Cryptocurrency
Vancouver Council Approves Bitcoin-Friendly Motion but Faces Legal Hurdles
2024-12-12
Vancouver, a city known for its progressive stance, has taken a significant step towards embracing the world of cryptocurrency. Mayor Ken Sim's motion on Wednesday aims to make Vancouver a bitcoin-friendly city, opening up new possibilities and challenges.

Vancouver's Cryptocurrency Odyssey: Mayor's Bold Move

Bitcoin and the City's Financial Stability

Vancouver councillors have passed a motion that gives staff the green light to explore holding cryptocurrency in reserve and accepting payments in virtual currency. Mayor Ken Sim, an investor in a cryptocurrency exchange, believes that investing in bitcoin is a financially responsible move in an era of inflation and market volatility. His motion reads that it would be irresponsible for the city not to consider adding bitcoin to its strategic assets to preserve financial stability. City staff will now research if this integration is feasible and if the city can invest a portion of its financial reserves in cryptocurrency.This move has sparked both excitement and concern. Some experts see potential in new areas of economic growth like bitcoin mining, while others express skepticism over the environmental impacts and the volatility of cryptocurrency. The environmental impact of bitcoin mining largely depends on the energy source used. In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of clean energy, but concerns still remain.

Experts' Views on the Mayor's Plan

Victoria Lemieux, head of the Blockchain@UBC research cluster, is in favor of the idea. She believes that paying for city services and infrastructure through bitcoin mining could have benefits, such as using up less energy. However, she also acknowledges that there are green efforts afoot in the bitcoin mining sector that need to be explored.On the other hand, Pete Fry, Green Coun., has concerns about the use of cryptocurrency in organized crime. He believes that without specific acknowledgments of these issues, the move may not be in the right direction.Mayor Ken Sim himself is bullish on the use of cryptocurrency. In an interview with cryptocurrency talk show Coin Stories, he described bitcoin as "the greatest invention ever in human history" and even pledged to donate $10,000 worth of bitcoins to the city.

Legal Hurdles and Challenges

Despite the mayor's ambitions, existing laws pose significant challenges. Currently, cities are not allowed to use bitcoin, and the federal government controls the financial framework. Dan Rohde, assistant professor at the University of Windsor's faculty of law, believes that provinces may not have the jurisdiction to recognize bitcoin as a currency in Canada.A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs stated that the province's Community Charter and the Vancouver Charter do not recognize cryptocurrency as payment for municipal services or transactions. Local governments are also not permitted to hold financial reserves in cryptocurrency, as legislation specifies approved options for public funds.In conclusion, Vancouver's foray into the world of cryptocurrency is a complex and multifaceted issue. While there are potential benefits, there are also legal and environmental challenges that need to be addressed. Only time will tell how this bold move will shape the city's future.
TV Tonight: Linford Christie Seeks Rural Tranquility
2024-12-12
With the assistance of his daughter Briannah and property expert Alistair Appleton, athlete Linford Christie is now set on a journey to the countryside. Having spent his entire life in the city, one wonders if the serenity of the rural areas can rival the vibrant energy of the town. During this special program, the Christies embark on a tour of the Chilterns and relish outdoor dining at the more pastoral end of the Thames.

Uncover the Allure of Celebrity's Rural Adventure

Linford Christie's Rural Dash

Linford Christie, a city-bred individual, has always been accustomed to the hustle and bustle of urban life. But now, with the opportunity to explore the countryside, he finds himself facing a new chapter. The tour of the Chilterns presents him with a chance to experience a different pace and way of life. Outdoor dining by the Thames adds a touch of tranquility to the adventure. It's a journey that challenges his preconceived notions and allows him to discover the hidden beauty of the rural world.The rural tranquility offers Linford a sense of peace and calm that he had never experienced before. Away from the noise and chaos of the city, he can truly connect with nature and find inner peace. This experience is not just about physical exploration but also about a spiritual awakening. It makes him realize that there is more to life than just the fast-paced city life he was accustomed to.

Inside the Tower of London's Intrigue

As the feisty ravens steal sandwiches and attempt to nip the public, the background is filled with preparations for the King's coronation anniversary. The special gun salute adds an air of grandeur to the occasion. The Tower of London, with its rich history and mysteries, becomes a backdrop for these events. It's a place where history and modernity collide, and where the past continues to influence the present.The ravens, with their mischievous nature, add a touch of humor to the serious preparations. They are a reminder of the Tower's long and storied history. The gun salute, on the other hand, is a symbol of the nation's unity and strength. It represents the continuity of the monarchy and the importance of tradition. Together, these elements create a unique atmosphere that is both fascinating and captivating.

Smoggie Queens' Comical Tale

The Middlesbrough-set drag sitcom continues to bring laughter and entertainment. Tonight, Stewart takes center stage as it's his birthday. He doesn't want a big fuss as he fears his grandmother or work colleagues might find out about his sexuality. This dilemma highlights the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in a small town setting.Stewart's search for new friends on his birthday shows the importance of acceptance and belonging. In a place where secrets are hard to keep, he yearns for a group of people who will accept him for who he is. The sitcom uses humor to address serious issues and bring awareness to the struggles faced by marginalized communities. It shows that even in the midst of laughter, there are important messages to be conveyed.

