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    Bob Mccullough bobm


    How the National Media Messed Up the Mavs Predictions
    by Bob McCullough 6/14/24






    Go into the recent archives of any major sports site, and you'll find a lot of names who should be embarrassed about their predictions for the Mavs-Celtics series. And they're not just the names of those who happened to cover the Mavs.


    The prediction split was close to 50/50. Maybe 60/40 in favor of the C's, which felt reasonable going into the Finals. Now it seems a little ridiculous.


    So what went wrong? Let's take a closer look at why the national media especially fell for the Dallas storyline, for it embodies a lot of what's wrong with sportswriting today and NBA coverage in particular.


    **** Mavs Story Lines


    This one's at the top of the list. Writers love superstars, and the NBA's entire culture is built around them. The old ebony/ivory combination of Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic was irresistable as a result, especially given the story lines.


    Start with Irving, a fascinating wack job who's been shooting his career in the foot for a long time now. After getting in trouble for spewing anti-Semitic nonsense, breaking up teams, getting coaches fired and conveniently missing games due to his anti-vax rhetoric, Irving somehow managed to resurrect his career and transform himself into a supposedly responsible NBA elder in Dallas. It's the ultimate redemption storyline.


    If you really believe that I have deeds to several bridges I can sell you, but in a basketball context Doncic may be even worse, which hardly seems possible. He's the most offensively gifted player of his generation, and yet, to use the words of Bob Cousy, he "looks like a truck driver."


    Which is Cooz-speak for Luka being fat and out of shape, especially for a professional athlete, and the Celtics have relentlessly exploited that flaw. Add in the fact that he goes after the refs on EVERY play, and he's pretty sickening to watch, even with his incredibly skill set. That doesn't stop the writers from relentlessly loving the highlight plays; that's what they do.


    J's Fatigue


    This one's right up there, too. NBA writers especially are sick of writing the same old rivalry stories about Jason Tatum and Jaylen Brown, i.e., who's better, who gets paid more, who cares more about winning vs endorsements and brand, and so on.


    Not surprisingly, the rest of us are just as sick of reading them. Even more so now that' they've become largely irrelevant. Whatever their differences were--and there likely were differences, rest assured--they've worked them out to get to within a game of their first title.


    ** hum.


    What Matters About the Mavs Previous Opponents


    This one hasn't been explored as much, but it's relevant. National writers especially saw three glamour teams in the Clippers, the Thunder and the Wolves, which wasn't exactly the case.


    Start with the Clippers. They were always a shell of a team with lots of older star power--Kahwi, Paul George, the artist formerly known as Westbrick. Without a healthy Leonard, however, that formula was yesterday's news, as the Mavs quickly proved. Simply put, it was a hidden mismatch.


    On to the Thunder. This one's slightly more interesting. OKC surprised everyone with a first-round sweep over a New Orleans shell team supposedly "led" by the ever injured and absent Zion Williamson, which led to the assumption that they were ahead of the curve when it came to being playoff ready.


    Dallas exposed them as a bit of a donut team without enough secondary scoring after SGA, giving Sam Presti a solid blueprint for what he needs to fix going forward. The Thunder are one of the few teams where "watch out for them next year" carries a lot of weight.


    Lastly, the Timberwolves, who have one of the most oddly mismatched rosters in recent memory. They were perfectly constructed to stop the Nuggets, however, with two seven-footers available to get Nicola Jokic off his game. Against the Mavs, though, young Anthony Edwards was exposed as far from Finals-ready, and KAT came off once again as a seven foot scorer who sometimes plays at 6'6" under pressure.


    What Now For the Mavs?


    This one's simple, at least on paper--get Luka in shape, and convince him to play a nominal amount of defense. According to reports, though, Dallas has been trying to get him to do this for years, so that's where the "on paper" part comes in.


    They also need him to grow up. Luka's referee theater routine grew thin when he was exposed to a team with two All-Defense defenders, and at least two more who should be considered for that roster. Whining about fouls is fine when you have inferior defenders, but it doesn't hold water when athletes like Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday are in your grill taking options away.


    Finally, the Mavs need a third scorer. Badly. They got by with guys like PJ Washington and Derrick Jones this year, but bargain basement options like that almost always wilt like March daffodils when the playoffs roll around in April, May and June. The future's still bright in Cuban Land, but it's going to take some serious attitude and personnel adjustments to get Luka, Kyrie and company over the top.
    37 0

    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Sponsored News - As we head into summer, it's important to find accessories that show off your style, while brightening up your wardrobe. Since summer brings an explosion of bold colors and vibrant patterns, this season's trends are no different.

    So pack away your dreary duds, your winter boots and clean out that closet to get yourself ready for some fun in the sun.

    Unsure of where to start? The following summer accessories are a must:

    * Slip into a dress. A slip dress is a simple, elegant base layer that can be dressed up with accessories and is a trend worth paying attention to. To get a high-fashion look, layer them with frilly undershirts and jumpers.

    * Fancy your footwear. If you're anything like Carrie Bradshaw, the best way to dress up an outfit is with a pair of wedge sandals. The right pair of wedges can glam up your look, make your legs look long, yet still allow you to move comfortably. If, however, you prefer shoes with little to no heel, you'll be happy to know that flat-flats are in (think ballet slippers and gladiator sandals.)

    * Go glam with glasses. Choosing eyewear that's not only stylish but functional can be difficult. Transitions lenses are great because they block 100 percent of the sun's harmful UV rays and are available in nearly all prescriptions. They also come in a variety of colors that complement your personal style and frame choice. With one pair of lenses, your eyes will feel comfortable indoors or out, in bright light, low light and everything in between.

    * Choose a hat. As important as it is to get some natural vitamin D, too much sun is bad for the skin. A floppy hat is a great accessory that lets you flaunt a style that fits your personality, get a little sun, but still protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

    * Grab a bag. A statement bag is the perfect way to enhance your look. When choosing the right purse for your outfit, think luxe fabrics, contrasting textures, and bright patterns. Pair with a great pair of glasses to pull off a celebrity look.

    For more information, please visit www.transitions.com.

    Ref: Fashion Women - in Blogs
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    Ramiro Williamson Ramiro_Williamson


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    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - The phrase 'six degrees of separation,' suggests that only a minuscule measurement is what divides one person from another. Today, the Internet of Things (IoT) has decreased those degrees dramatically, connecting us not only to each other, but to everything from our fitness trackers to our coffee makers.

    Consider this: according to a recent report by the Federal Trade Commission, the number of Internet-connected devices tops 25 billion worldwide. And that number is expected to double in the next five years, according to experts cited in the report.

    In a world where everyone and everything is connected, digital security is a must-have, just as important as the lock on your front door or the keys to your house.

    "Technology is revolutionizing the way consumers use cars, homes, work spaces and everyday items," Rep. Darrell Issa, R- Calif., told USA Today in a recent interview. "These devices raise both opportunities and questions about regulatory policy, spectrum space, privacy and more."

    Underscoring Issa's concerns are high-profile hacks, including one that took remote control of a Jeep on a busy highway. Experts warn who consumers need to understand that, although convenient, the IoT is an interconnected system, and security is needed to prevent a weakness in one device (like a SmartWatch) from becoming an open door to attack in another device (such as a connected car).

    The good news is that sensitive industries such as banking, government, and healthcare have worked with companies like Gemalto, a global leader in digital security, to solve difficult security challenges. While most may not recognize the name "Gemalto," experts say that almost everyone uses at least one or two of the company's solutions, which are embedded in a wide variety of connected devices, credit cards, passports, and ID badges.

    So, to ensure that your data is protected from hackers, Gemalto recommends the following tips:

    * Secure the device. Sensitive devices need an added layer of protection, such as a SIM card or a tamper-resistant Secure Element that stores data in a safe place.

    * Control the access. Implement two-factor authentication to ensure that only authorized people are granted access to the data.

