. So, if you need assistance, please allow your friends at Harmonson Law Firm to help. Allow us to take some of the weight off your shoulders during this time.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic
Brussels Sprouts
• Stop — Extend your left hand and turn your forearm downward at a 90-degree angle. • Left Turn — Extend your left hand and arm horizontally. • Right Turn — Extend your left arm to the left and turn your forearm up at a 90-degree angle, or extend the right hand and arm horizontally. What are the nighttime laws? Cyclists can ride at night as long as they follow the proper precautions. Cyclists can use a headlamp on the front of the bicycle that emits white light visible from at least 500 feet in front of the bike. Or they can use a red reflector/red lamp that’s visible from 500 feet from the rear of the bicycle. If you would like to learn more about bicycle accident laws in Texas or have been injured in an accident involving a bike, contact us at (915) 584-8777 so we can help guide you through the process.
INGREDIENTS
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1 tbsp unsalted butter
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1/2 tsp kosher salt
2 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
2 tbsp heavy cream
1/8 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
DIRECTIONS
1. Coat the inside of a 3–5-quart slow cooker with butter. Add Brussels sprouts, garlic, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine. 2. Cover and cook on LOW until the Brussels sprouts are tender, 2–3 hours. 3. Turn the slow cooker off or to the “warm” setting. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cream, and nutmeg until the cheeses melt and the Brussels sprouts are coated in a creamy sauce. Season with more pepper to taste.
Inspired by TheKitchn.com
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The Invaluable Resource of Mentorships
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Volunteer to Stay Active
It’s Always Best to Lead by Example
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Sudoku
Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts
Understanding the Rules of the Road on 2 Wheels
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Tips for a Cozy Winter Picnic
This time of year, we all enjoy nestling up by a fire, cuddling under a blanket on the couch, or enjoying a warm cup of joe at the local coffee shop. If someone were to propose a winter picnic at the local park, you’d probably think they were crazy. But don’t be so quick to dismiss the idea. With these four tips for hosting a winter picnic, you’ll be up for having lunch outside in January any time. Keep Warm Maintaining heat in winter is at the forefront of all concerns, and your winter picnic is no different. Be sure to pack hats, scarves, gloves, blankets, socks, and an extra set of clothing for unexpected changes in the weather. Believe it or not, a large beach umbrella is extremely helpful in protecting you from the winter elements. You can even plan some active picnic games to keep your body moving and the heat flowing! Light a Bonfire If the location of your picnic permits, light a fire to cozy up next to. Some beaches and campgrounds have designated firepit areas to start a fire while enjoying a warm winter meal. You can even cook your food over the fire! Remember to be careful when building a fire in the wilderness and take proper safety precautions. 4 Tips for a Successful Winter Picnic IT’S COZY SEASON!
Pack Hot Meals Picnics are all about ease and relaxation! Here are some toasty and hearty winter picnic meal ideas to help warm you up:
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Soup Stew
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Baked mac and cheese Loaded baked potatoes
Pot pie
Quiche
Toasted sandwich or panini
Chili
Warm brownies
Keep It Simple Remember, it doesn’t need to be complicated! Even just a thermos of hot chocolate; some warm, freshly baked cookies; a bunch of blankets; and hats and gloves are plenty for a winter picnic — ultimately, it’s all about soaking up the beauty of the most wonderful time of the year!
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