Take a look at our March newsletter!
HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND MARCH 2024
A Tale of 2 (Very Dusty) Cities
SPRINGTIME RESILIENCE IN WEST TEXAS
You probably already know, but I grew up in Lubbock, flat as a pancake and surrounded by miles and miles of cotton fields. If you fly in during
to walk to class only to get right back in my vehicle, shuddering at the thought of having to walk across the big campus.
cotton harvest season, you would genuinely think it was a blizzard. When I think of spring in Lubbock, I think of never-ending wind and dust — nothing to stop the wind except the barbed wire fences.
This sign was in plenty of local businesses, which says a lot about the character of its people: rugged and resilient. My grandfather, who was never one to be politically correct, said the wind keeps all the Yankees away.
We would get colossal dust storms, and the town would be filled with all that dirt from the cotton fields. If the wind was blowing in just the right direction, the entire town smelled of the feedlots south of town. It was an olfactory biohazard zone. Lubbock’s motto was “Welcome to Lubbock … For All Reasons” (because there wasn’t any one good reason to actually be in Lubbock). This is a famous
El Paso is a very different city than Lubbock, culturally, economically, and politically. But they have one thing in common: the West Texas wind. We get the same winds in El Paso, but the dirt is straight from the desert instead of the cotton fields. The Franklin
Mountains gather the wind and rush it downward like a runaway freight train. Hold on to your cowboy hats, ladies and gentlemen. The city takes on a brown hue during the spring, which can certainly take a toll on a person’s psyche. If El Pasoans share one personality trait with our Plainsmen relatives in
photo of one of those signs taken during one of those dust storms to prove a point. Lubbock in the springtime was no picnic. They would never close school during one of these dust storms, even though there would be 50 mph winds and zero visibility on
Lubbock, we are strong in the face of adversity.
the streets. I can remember on more than one occasion when I was a student at Texas Tech, getting out of my car during one of these storms
Yet, out of that strength and patience, life and beauty are born in the spring. The temperature rises. Rain falls. Grass grows. Flowers bloom. Out of the abyss, the most beautiful of all days happens during the spring. On those special days, the wind stops. And the mornings are crisp but not cold. The day is the perfect ambient temperature, just right to enjoy the outdoors. The nights are perfect for al fresco dining or lounging on the porch after a long day of work. Easter comes, and the hope of the resurrection triumphs over the gloom.
El Paso is a very different city than Lubbock, culturally,
economically, and politically. But they have one thing in common: the West Texas wind.”
So, I will take the bad days this spring in stride, knowing good days will surely come.
915.584.8777 • 1
s
UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF NATURAL REST When we lie down and settle into sleep, our brain starts descending from the conscious realm into the soothing arms of slumber. As you drift off, your brain activity decelerates, your body temperature dips, and muscles relax. This phase, known as light sleep, makes up about half of our total sleep time. As the night progresses, we enter the deep sleep stage. Here, our body’s muscle tone and heartbeat find their calmest rhythm while the brain’s activity shifts to delta waves. It’s like a restorative elixir flowing through you, bolstering your immune system and mending the day’s wear and tear. Deep sleep is pivotal in cementing memories and contributes to creativity and insightful thinking. Then, we enter the famous REM sleep, when our brain activity escalates. It is the stage responsible for our most vivid dreams and a fountain of learning and creativity. To enter REM sleep, we must be asleep for at least 90 minutes to cycle through light to deep sleep. Once we are in it, REM can last for about 90 minutes. If we wake up naturally from the light sleep stage, we feel refreshed and rejuvenated. A clock alarm, though, doesn’t know which sleep stage we are in, so it may wake us when we are in the deep sleep stage. Being abruptly awoken in this state leaves us disoriented and groggy. It creates sleep inertia, an uncomfortable stage that can put us in a bad mood when we first wake up. Our bodies are not designed to wake up during deep sleep. Cortisol, our natural energy hormone, is like a slow-release pill crafted by nature. Levels decrease as we get ready to go to bed and rise when it is time to wake up. If the alarm disrupts the natural sleep cycle, waking us before the cortisol surge, we feel out of sorts. Our brains and bodies are designed to balance our well- being. When we respect its natural rhythms, we enhance our mood, boost our cognitive abilities, and nurture our overall health. Each night is a new opportunity to reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom and wake up to a more vibrant and harmonious life. So tonight, when you lay your head on the pillow, listen to the whisper of your internal clock and embrace your natural sleep patterns. Sweet dreams and sweeter morning awakenings are ahead if you do.
