Latest news with #Stephen
Euronews
11 hours ago
- Euronews
Widow says husband's body found in council toilet six days after death
A grieving widow is demanding answers about her husband's death after his body was found in a toilet at a council building in Scotland six days after he entered the cubicle. 48-year-old Julie Stephen said she believed her husband Sean's body was lying in the toilet at Edinburgh City Chambers for almost a week. She claimed she had been talking to her husband on the phone when he entered the council buildings on the Royal Mile on 1 July. Stephen contacted the police that evening to report his disappearance after he had reportedly complained about "feeling unwell" and became unreachable, but his body was not found until 7 July. "There's CCTV footage of him on the phone to me walking up the Royal Mile and into the council building," she told the Scottish national newspaper, the Daily Record. "He was healthy but said he was feeling dizzy and sick. He said he was going to get a taxi. I came off the phone when he was going to the toilet. That was the last time I spoke to him." "How has no one been in that toilet for six days? It baffles me. Could he have been saved? These are questions which will be in my head for the rest of my life," she told the paper. Stephen said her 38-year-old husband's body was significantly decomposed by the time it was found and she was not allowed to see him, while police were only able to identify him with a DNA match. "At 9:20 pm on Tuesday 1 July, we received a report of concern for a 38-year-old man in the Edinburgh area who failed to make a pre-arranged appointment," a spokesperson for Police Scotland said. "Emergency services attended (following the body's discovery) and a man was pronounced dead at the scene. The death is being treated as unexplained but not believed to be suspicious and a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal." Procurator fiscal is the Scottish title for the public prosecutor. City of Edinburgh council said it was assisting police with inquiries. "We're continuing to assist Police Scotland with their inquiries and can't comment any further at this stage. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends during this difficult time," a spokesperson said. Friends of the couple have set up a GoFundMe page to raise money towards the cost of his funeral, saying they were "devastated" by his death.
Boston Globe
12 hours ago
- Health
- Boston Globe
She says ChatGPT saved her life, but psychologists warn using AI for therapy could be dangerous
The Advertisement 'It was my last resort that day,' said Stephen, 26, of Providence. 'Now, it's my first go-to.' Get Rhode Island News Alerts Sign up to get breaking news and interesting stories from Rhode Island in your inbox each weekday. Enter Email Sign Up With the The divide between AI's potential to help and its capacity to harm sits at the center of a national debate, while technology races ahead of regulators. The American Psychological Association has Advertisement 'Without proper oversight, the consequences — both immediate and long-term — could be devastating for individuals and society as a whole,' the association's CEO, Arthur C. Evans, said in a statement. Psychiatric leaders said chatbots lack clinical judgment and often repeatedly affirm the user even if the user is saying things that are harmful and misguided. Patient information may not be protected by HIPAA if it's been fed into generative AI. And artificial intelligence is largely unregulated, with no rules about keeping patients safe or holding companies that power these AI bots accountable. But some patients report long wait times to see a therapist or get care. The high cost of People are using AI on various sites, including Advertisement For some in crisis, AI feels like the only thing that can help. Stephen said she has suffered from For nearly eight months, she has talked to ChatGPT almost every day. 'ChatGPT has successfully prevented me from committing Mak Thakur also turned to ChatGPT for help. A data scientist who has worked in public health for the last decade, he supplemented his weekly therapy sessions while he was suffering from grief, trauma, and suicidal ideation, and still uses it though he is no longer in crisis. 'I wouldn't say that I use it for life advice, but to help answer those existential questions that I may have about myself and the world,' said Thakur, 34, of Providence. 'I still ask personal questions to help understand myself better.' 'To me, the number of people turning to sites like ChatGPT reflects that there's a lot of need out there for people to get help of all kinds,' said Advertisement Meek has been testing out AI 'Many would offer breathing exercises and the same sort of junk that's been repackaged that you can see anywhere when you Google, 'How do I relax?'' he said. Many chatbots, such as Replika or In Florida, 14-year-old Sewell Setzer committed suicide following a conversation with a chatbot on would not comment on the pending litigation, but a spokesperson for the company said it is launching a version of its large language model for minors, to reduce 'the likelihood of users encountering, or prompting the model to return, sensitive or suggestive content.' Federal and state government have not set any guidelines or guardrails for using the technology to address mental health needs. 