The Day of the Jackal's Thrilling Finale

The cold-blooded assassin thriller reaches its climax as the Jackal (Eddie Redmayne) is exposed and on the run across Europe. His bumbling English posho act becomes a crucial element in his attempt to evade capture. Meanwhile, in London, aggrieved agent Bianca (Lashana Lynch) is discreetly given a killer contract of her own.The tension builds as the Jackal tries to outwit his pursuers while Bianca navigates her own dangerous situation. The story explores the complex world of assassins and the moral dilemmas they face. It keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats as they wonder if the Jackal will succeed in his escape or if Bianca will be able to fulfill her contract.

Dalgliesh's Rural Mystery

Poetic detective Adam Dalgliesh (Bertie Carvel) is once again faced with a mystery in rural Essex. A love triangle at a village fete seems to have led to murder, and Dalgliesh must use his keen detective skills to uncover the truth.The rural setting adds an extra layer of complexity to the mystery. The small village and its inhabitants become potential suspects, and Dalgliesh must navigate through the web of relationships to find the killer. His ability to see things differently sets him apart as he uncovers the hidden motives and secrets of those involved.

Question Time in Beckenham

The QT team is in London's leafy suburb of Beckenham, birthplace of Bob Monkhouse and David Bowie. Fiona Bruce presents a panel that fields audience questions on topical matters such as discord at No 10 and Putin's next move.Beckenham, with its peaceful atmosphere, provides a backdrop for these important discussions. The panelists bring their diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, offering insights into the current issues facing the nation. It's a platform for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas.

Film Choice: The Lady from Shanghai

One of Orson Welles' potentially classic films, "The Lady from Shanghai" (1947), is now available. Orson Welles' incorrigible genius shines through in this film noir. His casting of Rita Hayworth as the femme fatale and his creative editing and peroxide treatment of her red hair add to the film's allure.The story is a fast-paced and convoluted yarn about an Irish sailor, Michael (Welles), who gets entangled in a web of deception. The chemistry between Welles and Hayworth is palpable, and their performances add depth to the story. It's a film that keeps the viewers engaged from start to finish and is a must-watch for film enthusiasts.
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KC Futures DAO Leads Global Blockchain Ed Collab for Crypto Degree
2024-12-12
In the heart of Kansas City, a remarkable partnership is taking shape, bringing together blockchain visionaries, local digital innovation advocates, and global thought leaders from the University of Nicosia in Cyprus. This collaboration holds the promise of providing tech-forward thinkers with a new level of expertise, specifically a master's in crypto.

Uniting Kansas City with Global Blockchain Innovation

What is the KC Futures DAO?

The KC Futures DAO is dedicated to transforming Kansas City into a premier global hub for various fields such as entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, sustainability, research, and the arts. By leveraging blockchain technology, it showcases and celebrates the city's diversity and abundance, aiming to foster and attract talent that is inventing the future, as well as investors and global partnerships.

It serves as a local force, working towards a common goal of making Kansas City a digital leader. With its efforts, it has been striving to bring together a community of future-tech believers for some time. Jim Starcev, the program manager for KC Digital Drive, emphasizes that ultimately, the goal is for the DAO to become its own legal entity. In the interim, it plays an administrative and 501c3 role.

Activity within the local tech startup and blockchain community has been fluctuating, in tune with public opinions about crypto. There are many different groups that have been functioning independently, but bringing them together as an ecosystem is still in its early stages. As Starcev said, "The whole blockchain idea, especially when tied to crypto, is such an ebb and flow." However, he now believes that momentum is building globally, and this multi-organization partnership will contribute significantly to the local energy.

Benefits to KC

As part of this unique partnership, the University of Nicosia (UNIC) will offer its free Mastering Web3 MOOC starting in February 2025 to all KC Digital Drive members. This 12-week course provides a comprehensive overview of Web3 technologies, including blockchain, cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and the metaverse. Successful participants will receive a blockchain-verifiable certificate of accomplishment from UNIC.

In addition to access to the MOOC, the real advantage of this arrangement is that KC Digital Drive and KC Futures DAO members will be eligible for exclusive discounts on UNIC's online MSc in blockchain and Digital Currency, MSc in metaverse, and various academic certification programs. Scholarships are also under discussion, with the partnership planning to introduce KC Futures DAO Scholarships for members pursuing these programs.

Furthermore, KC Digital Drive staff will collaborate with the DAO and UNIC to support local students and alumni in securing career opportunities within the blockchain and digital assets sectors. This shows the commitment of the partnership to the growth and development of the local community.

Supporting a Connected Future

The KC Futures DAO acts as the local face of the partnership, while KC Digital Drive serves as the organizing body. The partnership is documented in a memorandum of understanding between them and the university. This global partnership, spanning several continents and time zones, requires careful coordination and cooperation.

KC Digital Drive is a nonprofit focused on civic issues, working "to make Kansas City a digital leader." Aaron Deacon, the managing director, and Jim Starcev are on the DAO's founding team. They have been working together to bring together a community of future-tech believers and are committed to driving the blockchain Web3 education in the United States.

Business and Quality Assurance Analyst Edward Manoukian played a crucial role in bringing the parties together. As a crypto and blockchain enthusiast since 2017, he was looking for a more formal education and found it at the University of Nicosia. After finishing his studies, he realized the lack of similar programs in Kansas City and decided to take action. Now, as the founder and operator of blockchain advising firm CryptoGnosis, he has been instrumental in connecting the dots and making this partnership a reality.

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