BETWEEN HEAVEN
REFLECTING ON MOU
Mount Cristo Rey, straddling the borders of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico, is not just a geographical landmark but a symbol of faith and unity that beckons to both the devout and the explorers at heart. Particularly during Good Friday and Easter weekend, this trail transforms into a vibrant mix of cultural and spiritual pilgrimage, attracting thousands seeking solace and connection.
The trail to the summit of Mount Cristo Rey is both a physical and symbolic ascent, winding through the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. Stretching over a 4.4-mile round trip, it offers a moderate challenge to hikers, with the reward of unparalleled panoramic views that span two countries and three states at the peak. Particularly during the holy days of Easter, the holiday’s significance makes the journey special; the path becomes a catalyst for personal reflection and communal celebration.
At the heart of this pilgrimage is the towering 29- foot limestone statue of Christ the King, a monumental work completed in 1939 under the guidance of sculptor Urbici Soler.
SUDO KU
SOLUTION ON PG. 4
2 • www.ClarkHarmonsonAttorney.com
N AND EARTH UNT CRISTO REY
As spring beckons cyclists and scooter enthusiasts back to the roads, safety becomes paramount. Riders also have the responsibility to prepare appropriately. Following this guide will ensure that a rider’s commitment to safety matches the thrill of the ride so every journey, no matter how brief, is both joyous and secure. PRE-RIDE PREPARATIONS Gear Check: Before the wheels roll, do a thorough check: Inflate tires to the recommended pressure, test the brakes, and lubricate the chain. For scooters, especially electric ones, charge the battery completely and make sure all electrical systems function correctly. Safety Equipment: A helmet is non-negotiable; it’s a crucial barrier against potential injury. Reflective clothing and lights are equally important, especially for those dawn and dusk rides, making riders visible to others on the road. ON THE ROAD Communicate: Using hand signals to indicate turns and stops is not just a courtesy; it’s a critical safety measure. Eye contact with drivers and pedestrians can also significantly reduce misunderstandings and accidents. Know the Rules: Familiarity with local traffic laws is essential. This knowledge helps riders make informed decisions and ensure safety among motor vehicles and pedestrians. Stay Alert: The road is full of surprises. Potholes, sudden stops, and unpredictable behavior of others require constant vigilance. Keep distractions, such as loud music or phone use, to a minimum to focus on the environment and potential hazards. TECHNOLOGY AND TOOLS Assistive Gadgets: Utilize technology wisely. GPS devices can help navigate safer routes, while fitness trackers monitor BACK ON THE ROAD Spring Safety for Cyclists and Scooters
The statue commemorates the idea of peace and brotherhood across borders, a poignant message considering it looks over the U.S. and Mexico. Its inception during the tumultuous years of the Great Depression and its standing through decades of political shifts highlight its role as a steadfast beacon of hope.
Good Friday and Easter weekend see the trail come alive in a unique fusion of faith, culture, and nature. Stations of the cross, guiding the faithful in meditation and prayer, mark the ascent while others find joy in the camaraderie and the breathtaking vistas that greet them at the summit. It’s common for climbers to share stories of personal challenges and triumphs, binding them in a momentary but profound connection.