    * Secure the data. Ensure that sensitive data is encrypted and that encryption keys are stored in a separate and safe place.

    For more information, please visit www.gemalto.com.

    Ref: Codes - in Blogs
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    Benny Jacobi Benny_Jacobi

    Next-Gen game is the new exciting game where you can be part of the story and action. Simply select your world and assets and click on start to experience one of the most amazing and fascinating adventures of your life.

    AUDIENCE
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    ABOUT US
    We are GameWorld. A multi-national video game publisher company on a mission to create the next-gen games.

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    49 0

    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - DigiTrax Entertainment, a pioneer in the music technology industry, brings its artificial intelligence (AI) expertise to the popular hip-hop segment.

    With the introduction of KR38R Beats, a unique AI product specifically geared to the hip-hop artist, DigiTrax recognizes the importance of hip-hop music and how it is a great fit for AI technology. The company has paired with Spotlite, a popular and established singing performance app, to create "Rapping with the Robot," a contest for aspiring hip-hop artists.

    The contest is scheduled to begin on Thanksgiving Day and end on New Year's Eve.

    Prizes include an all-expenses-paid recording session, with professional production and distribution across all major platforms.

    "We focused our AI on the most relevant segment of music in today's streaming economy," says Joe Vangieri, CEO of DigiTrax Entertainment.

    "Hip-hop beats comprise one out of every three streams, and generate billions in revenue."

    The KR38R Beats product is based on the Music Builder program, DigiTrax's unique and innovative technology that helps artists harness the power of artificial intelligence. Artists can feed ideas into the program, which then serves as a composing partner and allows them to create more songs more quickly.

    Spotlite is a free, direct-to-fan singing app designed to allow amateur and professional vocalists to sing original music, covers, and karaoke across all musical genres.

    "As a fan, you used to go out and buy CDs to support your favorite artist," says Juan Munoz, general manager of Spotlite Media.

    "With the change in how fans ingest content, Spotlite has not only allowed fans a new way to directly support their favorite artists, but the fans become the tastemakers. Through our contests, fans tell us who should truly be recognized for their talent," he explains.

    Other benefits of using artificial intelligence in creating original hip-hop music include greater profitability and protection for the users under copyright law.

    "Because we own both the publishing and the sound recording that our AI has written," Vangieri explains, "this gives us free reign to fully exploit both sides of a song - the publishing and the sound recording."

    DigiTrax plans to introduce several more contests in 2019 to showcase the way its technology is transforming how music is created and enjoyed.

    For more information about the company and its future business goals, go to digitraxentertainment.com.

    Ref: Bands - in Blogs
    61 0

    Erica Svendsen boldtruthmama
    Social media is a search engine. Learn how to get found. Marketing





    If you're on social media but no one's finding you, you're not a ghost—you’re just invisible.

    Let’s have a little truth fest, shall we?

    You keep posting. You're dancing. You're showing your iced coffee. You're even dropping wisdom that should get you a book deal. But the only one liking your stuff is your aunt Tammy and that one MLM girl who’s always “cheering you on.”

    Mama, let me say this with love and a strong shot of espresso (decaf if you're off caffeine like a psycho):
    Social media is not just for showing up. It's for getting found.

    That’s right. Instagram. TikTok. Pinterest. Facebook. Even LinkedIn if you’re feeling fancy.
    They’re not just platforms — they are search engines in glitter and crop tops.
    Social Media = Search Engine (Yes, Really)

    Let me break it down like your toddler breaks down when you cut the sandwich the wrong way.

    All of these platforms have search bars. You know what that means?
    People are typing things like:

    “Mom blog”

    “Easy vegan toddler meals”

    “Freelance writing tips”

    “Jesus and coffee memes” (okay maybe that’s just me)

    If your profile isn’t optimized, you could be serving up exactly what they need—and still be chilling in the shadow realm of the algorithm. No ma’am. We don’t do invisible over here.
    1. Your Name Is Prime Real Estate

    Stop putting “✨Mama of 3✨” in your name field. I love your babies, but that’s not what people are searching.

    Instead, tell the algorithm what you do.
    Example:
    Erica | SEO Copywriter for Moms
    or
    Jess | Pinterest Coach for Bloggers

    Now when someone types “Pinterest coach,” boom. You’re in the game.
    2. Your Bio Is a Mini Sales Page

    That little box? It’s not a throwaway. It's not for inspirational quotes. It’s for hooking followers like the savvy mama boss you are.

    Format cheat code:

    👋 Who you help
    💡 What you help them do
    🔗 Your freebie or offer

    Example:
    Helping writer moms grow their blog + make bank online 💸
    👇 Grab the free SEO checklist

    Short. Sassy. Searchable. Yes please.
    3. Keywords. Yep, Even on Instagram.

    Pinterest mamas already know the power of keywords. But IG? TikTok? Yes girl. They’ve been creeping on your captions this whole time.

    Use the exact words your dream audience would type. You’re not just posting a reel. You’re posting a searchable piece of content.

    Instead of:
    “Loved making this for dinner!”
    Try:
    “Easy one-pan vegan meal for busy moms 🍽️ #veganrecipes #quickdinnerideas #momlifehacks”

    Don’t keyword stuff. We’re not robots. But do give the platform something to latch onto.
    4. Hashtags Aren’t Dead, They’re Just Boring If You Use ‘#Blessed’

    Choose hashtags that are specific to your niche and content. Think of them as little roads leading people to your profile.

    #MomBloggerTips

    #ChristianMomsWhoWrite

    #FreelanceWritingLife

    #FaithBasedBiz

    Keep a rotating list. And for the love of viral reach, don’t just copy and paste the same 30 dead hashtags on every post.
    5. Your Content Needs to Scream “Hey Algorithm, Pick Me!”

    Here’s the hard truth, boo:

    If you're just vibing, you're blending in.

    Your content needs to answer questions, solve problems, or entertain in a way that makes the algorithm go, “Ooh, I know someone who’d love this.”

    So instead of vague captions like,
    “Just showing up today 🥰”
    Try:
    “Here’s how I built a blog that gets 1,000+ monthly visits—with no tech degree and 3 kids screaming in the background.”

    Because THAT, my friend, is search engine gold.
    Final Word from Your Favorite Truth-Teller

    You’re not too late. You’re not too old. You’re not too small.
    You’re just not searchable—yet.

    Social media doesn’t reward mystery. It rewards clarity.
    So rewrite that bio. Add keywords to your captions. Use that name field like your business depends on it—because it kinda does.

    And if you're still feeling stuck, don’t worry—I got you.
    Follow me for more great tips or DM me with questions.


    Now go make the algorithm your sidekick, Mama.
    You’re building an empire—and empires don’t hide.
    24 0

    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    Travelers who are seeking serenity as part of their quintessential Caribbean luxury resort experience will find their perfect getaway at Calabash Cove.

    With a secluded beachfront location on the northwest (or Caribbean) side of the coast of the island of St. Lucia, Calabash Cove offers privacy and luxury for adults only.

    The Calabash Cove guest list includes singles and couples, some honeymooners, some celebrating an anniversary or other special event, and others looking for a simple but elegant getaway with some personal space and well-prepared meals. Visitors come from the United States, Canada, Europe, and around the world.

    The resort and spa is a full-service resort: the optional Unconditional All-Inclusive package covers all food and drinks including room service, daily specials, an in-room bar, lobster when in season, and more than 20 wines by the bottle from the resort's extensive wine list. Tips and Wi-Fi are included as well.

    Part of the resort's appeal is its promise of intimacy - only 26 suites, all with a king bed, Jacuzzi, double vanity, rain shower, private balcony or patio, ocean view and cable TV. The resort is built along a sloping hill and was designed to complement and harmonize with the natural surroundings and offer guests full benefit of ocean breezes and sunset views.

    The property includes a private beach with nearby coral reef, as well as tropical gardens and groves of trees to set the scene for reflection and relaxation.
    55 0

    Vanessa Leannon Vanessa_Leannon


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