Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal claimed a narrow 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their Euro 2024 opener, with a late 92nd-minute winner from Francisco Conceicao securing the win. Meanwhile, Turkey emerged victorious with a 3-1 win against Georgia in an exciting match. Ronaldo’s side had to come from behind, with Czech Lukas Provod opening the scoring, only for Portugal to level through an own goal before Conceicao’s decisive strike. Turkey’s win over Georgia was marked by brilliant goals from Arda Guler, Mert Muldur, and Kerem Akturkoglu. Portugal’s win was a hard-fought battle, while Turkey dazzled their fans with a strong performance. The excitement continues as Germany and Scotland face off in Group A, with Croatia taking on Albania in Group B.
Four killed, 120 injured in 4.9 magnitude Iran earthquake
Official media reported that at least four people were killed and 120 others injured on Tuesday in a 4.9-magnitude earthquake that struck the city of Kashmar in northeastern Iran.
Kashmar Governor Hajiullah Shariatmadari, who announced the death toll, told state television that the quake occurred at 1.24 p.m. (0954 GMT).
He added that 35 people were taken to hospital, adding that the earthquake damaged most of the dilapidated buildings in urban and rural areas of the city.
State television broadcast footage of the aftermath of the earthquake, showing first responders working in a street where all the buildings were reduced to rubble.
The US Geological Survey said the quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (six miles).
Iran lies on different tectonic plates and is often exposed to earthquakes.
A 5.9-magnitude earthquake early last year killed three people and injured more than 800 others in the mountainous region in the northwest of the country near the border with Turkey.
In one of the world’s deadliest disasters, a 6.6-magnitude earthquake killed more than 31,000 people in the city of Bam in southeastern Iran in 2003.
UCLA Historian Reveals Inspiring Story of Civil Rights Leader James Lawson, US
In today’s news, UCLA makes headlines across various fields, showcasing its experts and researchers in action. From climate science to healthcare, immigration law, and music studies, UCLA’s faculty members are at the forefront of impactful work. Let’s dive into the latest stories featuring UCLA’s contributions to society.
First, we have UCLA historian Vinay Lal reflecting on his experience with civil rights leader Rev. James Lawson, highlighting the power of nonviolence in shaping history. Lal’s awe-inspiring encounter sheds light on the significant impact of individuals like Lawson in advocating for change through compassion.
Moving on to climate science, UCLA’s Daniel Swain weighs in on the upcoming heatwave affecting densely populated regions, emphasizing the urgent need to address extreme weather conditions across different areas, including New England.
In the realm of healthcare, UCLA researchers delve into the efficacy of H5N1 inactivation through pasteurization techniques, shedding light on critical findings published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Their work underscores the importance of ensuring food safety and preventing potential health risks.
Meanwhile, UCLA’s Dr. Keith Vossel discusses the complexities of prescribing new drugs for dementia patients, emphasizing the rigorous evaluation process required to prioritize patient safety. This meticulous approach reflects UCLA’s commitment to delivering the highest standard of care in medical practice.
In the field of psychiatry, UCLA’s Judith Orloff explores the profound impact of empathy on human connections, emphasizing the transformative power of caring and listening. Orloff’s insights resonate as a reminder of the value of compassion in fostering meaningful relationships and understanding.
Shifting gears to music studies, UCLA’s Adam Bradley delves into the versatile nature of musical styles, highlighting the adaptability of artists across genres. Bradley’s observations underscore the diverse influences shaping contemporary music and artists’ ability to navigate various musical landscapes with ease.
UCLA’s legal expert, Stephen Bainbridge, provides insights into nuanced differences in state regulations, offering valuable perspectives on legal considerations in areas such as mergers and shareholder rights. Bainbridge’s expertise adds depth to discussions on legal frameworks and governance practices.
Lastly, UCLA’s urban planning professor Michael Manville explores the dynamics of congestion pricing policies, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based decision-making and learning from successful implementations in different contexts. Manville’s insights shed light on the strategic considerations involved in policy development and implementation.
