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March 2025
Why Luck Is Built, Not Found Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity
The phrase “luck of the Irish” is often thrown around this time of year, but its origin is much more complex than you might think. Historically, the Irish were considered an unlucky people, enduring hardships and discrimination, especially during the waves of immigration to America. When Irish miners struck gold during the 19th-century Gold Rush, people assumed it was sheer luck rather than skill or effort. This stereotype turned into the ironic phrase we know today. How often do we look at someone’s success and think, “They’re so lucky”? It’s easy to fall into that mindset, but more often than not, those moments of so-called luck result from persistence, preparation, and stepping into the arena of life. It’s too easy to assume, and I admit, I sometimes fall into that same mindset when encountering successful people. But when I look back at some of my most rewarding opportunities, I know they seem like luck, but they would not have happened without actively engaging with my community, putting in the work, and being open to possibilities. Nothing happened while I was sitting on the sidelines — it all came from being out there, taking action. So, why would that be different for others? I think of luck as something that happens on the field of play, not in the stands. It is like watching a football game where one team appears to “get lucky” in a critical play. What we do not see is the relentless effort and preparation that led them to that moment. The same principle applies to life. The moments that seem like pure chance are often the culmination of unseen work, dedication, and diligence. It’s a powerful reminder that luck is often the visible tip of an iceberg built on invisible effort. Take, for instance, the story of LaDainian Tomlinson, one of the greatest running backs in NFL history which Carol Dweck relates to in her book “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.” People marveled at his “natural talent,” but he poured hours, years, and even decades into studying his craft and perfecting his skills behind the scenes. His success was no accident — he built it on tireless preparation. Perhaps it’s challenging for us to fathom that some athletes and professionals can be so incredible, so we chalk it up to genetics and pure luck, but I can assure you that most times, it comes down to hard work.
Of course, we cannot ignore a certain magic in life. That magic — the wonder of the unexpected — enriches our days and inspires us. Take, for example, a simple patch of zinnias I planted one summer. I wasn’t expecting much, but soon, a hummingbird began visiting. Watching it flit from flower to flower became a daily source of joy, a moment of wonder created from the small act of planting seeds. While I didn’t expect a hummingbird when I planted those seeds, it would never have visited my garden if I hadn’t. It reminded me that while effort builds the structure, life’s surprises add the color. As you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, take a moment to think about what you can do to create your own “luck.” Whether planting seeds for future opportunities, building connections, or simply staying curious and engaged, you have the power to shape your path. Life rewards those who engage fully and build their own paths while leaving space for the beauty of the unexpected. And who knows? You might just find your pot of gold with the right mix of preparation and a little wonder.
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No one enters a marriage thinking it will end in divorce; however, when people hear the words “nuptial agreement,” the implication is that the couple has no faith the marriage will stand the test of time. But consider a different perspective. These agreements, whether prenuptial or postnuptial, can also be viewed as intentional steps toward restoring marital bliss, which can be especially beneficial when couples have financial concerns after marriage. Postnuptial agreements, in particular, can assist couples in making the best financial decisions for their marriage. Prenuptial vs. Postnuptial The only difference between a “prenup” and a “postnup” is the time of signing. A couple signs a prenuptial agreement before marriage, whereas they sign a postnuptial agreement afterward. Both types of agreements are contracts both spouses agree to sign to ensure a fair and decent distribution of financial assets in the event of divorce. 4 Common Reasons for Postnuptial Agreements There are many reasons a couple may want to create a postnuptial agreement. Perhaps both spouses wanted to sign a prenuptial agreement but never got around to it, or maybe the couple had a change of heart and wanted one after all. Either way, a postnuptial agreement can assist in the following scenarios. Dividing Interest in a Business: Separate or Marital Properties When dividing interest in a business, the main concern is determining marital and separate property. If the business belonged to one spouse before marriage, it is their separate property. If the business was established after marriage, it’s considered marital property. However, if both spouses contributed to the maintenance and operations of the business, Could They Be the Solution for Marital Harmony? CONSIDERATIONS OF POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENTS
“A postnuptial agreement has an important place in many marriages and can relieve stress if you have relentless concerns about financial matters.”
it can be viewed as a hybrid property. Postnuptial agreements help couples categorize the business as a separate property to be left to the titled spouse. Determining Inheritance: To Whom Does the Money Go? If a spouse is bequeathed a large inheritance, the couple may choose to discuss the distribution of the funds in case the marriage dissolves. This is especially important if you live in a state where assets are equally dispersed between spouses if the assets were obtained during the marriage — i.e., community property. A postnuptial agreement trumps the community property law, granting the heir their full inheritance. Rebuilding a Relationship Postnuptial agreements can also function as a way to mend a strained marriage. Infidelity, for example, can be devastating to a marriage. As a condition for the marriage, the non-cheating spouse may require the cheating spouse to agree to sign a postnuptial agreement. This can signify hope for the marriage — but only under certain conditions. Protecting Stay-at-Home Parents A stay-at-home parent may have spent years out of the workforce but has equally contributed to the upkeep and harmony of the home. Because of that, the legally unemployed parent may find reentering the workforce difficult and want financial security through a postnuptial agreement. This would ensure they get a fair distribution of assets. Are you considering a postnuptial agreement? A postnuptial agreement has an important place in many marriages and can relieve stress if you have relentless concerns about financial matters. If you’re considering a postnuptial agreement, seek legal advice to navigate the complexities of these legal documents.
