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May/June 2024
THE HARMAN HEADLINE
HARMAN LAW
Personal Injury, Workers’ Compensation, and Employment Lawyers
DOUBLE THE DOODLE, DOUBLE THE FUN
MY JOURNEY WITH CARVER, THE PUP WHO STOLE OUR HEARTS
Ah, National Pet Week — a time when pet enthusiasts celebrate the joy their furry friends bring into their lives. And do I have tales about my four-legged companion, Carver! I’ve experienced the highs and lows of pet ownership firsthand, and I’m excited to share my story with you, hoping it might resonate with fellow pet owners. Carver, our lively double doodle who turned one this March, has quickly become more than just a pet; he’s a central part of our family. For those unfamiliar, a double doodle is what you get when you cross a labradoodle with a goldendoodle — basically, he’s a bundle of fluffy, hypoallergenic, non-shedding joy. This was a crucial feature for us since my wife prefers our house on the neater side of chaos.
named after the Iowa Hawkeyes stadium, who we lost to cancer after nine wonderful years. The decision to welcome another dog into our lives wasn’t easy, but Carver’s boundless energy and disarming demeanor have reaffirmed our choice time and again. However, owning Carver hasn’t been without its challenges. On the day after Thanksgiving, while at a local park, Carver’s sudden jerk while in my arms caused me to dislocate my kneecap and tear a ligament — an injury so severe it required an ambulance and months of physical therapy. Initially, I was a bit bitter about the incident, though it seemed I was the only one; the entire family rallied around Carver, showering him with sympathy as I hobbled around on crutches. Despite the rocky start, Carver and I have since become best buddies. He now spends three days a week with me at the office, charming
their interactions with him — like why we set boundaries and the importance of following rules, even if Carver doesn’t always listen. At 55 pounds, Carver isn’t small, but his size matches his enormous personality. From painful mishaps to joyful play, every moment with him enriches our lives immensely. This National Pet Week, as I look back on our journey with Carver, I am reminded of the unique comfort and incomparable companionship that pets provide. Whether it’s wrestling with the kids or just lazing around the house, he’s a full member of the family, teaching us as much about love and life as we teach him. So, to all the pet owners and animal lovers, cherish these special bonds. And to those thinking about adding a pet to their life — be ready for the unexpected adventures. They just might teach you more about life than you ever expected.
Our journey to Carver began after a heartfelt goodbye to our previous dog, Kinnick, a rescue
my colleagues and occasionally scavenging through trash bins — a little office cleanup, if you will. No Roomba needed! Carver’s presence has also been significant in teaching my triplets (two boys and one girl) about responsibility. They’ve seen him grow from a mischievous puppy into a somewhat more composed dog (though he still can’t resist a good basketball steal during their games). The kids are learning important life lessons about care and consequences through
–Michael Harman
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Unwavering Client Experience. Outstanding Results.– Call Us Today 704-237-6613
The Unbelievable Shark Encounter That Saved a Man’s Life
Sharks are powerful, violent creatures. They can have thousands of razor-sharp teeth. They swim about 12 mph when attacking — twice the speed of a (very fast) human swimmer. The mere presence of a shark is enough to close down a beach and frighten movie audiences.
Eugene was in severe pain from the injury and was rushed to the hospital.
Not surprisingly, blunt force trauma was causing his pain, befitting a large shark ramming him in the back. However, this wasn’t the only diagnosis he received that day, nor was it the most severe. While examining Eugene, doctors discovered a walnut-sized tumor on his right kidney. They quickly rolled him into the operating room and removed the cancerous tumor before it could progress. Whether the shark intended it or not, it may have saved Eugene’s life. Undetected, the tumor might have metastasized and spread to the rest of his body. Without that attack, he may not have known about the cancer before it was too late. Because of that fact, we are confident the shark is a hero, whether it knows it or not.
Apparently, some sharks are different. One shark even saved a man’s life.
Eugene and his family were enjoying a warm summer day in Huntington Beach, California. As he swam in the ocean, enjoying the cool waters of the Pacific, he was struck by a sudden tremendous force, pushing his neck backward. He later described the sensation as “instant whiplash.”
back was so bloody. He was shocked to find a giant gash across the center of his back, as well as several teeth marks on one side. The family headed home as lifeguards closed the beach, fearing more attacks. That evening,
After a difficult and painful swim, he reached the shore. Eugene’s daughter asked why his
KEY TIPS FOR SAFE RIDING THIS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH Motorcycle Safety 101
important, too, as a rear-end collision can be fatal for a motorcyclist.
HOW BIKERS CAN STAY SAFE We cannot stress enough how crucial it is to wear proper protective gear. This includes a helmet that meets the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, gloves, boots, and abrasion-resistant jackets and pants. Visibility is another vital factor; motorcyclists should wear reflective gear and always keep headlights on to increase their visibility to other road users. Of course, riding sober is equally essential, as impairment significantly reduces reaction times and is a leading cause of accidents.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, an important time for motorcyclists and drivers to examine their road safety skills. Our team regularly handles the consequences of motorcycle accidents, so we understand the critical need for diligence and awareness to prevent these often devastating incidents.