Through these diverse perspectives and research findings, UCLA continues to make significant contributions across various disciplines, showcasing the depth of expertise and innovation within its academic community. Stay tuned for more updates on UCLA’s impactful initiatives and groundbreaking research in the future.
UN Human Rights Council President Reveals Agenda at 56th Geneva Session, Morocco
Omar Zniber, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Morocco to Geneva
Rabat – The 56th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) opened in Geneva today. Ambassador Omar Zniber of Morocco assumed the presidency of the session, which will run for four weeks until July 12th.
This session comes in the face of a challenging global human rights landscape, as highlighted by the annual report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk.
At the opening session, Ambassador Zniber, who also serves as Morocco’s permanent representative in Geneva, outlined the procedural framework guiding the Council’s work.
The UNHRC is a key intergovernmental body within the UN system mandated to strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide. It addresses situations of human rights violations, makes recommendations, and has the capacity to examine human rights issues throughout the year.
The 56th session will delve into a broad spectrum of thematic issues through interactive dialogues with UNHRC Special Rapporteurs.
These dialogues will focus on pressing issues, including health, education, the rights of migrants and refugees, freedom of expression, and the impact of climate change on human rights.
Additionally, country-specific dialogues will be held to examine the human rights situations in several countries, including Eritrea, Myanmar, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. These dialogues provide a platform for focused discussions on specific challenges and potential solutions.
Five panel discussions will be held during the session, providing deeper analysis on specific themes.
One panel will examine economic violence against women and girls, while another will focus on the connection between human rights and the global economy as it relates to women’s rights.
The impact of sports on promoting inclusivity and human rights advancement will also be explored. Another panel will analyze the adverse impacts of climate change on human rights, specifically focusing on ensuring livelihood resilience in the face of climate-related risks.
The final panel will address technical cooperation and capacity-building, emphasizing the importance of supporting countries in implementing recommendations arising from the UNHRC’s Universal Periodic Review mechanism.
The 56th session of the UNHRC convenes at a critical time. The High Commissioner’s report paints a concerning picture of human rights violations globally, with ongoing conflicts further exacerbating this situation.
China Announces Visa-Free Access for Australian Travelers
CANBERRA – The authorities in China have announced to waive visa requirements for citizens from Australia in a major relief for travelers.
The development came as Chinese Premier Li Qiang confirmed that the country would include Australia in its visa-waiver program to fast-track access to the key business and tourism destination.
The visa-free access means that Australian tourists could enter China for up to 15 days and save around $110 in terms of visa fees. The visa-free access came after Qiang held high-level talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
It is to be highlighted that the government of China has eased visa restrictions for multiple countries as the countries faced the brunt of COVID-19 exacerbated by social distancing protocols which brought travel to a standstill.
Soon after the restrictions were lifted in 2023, the country opened up to the outside world and offered visa-free entry to countries including Malaysia, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg.
China has also signed a visa-free agreement with Thailand permanently from March this year and the country is still looking for ways to attract more and more tourists from across the world.
Apple Unveils visionOS 2 Update with Exciting Features for Apple Vision Pro Users, US
Apple earlier this month previewed visionOS 2, a major update to Apple Vision Pro that introduces a powerful way for users to create spatial photos with the images already in their library, intuitive hand gestures to easily access important information at a glance, and new features for Mac Virtual Display, Travel Mode, and Guest User. Vision Pro users can quickly and easily find their favorite spatial photos in the redesigned Photos app, manage information across all of their accounts with the new Passwords app, access new privacy tools in Safari, and experience new capabilities in popular apps, including Apple TV and Mindfulness.
While Apple’s visionOS 2 update may not have been the focus at the recent WWDC event, it brings substantial improvements to the Apple Vision Pro. The update introduces new gestures for accessing key features, enhancing the user experience by providing easier navigation. Users can now effortlessly access Home View and Control Center with simple hand gestures, offering a more intuitive way to interact with the device’s functionalities.
