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We call it "Sharpstown shooting center!"

There's safety in numbers ... bullets as well as people!

I have gone to businesses on Harwin for over 20 years. Some are safe, some are not. My business was making genuine stone jewelry, so sometimes I carried many dollars worth of semi-precious strung stones, including pearls. I also saw many fake Dooney's, designer scarfs, shoes, clothing, etc., in back rooms. Don't buy them, as tempting as it may be, as you are committing a crime. I just liked to look. They also have purses out in the front of the store that look very much like Brightons and other designer labels, but they are legal, as they are not labeled "Brighton," nor are they exact duplicates ... just similar in style. The prices are great. The same goes for the silver jewelry. Just look to see that it is real silver, if that's what you're after. So, those are good buys. Beware of the cardboard "leather." During the day from 10 to 2, you'll be OK. Carry if you can. Don't go there at night. The Thai restaurant is excellent. Harwin is also a great place to find lace appliques, wedding clothes, shoes and luggage. Stores used to be primarily owned by Orientals, and more recently many Arab businesses have come in. I prefer the Orientals, because they seem to me to bargain better. Don't be afraid to bargain, as that can be half the fun. For instance say, "What price will you give me, if I buy two?" At the clothing stores, you can find great bargains, but watch the material and construction, as you can find stuff that will fall apart after the first washing. You can also find some great stuff, so just have fun.

In 1997, we bought a white Crown Victoria, and a few years back, it was scratched by a gangbanger with gang graffiti, as he thought it was a cop car. So, I'd leave your Crown Vic or big Chevy at home and take the mini-van and place your purchases in the trunk or cover them in the rear of the van, so they can't be seen. Don't look too prosperous. Leave your diamonds and Rolex at home. That said, don't be afraid to go there in the daytime, as you'll have a ball bargain shopping. Just take normal precautions ... and carry, if you can.