Newsletter Issue #473

                                 

Entrepreneur & Author
JeffCorbett.com

              

Success, Longevity & Travel

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”
— Saint Augustine.” 

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As summer settles in, this week’s edition explores a fascinating mix of tradition, innovation, and lifestyle. We begin by examining the unintended consequences of abandoning cursive writing and what may be lost when an entire generation grows up without this once-essential skill. We also take a closer look at why entrepreneurs are increasingly leaving major metropolitan areas in search of lower costs, greater flexibility, and improved quality of life. On the investment front, excitement continues to build around the long-anticipated SpaceX IPO, raising questions about what could become one of the most closely watched public offerings in recent memory.

Elsewhere, we cover the surprising wellness benefits of making your bed each morning, separate fact from fiction regarding walking outdoors in summer heat, and offer a beginner’s guide to enjoying oysters with confidence. You’ll also find practical etiquette advice on the proper use of condiments, a Summer 2026 Bucket List filled with memorable experiences before Labor Day, and a look at why Italy’s Amalfi Coast continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

As always, thank you for being part of the Global Common Cents community. And if you think of it, please hit one of the share buttons to send this edition to a friend.

Jeff Corbett

Publisher | Global Common Cents

Sponsor of this Issue:

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The Cost of Losing Cursive

“Why educators are reconsidering the decision to replace penmanship with keyboards.” 

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For generations, cursive writing was viewed as a foundational life skill in American education, helping students develop discipline, fine motor coordination, and the ability to communicate clearly by hand. Yet over the past decade, many schools quietly reduced or eliminated cursive instruction as classrooms shifted toward laptops, tablets, and standardized digital learning. While technology unquestionably plays an important role in modern education, many educators and cognitive researchers now believe removing cursive from classrooms may have been a mistake. According to researchers at the University of Washington and the Indiana University, handwriting activates areas of the brain connected to memory, comprehension, and learning in ways that typing alone often does not. Cursive writing also encourages patience, concentration, and muscle memory — skills increasingly challenged in today’s fast-moving digital environment.

Beyond academics, cursive connects younger generations to history, culture, and personal expression. Without it, many students struggle to read handwritten letters, family records, historical documents, or even signatures. Critics of removing cursive argue that schools traded a timeless cognitive and communication skill for convenience too quickly. In an age dominated by screens, there is growing appreciation for slowing down long enough to write thoughts by hand, whether journaling, note-taking, or simply signing one’s name with confidence. As more states begin restoring cursive instruction to elementary classrooms, the debate is shifting from whether cursive is old-fashioned to whether abandoning it entirely caused schools to lose something far more valuable than many originally realized.

In today’s business environment, where emails, texts, and artificial intelligence handle much of our communication, the ability to think clearly and communicate thoughtfully remains a competitive advantage. Cursive itself may not be essential in the modern workplace, but the discipline, focus, and cognitive engagement developed through handwriting are qualities every entrepreneur, executive, and professional can still benefit from in an increasingly digital world.

Why Major Cities are Losing Entrepreneurs

“Founders are leaving major cities.”   

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For generations, major cities such as New York City, San Francisco, and Seattle were considered essential destinations for entrepreneurs seeking capital, talent, and opportunity. While these cities remain powerful business hubs, a growing number of founders are choosing to build companies elsewhere. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, domestic migration patterns continue to show population gains in states such as Texas, Florida, and Tennessee, while several high-cost metropolitan areas have experienced net outflows in recent years. Rising housing costs, higher taxes in some jurisdictions, lengthy commutes, and increasing operating expenses have caused many entrepreneurs to reconsider where they live and work.

At the same time, technology has fundamentally changed the equation. According to researchers at Stanford University and other institutions studying remote work trends, many knowledge-based businesses can now operate effectively with distributed teams. Video conferencing, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital collaboration tools have reduced the need for entrepreneurs to maintain expensive offices in major urban centers. Access to investors, customers, suppliers, and employees is no longer confined to a single zip code, allowing founders to prioritize affordability, flexibility, and lifestyle considerations without necessarily sacrificing growth opportunities.

Yet the story is more nuanced than a simple urban exodus. Major cities continue to offer advantages that smaller markets often cannot match, including deep talent pools, world-class universities, industry clusters, cultural amenities, and easier access to venture capital networks. According to the National Venture Capital Association, a significant share of venture funding still flows to companies headquartered in traditional innovation hubs. What appears to be emerging is not the decline of major cities, but rather the expansion of entrepreneurial choice. Today’s founders have more freedom than ever to decide where they can build a business, raise a family, and enjoy a high quality of life—often finding that success no longer requires a downtown address.

Moonshot Money the SpaceX IPO Launches!

“Wall Street prepares for what could become the largest IPO in history.“

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For years, investors could only speculate about the finances of Elon Musk’s privately held SpaceX. That changed in May when the company publicly filed documents for a long-anticipated initial public offering. According to Reuters, SpaceX is seeking a valuation between roughly $1.5 trillion and $1.75 trillion and could raise as much as $75 billion to $80 billion, potentially making it the largest IPO ever completed. The offering is expected to price in June, with public trading anticipated shortly thereafter. According to Reuters, the filing revealed approximately $18.7 billion in annual revenue, while also showing significant losses tied to the company’s aggressive investments in Starship development, Starlink expansion, artificial intelligence infrastructure, and future space-based technologies.

The excitement surrounding the IPO reflects more than rockets alone. Many institutional investors view SpaceX as a combination of aerospace leader, global communications provider, and emerging technology platform. According to Reuters, Starlink generated more than $3 billion in quarterly revenue and remains central to the company’s long-term growth strategy. Recent Starship testing has also strengthened investor confidence that SpaceX may continue lowering launch costs while expanding its commercial and government business. Just last week, Reuters reported that the company secured a $4.16 billion U.S. Space Force contract, further reinforcing its growing role in national defense and satellite infrastructure.

Not everyone is convinced the valuation is justified. According to Business Insider, investor Michael Burry recently questioned whether SpaceX’s financial results support a valuation approaching $2 trillion. Analysts interviewed by Reuters note that traditional valuation measures are difficult to apply because investors are largely betting on future opportunities rather than current earnings. The filing also revealed that Musk is expected to retain overwhelming voting control of the company after the offering, a structure that has raised concerns among some governance advocates. Whether investors view SpaceX as a rocket company, a communications giant, or a future AI infrastructure powerhouse may ultimately determine how high the stock climbs once trading begins.

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.

How to Politely Use Condiments

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.

“The unspoken rules that drive outcomes.” 

——-

Whether you’re squeezing ketchup onto a burger or drizzling hot sauce over your eggs, condiments are one of life’s small but satisfying pleasures. From the salt and pepper shakers at your grandmother’s kitchen table to the artisan sauces lining restaurant caddies today, condiments have always played a supporting role in our meals. And knowing how to use them well is a quiet mark of good manners.

What Are Condiments, Exactly?

Condiments are seasonings, sauces, and relishes used to enhance the flavor of a dish. They are the co-stars of the meal, not the main event. Salt, pepper, mustard, ketchup, steak sauce, hot sauce, salad dressing, relish — these are all condiments, and they come in every form imaginable: shakers, squeeze bottles, glass jars, small bowls, and single-serve packets.

The golden rule? Condiments add to a great dish. They are not meant to rescue a poor one.

Salt, Pepper, and the Sprinkle Family

Salt and pepper are the most iconic condiment duo in existence — and they are always a pair. When someone at the table asks for the salt, you pass the pepper along with it. Always. Separating these two creates an unnecessary disruption mid-meal as the table searches for the missing partner.

Beyond salt and pepper, meals are sometimes accompanied by other sprinkle-style condiments: grated Parmesan, dried herbs, cinnamon, nutmeg, or specialty spices. These are typically placed in small shakers or bowls with spoons, and they vary based on the dish being served.

Here is the most important rule of all condiments, especially the sprinkle variety: taste your food first. In any home or restaurant, it’s safe to assume the person who prepared your meal knows what they’re doing. Reaching for the salt before your first bite sends an unintentional signal that you expect the food to be lacking. Take a bite or two, appreciate the cook’s effort, and then season to your preference.

Sauces: A Brief and Delicious History

Not so long ago, ketchup came in tall glass bottles that required a near-heroic level of patience. You tilted the bottle, gave it a gentle shake, and waited. Poking a knife into the neck of the bottle — clean or otherwise — was strictly off-limits. Steak sauce, mustard, and relishes were stored in glass jars with fitted metal lids and little serving spoons tucked inside. Everyone used the same spoon, and it went right back into the jar. (No licking. No finger-wiping. Those rules still apply.)
Today, condiments are served far more casually — plastic squeeze bottles on diner tables, sauce packets in fast food bags, and elegant ramekins in upscale restaurants. But the setting still determines the protocol.

• Casual restaurants often keep condiments right on the table in a caddy or carousel. Help yourself freely.
• Mid-range restaurants typically don’t set condiments out unless the dish calls for them. If you’d like ketchup or hot sauce, simply ask your server.
• Upscale restaurants make the decision for you. If a sauce accompanies the dish, it will be served alongside it — often in a small bowl or with a pouring spout. If you’d like something extra, it’s perfectly fine to quietly ask your server after a few bites.

When using any pourable condiment, pour or dip a modest amount onto the side of your plate, then dip each bite as you go. For salad dressings, drizzle lightly over the salad, then gently toss to coat. Cut any oversized pieces of lettuce or vegetables with your fork and knife as you mix, then set the knife at the top of your plate and enjoy.

Condiments at Home and as a Guest

At home, the host decides which condiments make it to the table. If you’re a guest in someone’s home, take a couple of bites before asking for anything additional. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in honoring the effort of whoever cooked for you.

This is also a wonderful habit to pass along to children. Teaching kids to taste before they season builds respect and gratitude, and marks them as thoughtful guests wherever they go.

Condiments, used with just a little intention and grace, make meals more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

The Benefits of Making Your Bed

by Morayma MaKay
Writer / Blogger & Content Creator
Adulthood Rewired

Biography:  Morayma Makay is a fashion model, mother, and writer.  She has
dedicated the last 20 years to working in the fashion and health fields as
both a researcher and content creator.

“Support your wellness.”     

——-

For a habit that takes less than two minutes, making your bed has an oddly significant effect on how the rest of your day feels. It’s one of those habits people tend to either swear by or completely dismiss…and if you’re in the second group, you’re definitely not alone! There are one too many mornings when it feels unnecessary, especially if you’re rushing out the door or planning to climb right back into bed later that night anyway…but the psychology behind getting your bed nice and neat is actually pretty interesting.

Starting Your Day the Right Way.

Making your bed first thing in the morning can help create an immediate sense of order before the day has fully started because our surroundings affect us more than we realize. Walking into a room that feels and looks calm and orderly tends to put your brain at ease while clutter and disorganization can feel chaotic…and unlike a lot of wellness habits that require time, planning, or motivation, making your bed is one of those super simple habits we can all do! Just straighten the blankets and reset the space…although if you are one to have tons of throw pillows, it may take a few extra minutes!

Morning Achievements.

There’s also something psychologically helpful about completing a task first thing in the morning, even a tiny one like making your bed. It creates a sense of achievement and momentum. This then helps your brain register that you’ve already done something productive, which can make it easier to continue making good decisions throughout the day. It’s similar to the way small routines help signal transitions to the brain. Making your bed marks the shift between sleeping and being awake, between resting and starting the day, and for people who work from home or spend a lot of time in their bedrooms, that separation matters even more.

Creating a Comfortable Space.

There’s also the comfort factor of a neatly made bed. Coming home at the end of the day to a made bed and clean room genuinely feels better, calmer, and your space feels cared for. It’s a nice reprieve from our cluttered desks and to-do lists, and a small form of self-maintenance that you get to appreciate later, even if it feels insignificant in the morning. Also no, this doesn’t mean your bed needs to look like a luxury hotel display every day! It’s really just about avoiding the feeling that your day began in a state of disarray.

What’s also interesting is how often this habit connects to other routines naturally. People who make their beds regularly also tend to keep up with other small acts of organization without thinking about them as much, not because making the bed magically changes their personality, but because it reinforces a mindset of paying attention to your environment instead of ignoring it. Small physical routines like making the bed, watering plants, and preparing coffee also help pull you back into the present and help you feel more mindful.

Of course, missing a day doesn’t matter… life won’t fall apart because our blankets are messy, but there’s a reason so many people return to this habit once they start doing it consistently. The payoff is immediate! The bedroom looks better, the morning feels more organized, and your brain gets one less visual reminder of unfinished tasks sitting in the background. For such a seemingly silly and simple habit…it can help start your day in a truly positive way!

The Truth About Walking in the Heat

“How to stay active during summer without putting your health at risk.” 

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Summer heat does not have to derail an exercise routine, but it does require a more thoughtful approach. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high temperatures and humidity can increase the risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular strain, particularly among older adults. The good news is that regular physical activity remains one of the most powerful tools for healthy aging. The key is adapting to the conditions. Experts from the American Heart Association recommend exercising during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, wearing lightweight clothing, staying well hydrated, and reducing intensity when temperatures climb. Even a brisk walk can provide significant health benefits without the risks associated with strenuous activity in extreme heat.

Recovery is equally important. According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults may not sense thirst as readily as younger individuals, making dehydration a greater concern during the summer months. Replenishing fluids, seeking shade or air-conditioned environments after exercise, and paying attention to warning signs such as dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, or a rapid heartbeat can help prevent heat-related illness. Research consistently shows that maintaining physical activity supports cardiovascular health, muscle strength, balance, and cognitive function as we age. Rather than abandoning exercise during a heat wave, a smarter strategy is to adjust the timing, intensity, and duration of workouts. In the pursuit of longevity, consistency matters more than intensity, especially when the thermometer is working against you.

A Beginner’s Guide to Oysters

“From briny East Coast classics to sweet West Coast favorites.” 

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For many travelers and food lovers, oysters can seem mysterious. Yet understanding them is surprisingly simple. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Eastern oyster is the only oyster species native to the U.S. East Coast, while other popular varieties include Pacific, Kumamoto, and Olympia oysters. What makes oysters fascinating is that their flavor is influenced not only by species, but also by where they are grown. Oyster experts often refer to this as “merroir,” the marine equivalent of wine’s terroir -a French term that describes how a wine’s character is influenced by the environment in which the grapes are grown. According to researchers at the University of Rhode Island and numerous oyster-growing regions, factors such as salinity, water temperature, minerals, and available plankton can dramatically influence taste. As a result, an oyster from Maine may taste noticeably different from one harvested in Texas or Washington State, even when they belong to the same species.

For those new to oysters, the easiest way to identify preferences is to sample several varieties side by side. East Coast oysters are generally known for their briny, crisp flavor and firmer texture, while many West Coast oysters offer sweeter, creamier, and sometimes melon- or cucumber-like notes. Kumamoto oysters, originally from Japan and now widely cultivated on the West Coast, are particularly prized for their rich, buttery flavor and smaller size. According to the nonprofit organization Oyster Recovery Partnership, oysters are also environmental workhorses, with a single adult oyster capable of filtering significant amounts of water each day under favorable conditions. Whether enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon, a mignonette sauce, or simply on the half shell, oysters offer one of the few dining experiences where geography, ecology, and cuisine come together in a single bite.

Summer of 2026 Bucket List

 “Ten memorable experiences before Labor Day.” 

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As we move deeper into summer, it is worth remembering that our most treasured possessions are often our memories. While careers, investments, and responsibilities consume much of our attention throughout the year, summer offers a reminder to step away from routine and embrace experiences that enrich our lives. Before Labor Day arrives, consider creating your own Summer 2026 Bucket List—a collection of adventures, both large and small, that will leave you with stories to tell long after the season ends.

Whether you travel across the country or simply explore your own backyard, summer presents opportunities to reconnect with family, friends, and the simple pleasures that are easy to overlook. A memorable experience doesn’t have to involve a passport or an elaborate itinerary. Sometimes the most rewarding moments come from a scenic drive, a great meal shared with loved ones, or an afternoon spent discovering a place you’ve never visited before.

Start with a classic American baseball road trip and visit a ballpark you’ve never seen before. Attend an outdoor concert under the stars, explore a local food festival, or spend a weekend discovering a charming small town. Take a scenic drive through a national park, watch a sunset from a beach, enjoy an evening at an outdoor patio restaurant, or catch a minor league baseball game where the atmosphere is often as enjoyable as the action on the field. Add a train excursion, a wine country getaway, or a stargazing adventure far from city lights, and you’ll have the makings of a memorable summer.

Ten Ideas to Consider:

1. Take a baseball road trip to a new ballpark.
2. Attend an outdoor summer concert.
3. Visit a food and wine festival.
4. Explore a scenic national park.
5. Spend a weekend in a small-town destination.
6. Enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the water.
7. Attend a minor league baseball game.
8. Take a scenic train journey.
9. Visit a wine region you’ve never explored.
10. Experience a night of stargazing away from city lights.

The best bucket lists aren’t about checking boxes—they’re about collecting experiences that become stories worth telling. Long after summer fades into autumn, the memories you create today may prove far more valuable than anything you could have purchased along the way.

The Timeless Appeal of the Amalfi Coast!

“Luxury, scenery and  the charm of Italy’s Amalfi Coast.” 

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The Amalfi Coast remains one of the world’s most captivating destinations, where dramatic cliffs plunge into the sparkling Mediterranean and colorful villages seem to cling effortlessly to the mountainsides. Stretching along southern Italy’s coastline, iconic towns such as Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello have attracted travelers for generations with their breathtaking scenery, rich history, welcoming culture, and exceptional cuisine. While the region’s popularity has grown substantially in recent years, there are still pockets of tranquility where visitors can fully appreciate the beauty that has made the Amalfi Coast a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Among our favorite memories of the region was a stay at the magnificent Hotel Santa Caterina in August 2018. Perched on a cliffside just outside Amalfi, this elegant, family-owned luxury hotel offers spectacular views of the coastline, beautifully terraced gardens, exceptional dining, and warm Italian hospitality. From leisurely breakfasts overlooking the sea to evening strolls through the property’s lush grounds, every moment felt special. Even during the busy summer season, the hotel provided a peaceful retreat from the crowds, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the magic of the Amalfi Coast. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and continue to regard it as one of the finest hotel experiences we have had anywhere in the world.

Another remarkable property in the area is the former 17th-century monastery that has been transformed into the acclaimed Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa. Situated between Amalfi and Positano, this meticulously restored boutique hotel combines historic architecture with modern luxury. Surrounded by magnificent landscaping and offering sweeping coastal views, it provides guests with an atmosphere of serenity rarely found in one of Italy’s most visited destinations. We had the opportunity to tour and dine at Santa Rosa and were deeply impressed by both the setting and the service. For travelers seeking privacy, beauty, and an unforgettable Italian escape, both the Amalfi Coast and its extraordinary hotels deserve a place near the top of any travel wish list.

Hotel Santa Caterina

Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel