My blog sponsor Cathy DeMartino wrote a fabulous article about retirement for women. As always, her financial advice is so refreshing and informative. Also, she is holding an amazing Facial and Fiance Evening this Thursday at Rye Grill and Bar. If you are local come by to meet Cathy and get your complimentary facial with the fabulous Park Ave Medical Spa. Remember to RSVP HERE.
The number of men and women in the United States appears to be equal, however, women are living much longer than their male counterparts. By age 65, we outnumber men by two to one. Considering we have varied roles throughout our lives: partner, mother, employee, business owner etc. and those paths frequently can change, we need to take charge of our own retirement planning.
Here are three myths women face:
MYTH #1 – RETIREMENT WILL REKINDLE THE ROMANCE
Once the kids have moved out and you are ready to wind down your careers, you finally have time to rediscover your relationship with your significant other. In reality, many people struggle with this adjustment as they enter retirement. The proverbial “Honey-Do List” may become Honey, please do something on your own! Communication and planning are key to overcoming relationship challenges in retirement. We often come across people who put more time into planning a two-week vacation than they do planning for thirty-years in retirement.
MYTH #1 – SAVING FOR A 20 YEAR RETIREMENT IS ENOUGH
Women are living longer than men, so the changes of us outliving our savings is much higher. As of 2020, the average life expectancy is 77.3 for men and 82 for women. Our retirement planning needs to have a longer time horizon than just twenty years. Depending on your age at retirement, you may spend thirty years or more in this phase of your life. Adequate coverage for Long Term Care is a major concern that I hear every day from female clients. The average cost of nursing home care in New York is approximately $125,000 per year and considering Medicare will not pay for Activities of Daily Living (ADL) which make up the largest portion of LTC expenses this is something that should be part of any woman’s well-rounded retirement plan.
MYTH #2 – MY SPOUSE’S BENEFITS ARE ENOUGH TO COVER MY RETIREMENT
Even if you have your own retirement benefits, it is critical to understand what assets are available to you as the beneficiary of your spouse’s retirement and pension plans. Women on average earn $0.82 for every $1 earned by men, which generates a significant lifetime income gap. According to Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement women retirees tend to receive only half of the average pension benefits that men receive. Women are already at a savings disadvantage, and if you never worked, you may be even more dependent upon your spouse’s retirement plan. It is essential to review your spouse’s policies carefully and plan for missing income gaps.
Cathy DeMartino is a Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. Strategies for Wealth is not an affiliate or subsidiary of Guardian. 2022-136703 Exp. 4/2022
Spiritual depression refers to loss of joy and spiritual vitality. It is also known as “The Dark Night Of The Soul”. It happens when your life seems meaningless. Also, you may struggle to seek comfort around you.
Some of the signs of spiritual depression include:
- Loss of joy in worship
- Questioning your faith
- Negative thinking about god
- Losing interest in your regular church activities, etc.
These signs can also create problems in your personal life. Unable to share struggles with your partner or believing that they won’t understand can add to your frustration. Spiritual depression also makes people feel disconnected or cut off from god.
Surprisingly, you can work to overcome spiritual depression even when you aren’t sure about the cause. This article will discuss some of the ways you can combat spiritual depression. So, let’s get started:
- Read Good Books
If you are dealing with spiritual depression, then inspirational Christian books can be your best friend. These books can help you realize that you are not the only one dealing with spiritual depression.
You can buy “Jesus Talked To Me Today”, in which the author James Stuart Bell shares 40 inspiring true stories on how God helps his children. Also, you will learn about people who heard Jesus speak, encountered angels, and experienced the divine.
So, the more books you read, the better. You will gain information for your ignorance, inspiration for your weariness, and insight into complex problems. Also, reading good books can grow your knowledge of God, yourself, and the world around you.
2. Seek Help
Depression and anxiety are not a joke. It can have a serious impact on overall well-being. However, one of the best ways to overcome spiritual depression is to seek help from a therapist.
A therapist can offer guidance and support with:
- Identifying causes of depression
- Exploring potential treatments
- Uncovering links between spiritual beliefs and depression
Many therapists are Christians and they specialize in faith-based counseling. However, those who don’t practice faith-based counseling can help explore religious and spiritual issues alongside depression. So, find an experienced therapist who supports your beliefs.
3. Meditate Regularly
Meditation has the potential to expand awareness. And when the awareness expands, you can easily cope with your depression and anxiety. While there are no strategies for meditation, you only need to remove distractions around you.
