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The suspect in the high-profile killing of a health insurance CEO that has gripped the United States graduated from an Ivy League university, reportedly hails from a wealthy family, and wrote social media posts brimming with cerebral musings. Luigi Mangione, 26, was thrust into the spotlight Monday after police revealed his identity as their person of interest, crediting his arrest to a tip from a McDonald’s worker. He has been connected by police to the fatal shooting of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson last week in broad daylight, in a case that has laid bare deep frustrations and anger with the nation’s privatized medical system. News of his capture triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media try to understand who he is. While some lauded him as a hero and lamented his arrest, others analyzed his intellectual takes in search of ideological clues. A photo on one of his social media accounts includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine, though no explicit political affiliation has emerged. Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the “Mario Bros.” character Luigi, sometimes depicted in AI-altered images wielding a gun or holding a Big Mac. “Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you,” wrote one user on Facebook. “I want to donate to your defense fund,” added another. According to Mangione’s LinkedIn profile, he is employed as a data engineer at TrueCar, a California-based online auto marketplace. A company spokesperson told AFP Mangione “has not been an employee of our company since 2023.” Although he had been living in Hawaii ahead of the killing, he originally hails from Towson, Maryland, near Baltimore. He comes from a prominent and wealthy Italian-American family, according to the Baltimore Banner. The family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, per the club’s website. – Standout student – A standout student, Mangione graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. In an interview with his local paper at the time, he praised his teachers for fostering a passion for learning beyond grades and encouraging intellectual curiosity. He went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage, archived on the Wayback Machine. On Instagram, where his following has skyrocketed from hundreds to tens of thousands, Mangione shared snapshots of his travels in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Hawaii. He also posted shirtless photos flaunting a six-pack and appeared in celebratory posts with fellow members of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. However, it is on X (formerly Twitter) that users have scoured Mangione’s posts for potential motives. His header photo — an X-ray of a spine with bolts — remains cryptic, with no public explanation. Finding a coherent political ideology has also proved elusive. Mangione has linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity’s decline. In April, he wrote, “Horror vacui (nature abhors a vacuum).” The following month, he posted an essay he wrote in high school titled “How Christianity Prospered by Appealing to the Lower Classes of Ancient Rome.” In another post from April, he speculated that Japan’s low birthrate stems from societal disconnection, adding that “fleshlights” and other vaginal-replica sex toys should be banned. With 2,400 staff representing 100 different nationalities, AFP covers the world as a leading global news agency. AFP provides fast, comprehensive and verified coverage of the issues affecting our daily lives.By REBECCA SANTANA WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump has promised to end birthright citizenship as soon as he gets into office to make good on campaign promises aiming to restrict immigration and redefining what it means to be American. But any efforts to halt the policy would face steep legal hurdles. Birthright citizenship means anyone born in the United States automatically becomes an American citizen. It’s been in place for decades and applies to children born to someone in the country illegally or in the U.S. on a tourist or student visa who plans to return to their home country. It’s not the practice of every country, and Trump and his supporters have argued that the system is being abused and that there should be tougher standards for becoming an American citizen. But others say this is a right enshrined in the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, it would be extremely difficult to overturn and even if it’s possible, it’s a bad idea. Here’s a look at birthright citizenship, what Trump has said about it and the prospects for ending it: During an interview Sunday on NBC’s “Meet the Press” Trump said he “absolutely” planned to halt birthright citizenship once in office. “We’re going to end that because it’s ridiculous,” he said. Trump and other opponents of birthright citizenship have argued that it creates an incentive for people to come to the U.S. illegally or take part in “birth tourism,” in which pregnant women enter the U.S. specifically to give birth so