Mount Cristo Rey stands not only as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community but also as a guardian of history and culture. The annual pilgrimage is a tradition that continues to inspire, drawing people from all walks of life into a shared narrative of exploration, reflection, and connection. Through the stories that echo along its trails and the silent watch of the statue, Mount Cristo Rey remains a beacon of hope and unity, inviting all who seek peace and a sense of belonging amidst its rugged beauty. ST. PADDY’S IRISH SODA BREAD
INGREDIENTS •
physical well-being. Ensure these tools enhance the experience without diverting attention from the road. Maintenance Apps: Regular maintenance is crucial. Utilize apps that remind you of scheduled check-ups or track the health of your bike or scooter so they remain in top condition. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Group Rides: Join local cycling or scooter groups. These communities offer a wealth of knowledge and experience: tips, route recommendations, and companionship. Group rides can also be safer, making individuals more visible on the road. Safety Workshops: Participate in or organize safety workshops. These sessions can cover everything from basic first aid to advanced riding techniques, fostering a culture of safety and preparedness within the community. Whether through meticulous preparation, mindful riding, or engaging with the broader community, safety ensures everyone can enjoy cycling and scootering fully. Enjoy your spring rides and a collective commitment to a safer journey for all.
Nonstick vegetable oil spray 2 cups all-purpose flour, extra for dusting 5 tbsp sugar, divided
• •
1/2 tsp kosher salt 3/4 tsp baking soda 3 tbsp chilled unsalted butter, cubed 1 cup buttermilk 2/3 cup raisins
•
•
• •
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• •
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat an 8-inch round cake pan with nonstick spray. 2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, 4 tbsp sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Cut butter into the mixture with your fingers or a pastry knife until crumbly. Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Gradually mix until dough comes together. Mix in raisins. 3. Using floured hands, form dough into a ball and transfer to pan. Sprinkle with remaining 1 tbsp sugar. 4. Bake bread for about 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and a tester stick comes out clean. Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then enjoy! DIRECTIONS
Inspired by Epicurious.com
915.584.8777 • 3
5505 North Mesa St., Suite 3 • El Paso, TX 79912 WWW.CLARKHARMONSONATTORNEY.COM 915.584.8777
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
1
The Spring Winds That Bind Lubbock and El Paso
2
Embrace Your Sleep Cycle The Cross and the Climb: Reflecting on Mount Cristo Rey Sudoku
3
Safe Cycling and Scooting as Spring Arrives St. Paddy’s Irish Soda Bread
4
A Former President’s War Story
How George H.W. Bush Narrowly Survived WWII
World War II was one of the darkest eras in human history. Many only survived because of guts, ingenuity, resilience, and luck. Former President George H.W. Bush — not to be confused with his son,
one died when his parachute didn’t open, and the other couldn’t get out of the plane before it hit the water. The future president was the only survivor and was left floating in a raft roughly the size of an inner tube in the Pacific Ocean. Lucky for him, a submarine found him and pulled him aboard.
George W. Bush — was one such person. The elder Bush was a pilot during WWII, one of the most dangerous
positions in the military. Twenty percent of U.S. pilots were severely injured or killed during the height of the war. On Sept. 4, 1944, Bush was assigned a bombing mission over Chichi Jima, a tiny island that lies southeast of the Japanese mainland.
Recounting the story, he would later say that he felt responsible for the deaths of his crewmates. “I’m not haunted by anything other than the fact that I feel responsibility for the lives of the two people who were killed,” he said to reporters. “Why didn’t the chute open for the other guy?”
Flak hit his Avenger aircraft while en route, setting its engine ablaze and filling the
While his story is tragic, he was lucky compared to the other mission survivors. In the infamous Chichi Jima Incident, eight soldiers landed on the shore of the island and were taken prisoner. None of them survived the horrific torture inflicted upon them. In 1947, four Japanese officers who were stationed in Chichi Jima
cabin with smoke. Unable to fly much farther, Bush and his two crewmates evacuated. After dropping four 500-pound bombs on their target, they flew the plane eastward over the ocean as it went down. They figured they’d rather risk the sea than be captured by the Japanese.
were executed for war crimes by a U.S. commission in Guam.
Bush jumped, hitting his head and ripping his parachute on the plane’s tail. Still, his parachute worked, but his crewmates weren’t so lucky —
It’s impossible to comprehend the full scope of World War II. Bush’s story of bravery and survival gives us a glimpse into this historic event.
.
4 • www.ClarkHarmonsonAttorney.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.NewsletterPro.com
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator