Corb7 International February 28th, 2024 Newsletter

International Business 

Publisher's Note

Entrepreneur & Author
JeffCorbett.com

Who Killed JFK? 

And why we should still care.

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This is a subject that I periodically revisit.  It is fascinating and more than 60 years later still serves as a watershed moment for several generations – most profoundly the Baby Boomers.  The Assassination of President Kennedy may well be when many United States citizens stopped trusting their government. 

The JFK assassination in 1963 has sparked numerous conspiracy theories. Some suggest a second shooter, involvement of government agencies, or organized crime. However, official investigations, like the Warren Commission, concluded Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. Despite this, debates and skepticism persist among researchers and the public.

Recently, Rob Reiner an American actor & director who gained fame for his role as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the TV show “All in the Family” has created a fascinating podcast on the subject entitled “Who Killed JFK.” This 10-part series is hosted by Soledad O’Brien. While I do not agree with most of Mr. Reiner’s politics, he does a great job with this presentation, and I highly recommend it. In Episode Ten, he names four shooters and does a compelling job laying out his case.

Personal Perspective:

I was five years old when President Kennedy was assassinated, too young to have perfect recall of the events. As a result, I am confident that my mind bounces between what are real memories and false recollections reinforced by endless film. Something I do vividly remember is the black-and-white TV screen that we watched the funeral on which now almost seems prehistoric. Through that small screen came the haunting image of a rider less horse and sounds of muffled drumbeats, both iconic parts of the solemn funeral procession. Perhaps he was too complicated a man to be an idol – too fraught with his many well document imperfections - nevertheless; I did place him on that pedestal and to some extent, still do.  He had vision and imagination, which are two attributes of incalculable value to an entrepreneur. His speeches were written and presented like poetry. He challenged us to be and do better. Contrast that style with the current dreadful state of the American political system and there simply is no comparison.

When I was an undergraduate at the University of Pittsburgh, prominent speakers were frequently brought in for students to hear their perspectives on a variety of subjects.  It was a different time when public debate was encouraged.  One of the most popular speakers was Dr. Cyril Wecht, who served as a Coroner and Medical Examiner for the city of Pittsburgh.  He is best known for his criticism of the Warren Commission’ findings concerning the assassination of President Kennedy.  In 1972, Dr. Wecht was the first civilian given permission to examine the Kennedy evidence.  As I recall, it was standing room only, to hear his spellbinding presentation in person.  In no uncertain terms, Dr. Wecht proposed that the report lied.   

The events in Dallas changed the Psyche of the World:  
 
November 22, 1963, lit a fuse that would have worldwide ramifications. What followed his death would be an escalation of troops into Vietnam, more assassinations and then the riots of the 1960s. A societal innocence was lost as we learned to distrust our government and America slowly fell from its own pedestal around the world. Perhaps in the long run, that mistrust was healthy, but it came at a terrible cost. President Kennedy’s generation has recently been described and coined by journalist Tom Brokaw to be “The Greatest Generation.”  Is it true?  Perhaps it is accurate.  Or, on the other hand, is it more feasible that for a short period of time, the world viewed post World-War II United States as a beacon for positive change and freedom?  Is it possible that – just as with Kennedy – behind the façade, we were a nation burdened with as many issues and faults?    

In the city of Dallas, there is a public registry on the 6th floor of a building.  Shortly after exiting the elevator and stepping onto the wooden planks of the restored warehouse – now a national museum - you will come across it as you seemingly step back in time.  It is a hollowed location.  If you stop to read the remarks left by visitors – strangers from every walk of life - you can feel their pain, which inescapably becomes sadness. People from all over the world have left remarks here. It is a vestibule to a cathedral of horror … the 6th floor of the Texas Book Depository. 

Never Forget:

Many in United States have seemingly forgotten 9/11, much less the assassinations of JFK. Still, I think Mr. Reiner’s timing on releasing this podcast could not have been better and is very important.  Any attempt to remember previous tragedies that united us without the need for another tragedy to do the same is to be applauded.    
 