Intersections are the most common sites for motorcycle accidents, so drivers should double-check the road is clear before proceeding. A moment of extra caution can prevent a severe accident. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month serves as a reminder for everyone on the road to practice safety and respect. Whether operating a motorcycle or a car, your proactive steps ensure everyone’s safety. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options. Our law firm is committed to helping accident victims navigate the legal system and secure the compensation they deserve — call 704 286-0947 for more information or assistance.
THE TRUTH ABOUT MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
Riding a motorcycle involves a distinct set of risks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are about 24 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a traffic crash per vehicle mile traveled. These sobering statistics highlight the need for enhanced safety protocols and responsible riding and driving habits.
HOW DRIVERS CAN SAFELY SHARE THE ROAD
Drivers also have a role in motorcycle safety. Checking for motorcyclists in blind spots before changing lanes or merging is vital since motorcycles have a smaller profile and can easily be overlooked. Keeping a safe distance behind motorcycles is
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Unwavering Client Experience. Outstanding Results.– HarmanLawNC.com
A FUSION OF MUSIC, ARTS, AND COMMUNITY FUN CELEBRATE HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY THIS SUMMER Kick off your summer with a journey through culinary and cultural scenes in Charlotte and beyond! Start with the Taste of Charlotte, a feast for the senses featuring local delights and live entertainment. Next, honor community and heritage at the North Carolina Juneteenth Festival, celebrating black excellence with over 100 vendors, captivating performances, and engaging activities. Cap it off with Boonerang, a dynamic music and arts festival in Boone that offers everything from free concerts to silent discos. Dive into these vibrant events and make unforgettable memories this June!
SUDOKU
TASTE OF CHARLOTTE Charlotte, June 7–9 TasteOfCharlotte.com
Indulge in Charlotte’s largest food festival, Taste of Charlotte, spanning three days on Tryon St. in the heart of Uptown. Admission is free, with festival coins available to sample a wide array of dishes and drinks from local restaurants or explore three stages of live entertainment and performances. Don’t miss the chance to experience everything Charlotte has to offer through its flavors and culture. Download the Taste of Charlotte App for a contactless experience and a taste of local culinary delights!
Solution on Page 4
OLIVE OIL CAKE WITH HONEY-YOGURT CREAM AND STRAWBERRIES
2024 NORTH CAROLINA JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL Concord, June 15 CharlotteCultureGuide.com/event/429329
INGREDIENTS •
1 1/2 cups almond flour 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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Celebrate culture and community at the 2024 North Carolina Juneteenth Festival! Themed “Educating, Empowering, Entertaining,” this event showcases over 100 black-owned businesses offering crafts, art, and more. Enjoy performances, kids’ games, and a variety of vendor shopping experiences with free giveaways, discounts, and coupons. Support your community at this family-friendly, free event to empower and celebrate together!
1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda
•
2 qts fresh strawberries, quartered 1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt 1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
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1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp lime zest
• •
3 1/2 tbsp lime juice 1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup honey
BOONERANG MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL Boone, June 14–15 BoonerangFest.com/info
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease 8-inch springform pan. Line with parchment paper and lightly grease. 2. In medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and baking soda. 3. In a stand mixer, whisk sugar and eggs on medium-high, about 3 minutes. Add oil, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla. On low, gradually add flour mixture until just incorporated. 4. Pour batter into pan. Bake until golden brown and toothpick comes out with crumbs, 40–45 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes. Invert cake out of pan onto wire rack and let cool completely. 5. Whisk yogurt, cream, and honey. Top each cake slice with spoonfuls of yogurt mixture and strawberries.
Looking for a fun day trip? Immerse yourself in the vibrant beats of Boonerang, downtown Boone’s free music and arts festival, now in its third year! Experience an array of live shows across multiple stages, savor delicious eats from food trucks and downtown restaurants, and explore unique crafts. Don’t miss the kids’ zone, beer vendors, and thrilling afterparties, which include free silent disco sessions on Friday and Saturday nights. Come join the fun at Boonerang, where music and arts come alive!
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Unwavering Client Experience. Outstanding Results.– Call Us Today 704-237-6613
16507 Northcross Drive, Suite B Huntersville, NC, 28078 Offices in Lake Norman, Charlotte, and Hickory 704-237-6613 HarmanLawNC.com
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HARMAN LAW
Inside This Issue
How Our Double Doodle Carver Became the Heart of Our Home Page 1
Sudoku Solution
When a Shark Became a Lifesaver
Essential Motorcycle Safety Tips for Bikers and Drivers Page 2 Olive Oil Cake With Honey- Yogurt Cream and Strawberries Savor These Vibrant Events This June! Page 3
Paws and Paths! Page 4
PAW-SOME ADVENTURES Gear Up Your Pup for a Hiking Adventure
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must-have hiking gear for your canine companion. FOOD AND WATER One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks.
FIRST-AID KIT Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse.
WASTE BAGS Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. EMERGENCY HARNESS Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
BOOTS While some dogs may resist wearing
boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed.
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Unwavering Client Experience. Outstanding Results. – HarmanLawNC.com
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