However, you don’t have to sit down and close your eyes. You can be mindful while watching movies, reading books, lying on a bed, and taking a walk. So, meditating daily for at least 5-10 minutes is crucial.
4. Give Your Diet A Makeover
As you eat unhealthy food, you may feel worse. During this time, it is wise to give proper attention to your diet.
Replace unhealthy food with nutritious foods as it will fuel your body and brain. Also, it lifts your mood and energy to some extent.
Wrapping Up
Reconnecting with your faith and believing in God can help you eliminate spiritual depression. The tips mentioned above can help you overcome depression and improve your overall well-being.
However, if it doesn’t work, it is wise to consult a professional therapist.
Being a DJ (a disc jockey) has become a popular career choice over the last decade. With the likes of artists like David Guetta and Calvin Harris making huge careers out of being a DJ, it is no wonder why so many people are wanting to pursue it. While being a disc jockey used to be reserved for only those who had a huge following and could afford the expensive equipment, it has now become much more accessible, meaning more people are venturing down the path of being a DJ. Certainly, the internet has had a huge influence on this, as people have access to a wide range of tutorials and can put their music out there with a click of a button. So, if you are thinking of pursuing a career as a DJ, then here are some things you need to know.
Is Being A DJ For You?
The first thing you need to consider before pursuing a career as a DJ is whether it is right for you. It would be a good idea to do your research on the role of a DJ, before you venture into a career. Entering any new career can be a little daunting, so it is always best that you prepare for yourself for what the role will entail.
While there is potential to make money from being a DJ, you will likely end up working for a long time before you start to see lots of money entering your bank account. This is definitely an important thing you need to consider because you can’t expect to jump into being a DJ and immediately start making a lot of money. You will likely have to consider DJing as a hobby on the side while you build your career and develop your skills.
What Sort Of DJ Do You Want To Be?
The next thing you need to consider when pursuing a career as a is what sort of DJ do you want to be. Most of the time when people think of DJ’s, they assume they need to be out at the clubs every weekend playing to a huge crowd. But this is not necessarily the case. Certainly, club DJs are one path you can go down if you want to live in the world of partying, but there are a couple of other options out there.
A radio DJ is where the concept of being a disc jockey originated, so it is considered the classic form of DJing. Being a radio DJ can be a great option if you are after a more stable career as radio stations offer full-time DJ work. The great thing about being a radio DJ is that it is very versatile. All radio stations operate in their own way, so each day on the job can be different. Although it may be considered a more stable option, being a radio DJ still gives you the freedom and creativity to play the songs you like.
Another option you could pursue as a DJ is to be a producer. While some DJing is about playing pre-recorded music to an audience, as a producer you are the brains behind the music and the one who creates the music that is played. Being a producer requires much more knowledge about music production and audio engineering, so you may need to consider acquiring further education if you want to pursue the producer route.
Work At Your Local Radio
One thing that could help you with pursuing your new career is working at your local radio station. Assuming you are already a big music fan, working at your local radio station is a great way to get your foot in the door of the music world. Even if you are not presenting on radio, you will have the chance to be around a lot of like-minded people who share your passion for music. When it comes to expanding any career, networking is the number one way to do it. Meeting other people in your industry can be extremely useful as they will be able to connect you with other important and interesting people.
Not only this but working at your local radio will hopefully give you access to a lot of technical equipment that can help you with developing your skills as a DJ. Being a DJ is not an easy job, it involves a lot of knowledge about technical pieces of equipment. Working at a local radio station can help you learn all about the equipment and you can get excellent advice from some experienced disc jockeys. It is important to remember that the people you will meet at your local radio station would have been in the same position as you, so they will be more than happy to give you advice so you can get to where you want to be.
Without art, the world would be less expressive, colorful, and fun to live in. When people realize this, it would change their perspective and increase their appreciation for every form of art available for everyone’s enjoyment.
Below, let’s look at ways you can show your support to artists in your community as they continue to make the world a more creative place. Let’s begin.
- Buy Art or Commission Some
A direct way to contribute to an artist is by buying one of their works. Whether you need the piece they’ve already made, or you love their style and thus want a custom-created art, financially supporting artists is usually appreciated.
It would keep them doing what they are doing, but it would also give the artist a boost to their self-esteem. It also helps in knowing that people still care for why they do. But, most importantly, they are willing to pay for it.
- Participate In The Art Community
To get involved in an art community, you have to join it. First and foremost, art is a creative outlet. Therefore, people should try to find an art that resonates with them, irrespective of whether they feel talented.