For more about my wonderings through Business, Lifestyle, Health, Aging & Travel  
please see my blog:  JeffCorbett.com

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International Business 

Business Psychology

Signs of Excess Stress

Stress affects people from all walks of life.   

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Everyone can relate to feeling a little stressed out at times, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Though it might have a negative reputation, stress can sometimes benefit the brain.

Researchers at the Helen Willis Neuroscience Institute at the University of California, Berkeley found that acute stress can benefit cognitive performance. One key takeaway from that research is the word "acute," which refers to short-term stress that is not chronic. Long-term, chronic stress can contribute to various negative effects on health. For example, the American Psychological Association reports that chronic stress can contribute to long-term problems for heart and blood vessels.

Learning to recognize the signs of excessive stress can help individuals take the steps necessary to reduce that stress before it escalates into a serious health problem. That should be a concern for many individuals, as the American Stress Institute reports that 33 percent of people report feeling extreme stress.

The Mayo Clinic notes that stress can affect individuals' bodies, moods and behaviors. No symptom of stress should be written off, especially if it's ongoing. The following are some signs of excessive stress.

The body

According to the Mayo Clinic, physical symptoms of stress can include:

· Headache

· Muscle tension or pain

· Chest pain

· Fatigue

· Change in sex drive

· Stomach upset

· Difficulty with sleep

Each of the physical symptoms of stress are associated with additional health conditions, so it's imperative that individuals report these issues to their physicians immediately.

Mood

The Mayo Clinic cites various mood-related symptoms of stress, including:

· Anxiety

· Restlessness

· Lack of motivation or focus

· Feeling overwhelmed

· Irritability or anger

· Sadness or depression

Like the physical symptoms of stress, those that affect mood could indicate the presence of mental health issues that are not necessarily a byproduct of stress. Individuals who are experiencing symptoms that affect their mood are urged to speak with a mental health professional.

Behavior

Stress can manifest itself through behavioral issues, which may include:

· Overeating or undereating

· Angry outbursts

· Drug or alcohol misuse

· Tobacco use

· Social withdrawal

· Exercising less often

Speaking with a health care professional can help individuals learn about the ways to address and manage the behavioral symptoms associated with stress.

Stress affects people from all walks of life. Learning to recognize the symptoms of stress is a good first step toward overcoming it and avoiding the long-term consequences of chronic stress.

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International Business 

Cross-Border Business 

 The Jurisdiction of Malta

A little known jurisdiction for business .  

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The Malta is a small archipelago country in the Mediterranean Sea, located south of Sicily, Italy.

Here are some key points about Malta:

      1. History: Malta has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation since around 5900 BC. It has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Knights of St. John, French, and British.
      2. Culture: The culture of Malta is a blend of Mediterranean, Arab, Sicilian, and British influences. Maltese is the official language, while English is widely spoken and used for official purposes. The country has a strong Catholic heritage and celebrates various religious festivals and traditions.
      3. Tourism: Malta is a popular tourist destination known for its historic sites, beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant nightlife. The capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning architecture, museums, and galleries.
      4. Economy: Malta has a diverse economy with sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, financial services, and information technology. It has experienced significant economic growth in recent years and is a member of the European Union and the Eurozone.
      5. Politics: Malta is a parliamentary republic with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government. It has a unicameral legislature known as the House of Representatives.
      6. Population: Malta has a population of around 500,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The majority of the population is of Maltese ethnicity, with small communities of expatriates and immigrants.
      7. Geography: The Maltese archipelago consists of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino, as well as several smaller uninhabited islets. The islands have a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
      8. Cuisine: Maltese cuisine is influenced by Mediterranean and Sicilian flavors, featuring dishes such as rabbit stew (fenkata), pastizzi (savory pastries), and lampuki pie (fish pie). The local wine and seafood are also highly regarded.