One of the standout features of the visionOS 2 update is the ability to rearrange icons and place iPad apps on the main Home View, enabling users to personalize their interface for quicker and more convenient access to their preferred applications. Additionally, the update introduces enhancements for Mac Virtual Display and promises a new wide-screen view that is anticipated to further enhance the user experience.
According to technology journalist Mark Gurman for Bloomberg News, the software improvements in visionOS 2 showcase Apple’s commitment to refining the operating system and software capabilities of the Vision Pro device. While hardware challenges still exist, including the device’s weight and battery life, Gurman remains optimistic that Apple will continue to innovate and address these issues over time.
With the latest visionOS 2 update, Vision Pro users can expect to benefit from enhanced accessibility, improved user interface customization, and a more immersive experience when interacting with the device. Through a combination of new features and intuitive gestures, Apple is striving to create a seamless and user-friendly environment for its customers, paving the way for a more streamlined digital experience.
As Apple’s visionOS 2 continues to evolve, users can look forward to further advancements and enhancements that aim to elevate the capabilities and functionality of the Apple Vision Pro device. The ongoing development of the operating system underscores Apple’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction, promising a more intuitive and efficient user experience for Vision Pro users worldwide.
Holocaust Survivor, 102, Graces German Vogue Cover with Message of Unity, Germany
At 102, she is one of the oldest people to grace the cover of the fashion bible. Vogue has always been up for a surprise on the cover — and rightly so. A woman who survived the horrors of the Holocaust as the cover girl of a leading fashion magazine? You might wonder if that isn’t a little disrespectful, considering Margot Friedländer’s life and story of suffering?
Yet it is not. Because this woman has something to say as one of the most important surviving witnesses of the Holocaust. She has made it her life’s work to tell people about what she experienced. Always gently, kindly, with compassion, without pointing fingers. Her main objective is to preserve remembrance culture while respecting humanity.
A perusal of the diverse Vogue covers in various countries where the magazine is published is proof that Vogue wants to be more than just a fashion rag: It sets themes and features unusual yet important people in the spotlight. ‘Be human!’ Margot Friedländer, who survived Nazi atrocities and never tires of conveying her message to people, says in the July/August issue of German Vogue: Don’t look at what divides you. Look at what unites you. Be human, be reasonable.
Recalling how it all began, Friedländer was born a German Jew in Berlin on November 5, 1921. Her family was murdered by the Nazis, while she herself was hidden by Germans in Berlin for a while, but fell into the clutches of the Gestapo in 1944 and was deported to the Theresienstadt concentration camp. She has been awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and an honorary doctorate from the Free University of Berlin.
However, Vogue would not be Vogue if it did not also address the sartorial aspect of Margot Friedländer’s life. As a young woman, Friedländer dreamed of becoming a dressmaker and fashion designer. In addition to vintage clothing that Friedländer still wears, there are also items of clothing and accessories by well-known designers. The photo session for Vogue took place in the Botanical Garden of the Free University of Berlin.
Save Big on Summer Travel: Best Apps and Tips for Affordable Flights
As the summer approaches, many people will be looking to book flights to go on holiday. But flights can be expensive, especially if they are booked last minute.
Luckily, finding flights at good prices has never been easier. With a number of apps and tools up to the task, it’s easier than ever to find affordable flights. Here, we look at some of the apps, tools, and startups helping travelers book the most affordable airfare for their next trip.
Let’s start with the apps and websites worth exploring…
Skyscanner is one of the most popular flight search engines in the world. Known for being an easy way to compare flights across hundreds of airlines, it’s a great way for travelers to compare times, prices, and third-party sellers that may be able to help them get the best deals.
Not only useful to search, it also offers features like price alerts, so users can see if a desired flight changes, as well as allowing them to see the cheapest dates and times for air travel.