It is normal and encouraged to explore art on your own. However, you can join an art class in your school or community. This can be a way of introducing yourself to your creative side while also supporting instructors who make art education possible.
- Visit Art Galleries
Visiting art galleries also exposes you to several works from different artists. Sometimes they might be part of history or theme, and you can experience emotional responses that could come from your exposure to different pieces.
If you love art, you should visit galleries and museums to look at works from artists like Julie Blackmon, Homegrown. When you do this, you help keep their door open, not just for monetary gains, but to let the general populace know that art interest is still alive.
- Donate to a Local Arts Charity
The art industry is primarily saddled with the issues of funding. Therefore if you are able financially, do support by donating. When you make donations to your local art fund or charity, you contribute to the support of arts and artist organizations immensely.
Such gestures would aid the art industry by providing smaller institutions and individuals with the resources they need for artistic exhibitions, production, and much more.
- Virtual Support
Social media is a very powerful tool, and sharing art images or artist pages through Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest can be very valuable to artists in their exposure. In addition, when you leave a positive and genuine comment on an artist, designer, or gallery image, it would be uplifting and can make a big difference in their practice.
That’s A Wrap
Art can enrich everyone’s lives, however, it can be challenging for people to get exposed to it without support. Therefore, supporting local art in communities is important.
Being involved in arts and artists in your community can show you what artists near you are doing.
A reader asked me to post this as it was something that happened to her husband in the workplace and she thought her life was over. After a very very long struggle, she wrote this important article. I thought it was too important and too real not to share it with you…
A false accusation of molestation can hurt your credibility at work. It can affect your social standing as friends, neighbors, and acquaintances consider you a sinister person. But your relationship is the most serious concern in this situation. Your spouse or partner may not trust you anymore, at least not until you prove your innocence. But you can do your bit to clear your position and rebuild your relationship. It can take a lot of effort to convince your significant other about your innocence. But it is only a small price to save your bond and win the trust of your partner. Luckily, rebuilding your relationship after a false accusation is easy, provided you are committed to rebuilding it. Here are some tips to help.
Explain your story
Nothing is more important than explaining your side of the story to your spouse when facing a false allegation of molestation. Start an honest conversation with them, no matter how difficult it seems. Describe what led to the event and the possible reason the accuser had to bring up the allegation. If you were tempted to cheat on them, be upfront, apologize, and clear the situation. They will probably see your honesty if you try to persuade them with commitment and truth. Do not hesitate to speak the truth because it is far better than lying to cover yourself.
Gather evidence
Having evidence can add weight to your story, so gather as much as possible before starting the conversation with your partner. You can look for small but valuable pieces to prove the fallacy of the allegations. Maybe, the accuser brought the complaint because you did not respond to their moves. You can show text messages, emails, or phone conversation recordings to validate their actions. Likewise, look for visual evidence such as CCTV footage to establish your truth.
Get witnesses
Witnesses can take you the extra mile while proving your innocence. If the charges came at your workplace, you may request colleagues to speak to your spouse and vouch for your good behavior. You may even ask your HR manager to discuss the matter with your partner. Anyone who can provide testimony about your truth can be a valuable resource for saving your relationship. Explain your situation, and people who know you will be happy to help.
Fortify your legal defense
A strong legal defense can be the game-changer when it comes to saving your name and reputation after a false molestation accusation. Besides protecting you from penalty or jail time, it can also help you salvage your relationship. You must get in touch with a sex crimes attorney right after the accusation. Even better, take your partner along for the attorney meetings so that they have a clear view of your case. Getting a clean chit from the court is enough proof of your innocence, so you will not have to worry much about convincing your partner.
Restore normalcy in your relationship
Getting your partner on your side is also about restoring normalcy in your relationship. The road may be challenging, but it is worth making an effort. Resuming normalcy is all the more crucial if you have kids in the family. The last thing you want to have is an unhappy family where kids suffer because their parents seem to be on the opposite side. Talk to each other to maintain the connection. Spend time together, plan family outings, and work to bring intimacy back into the relationship. The more you bond as partners, the better things are likely to get.
Focus on bringing the trust back
Rebuilding your relationship after a crisis is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing effort where you have to focus on bringing the trust back into the bond. Be truthful about the court proceedings and the internal investigations in your company. You may face challenges during the journey, but seek support from your partner rather than hide facts from them. They may actually help you make a strong comeback with financial and emotional support during the legal process.
Your relationship should be a priority when dealing with a false molestation charge. The allegation is serious, and it is natural for your partner to suspect you and resent the situation initially. They may feel cheated and sad, but you can do your bit to help them get through the emotional pain and trauma. Your relationship is worth the hard work, and you must not give up on it, no matter how challenging the circumstances are. Believe in yourself and your love!