Overall, Malta is a fascinating country with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a vibrant culture, making it an appealing destination for travelers and expatriates alike. The Giants of Malta refer to the megalithic temples built by the prehistoric inhabitants of the Maltese Islands around 3600 to 2500 BC. These temples are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The temples are characterized by massive stone blocks, some weighing several tons, intricately carved megaliths, and sophisticated architectural features. They are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are a testament to the advanced engineering and cultural achievements of ancient Malta.

Malta
Location: Mediterranean
Capital City: Valetta
Population: 518,531 (2021)
Language Spoken: Maltese, English
International Time: EST + 6 hours
Airline Service: Air Europe, Air Malta, British Islands Airways, Monarch Airlines
Currency: Euro
Type of Government: Independent Republic
Main Industries: Dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing of electronics and pharmaceuticals and tourism
Tax Treaty: Yes, with United States
OECD: Approved
FATF: Approved

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International Business

Business Etiquette

Strategies for Dealing with Toxic People

by Candace Smith
The Etiquette Blog
Candace Smith Etiquette 

Biography:  Candace Smith, wife of Nobel Prize-Winner Professor Dr. Vernon Smith and owner of the extraordinary blog, “Etiquette for the Business of Life” as featured by BBC, Chicago Tribune and USA Today offers her insights.

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Most of us have experienced dealing with toxic people – those individuals who drain our energy, manipulate situations, and leave us feeling emotionally depleted. Whether it's a family member, a gossiping co-worker, or a negative friend, navigating these relationships can be challenging. But fear not, there are strategies you can employ to protect yourself and maintain your well-being.

Recognizing Toxicity

The first step is identifying toxic behavior. Here are some common red flags:

• Manipulation: They guilt-trip, use emotional blackmail, or play the victim to get what they want.
• Negativity: They constantly complain, criticize, and focus on the downsides of everything.
• Disrespect: They put you down, belittle your achievements, and disregard your boundaries.
• Drama: They thrive on creating chaos and thrive on conflict.
• Unreliability: They break promises, are chronically late, and flake on commitments.

Setting Boundaries
Once you recognize the toxicity, it's crucial to establish boundaries for your mental and emotion well-being. This means clearly communicating what you will and will not tolerate. Here are some tips:

• Use "I" statements: Frame your concerns around how their behavior affects you, avoiding accusatory language.
• Be clear and direct: Don't sugarcoat your message. State your expectations firmly and concisely.
• Be prepared to enforce consequences: If they violate your boundaries, follow through with the consequences you outlined.

In some cases, limiting contact will help you in dealing with toxic people. This could involve reducing phone calls, avoiding certain social situations, or even ending the relationship altogether.

• Prioritize your well-being: Don't feel obligated to maintain relationships that are detrimental to your mental health.
• Gradual distancing: If a complete break is not feasible, gradually decrease your interactions.
• Seek support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a therapist about your situation.

Protect Yourself While Dealing with Toxic People

Remember, you cannot control the behavior of others, but you can control your own reactions. Implementing self-care strategies will help with taking care of yourself and be more mindful with how you react to other people.

• Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress and negative emotions. Practice being present and write about your feelings concerning situations that arise.
• Focus on the positive: Surround yourself with supportive people and engage in activities that bring you joy. Take a walk and spend some time outdoors to help keep yourself centered.
• Prioritize self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge the challenges you're facing.

Dealing with toxic people is a journey, not a destination. There will be setbacks, but by recognizing the signs, setting boundaries, prioritizing your well-being, and seeking support, you can empower yourself to navigate these challenging relationships with greater resilience and self-care.

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International Business

Business Relocation

Timing the Relocation Leap

by Morayma MaKay
Corporate Relocation Consultant & Coach
Get-Ready-Set-Move

The freedom to move. 
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Relocating to a new city or state is an exciting journey, but the timing can significantly impact your experience!  From weather conditions to cost considerations, let's delve into the best times of the year to plan your move.
 
1. Weather Wisdom:  Let's face it, weather matters, and it can play a significant role in the ease of your transition. The ideal time to move often depends on your tolerance for different weather conditions. Spring and early fall are generally considered the sweet spots because the weather is milder, making moves more comfortable especially if you're headed somewhere with intense summers or hardcore winters!
 
2. Cost Calculations: It's important to note that the cost of your relocation can fluctuate throughout the year. Peak moving season typically falls in the summer months, when prices for moving services tend to be higher. To save on costs, consider moving during the offseason, which usually spans from late fall to early spring (plus then you get that better weather we just talked about!).
 
3. School Synchronization: If you have school-aged children, align your move with the academic calendar. Summer break provides a natural transition, allowing kids to start the new school year in their new location. This can help them settle in and make friends more easily without the fear of walking into a new school after classes have already started and friendship groups have formed.
 
4. Housing Hints: For those on a house-hunting mission, consider the housing market. In some regions, spring is a bustling time for real estate, with more options available. In others, the market might be less competitive in the winter, offering better deals.
 
5. Job Market Awareness: The job market can also influence your timing. Research the employment opportunities in your new location and plan your move to coincide with the hiring season in your industry.
 
6. Community Connection: The best time to move can also be dictated by community events and activities. Check the local calendar for festivals, events, and gatherings that can help you integrate into your new community.  The busier the season, the better for meeting people!
 
7. Preparation Period: Allow yourself ample time to plan your move. A well-organized relocation typically takes two to three months of preparation, so consider your timeline and start planning early.

8. Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the best time to move depends on your personal preferences. Think about your family's needs, your job situation, and what kind of weather you can comfortably handle. Remember that there's no one-size-fits-all answer and get ready and set to MOVE!

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International Business   

Investment Strategies  

American Farmland is a Hot Investment

Up 231% since 2008.  

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The amount of farmland bought by investment firms has jumped 231% from 2008 to the middle of last year, according to the National Council of Real Estate Investment Fiduciaries. Investors owned $16.6 billion worth of farmland at the end of 2023, up $9.2 billion from 2020.

Investing in US farmland can be an attractive option for investors looking for stable returns and portfolio diversification. Here are some key points to consider:  

      1. Stability and Tangible Asset: Farmland historically has shown relatively stable returns compared to other asset classes like stocks and bonds. It’s a tangible asset with intrinsic value.
      2. Income Generation: Farmland can generate income through leasing to farmers for crop production or livestock grazing. Rental income can provide a steady cash flow.
      3. Diversification: Investing in farmland can diversify a portfolio, as its performance is not always correlated with traditional financial markets. This can help reduce overall investment risk.
      4. Inflation Hedge: Farmland has historically served as a hedge against inflation since agricultural products tend to rise in price during inflationary periods.
      5. Long-Term Appreciation: While farmland values can fluctuate, they have generally appreciated over the long term due to increasing global demand for food and limited supply of arable land.
      6. Risks to Consider: Investing in farmland also comes with risks such as exposure to weather-related events, commodity price fluctuations, regulatory changes, and management complexities if directly owning and operating the farm.
      7. Investment Options: Investors can invest in farmland directly by purchasing land or indirectly through real estate investment trusts (REITs), farmland investment funds, or agriculture-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
      8. Due Diligence: Before investing, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, including assessing the quality of the land, understanding local agricultural conditions, analyzing potential income streams, and considering tax implications.

Overall, investing in US farmland can be a viable option for investors seeking stable income, portfolio diversification, and potential long-term appreciation, but it’s crucial to carefully evaluate the risks and conduct proper due diligence before making any investment decisions.

Please keep in mind this information should not be considered as financial advice. Investment decisions should be based on individual research and consultation with a qualified financial professional. The value of investments can fluctuate, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consider your risk tolerance and financial goals before making investment decisions.  

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Lifestyle

Fitness, Health & Longevity

Exercising with High Blood Pressure

Being more active can lower BP. 

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Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a serious medical condition and a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The National Library of Medicine National Center for Biotechnology Information offers that hypertension is responsible for the majority of cardiovascular mortality. Hypertension is associated with an inactive lifestyle, so becoming more active can prevent or even reverse a hypertension diagnosis.

Hypertension is blood pressure that is 140 or higher on the systolic (upper) number and 90 or higher on the diastolic (lower) number. Exercise can help lower high blood pressure and may provide an energy boost and relieve stress.

For people adopting a more active lifestyle after a hypertension diagnosis, it is preferential to start off gradually. WebMD says in the event of hypertension, any activity that enables one to breathe harder and make the heart beat a little faster can be sufficient; it is not necessary to purchase a gym membership, but doing so may provide the motivation some need to commit to a workout regimen. Activities like swimming, jogging, brisk walking, biking, or doing rigorous yard work also can help lower blood pressure.

The American Heart Association says for most people, 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity is recommended. This amount of exercise can be broken up any way a person desires, like 30 minutes per day, though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services advises exercising over the course of several days each week. People should make time for stretching and muscle-strengthening as well. Regular physical activity can lower blood pressure by anywhere from five to eight mm Hg. By keeping active, a person can prevent blood pressure from creeping up again.

Exercise is a vital component of addressing hypertension. After receiving such a diagnosis, individuals can work with their physicians to devise a safe and effective fitness regimen.

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Lifestyle  

Spirits & Cuisine  

Turn to Seafood During Lent

Fish on Friday.  

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Skipping meat on Fridays is a common sacrifice Christians make during Lent. Meals can still be flavorful even if chicken, beef or pork may be off the table. In fact, Lent makes for an ideal time to embrace delicious vegetarian meals or those that feature seafood.

Salmon is a hearty, flavorful and heart-healthy protein. When glazed in an easy sauce, this "Sweet-and-Sour Baked Salmon" will be the star of mealtime. Enjoy it, courtesy of "30-Minute Meal Prep" (Sourcebooks) by Robin Miller.

Sweet-and-Sour Baked Salmon

Serves 4

8 salmon fillets, about 5 to 6 ounces each

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup 100 percent pineapple juice

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons light brown sugar

2 tablespoons rice vinegar, regular or seasoned

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 ground ginger

Chopped green onions for serving

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Coat a shallow baking dish with a thin layer of olive or vegetable oil.

2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them in the prepared pan. Season the salmon with salt and black pepper. Set aside.

3. In a small saucepan, whisk together the pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Set the pan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens, stirring frequently.

4. Spoon the sauce over the salmon.

5. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the salmon is fork tender (a meat thermometer should register 145 F).

6. Reserve half of the salmon for a future meal. Refrigerate up to 3 days.

7. Top the remaining salmon with the green onions, and serve.

Tip: You can make this dish spicy by adding hot sauce or sriracha sauce to the glaze. You can also top the finished dish with crushed red pepper flakes.

Also, this thick sauce is versatile, so it can be used on chicken, beef and shellfish.

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Lifestyle 

Leisure 

Hidden Dangers of the BBQ 

Wire brushes can be dangerous.  

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Spring is just around the corner and that means grilling season is about to heat up. Many foods taste even more delicious when cooked over an open flame. Burgers, chicken, sausage, and even vegetables are delectable with a little sear and smoky flavor.

According to home industry advisors at The NPD Group, more than 14 million grills and smokers were sold between April 2020 and February 2021, amounting to a 39 percent increase in dollar sales during the first year of the pandemic, compared to the same period the year prior. Grilling is not something that has gone away simply because pandemic precautions have been lifted. It's still a popular way to cook food, especially when entertaining in warm weather.

The National Fire Protection Association advises that seven out of every 10 adults in the United States have a grill or smoker. And while home fires are associated with such appliances, there's another danger associated with grills - particularly regarding how they're cleaned.

Popular stainless steel or brass wire brushes commonly used to clean grills may be effective, but they can be quite dangerous as well. Consumer Reports states that thousands of people visit emergency rooms each year after having ingested wire bristles that stick to the grill surface and end up in cooked food.

Recently, a pediatric emergency doctor in St. Petersburg, Fla. posted a now-viral TikTok video explaining how a four-year-old boy she treated developed ear pain after eating at a barbecue. It took a barrage of tests before doctors eventually determined the boy had a two-centimeter-long metal wire lodged in his peritonsillar tissues in the throat (nearby to the ear, thus causing the pain), and an abscess had developed around it. The boy had been eating a hamburger, so it is presumed that a metal wire from a grill cleaning brush had become lodged in the burger and then in his throat.

Wire bristles also can wreak havoc in the stomach and intestines if they are consumed. Infections may occur, even leading to sepsis if not treated promptly.

Fortunately for avid grillers, they don't need to turn in their spatulas just yet and give up on grilling. In fact, embracing new ways to clean grills can ensure everyone gets to eat great food without getting sick.

· Invest in alternative cleaning tools. Pumice stones and coil-shaped bristle-free brushes can effectively lean grills without employing wire bristle brushes.

· Use oven cleaner. Rather than scrubbing, grab oven cleaner spray and use it on the grill. Wipe off the residue when foods stuck on the grill dissolve.

· Rely on aluminum foil. Aluminum foil wads can replicate the scouring power of steel-wool pads. Wait for the grill to cool down a bit before using the foil to clean.

· Inspect the grill. If you still use a wire brush, make sure to toss it if the bristles start to come loose. Also, wipe the grill down with a damp cloth prior to grilling to catch any errant wire bristles prior to cooking.

Taking measures to clean grills without wire brushes can ensure a season's worth of safe and delicious cooking.

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Lifestyle

Travel

The Kentucky Derby 2024

 May 4th, 2024  

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Luxury Experience

May 2-5, 2024


Few sporting events are shrouded in history and tradition as much as the Kentucky Derby. Billed as the "the fastest two minutes in sports," the Derby began in 1875 and is celebrated each year on the first Sunday in May.  The Kentucky Derby began when Meriwether Lewis Clark traveled to Europe and attended the Epsom Derby in England. Clark was inspired to create a similar horse racing event in America.

Many horse racing fans make entire weekends out of the Derby, planning their celebrations months in advance of the race.  Churchill Downs has a regular capacity of 165,000, including general admission tickets.  For those who cannot travel to Churchill Downs and attend the race in person, viewing parties are available all over the globe.   

If you are interested in attending this year!

Kentucky Derby Weekend Packages

Enjoy the full Derby experience - sip a mint julep from your exclusive seats while taking in the the races at historic Churchill Downs.

Weekend Packages:

• Thursday: Passes to a client only welcome reception Thursday evening in downtown Louisville with live music, open top-shelf bar, and heavy hor d'oeuvres
• Friday: Best of Kentucky Tour tickets. Includes tour of a local bourbon distillery and a tour of a local horse farm. Lunch and transportation included.
• Saturday: Kentucky Derby tickets - food and drink included
• Hotel rooms in downtown Louisville Thursday, May 2 - Sunday, May 5 
• Dedicated Operational support prior and during the event

  Click Here for More Information

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Business Services

Business Funding  

Corb7 International, Inc.

Think Seven Continents, Think a World of Opportunity!


 

Worldwide Funding!

Cutting-edge ideas.  

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Any Project, Any Where!

When Others Say No, We Have Solutions!

Traditional project funding route has been drying up. Banks are not lending; projects don't have the required credit or valuations and are coming out of a very difficult period in our history of business.

We are pleased to bring to your attention a service that could provide a lifeline to your business. Through our associates, we arrange financing for companies who cannot obtain adequate bank financing.

We have  solutions.


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Project minimum is $50,000 (USA only)

Project minimum $10 million (Global)


For a Complimentary Consultation:

Email: contact@corb7.com 


Corb7 International, Inc.
a Business Advisory & Publishing Firm
www.Corb7.com