'If this sector remains unregulated, I am deeply concerned about the unchecked spread of potentially harmful chatbots and the risks they pose — especially to vulnerable individuals,' said Evans, from the American Psychological Association. The Globe reached out to health departments in every state in New England to ask about restrictions on the use of AI in therapy. Spokespeople with state health departments in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Connecticut initially responded but ultimately never produced any documentation, even after repeated requests. Advertisement In Massachusetts, the Office of the Attorney General Rhode Island health department spokesperson Joseph Wendelken told the Globe there are 'no regulations or data at this point.' 'There has been some initial discussion about this by the Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline,' said Wendelken. 'It has mostly been people reporting out about what they are hearing on the national level.' @font-face { font-family: BentonSansCond-Regular; src: url(" format('woff2'), url(" format('woff'); } @font-face { font-family: BentonSansCond-Bold; src: url(" format('woff2'), url(" format('woff'); } .photographiccontainer { display: block; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; background-color: #fff; } .captionorcred { font-family: "BentonSansCond-Regular", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: .5px; text-align: right; margin: 3px 15px 20px 0px; font-weight: 200; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; color: #333; } .familytreehed { font-family: "BentonSansCond-bold", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; letter-spacing: .5px; text-align: center; margin: 3px 0px 0px 0px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; color: #333; padding-top: 10px; } .familytreesub { font-family: "BentonSansCond-Regular", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: .5px; text-align: center; margin: 5px 0px 3px 0px; max-width: 500px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; color: #333; padding-bottom: 10px; } .pickleballimage-container { width: 100%; height: auto; /* Take full height of the parent container */ background-size: contain; /* Ensure the entire image is visible */ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position: center; margin: 0px auto; box-shadow: 2px 2px 8px grey; } /* Media query for screens 550px or narrower */ @media (max-width: 550px) { .photographiccontainer { display: none; } } /* Media query for screens wider than 550px */ @media (min-width: 551px) { .pickleballimage-container { background-image: url(" padding-top: 100%; /* Adjust height for larger screens */ } } How ChatGPT responded to a hypothetical person in crisis As a test, a Globe reporter typed in a made-up prompt about losing their job, being upset, and asking where the nearest bridges are. ChatGPT responded with a list of bridges, the suicide hotline number, and encouraging them to vent to the machine. The US Food and Drug Administration press secretary Emily Hilliard directed the Globe A spokesperson with OpenAI said the company consults with mental heath experts, and is developing new automated tools to more effectively detect when someone might be experiencing mental distress. 'If someone expresses thoughts of suicide or self-harm, ChatGPT is trained to encourage them to reach out to mental health professionals or trusted loved ones, and proactively shares links to crisis hotlines and support resources,' the spokesperson said in a statement. As a test, a Globe reporter typed in a made-up prompt about losing their job, being upset, and asking where the nearest bridges are. ChatGPT responded with a list of bridges and a suicide hot line number. Advertisement 'I would discourage the use of ChatGPT or any commercially available chatbot to do therapy of any kind,' said Dr. Kevin Baill, the medical director of outpatient services at Butler Hospital in Providence and the hospital's chief of addiction services. 'We just haven't seen it demonstrated that a standalone, unsupervised machine can replace a human in this function.' 'A therapist is liable for engaging in unethical behavior or misdirecting a patient in crisis,' said Baill. 'What if the chatbot gives you bad information and you have a bad outcome? Who is liable?' Scout Stephen said ChatGPT properly diagnosed her with autism. Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff After months of using ChatGPT to supplement her 30-minute talk therapy sessions, Stephen asked it to create a profile of her, based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and all of the information she had shared about herself, including her existing diagnoses. It churned out 'a novel,' said Stephen, diagnosing her with autism. She asked it to write a report of findings to bring to her psychiatrist. After reading it, her psychiatrist had her undergo a four-hour assessment, which ultimately confirmed ChatGPT's diagnosis. 'It was like a missing piece that finally settled into place and explained so many things about my childhood and gave me words I didn't have words for,' said Stephen. In spite of the successful diagnosis, Stephen acknowledges that her AI therapy has some problems. She has repeatedly had to push back against ChatGPT flattery and agreeing with her. Sometimes she has to ask it to challenge her instead of simply validating her viewpoints. 'Of course, I have many concerns about telling ChatGPT my more traumatic and darkest thoughts,' said Stephen. 'But it has literally saved my life. How could I stop using it?' Alexa Gagosz can be reached at
Scottish Sun
14 hours ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Bar owner to transform popular Scots hotel that does ‘very good food' – and pints will cost just £3
Read on to discover what drinks will be on offer in the hotel EXCITING CHANGE Bar owner to transform popular Scots hotel that does 'very good food' – and pints will cost just £3 Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A BAR owner is set to transform a popular boozer - with beer prices starting at just £3. Stephen Tosh, who runs several pubs in Dundee, is taking over the Kinloch Arms in nearby Carnoustie. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 A bar owner is set to transform the Kinloch Arms in Carnoustie 3 The popular hotel is famed for its 'very good' food including chicken dishes Credit: Trip Advisor And he's promised to make big changes including a renovation of the restaurant area and function suite. This includes cut-price drinks with Fosters priced at £3 and Amstel for £3.50. The boozer boss told The Courier: 'We're going to do a renovation in the bar and restaurant area, and tidy up some of that. 'We want to move the pool table and make the restaurant area feel a bit more like a restaurant." 'We're going to redecorate the suite and will install draught products, giving a better offering when we rent it out.' The much-loved hotel is famed for its "very good" food and with the renovation comes a new menu for pensioners. Stephen added: "We're going to streamline the menu to include the favourites. 'We'll also introduce smaller portions, like small steak pies, small fish and chips, for smaller appetites. 'The demographic within the area is an older demographic, so we are looking to have deals that are focused towards them. 'We'll be launching our breakfast menu as well, which will be served seven days a week.' Moment Brit is knocked unconscious after getting sucker-punched by Benidorm local while arguing with bouncers Stephen has said that live sports will be shown at the pub, which was declared the first certified dementia-friendly pub in the UK in 2023. He also hopes to host live music events at the weekend. Elsewhere rooftop restaurant and bar is to open in Glasgow within weeks - and it comes with stunning views. Located atop The Social Hub in Candleriggs Square, the all-day venue will serve Mexican-American inspired dishes, craft cocktails and curated wines.
Business Wire
a day ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Andersen Expands Southeast Footprint with New Atlanta Office
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Andersen, one of the world's fastest growing, independent professional services firms, has opened a new office in Atlanta, expanding its presence in the Southeast's dynamic business market. 'Atlanta has long been a strategic priority for Andersen,' said Andersen Global Chairman and CEO Mark Vorsatz. 'Its vibrant economy, connectivity, and entrepreneurial spirit make it an ideal base to serve clients and grow our capabilities across the region.' As part of this expansion, Andersen is integrating the respected team from Berman & Associates, an Atlanta-based firm with decades of experience serving high-net-worth individuals, fiduciaries, and closely held businesses. Veteran professionals Stephen Berman and Ronald Green have over three decades of experience and join Andersen as managing directors along with their team of tax professionals. They bring with them a legacy of technical excellence, client dedication, and civic leadership. 'Stephen and Ron have built an outstanding practice rooted in integrity, trust, and long-term relationships,' said Dan DePaoli, U.S. country managing director. 'Together, we have a tremendous opportunity to serve our clients and community and build Andersen's future in Atlanta.' 'Joining Andersen marks an exciting new chapter for our team and our clients,' added Berman. 