Hopper is an app that uses an algorithm and historical data to predict the best times to book flights.
The app uses this information to tell travelers whether they should book now or wait for a better price. The app’s ability to make accurate predictions make it a favorite among travelers looking to save money on flights.
Google Flights uses Google’s data to help people search for the lowest-price flights.
Users can see hundreds of flights in a specific area with the click of a button, making it a great way to compare local routes and flights. The website also recommends cheaper airport routes, allowing travelers to make informed decisions around their flights.
Momondo is another search engine that helps travelers find the best flight deals. By comparing more than 1000 airlines and travel sites, Momondo helps people find the best rates.
Not only that, but Momondo’s Flight Insight feature gives people useful analytics on key factors that may affect flight prices, such as seasonality, day of the week, and time of booking.
Kiwi.com is a Czech company that helps people compare thousands of flights.
It compares flights from different airlines to create itineraries for travel both by air and also on land, helping people plan their entire route from A to B.
Going™ is perfect for anyone traveling within or from the US. The company allows users to choose their starting point and destination and then compare the best airfares. The website claims the app can unlock between 40-90% off regular prices, making it a great tool for stateside travelers.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be a great tool to help you find the cheapest flights.
Airlines often track a user’s browsing history, location, and device, meaning they can price tickets higher if they see a person is interested in them.
Using a VPN allows you to hide your IP address, potentially leading to lower prices when booking flights. It’s always worth checking either way, even a small saving can be a benefit when booking travel.
On top of the platforms and strategies mentioned above, there are a number of other tools that can help you secure the best airfare deals. Some of these include:
Subscribing to flight deal newsletters can be a great way to stay informed about sudden fare drops, deals, and promotions being run by airline companies. Newsletters such as Jack’s Flight Club and The Flight Deal can help ensure you stay up to date with the latest sales information, so you can book affordable airfares when they are at their cheapest.
Using an incognito or private browser can help prevent airlines from tracking your search history and increasing prices based on your searches. Any internet app on your computer should allow for Incognito browsing. While it’s not a sure-fire way to reduce the cost, it can certainly help prevent any unexpected flight price increases based on search data.
Flexibility can be great tool in finding cheap flights, especially as certain flight dates and times come with ‘off-peak’ prices.
If your travel dates and airport options are flexible, you can often save a lot of money.
Joining frequent flyer programs and using rewards credit cards can also help you save on flights.
Many credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, points for travel purchases, and other perks. Growing your points and miles through these programs can lead to free or discounted flights over time, though it does limit you to certain airlines.
Booking the cheapest flights doesn’t have to be a difficult process.
With the right tools and startups, you can find great deals and make your airfare more affordable. Whether you use search engines for comparison, apps for flight tracking or simply utilize rewards programs, there’s always a way to save money on flights.
TravelPerk Acquires AmTrav, Doubling US Presence
TravelPerk, a hyper-growth global business travel management platform, announced its acquisition of the industry-leading United States company AmTrav, doubling down on its expansion in the US. Both platforms will capitalise on proprietary tech, AI capabilities and expanded resources to further expand in the US – a market valued at $329 billion in business travel spend in 2023, according to the GBTA.
The acquisition will see TravelPerk double its revenue in the US, following 65% year-over-year growth in the market in 2023. TravelPerk’s US-based headcount and footprint expands to now include offices in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles and Miami. AmTrav will operate under the same brand, and the entire team will continue with the business going forward.
Chicago-based AmTrav, founded by two friends in their University of Michigan dorm room, has been at the forefront of innovation and thought leadership in the business travel space for the past 30 years, achieving many ‘firsts’. It offers a highly localised, tech-first platform for modern SMB and Mid-Market companies, loved by thousands of customers.
