Archive | February, 2022

Learn the Basics on Bitcoin and other Cryptocurrencies

9 Feb

I have family and friends who have invested in Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies, but it is something I’ve just begun learning about myself.  Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are a form of digital money that can be exchanged directly, person-to-person, without the need of a third party or bank intermediary and is not controlled by any group or government.

If you are curious to learn more, you can join us on Feb. 15th from 7-9 pm for a presentation with Lindsley D. Medlin, Jr Certified Blockchain Professional.™ In this presentation, you will learn about Bitcoin and why it is important.  You’ll get an understanding of how Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies work, and how to get started with bitcoin yourself.  The presentation will clear up some common misconceptions about Bitcoin. 

Lindsley Medlin is an international executive with more than 30 years of experience building and running businesses. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and an MBA in Marketing, both from Rutgers University, as well as a Graduate Marketing Certificate from the SMU Cox School of Business in Dallas, Texas.  Additionally, he is a Certified Blockchain Professional™ who has studied Bitcoin in depth and is the Founder of the NJ Blockchain Center.  He teaches Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency at Columbia University and County College of Morris.

Zoom links will be sent out 24 hours prior to the event.  Register here to secure your spot! Email reference@hoboken.bccls.org for more information.

Interested in learning more, but can’t attend the program?  Here are four books that Mr. Medlin recommends on the topic.

The Bitcoin Standard
by Saifedean Ammous
The Bitcoin Standard by Saifedean Ammous looks at the history of Bitcoin (the first successful form of digital cash), what has allowed Bitcoin to flourish and the implications Bitcoin could have on economics and politics in the future.  Ammous examines it as a possible apolitical, free-market alternative to national central banks.

Mastering Bitcoin
by Andreas Antonopoulos
Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas Antonopoulos provides an overview of what can feel like a confusing new system.  Antonopoulos provides the information readers need to begin understanding Bitcoin, the first popular decentralized digital money that has created a multi-billion-dollar global economy. Readers gain knowledge about Bitcoin and the supporting blockchain as well as its technical foundation and continued developments.

Cryptoassets
by Chris Burniske and Jack Tatar
Chris Burniske and Jack Tatar bring their expertise to how investors can capitalize on bitcoin and blockchain technology in Cryptoassets.  They provide clear, concise, and accessible information about investing in cryptocurrencies, minimizing risks, and a look at Bitcoins impact on the future.

The Age of Cryptocurrency
by Paul Vigna & Michael Casey
In the Age of Cryptocurrency, Paul Vigna and Michael Casey look at the origins, functionality, importance, and useful information to prepare for the new era of digital currency.

Written by:
Aimee Harris
Information and Digital Services Manager

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Celebrate African American History Month with Jazz Available from Medici.tv

2 Feb
image from medici.tv

Medici.tv has expanded its offerings to include jazz which our patrons now can enjoy streaming along with classical music, ballet, and opera performances.  They have gathered the greatest jazz programs available: a mix of triumphant concerts and touching documentaries, and of course an unrivaled roster of performers, ranging from legendary, genre-defining artists of decades past like Nina Simone, Chet Baker, and Miles Davis, to stars who continue to light up the stage today like China Moses, Christian Scott, Ambrose Akinmusire, Chucho Valdés, and many more.  With over 300 programs to choose from, it is a jazz aficionado’s dream and also a great starting point if you are a neophyte to the genre like I am.  In honor of African American History Month, I sampled two amazing performances by Jazz Greats and proud African American Musicians Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald.

Ray Charles Live in Paris
I still remember the first time I saw the incomparable Ray Charles performance being broadcast, I was in awe of him as a kid when he participated in 1985 in the video for “We Are the World”. I was interested to see some of his earlier performances of which Medici.tv has several including when he performed live at the Salle Pleyel in 1970 in Paris.  I was particularly moved by his captivating cover of the Beatles song “Yesterday.” 

Ella Fitzgerald Live at the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels
You will understand why Ella Fitzgerald is considered the queen of jazz when you enjoy her magnificent performance recorded live at the Palais de Beaux-Arts in Brussels in 1957.  She performs “Angel Eyes”, “April In Paris”, and one of my favorites “It Don’t mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing).”  I felt like cheering along with the crowd in awe at her amazing vocal skills.  Her band-mates include Ray Brown, Oscar Peterson, Herb Ellis, Jo Jones, and Roy Eldridge.

Have you checked out Medici.tv’s jazz offerings?  What are some of your favorites?

Written by:
Aimee Harris
Information and Digital Services Manager

Tags: , , ,

Newer Entries →