Restaurant Week: March 28 – April 3 • Opening Night Party: Tuesday, March 29
This spring marks a comeback for both Greenwich Restaurant Week and local food establishments! It’s been two years since the pandemic wreaked havoc on the restaurant and hospitality industries. With low Covid cases, mask mandates recently being lifted, and warmer weather, consumers are excited to reconnect with friends during this popular food event that attracts hundreds of diners and food enthusiasts from around the tri-state area.
Beginning on Monday, March 28th, and running through Sunday, April 3rd, more than 17 local restaurants are participating and offering special dining deals throughout the 7 day-long celebrations. Each participating restaurant will present special Greenwich Restaurant Week menus featuring prix-fixe pricing for a limited time. Guests can enjoy $25.95 lunches and $35.95 dinners – incredible prices for some of the area’s most renowned and popular local establishments. Guests are encouraged to make reservations in advance by calling the restaurant directly and mentioning Greenwich Restaurant Week when booking their table.
The week kicks off with the annual Greenwich Restaurant Week Opening Night Party on Tuesday, March 29th at Tony’s at the J House from 6:00pm – 8:30pm. This annual foodie event is one of the hottest events in town, featuring endless craft cocktails and premium wines, provided by local wine and spirit purveyors, as well as curated bites from many of the participating restaurant week establishments, such as Hinoki, Elm Street Oyster House, Little Pub and La Taqueria. Tickets are $75 each and include a VIP taste of restaurant week, the opportunity to meet top Greenwich chefs, and music by DJ Kunjan from Kunjan Collective. Plus, a portion of the ticket sales will benefit TAG, Transportation Association of Greenwich, a not-for-profit transportation service for Greenwich CT residents who are elderly and disabled children and adults. Tickets are on sale at GreenwichRestaurantWeek.com and can be purchased at the door.
Greenwich Restaurant Week is presented by Moffly Media, publisher of the area’s premier local magazine brands, including Greenwich Magazine. “For over 75 years, Moffly Media has been committed to supporting our local businesses,” says Andrew Amill, Chief Revenue Officer Moffly Media and Publisher of Greenwich Magazine. “We hope to continue the effort to ease the devastating impact Covid created on the restaurant and hospitality industries while creating meaningful moments for local residents and visitors to experience the best our area has to offer. We hope our community joins us in supporting local businesses while enjoying some amazing deals during restaurant week.”
Greenwich Restaurant Week 2022 sponsors include: First Bank of Greenwich, Flowcode, Nest Seekers International, Restorative Pain Solutions, Tony’s, and the J House. Participating restaurants include: Appetit Bistro, Bistro V, Coast Seafood, Elm Street Oyster House, Eastend, The Ginger Man, Grigg Street Pizza, Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant, Hinoki, Kissaki Sushi, La Taqueria, Little Pub Greenwich, Mediterraneo, Méli-Mélo, MIKU Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Rosina’s, Ruby & Bella’s, South Bay Greenwich,
Terra and Tony’s at the J House Greenwich. Beverage sponsors include Aquafina, Cisco Brewers, Coffee for Good, Kettle One Vodka, SoNo1420 Distillery, TUCKGin, and Val’s Putnam Wines & Liquors.
For the most updated information on participating restaurants, Opening Night Party details, and this year’s sponsors, visit GreenwichRestaurantWeek.com. Follow us on Instagram at @GreenwichRestaurantWeek.
About Moffly Media: For over 75 years, Moffly Media has been the foremost authority on living your best life in Fairfield County. Through print, digital and experiential platforms, we deliver daily inspiration and information to thousands of loyal, sophisticated and discerning consumers who craves only the best ideas, services, products and experiences that reflect their high standard of living. We are deeply rooted in our community, passionate about giving back, and champion and support the businesses, organizations and families that call the Gold Coast and surrounding area their home. Moffly Media is the regional publisher of athome in Fairfield County, Greenwich, New Canaan, Darien & Rowayton and Westport, Weston & Wilton magazines. In addition to Greenwich Restaurant Week, Moffly Media also hosts annual events, such as the Best of the Gold Coast Connecticut, Best of Greenwich, Women In Business, Light a Fire Awards and athome Magazine’s A-List Awards. Many of the media company’s experiential platforms benefit local charities. In the past year, Moffly Media has donated over $1.6 million in cash and in-kind donations to support charities throughout Fairfield country.