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SELLING IS THE NAME OF THE GAME My Love-Hate Relationship with Social Media
THE KONECKY JOURNAL
It’s complicated ...
learning how to fix stuff, play new guitar songs, or see game highlights from a sporting event I missed.
Our firm has a respectable following on social media, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Some of our clients have even found us through social media. Therefore, you might conclude that I love these outlets. The truth is that I have somewhat of a “love-hate” relationship with social media and maybe you can even relate. Because of its overwhelming presence and impact around the world, social media gets its own “day” of recognition globally on June 30, making this the perfect time to share my conflicting views on the subject. I’ve seen positives and negatives of its presence both professionally and personally. On a professional level, I fought tooth and nail for years against creating a Facebook page for my business. I eventually surrendered in 2020 after my web developers explained that Google’s algorithm assigns a lower search ranking to any organization that doesn’t have branded social media accounts linked to its website. So rather begrudgingly, I accepted that in order to keep my business relevant and current my firm needed to go “social.” From there, my firm has grown its presence on other social media platforms. I am of strong opinion that if my posted content can help clients and potentially attract new ones, then I’m all for it, in moderation of course. While my professional presence on social media is strictly to be helpful and positive it still somewhat underscores my basic belief that social media has morphed into an outlet for advertising and sales, which doesn’t sit great with me. I think it’s unfortunate too that many people are not aware of social media’s hidden agenda, which the excellent 2020 Netflix documentary “The Social Dilemma” made clear: If you’re signing up to use some social media platform for free, the product they’re selling is you. In my view, YouTube is an exception as it offers more than just a “look-at-me” platform centered around FOMO and marketing. I utilize this platform personally to gain information in areas of interest and professionally to disseminate it. For my firm, I have built a sizable following on YouTube by posting useful videos about personal injury and criminal defense law while on a personal note I find it incredibly useful
JUNE/JULY 2025
But with the positives lie the negatives too … daily I see how all of these platforms are fueling some real problems. I don’t want to veer into politics, but it’s safe to say that many of our troubles as a society stem from polarizing misinformation spread via social media. I’ve also seen the personal toll social media takes on others — the hurt feelings kids and adults alike experience when they discover on social media that they’ve been excluded from some party or get-together. Professionally, I’ve seen bullying on these platforms, not only by people known to victims, but by others they don’t know. If not used carefully, social media can give strangers the power to insult you and actually hurt you. Social media does further damage by sucking so much of people’s attention as well as their attention span. I often encounter people who can’t make eye contact when I talk to them because they are so used to looking at their screens. A bestselling 2024 book, “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt, lays out research showing that heavy use of devices for long periods harms children’s brain development and causes anxiety. Also, many people forget that anything they post on social media can be used against them in either civil or criminal proceedings. In other words, people are commonly giving up their Fifth Amendment rights without even knowing it, by posting self-incriminating material on Facebook or X. Maybe they brag about some conquest, or post details that could only be known by a participant in a crime. We have handled multiple cases in which victims have sought restraining orders against someone who has posted threats or engaged in harassing behavior on social media. So, is my stance on social media hypocritical? Some people might think I am contradicting myself by criticizing it while building my presence on major platforms. Well, as I said from the start, I am the first to admit that social media is really a love-hate reality in my world today and it’s simply complicated. Today, no self-respecting business or law firm can avoid using it. So, whether you agree or disagree with me on this subject, let us know! And while you’re at it, like us, follow us, and tweet us — on social media! ☺
In my professional and personal life, I have seen social media’s destructive influence and its potential for causing real human problems.”
10.0
–Matthew Konecky
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Going to a theme park is one of the most memorable ways to spend a family vacation. Theme parks are full of excitement, but they can also be overwhelming — especially with young kids in tow. The right game plan can turn a day of long lines and potential meltdowns into a fun, memorable adventure. Plan smart, play hard. Rather than simply packing up and heading to the park, take some time to research and plan your trip. Look into show schedules and ride restrictions, such as height limits, ahead of time so you can plan your day. Many parks also have mobile apps to track wait times and order food. Visit the most popular attractions early before the crowds swell. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak seasons also helps avoid long lines to maximize your family’s fun. Remember snacks, drinks, and sun protection. Theme park restaurants can be expensive and busy. If you plan to dine in the park, make reservations to avoid wasting precious time in long lines. If allowed, pack your own lunch to save time and money. It’s also wise to carry reusable water bottles to keep the family hydrated without breaking the bank on expensive bottled water. If visiting a park during summer, don’t forget the sun protection. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and breathable clothing are a must when walking all day in the heat. Taking a few minutes for a midday break in a shaded area or at an indoor show will help the family recharge for the rest of the visit. Keep expectations flexible and fun. Even with careful planning, things won’t always work out like you hope — expect ride closures, long lines, and cranky kids. Creating a list of backup attractions or activities can help you easily pivot if Plan A doesn’t work out. And don’t try to see everything in one visit. Trying to hit every ride can backfire and make the trip miserable. Often, the best memories happen in unexpected moments. A little structure mixed with flexibility can lead to a lot of fun and ensure your family’s theme park adventure is about making memories rather than managing stress. A Family Guide to Theme Park Fun THRIVE IN THE THRILLS
A MESSAGE FROM THE FAITHFUL
“Matthew took my phone call right
away, and gave me much needed legal advice that gave me a lot of clarity. He is honest, and took the time out of his day to talk me through my situation. I recommend him to anybody in need of legal help in South Florida.” –Henry Lewiston
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VACATIONS GONE WRONG
Staying Smart When Arrested Out of State
Many Florida residents depart for cooler climes at this time of year. Few things can ruin a vacation faster, however, than getting cited or arrested while traveling in another state. If you are cited out of state for a minor traffic violation, it may be easier and cheaper to pay the ticket than to fight it. To avoid points on your license or a stiff fine, however, you may want to consult a local defense attorney experienced in fighting such charges. They may be able to appear in court on your behalf and have the charges dismissed or reduced. If you are considering ignoring an out-of-state DUI charge or another significant infraction — forget it! Understanding how the states work together to prosecute alleged criminals can be helpful. Most states have agreed to share information about DUIs and other traffic violations under an Interstate Drivers License Compact. If you are convicted of a DUI in another state or simply leave without resolving the charge, Florida will
states, who can work together on an effective defense strategy. If you are charged with a felony, you may be able to retain an attorney in that state to appear on your behalf and mount a strong defense, improving your chances of getting the charges reduced or dismissed. Returning home may be possible if you are released on bail, but you should make sure you have permission to leave the state. If you fail to appear, prosecutors can issue an out-of-state warrant to have you extradited back to their jurisdiction to face the charges. The Constitution requires the states to cooperate with each other by returning accused criminals to the jurisdiction where the alleged crime was committed. At our firm, we have been defending tourists and other out-of-state visitors for more than two decades, and we understand the unique challenges of assisting these clients. If you find yourself facing charges away from home, you should seek a similarly experienced attorney in the state you are visiting. Golden Summer Squash and Corn Soup Inspired by EatingWell.com Cooking With Ashley
suspend your license and begin proceedings against you as if you had been arrested in Florida. One smart strategy is to engage experienced DUI defense attorneys in both
Download These Books Today ! YOUR LEGAL RESOURCE
When it comes to the legal process, you may have a lot of questions. Well, I have answers! Right now, I am offering my two resource books for free. ‘My Loved One Has Been Arrested: What’s Next?’ The second edition of my first book is now available for download. In the second edition, you will find out what happens after your case, how to remove mugshots, and what to do if you were the one arrested. If you want a physical copy, please contact our office today. ‘What You Must Know About Your DUI Case Before You Do Anything’ Being convicted of a DUI charge can drastically change your life. Learn what goes into a DUI case and what your first step should be.
This light soup offers the perfect combination of healthy ingredients and flavor.
Ingredients
• • •
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 medium shallot, chopped
•
1 14-oz can reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 medium summer squash (about 1 lb), diced 3 tsp chopped fresh thyme or oregano, divided
• • • •
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup corn kernels (from 1 large ear)
•
1 tsp lemon juice
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Directions
1. In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add shallot and cook for 1 minute. 2. Add squash and 1 tsp herbs; cook 3–5 minutes until the squash softens; stir occasionally. 3. Add broth and salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 5 more minutes until squash is soft. 4. In a blender, purée soup until smooth. Return the soup to the pan and stir in corn. 5. Simmer over medium heat and cook 3–5 minutes until corn is tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice. 6. Serve garnished with remaining 2 tsp herbs and feta.
Head over to MatthewKoneckyPA.com today for your FREE downloads!
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561.671.5995 | 954.272.6187 WWW.MATTHEWKONECKYPA.COM 4440 PGA Blvd., Suite 402 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
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INSIDE
1 Why I Can’t Stand Social Media — But Use It Anyway 2 Family-Friendly Tips for Theme Park Success 3 Arrested in Another State? You Can’t Outrun the Law
Golden Summer Squash and Corn Soup
4 Mãori Culture and More: Discover the Magic of New Zealand
Winter Down Under Savoring the Off-Season Joys of New Zealand
Exploring Coastal Trails Hiking through New Zealand’s stunning coastline and ancient forests — or tramping, as the locals call it — is a major attraction. Many of New Zealand’s Great Walks are on alpine or subalpine tracks and are impassable in winter. But the country’s most popular Great Walk, the Abel Tasman Coast Track, extends 37 miles one way across warmer terrain, past golden beaches and lush native vegetation. This trek offers ample opportunity to enjoy some of the many exotic birds of New Zealand, home to more avian species than any other country in the world. Nature Shows Nearly half of the world’s whale species are in New Zealand’s vast marine territory. Giant sperm whales can be seen year-round, and humpback and southern right whales are visible from shore from May through September. If you’re a fan of nighttime lights, stargazing at such celebrated dark-sky sites as Great Barrier Island and Mackenzie Region on South Island will amaze you. And for a different kind of evening light, try touring New Zealand’s caves or grottos for a glimpse of exotic glow worms, a native insect that glows blue-green in the dark!
Few cultural celebrations capture a crowd’s attention faster than an explosive rendition of a Mãori war dance by a New Zealand sports team.
The world’s growing fascination with Mãori culture is one reason travel to New Zealand is soaring, boosting annual tourism spending by nearly 15% last year. While it’s winter there now, the island nation still offers many off-season attractions for the savvy traveler — including the June 19–22 celebration of Matariki, the Mãori New Year. Here are a few others.
Skiing and Snowboarding June through October is peak season on New Zealand’s world-class skiing and snowboarding hills. Book accommodations in popular winter sports areas on the South Island, such as Queenstown and Wanaka. Warm up après-ski with a pint of one of New Zealand’s famous craft beers. Hundreds of the nation’s diverse brews will be displayed at Beervana, a popular two-day festival on Aug. 22–23 in Wellington.
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