Latest news with #SarahThompson
Associated Press
4 days ago
- Climate
- Associated Press
CARE and UPS Team Up To Prepare for Hurricane Season in the US
ATLANTA, July 25, 2025 /3BL/ -The Atlanta-based humanitarian organization CARE is partnering with The UPS Foundation to prepare for the of peak hurricane season. Yesterday, dozens of UPS employee volunteers gathered at CARE's headquarters in Downtown Atlanta to pack 1000 disaster response 'CARE Packages' that will be distributed to individuals and families impacted by disasters in the US. According to The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be above normal with 13-19 named storms and 3-5 major storms. The traditional peak of hurricane season runs from mid-August to late October. These 'CARE Packages' are an outgrowth of the original CARE Package® developed in the aftermath of World War 2 as a way for Americans to support relief and recovery efforts in Europe. CARE was founded with these CARE Packages® and has since grown to become one of the largest humanitarian and development organizations globally with operations in more than 120 countries, including the US. 'With storms increasing in frequency and intensity across the United States, the need has never been greater,' says Sarah Thompson, Associate Vice President for US Programs at CARE. 'Our partnership with The UPS Foundation enables us to mobilize quickly before disasters strikes and expand our ability to work with local and national organizations to meet the needs of impacted communities. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and support.' The 'CARE Packages' that the UPS volunteers are put together today include essential hygiene supplies like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and other key items for people who find themselves in urgent need after a storm or other disaster. The kits, donated by The UPS Foundation, will be pre-positioned in and around hurricane-prone areas along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and stored at UPS-donated warehouses. In the event of a hurricane, they will be delivered by UPS to relief sites. 'By leveraging UPS's logistics expertise and strong volunteer spirit, we're helping CARE do what it does best—deliver critical support to those who need it most,' says Cathy Scott, Vice President, Social Impact & The UPS Foundation. 'When we combine our strengths, our impact is amplified, and communities receive the help they deserve, faster.' CARE first began implementing programs in the U.S. in 2019 and has since responded to emergencies across 10 states and Puerto Rico. During the COVID-19 pandemic, CARE helped over 300,000 families in need with food, cash and other services. The organization has since continued to grow its US work to respond to natural disasters and other emergencies via a network of grassroots organizations around the country equipped to address the diverse needs of their local communities. Last year CARE responded to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. ABOUT CARE/UPS FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIPSince 1995, The UPS Foundation has partnered with CARE to help deliver humanitarian aid efficiently during emergencies worldwide. During the COVID-19 crisis, UPS supported CARE's Fast + Fair initiative, aiding vaccine access for 100 million people and 275,000 healthcare workers. Additionally, UPS's logistics expertise and warehouse tracking systems have helped CARE scale emergency responses and supply chain management across multiple countries. ABOUT CAREFounded in 1945 with the creation of the CARE Package®, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. CARE places special focus on working alongside women and girls. Equipped with the proper resources, women and girls have the power to lift whole families and entire communities out of poverty. In 2024, CARE worked in 121 countries, reaching 53 million people through 1,450 projects. To learn more, visit For media inquiries, please email [email protected] Visit 3BL Media to see more multimedia and stories from Care USA
Observer
03-07-2025
- Observer
AI Anchors & Deepfake Dilemmas
What generative AI means for storytelling, newsroom ethics, and public trust In Japan, a moment of technological bravado turned into a reflection of society's unease about the future of information. In 2018, NHK, Japan's public broadcaster, introduced a collaboration with 'Kizuna AI,' an AI-generated news anchor designed to deliver updates seamlessly in multiple languages. The debut was streamed live to millions, and reaction was swift and divided. Some viewers marveled at the innovation, seeing it as a step forward; others felt unsettled, questioning whether they were watching genuine journalism or a synthetic facsimile. 'It felt surreal—I was watching a robot instead of a person,' said one viewer on social media. 'It made me wonder what the future holds for real news anchors.' This incident exemplifies a larger phenomenon: the gradual integration of artificial intelligence into newsrooms around the world—raising profound questions about authenticity, trust, and the very foundation of journalism. Artificial intelligence is no longer a speculative tool; it is actively reshaping how news is produced and delivered across continents. In South Korea, major broadcasters like KBS and MBC have piloted AI newsreaders, capable of delivering stories in multiple languages, 24/7, without the fatigue or bias that human anchors sometimes face. These systems analyse enormous datasets rapidly and generate scripts, allowing faster coverage of breaking news. In Russia, the state-funded Channel One launched a virtual presenter called 'Rossiya-24', which can deliver news with a natural voice and facial expressions similar to a human anchor. Meanwhile, in Europe, outlets like Deutsche Welle have begun experimenting with AI-assisted translation and summarisation tools, making content accessible to a broader audience. These initiatives are driven by practical benefits: reducing costs, increasing coverage speed, especially during crises, and personalising news. Yet, the ethical landscape is murky. As Dr. Sarah Thompson, media analyst at The Guardian, remarks, 'While AI can be a powerful tool, it risks depersonalising news, eroding verification standards, and raising questions about accountability—especially when AI-generated content goes viral and causes harm.' Deepfakes and the Misinformation Menace The public's response to AI in journalism is varied and complex. For some, these virtual anchors evoke admiration for technological progress and efficiency. A segment of the audience is intrigued by the innovation; they appreciate the novelty and convenience. However, many people express discomfort, distrust, and even disdain. 'It's unsettling,' confesses one social media user, a teacher from London. 'I don't feel like I'm getting honest news if I can't see a real person behind it. There's something about authenticity that's missing.' According to a recent survey by Pew Research Center, trust in traditional media is declining globally, and the rise of AI and deepfake content is only deepening scepticism. The survey uncovered that almost 60% of respondents in the U.S. think that intentionally manipulated media will become harder to detect in the next few years, leading to a 'crisis of credibility' for the news industry. Deepfake technology — highly realistic artificial videos and images manipulated via AI — has emerged as perhaps the greatest threat to the integrity of information. In early 2024, a manipulated video of a prominent political leader making inflammatory remarks went viral, causing widespread outrage before being conclusively debunked by fact-checkers. The damage extended beyond social media, influencing public opinion, and impacting political discourse. Professor Hany Farid, a leading computer science and digital forensics expert at UC Berkeley, warns, 'Deepfakes can be nearly impossible to distinguish from authentic footage. The societal risk is that once society loses faith in visual evidence, it becomes exceedingly difficult to trust any media source.' The BBC's recent investigation highlighted how deepfakes are increasingly being used to spread disinformation, sway elections, and manipulate stock markets. As the technology becomes more accessible, the challenge isn't just technical detection but societal resilience—how to safeguard truth amid a flood of synthetic content. The rising use of AI and deepfake technology prompts urgent questions about ethics, responsibility, and standards. When a news organization publishes AI-generated content, transparency becomes critical. Audiences need to know whether they are viewing a human or an artificial creation. Renowned media ethicist Robert Dreher, a professor at the University of Texas and author of Mass Media and Its Ethical Dilemmas, stated in a 2022 interview with The Atlantic, 'Transparency about the use of AI in newsrooms is not optional—it's essential. If audiences are kept in the dark, trust erodes rapidly, and the integrity of journalism is compromised.' His comments highlight the importance of clear disclosure to maintain credibility in a landscape saturated with synthetic content. Some outlets are investing in this future through innovation. The Associated Press, for example, uses AI to generate financial reports and sports summaries, freeing up journalists to focus on investigative stories and nuanced reporting. Similarly, the BBC recently developed AI-powered tools to help verify video content, reducing the spread of deepfake misinformation. Building Resilience: Education and Regulation The path forward requires a combination of technological innovation, legislative action, and public media literacy. Educating audiences about the existence of synthetic media and training them to recognise hallmarks of manipulation are crucial steps. Regulators are also stepping in. The European Union has proposed legislation requiring platforms to label deepfake videos and take responsibility for combating misinformation. Meanwhile, tech companies like Meta and Google are developing detection algorithms designed to fight AI-generated disinformation. The public's response to AI in journalism is varied and complex. For some, these virtual anchors evoke admiration for technological progress and efficiency. A segment of the audience is intrigued by the innovation; they appreciate the novelty and convenience. However, many people express discomfort, distrust, and even disdain. 'When I see a digital face delivering the news, I wonder if I can trust it,' said David Bromwich, a media scholar and professor at Yale University, in a 2023 interview with The New York Times. 'There's a human element missing, and that raises questions about authenticity and integrity.' According to a 2024 Pew Research Center survey, trust in traditional media remains fragile worldwide, and the rise of deepfake content and AI-generated news amplifies skepticism. Nearly 60% of respondents in the United States believe that manipulated media will become increasingly difficult to identify in the coming years, deepening fears about misinformation. Embracing Vigilance and Ethical Progress The rise of AI-driven news, virtual anchors, and deepfakes reveals the necessity for a cultural shift in how we consume and trust information. As Dr. Emily Carter of The Times notes, 'We need to develop a more sceptical, discerning public media literacy. Recognising that not everything we see or hear is real is now as essential as understanding effects of climate change.' This technological revolution forces us to confront uncomfortable truths: that much of what we may have taken for granted about the authenticity of news is shifting beneath our feet. Trust, once a given, now requires active safeguarding. The Japanese AI anchor incident exemplifies both the promise and peril of this new era. As AI continues to infiltrate every facet of media, it is increasingly vital for society—audiences, journalists, policymakers, and technologists—to work in concert. Only through transparency, regulation, and education can we hope to harness AI's potential for good without sacrificing the integrity of public discourse. The real story isn't just about the technology itself; it's about what kind of society we choose to build around it. Will we accept AI's marvels with open eyes, or fall prey to its manipulations? The choice is ours—but the stakes could not be higher.
Eater
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
Las Vegas Gets Shut Out of the 2025 James Beard Awards
On June 16, luminaries of the restaurant and bar world gathered at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago to celebrate the finalists and winners of the 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards. However, none of those winners represented the city of Las Vegas. Eater hosted the official livestream that showed Vegas-based finalists Cristie Norman of Delilah for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service; Sarah Thompson (Casa Playa); and Eleazar Villanueva (Restaurant de Joël Robuchon) for Best Chef: Southwest representing Las Vegas's prodigious and talented dining scene. Vegas did come away with a victory of sorts. Though no longer based in Las Vegas, the founders of Portland, Oregon's JinJu Patisserie Kyurim 'Q' Lee and Jin Caldwell won the national award for Outstanding Bakery. They worked extensively in Las Vegas, including Aria, Wynn, Bellagio, and Joel Robuchon, prior to opening their now award-winning bakery in Portland. The James Beard Awards, often considered 'the Oscars of food,' are among the most prestigious awards in the food and hospitality industry. Each year, the James Beard Foundation gives awards in categories like Outstanding Restaurant, Best Chef, and Best New Chef. This year's awards introduce three brand-new categories into the mix: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service. The first James Beard Awards ceremony was held in 1991, when chefs like Rick Bayless, Nancy Silverton, and Wolfgang Puck walked away as winners. In recent years, the foundation has been under increased scrutiny after canceling its programming in 2020 and 2021 due to misbehavior and abuse allegations against nominated chefs, and a lack of nominated and winning Black chefs among the categories. In response, the James Beard Foundation conducted an internal audit to make its voting processes more inclusive and equitable before returning in 2022. The awards have also shifted the Best Chef category to a regional model to better recognize the diversity and depth of talent. Disclosure: Some Vox Media staff members are part of the voting body for the James Beard Awards. Eater is partnering with the James Beard Foundation to livestream the awards in 2025. All editorial content is produced independently of the James Beard Foundation. See More:
Scoop
11-06-2025
- General
- Scoop
Resident Battles Auckland Council's ‘Ridiculous' Choice Of Berm Tree Criticised
An Auckland resident says authorities need to carefully consider the trees they plant on berms after her complaints of a leafy liquidamber planted outside her home fell on deaf ears. Papakura resident Sarah Thompson said she was surprised when she found that Auckland Council had planted a dwarf version of a liquidamber on her berm last month. A berm is the grassed area that sits between the road and either the footpath or the property boundary. Thompson was concerned about how big tree would grow. "You could hardly pick a more ridiculous tree to plant on a berm," Thompson said. "They've planted them on alternate berms all down the street, and they said they want more shade and I take their point on that. "But, they've managed to plant one on an incredibly shady berm, it's already got massive trees on there ... they haven't thought this through at all." Liquidambar styraciflua, commonly known as sweetgum, is a tall, fast-growing