their children can have citizenship before returning to their home countries. “Simply crossing the border and having a child should not entitle anyone to citizenship,” said Eric Ruark, director of research for NumbersUSA, which argues for reducing immigration. The organization supports changes that would require at least one parent to be a permanent legal resident or a U.S. citizen for their children to automatically get citizenship. Others have argued that ending birthright citizenship would profoundly damage the country. “One of our big benefits is that people born here are citizens, are not an illegal underclass. There’s better assimilation and integration of immigrants and their children because of birthright citizenship,” said Alex Nowrasteh, vice president for economic and social policy studies at the pro-immigration Cato Institute. In 2019, the Migration Policy Institute estimated that 5.5 million children under age 18 lived with at least one parent in the country illegally in 2019, representing 7% of the U.S. child population. The vast majority of those children were U.S. citizens. The nonpartisan think tank said during Trump’s campaign for president in 2015 that the number of people in the country illegally would “balloon” if birthright citizenship were repealed, creating “a self-perpetuating class that would be excluded from social membership for generations.” In the aftermath of the Civil War, Congress ratified the 14th Amendment in July 1868. That amendment assured citizenship for all, including Black people. “All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside,” the 14th Amendment says. “No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States.” But the 14th Amendment didn’t always translate to everyone being afforded birthright citizenship. For example, it wasn’t until 1924 that Congress finally granted citizenship to all Native Americans born in the U.S. A key case in the history of birthright citizenship came in 1898, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Wong Kim Ark, born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrants, was a U.S. citizen because he was born in the states. The federal government had tried to deny him reentry into the county after a trip abroad on grounds he wasn’t a citizen under the Chinese Exclusion Act. But some have argued that the 1898 case clearly applied to children born of parents who are both legal immigrants to America but that it’s less clear whether it applies to children born to parents without legal status or, for example, who come for a short-term like a tourist visa. “That is the leading case on this. In fact, it’s the only case on this,” said Andrew Arthur, a fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies, which supports immigration restrictions. “It’s a lot more of an open legal question than most people think.” Some proponents of immigration restrictions have argued the words “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” in the 14th Amendment allows the U.S. to deny citizenship to babies born to those in the country illegally. Trump himself used that language in his 2023 announcement that he would aim to end birthright citizenship if reelected. Trump wasn’t clear in his Sunday interview how he aims to end birthright citizenship. Asked how he could get around the 14th Amendment with an executive action, Trump said: “Well, we’re going to have to get it changed. We’ll maybe have to go back to the people. But we have to end it.” Pressed further on whether he’d use an executive order, Trump said “if we can, through executive action.” He gave a lot more details in a 2023 post on his campaign website . In it, he said he would issue an executive order the first day of his presidency, making it clear that federal agencies “require that at least one parent be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident for their future children to become automatic U.S. citizens.” Related Articles National Politics | Trump has flip-flopped on abortion policy. His appointees may offer clues to what happens next National Politics | In promising to shake up Washington, Trump is in a class of his own National Politics | Election Day has long passed. In some states, legislatures are working to undermine the results National Politics | Trump attorney Alina Habba, a Lehigh University grad, to serve as counselor to the president National Politics | With Trump on the way, advocates look to states to pick up medical debt fight Trump wrote that the executive order would make clear that children of people in the U.S. illegally “should not be issued passports, Social Security numbers, or be eligible for certain taxpayer funded welfare benefits.” This would almost certainly end up in litigation. Nowrasteh from the Cato Institute said the law is clear that birthright citizenship can’t be ended by executive order but that Trump may be inclined to take a shot anyway through the courts. “I don’t take his statements very seriously. He has been saying things like this for almost a decade,” Nowrasteh said. “He didn’t do anything to further this agenda when he was president before. The law and judges are near uniformly opposed to his legal theory that the children of illegal immigrants born in the United States are not citizens.” Trump could steer Congress to pass a law to end birthright citizenship but would still face a legal challenge that it violates the Constitution. Associated Press reporter Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed to this report.