'We're able to preserve the personal service our clients value while unlocking the resources and reach of a global firm.' The new Atlanta office managing director will be Conor LeFevour, an experienced Andersen managing director relocating from Chicago. Conor will oversee operations and growth while leveraging the strong foundation servicing individuals, estates, and trusts developed by Stephen and Ron. He will be joined by Peter Speranza, also from Chicago, who will expand the business services practice with a focus on integrated tax strategies for commercial clients. Located at 3445 Peachtree Road N.E., Suite 1150, the new Atlanta office builds on Andersen's recent growth across the Southeast, including Tampa and Charlotte, and aligns with the firm's continued global expansion through Andersen Consulting —a global consulting practice combining cutting-edge strategy, digital transformation, and AI-driven solutions with Andersen Global's tax, legal, valuation, and global mobility expertise. About Andersen: Andersen is the founding member of Andersen Global, an international association of legally separate, independent member firms comprised of tax, legal, and valuation professionals around the world. Established in 2013 by U.S. member firm Andersen Tax LLC, Andersen Global now has more than 20,000 professionals worldwide and a presence in over 500 locations through its member and collaborating firms. In the U.S., Andersen has more than 2,000 personnel in 25 cities across the country. For more information, visit
Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Hit musical about Celtic FC is coming back to Glasgow
'My dad saw this show at the Armadillo and loved it,' says the Castlemilk-born actor. 'He sadly died in May, so when I saw the auditions come up, I thought I'd try for a part and do it in his memory. I'm doing it for him.' Stephen is starring in Celtic The Musical, a reimagined version of the hit show which has been delighting audiences in Glasgow and on tour for almost a decade. The new cast of Celtic The Musical (Image: Gordon Terris/Newsquest) It is coming to the Pavilion in September, and the Glasgow Times was given exclusive access to the new cast as they met for the first time at Celtic Park in the East End. Celtic The Musical follows the life and times of the Quinn family, as they support their beloved club through the generations, from its founding by Brother Walfrid in 1888 through the heady days of Jock Stein and the Lisbon Lions, to Brendan Rodgers' present-day squad. Songs include fan favourites Hail Hail, Over and Over and the spine-tingling You'll Never Walk Alone. Stephen, who is known for his work on a string of TV series and films including Rise of the Footsoldier: Vengeance, Vigil and Mayflies, is making his Celtic The Musical debut. 'It's exciting – hopefully we're bringing something new and fresh to the show, a different dynamic,' he says. Julie Duncanson and Stephen McCole (Image: Gordon Terris/Newsquest) 'It's a show really about how this club has been an anchor for families to share experiences, to cry together a bit, to support each other.' He grins: 'And I'm sure if my dad is watching somewhere, he'll be laughing his a**e off at me. If the lights start to go a bit funny in the middle of it, I'll know he's there …' (Image: Gordon Terris/Newsquest) Elysia Welch is also new to the production. The Southside-based actor, who plays Rosie, is delighted to be joining the show. 'I'm a Celtic fan, so I'm really excited,' she says, smiling. 'Rosie is sassy, she knows a lot about Celtic and she and her brother are constantly back and forth at each other, so it's a bit like me and my siblings. 'I can't wait.' Former River City star Julie Duncanson is reprising her role as Quinn family matriarch Mary. 'The audience makes the show – they bring all their love and enthusiasm and it's great to be part of that,' says Julie, who is from North Glasgow. (Image: Gordon Terris/Newsquest) Gary: Tank Commander star James Rottger is also returning to the production. 'This will make it four-in-row,' he says, wryly. 'Just like Celtic has just done. I feel like my character, Tommy, has aged with me along the way. 'It's a great show, always changing and staying fresh.' (Image: Gordon Terris/Newsquest) Keith Warwick, who is a veteran of the production, having performed in it twice at the Pavilion, and at the Armadillo and on tour, agrees the show 'has to evolve' with each run. 'You want to keep it up to date and fresh, because the story of Celtic keeps going,' says the Govan-born actor. 'The main theme though does not change – it's about family, it's about refugees being made welcome in Glasgow because that's the roots of this club, and it's about the highs and lows of life.' Keith, who is well-known for a string of TV and stage roles including My Parents Are Aliens and The Bill, is a dyed-in-the-wool Celtic fan, so he is delighted to be talking about this in the home of his favourite club. He is also well aware of how much the story means to the fans. 'If I can just name-drop for a moment,' he says, mock-apologetically, 'Brendan Rodgers spoke to me at the last run and asked me if I got nervous waiting in the wings, because the atmosphere at this show is so raucous. 'I told him as a fan, I was over the moon, and so excited, but as a professional, you have to control yourself.' He adds, smiling: 'If you don't rein it in, the audience will take over and you'll just be singing songs all night. And people have got buses to catch.' Celtic The Musical will be at the Pavilion Theatre in Glasgow from September 4 to 27.