Jeff Klee, CEO of Amtrav commented: I’ve admired TravelPerk for a long time and the more I’ve gotten to know Avi and his team, the more I’ve seen what kindred spirits our companies are. AmTrav’s customers will benefit from TravelPerk’s global reach, scale and culture of innovation. Together, we’ll continue the mission to use new technology and the right amount of human touch to make life better for businesses and their travelers. Craig and I couldn’t be more excited to join this immensely talented team.
Avi Meir, CEO and Co-Founder of TravelPerk, commented: I’m thrilled to welcome Jeff, Craig and AmTrav to the TravelPerk team, as they bring a shared dedication to innovation and providing solutions that customers love. Their decades-long track record of success in the US will supercharge our growth in the US and around the world.
Additionally, TravelPerk has raised a new credit facility of up to €125 million led by Blackstone Credit & Insurance and Blue Owl Credit, two leading global alternative asset managers. Alongside the company’s recent $104 million Series D1 Extension funding round in January 2024, TravelPerk has a significant capital base to drive organic and inorganic growth as it builds towards becoming the #1 SaaS Business Travel Platform for SMB and Mid-Tier companies.
Laura Johnson, Managing Director of Blackstone Credit & Insurance, commented: We are excited to partner with TravelPerk as it further expands into the US market, leveraging the power of the Blackstone platform. The Company’s impressive growth is a testament to the strong execution by the TravelPerk team, and the tremendous greenfield opportunity in the SMB travel space. This financing illustrates Blackstone’s continued thematic investment in the travel sector, and our focus on backing fast growing technology businesses.
Stephen Thorne, Investment Director of SoftBank Investment Advisers, added: In adopting an AI-led approach to expand product automation, TravelPerk’s business model is well positioned to scale pan-regionally. We believe the combination of the TravelPerk and AmTrav platforms will provide unparalleled service and choice for US SMB and Mid-Market companies.
Cryptocurrency Market Plunge: Bitcoin and Ethereum Drop, Ripple Bucks Trend
Bitcoin and Ethereum Prices Drop as Altcoins Follow Suit
Meme tokens Dogecoin and Shiba Inu also saw substantial declines. Leading cryptocurrency Bitcoin (BTC) fell to $65,000 while Ethereum (ETH) continued to decline. Altcoins like Solana (SOL) mostly followed, while meme tokens Dogecoin (DOGE) and Shiba Inu (SHIB) recorded a 9%-13% drop.
Additionally, Ripple (XRP) defied broader market trends and maintained its upward momentum. The global cryptocurrency market volume fell significantly by 3.14% to $2.35 trillion. However, the total crypto market volume yesterday increased by 104.01% to $94.07 billion. This followed the recent stance of the US Fed, which triggered exits recorded in the crypto sector.
BTC’s price chart showed more subdued movement today, falling by 1.39% to $65,374.98 within the past day. The token’s 24-hour lows and highs were $64,597.25 and $67,252.08, respectively. Bitcoin’s dominance increased by 0.93% from the previous day to 54.87%. The token’s market value is $1.29 trillion.
ETH’s price mostly traded in a downward trend over the past 24 hours, falling by 4.39% to $3,428.45. The altcoin’s 24-hour lows and highs were $3,371.59 and $3,591.67, respectively. Meanwhile, Ethereum’s market value is $419.50 billion.
SOL’s price corrected by 9.25% over the past day, trading at $134.26 at the time of writing. Solana’s 24-hour lows and highs were $130.16 and $148.95. Ripple Labs-backed XRP saw a slight increase of 0.33% to $0.4893 yesterday, with 24-hour lows and highs at $0.4808 and $0.5194, respectively.
The meme token sector mirrored the broader market’s downward movement. Dogecoin (DOGE) fell by 9.74% to $0.122, while Shiba Inu (SHIB) dropped by 12.12% to $0.00001802. Additionally, Pepe coin (PEPE) fell by 11.84% to $0.00001055.
Investors should be aware of the high volatility and risk in the cryptocurrency market. It is essential to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.