Chance of direct attack by Russia ‘remote’, says UK armed forces chiefLooking for the perfect stocking stuffer ideas that will bring festive joy without breaking the bank? Here are some fun and functional finds that are sure to delight your loved ones this holiday season. Whether you're stuffing stockings for family, friends or coworkers, these thoughtful little gifts are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer. Start with the Vinyl Record Coaster Set – a quirky and nostalgic gift for music lovers that doubles as a practical home accessory. For those who are always on-the-go, Silicone AirPod Cases and Cleaning Kits make a stylish and useful stocking stuffer, helping them keep their devices safe and clean. Cosy Kelabia Women Fuzzy Socks are a warm and snug treat, perfect for chilly winter mornings. Need something to help keep the home fresh during the holidays? Arm & Hammer Odour Busterz Balls are a subtle yet effective solution for keeping rooms smelling holiday-fresh. And for those who like to stay organized, Inch Ruled Notes with Tabs are ideal for jotting down gift lists, holiday recipes or to-do lists while adding a pop of colour to their stationery collection. These stocking stuffers are not only thoughtful but practical, ensuring that your gifts are both memorable and useful all season long! Colourful undated daily planners Stay organized and inspired with the SIIXU Colorful Undated Daily Planner , a stunning blend of style and functionality. With its compact 5.8"x8.5" size and 128 pages (64 sheets), this planner is designed to be your perfect on-the-go scheduling tool. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional or someone who simply loves to stay organized, find everything you need to keep your life on track while adding a touch of creativity and colour to your day. Key features: Compact : This planner fits easily in your bag or backpack – perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle who needs to stay organized wherever they go. 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Key features: Silicone straw covers for Stanley cup Enhance your Stanley Cup with these four-piece Silicone Straw Covers – cute, functional toppers designed to fit Stanley 40oz tumblers and most straws with a 0.4-inch (10mm) diameter, offering a dustproof and splashproof solution. Key features: Kelabia women fuzzy socks Stay cosy and stylish with Kelabia Women Fuzzy Socks – the perfect blend of warmth, comfort and fashion. Crafted from premium materials, these fuzzy socks are designed to keep your feet snug all day long, making them a must-have for colder months. The pack includes seven pairs of socks , available in various patterns for endless styling options. Key features: Kitsch gold metal claw clips Elevate your hair styling game with Kitsch Gold Metal Claw Clips , the perfect blend of function, durability and fashion and designed to securely hold your hair in place. 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Whether you're tackling baseboards, vents or blinds, this high-performance cleaning sponge is designed to make cleaning more efficient, effective and hassle-free. Key features: Effective cleaning : Effortlessly removing dust, hair, stains and debris from various surfaces, keep your home cleaner for longer. It’s perfect for those tough-to-reach spots, ensuring no nook goes unnoticed. Durable : Built to last, this high-density cleaning sponge is made from durable materials that can withstand multiple uses. Simply soak the sponge before each use and after cleaning, rinse it, let it dry and it’s ready for the next round of cleaning. White cloud magnetic wall key holder Add a touch of charm to your home with the TWONE White Cloud Magnetic Wall Key Holder . This whimsical key hanger, shaped like a fluffy cloud, brings a cute and functional flair to your kitchen, living room, bedroom or bathroom. Say goodbye to boring key racks and embrace this novel design. Key features: READ MORE: Cosy, minimalist, practical or free-spirit: What’s your dorm room personality? READ MORE: The best gifts for those building a life togetherPolice recovered a watch stolen from Travis Kelce’s home during a robbery, sources said. Law enforcement officials had not previously made mention of the stolen watch, and had only released information suggesting $20,000 cash had been stolen from the NFL star when his home was burglarized in October, according to TMZ . Sources familiar with the case said authorities investigating a string of burglaries at the residences of professional athletes have retrieved the famous athlete’s watch in Rhode Island, according to ABC News . KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – NOVEMBER 04: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts during an NFL Football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on November 04, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) The home of the Kansas City Chiefs tight end was targeted while he played for the team, sources said. The home of Patrick Mahomes was robbed the day prior, according to police documents. Other athletes have also been victimized by what police now believe to be a sophisticated crime unit. The NFL issued a stark warning to its athletes, advising that they stay off social media and avoid declaring their play and travel schedules on public social media platforms. They believe the alleged robbers are targeting their homes while they are at games, according to ABC News. KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – NOVEMBER 10: Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs walks off the field following the Chiefs 16-14 win over the Denver Broncos at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on November 10, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images) The suspects are carrying out extensive surveillance and are sometimes posing as delivery men to stay under the radar, an NFL memo said, according to ABC News. The alleged robbers may also be acting as maintenance workers or joggers, as a way of learning more about the residences and neighbor hoods they are targeting, the memo added. A security source that is close to the situation told the outlet that the suspects seem to know precisely what they are looking for, and where to locate the items within the home. They are making their way inside the luxury properties and departing within 15 minutes with valuables in-hand, the source claimed. (RELATED: South American Crime Ring Suspected In Robberies Of NFL Stars: REPORT) Police have not confirmed the identity of anyone involved in this case, and have not released suspect information at this time.
Homeland Security shares new details of mysterious drone flights over New Jersey, lawmaker says A New Jersey lawmaker from part of the state where several mysterious drones have been spotted in recent week says the devices appear to avoid detection by traditional methods. Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia was among state officials who met Wednesday with representatives from the Department of Homeland Security. She says lawmakers were told the drones have dodged detection by helicopters and radio. Fantasia says DHS described the devices as up to 6 feet in diameter and sometimes traveling with their lights off. The Morris County Republican made the comments in a post on X shortly after she and several other state and local lawmakers met with state police and Homeland Security officials. Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell as he's named Time's Person of the Year NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is expected to ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange for the first time and be named Time magazine's Person of the Year. Thursday's events will be a notable moment of twin recognitions for Trump, a born-and-bred New Yorker who has long seen praise from the business world and media as a sign of success. Four people with knowledge of his plans told The Associated Press that Trump was expected to be on Wall Street on Thursday to mark the ceremonial start of the day's trading, while a person familiar with the selection confirmed that Trump had been selected as Time's Person of the Year. Rape allegation against Jay-Z won’t impact NFL's relationship with music mogul, Goodell says IRVING, Texas (AP) — NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says a rape allegation against rapper Jay-Z won’t impact the NFL's relationship with the music mogul. Jay-Z's company Roc Nation has produced some of the NFL’s entertainment presentations including the Super Bowl halftime show. A woman who previously sued Sean “Diddy” Combs alleging she was raped at an awards show after-party in 2000 amended the lawsuit Sunday to include an allegation that Jay-Z was also at the party and participated in the sexual assault. Jay-Z says the rape allegation made against him is part of an extortion attempt. The NFL teamed up with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation in 2019 for events and social activism. The league and the entertainment company extended their partnership a few months ago. Ohio politician proposes make flag planting a felony after fight in Michigan rivalry game An Ohio politician has seen enough flag planting. Republican state Rep. Josh Williams said Wednesday on social media he's introducing a bill to make flag planting in sports a felony in the state. His proposal comes after the Nov. 30 fight at the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry football game when the Wolverines beat the Buckeyes 13-10 and then attempted to plant their flag at midfield. A fight ensued and police had to use pepper spray to disperse the players. Former Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield famously planted a flag in the middle of the field at Ohio State after the Sooners beat the Buckeyes in 2017. Gastineau