tree known for its distinctive star-shaped leaves, which change colours in the autumn. When matured, they can reach a height of around 20 metres, with an extensive root system. A dwarf version grows as tall as 3m. Auckland Council says the tree is known for its strong form, vivid autumn colour, and resilience in urban environments. However, Thompson said the trees grow to be huge. "And it is deciduous with massive leaf fall that will clog the drains." Thompson and a few of her neighbours wondered why another tree wasn't considered. "A fruit tree would be nice and provide food for the local community, or a native." She raised her concerns with council, about the lack of consultation with residents. "We got a leaflet in our mailbox, on the same day of the planting, and the email address provided didn't work." Several factors considered Council's Urban Forest, Arboriculture and Ecology manager David Stejskal said tree species for street planting were selected carefully by council urban foresters. Guided by the Auckland Urban Ngahere Strategy and informed by a regional tree palette tailored to local conditions, they considered a range of factors, including space constraints, and the expected long-term performance of the tree, he said. "While Liquidambar can grow to be a large tree over time, it is valued for its strong form, vivid autumn colour, and resilience in urban environments. "Where appropriate, council uses smaller cultivars and applies root management techniques such as root barriers to reduce the risk of damage to nearby footpaths and underground infrastructure." He said the Papakura Local Board, in its Local Board Plan 2023, held concerns that Papakura had low tree canopy cover of only 14 percent. "Consequently, the Local Board is supporting an increase in the tree canopy through tree planting, especially in streets and parks," he said. Stejskal said council welcomed community feedback on planting choices, and was happy to assess individual sites where there were specific concerns.
RNZ News
11-06-2025
- General
- RNZ News
Resident battles Auckland Council's ‘ridiculous' choice of berm tree criticised
There is concern about Auckland Council's choice of a tree on a street berm. Photo: LDR / Stuff / File image An Auckland resident says authorities need to carefully consider the trees they plant on berms after her complaints of a leafy liquidamber planted outside her home fell on deaf ears. Papakura resident Sarah Thompson said she was surprised when she found that Auckland Council had planted a dwarf version of a liquidamber on her berm last month. A berm is the grassed area that sits between the road and either the footpath or the property boundary. Thompson was concerned about how big tree would grow. "You could hardly pick a more ridiculous tree to plant on a berm," Thompson said. "They've planted them on alternate berms all down the street, and they said they want more shade and I take their point on that. "But, they've managed to plant one on an incredibly shady berm, it's already got massive trees on there ... they haven't thought this through at all." Sarah Thompson says the liquidambers were planted in May, in her Papakura street. Photo: LDR / Supplied Liquidambar styraciflua, commonly known as sweetgum, is a tall, fast-growing tree known for its distinctive star-shaped leaves, which change colours in the autumn. When matured, they can reach a height of around 20 metres, with an extensive root system. A dwarf version grows as tall as 3m. Auckland Council says the tree is known for its strong form, vivid autumn colour, and resilience in urban environments. However, Thompson said the trees grow to be huge. "And it is deciduous with massive leaf fall that will clog the drains." Thompson and a few of her neighbours wondered why another tree wasn't considered. "A fruit tree would be nice and provide food for the local community, or a native." She raised her concerns with council, about the lack of consultation with residents. "We got a leaflet in our mailbox, on the same day of the planting, and the email address provided didn't work." Council's Urban Forest, Arboriculture and Ecology manager David Stejskal said tree species for street planting were selected carefully by council urban foresters. Guided by the Auckland Urban Ngahere Strategy and informed by a regional tree palette tailored to local conditions, they considered a range of factors, including space constraints, and the expected long-term performance of the tree, he said. "While Liquidambar can grow to be a large tree over time, it is valued for its strong form, vivid autumn colour, and resilience in urban environments. "Where appropriate, council uses smaller cultivars and applies root management techniques such as root barriers to reduce the risk of damage to nearby footpaths and underground infrastructure." He said the Papakura Local Board, in its Local Board Plan 2023, held concerns that Papakura had low tree canopy cover of only 14 percent. "Consequently, the Local Board is supporting an increase in the tree canopy through tree planting, especially in streets and parks," he said. Stejskal said council welcomed community feedback on planting choices, and was happy to assess individual sites where there were specific concerns. LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