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Is there really such a thing as “ organized chaos ”? It depends on whom you ask! If you thrive in clutter, this article isn’t for you. Creating an organized space is simply a matter of ensuring household items have a place to be stored — and not in the one drawer filled with everything from ketchup packets and paper clips to a random Cheeto! Whether you’re preparing for house guests or diving into a spring-cleaning marathon, these organizing tips will bless your cluttered mess! Tension Rods for Shoe Storage Need more shoe space? Not a problem — just grab a few tension rods! If you have two sturdy objects — dressers, a wall and nightstand, etc. — you can place two tension rods between them and create a “shelf” to place your shoes on. Add multiple rows of tension rods for extra storage. Clothes Pins for Cabinet Door Storage Kitchen cleaning supplies, especially lightweight items, don’t always have to be placed on the floor inside the under-sink cabinet. Putting double-sided tape onto clothes pins and sticking them inside the cabinet doors creates an excellent place to hang rags/sponges, kitchen gloves, and sink stoppers. Napkin Holders for Pot Lids Using zip ties and upright wire napkin holders, you can create a lid organizer for your pots and pans. Rather than flipping the lid upside down on top of the pot, you can create a designated space for all the lids to reside. You can even organize your lids from smallest to largest! Pool Noodles as Hanger Spacers Between Clothes Pool noodles work as spacers to keep your clothes hanging neatly. Just take a pool noodle and make one cut length-wise to open the noodle, and then cut it horizontally into 1-inch pieces. Place the pieces on the bar in your closet and hang your clothes according to how many hangers you want between each spacer! Honeycomb Organizer for Socks and Undergarments Drawers that house undergarments and socks tend to get disorganized quickly. Honeycomb organizers are the perfect addition to ensure all items fit in the drawer, making it easier to grab what you need. These organizers are also adjustable, so they’ll fit any drawer size! Get It Together! DIY Organization Tips to Bring Order to Your Living Spaces
BRAIN GAMES
SOLUTION
Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup
Inspired by EatingWell.com
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 cup peeled and chopped carrots • 1 cup chopped yellow onion • 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic • 3 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth • 1 (15-oz) can (no salt added) diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 tsp ground pepper • 1/4 tsp plus 1/8 tsp salt • 1 (9-oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini • 1 (5-oz) package baby spinach • 1 cup heavy cream
Directions 1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add carrots and onions and cook for about 5 minutes or until onions are softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. 2. Add broth, tomatoes, fresh basil, pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and let simmer for about 5 minutes or until carrots are slightly tender. 3. Stir in tortellini. Cook until pasta is tender. Reduce heat to medium-low. 4. Add baby spinach and cream. Cook until spinach is wilted. Serve and garnish with additional basil if desired.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
The Truth Behind the ‘Luck of the Irish’: Hard Work or Chance?
Postnuptial Agreements: What They Are and Why They Matter
2
Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup
3
Decluttering Hacks Made Easy
Food-Based Courtroom Follies
4
BEEF BRIEFS BIZARRE FAST-FOOD LEGAL BATTLES
quantity of meat in its burgers compared to those other popular fast-food restaurants sold. Decades later, a New York resident launched a one-man mission to prove that one of Burger King’s modern-day competitors, Taco Bell, failed to heed the burger giant’s lead. In the summer of 2023, Frank Siragusa filed a class action suit against Taco Bell, alleging the company had “materially overstate[d] the amount of beef and/or ingredients” in its advertising for its Mexican Pizza and Crunchwrap menu items. Siragusa’s suit includes photographic evidence comparing the robust size of the advertised products versus the actual ones he purchased. While the case was ongoing as of this writing, Siragusa’s love for fast-food beef cannot be disputed. A Vegan Vendetta Vanquished Although only 3% of the adult population in the U.S. identified as vegan, according
to research presented by the Vegetarian Resource Group in 2022, people who refuse to eat any animal-derived products remain a passionate and vocal minority. In 2019, a vegan named Philip Williams took Burger King to court after learning that the patty in his Impossible Whopper — marketed as a meat-free alternative to the popular burger — had been cooked on the same grill as beef products. In his suit, Williams argued that because Burger King had added a plant-based meal option to its menu, consumers were led to believe the meal would be prepared separately from the animal-based items in the kitchen. The judge disagreed, later dismissing the case and noting that Burger King’s marketing of the Impossible Burger promised only a meatless patty and nothing more. The lesson learned? Sometimes, even in the world of fast food, what you see is what you get.
Is seeing always believing? Well, plaintiffs in two of the oddest legal cases in recent years set out to show the world that what ends up on our trays or in our drive-thru bags may not be as scrumptious as fast-food joints promise in their ads. A Clash With Burger King Readers of a certain age may remember Wendy’s’ famous “Where’s the Beef?” campaign that brilliantly marketed the
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March Is the Perfect Time to Protect Your Business Don’t Let Legal Pitfalls Derail Your Business — Join Our Workshop!
Spring is all about fresh starts — and that includes making sure your business is on solid legal ground. Don’t wait for problems to find you! Join us for an essential Chamber of Commerce webinar where our attorney, Jerry Carter, will walk you through five simple but powerful steps you can take right now to reduce risk in your business. Date: Thursday, March 13 Time: 9–10 a.m. PST Register: Email info@thechambernv.org or scan the QR code!
Scan the QR Code to check out the FREE Business Risk Report
Learn how to: • Safeguard your contracts and agreements • Avoid common legal pitfalls that cost businesses thousands • Protect your assets and limit liability • Take proactive steps to prevent disputes before they start Small steps today prevent big problems tomorrow. Don’t leave your business vulnerable — take charge now! Scan the QR code below to download your FREE Business Risk Report and start protecting your business today. Reserve your spot now — because peace of mind is priceless!
Scan the QR Code to register for our workshop
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