confronts Favre in documentary for his 'dive' on Strahan's record-breaking sack Former New York Jets star Mark Gastineau confronted Brett Favre last year at a memorabilia show and angrily accused the Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback of deliberately going down on a record-breaking sack. The tense exchange is shown in the new ESPN 30 for 30 documentary “The New York Sack Exchange." It chronicles the Jets’ fearsome foursome defensive line of the 1980s that included Gastineau. Gastineau set an NFL record with 22 sacks in 1984, but Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Strahan broke the mark when he sacked Favre in 2002 in a game between the Giants and Packers. Many have accused Favre of purposely taking the sack so Strahan could set the single-season record with 22 1/2. What happens next with Alex Jones' Infowars? No certainty yet after sale to The Onion is rejected Lawyers in the Alex Jones bankruptcy case are now in discussions on what could happen next after a federal judge in Texas rejected the auction sale of Jones’ Infowars to The Onion satirical news outlet. The next steps remained unclear Wednesday as the judge ordered the trustee who oversaw the auction to come up with a new plan. Judge Christopher Lopez in Houston rejected the bid late Tuesday, saying there was too much confusion about The Onion’s bid. The bankruptcy case was in the wake of the nearly $1.5 billion that courts have ordered Jones to pay for calling the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Connecticut a hoax. Sandy Hook families had backed The Onion’s bid. NFL and Nike extend their partnership with a 10-year deal, will focus on growing the sport globally IRVING, Texas (AP) — The NFL’s desire to become a global powerhouse is no secret. Nike is committed to helping the league continue expanding its worldwide reach. The league and the apparel giant announced Wednesday a 10-year partnership extension. The NFL and Nike will focus on working together to grow the game’s global reach, increase participation, develop new talent, and expand the football fan base. Nike, the world’s largest supplier of athletic shoes and apparel, has been the NFL’s exclusive provider of uniforms and sideline, practice and base layer apparel for all 32 NFL teams for 12 years. George Kresge Jr., who wowed talk show audiences as the The Amazing Kreskin, dies at age 89 NEW YORK (AP) — George Joseph Kresge Jr., otherwise known to TV watchers as the mesmerizing entertainer and mentalist The Amazing Kreskin, has died at age 89. Kreskin’s friend and former road manager, Ryan Galway, says he died Tuesday at his home in Caldwell, New Jersey. Kreskin launched his television career in the 1960s and remained popular for decades, appearing with everyone from Merv Griffin to Johnny Carson to Jimmy Fallon. Fans would welcome, if not entirely figure out, his favorite mind tricks — whether correctly guessing a playing card chosen at random, or, most famously, divining where his paycheck had been planted among the audience. He also hosted a show in the 1970s, gave live performances and wrote numerous books. Albertsons sues Kroger for failing to win approval of their proposed supermarket merger Kroger and Albertsons’ plan for the largest U.S. supermarket merger in history has crumbled. The two companies have accused each other of not doing enough to push their proposed alliance through, and Albertsons pulled out of the $24.6 billion deal on Wednesday. The bitter breakup came the day after a federal judge in Oregon and a state judge in Washington issued injunctions to block the merger, saying that combining the two grocery chains could reduce competition and harm consumers. Albertsons is now suing Kroger, seeking a $600 million termination fee, as well as billions of dollars in legal fees and lost shareholder value. Kroger says the legal claims are “baseless.” Keynote Selena Gomez spotlights prioritizing mental health during Academy Women's Luncheon LOS ANGELES (AP) — While surveying a room packed with Hollywood’s most influential figures, “Emilia Pérez” star Selena Gomez took center stage at the Academy Women’s Luncheon to spotlight a critical issue: Prioritizing mental health and supporting underserved communities often left behind in the conversation. The singer-actor has been public about her mental health struggles, revealing she had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Gomez was the keynote speaker Tuesday at the event held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures with attendees including Ariana Grande, Olivia Wilde, Amy Adams, Pamela Anderson, Rita Wilson, Ava DuVernay and Awkwafina.
Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer ideas that will bring festive joy without breaking the bank? Here are some fun and functional finds that are sure to delight your loved ones this holiday season. Whether you're stuffing stockings for family, friends or coworkers, these thoughtful little gifts are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer. Start with the a quirky and nostalgic gift for music lovers that doubles as a practical home accessory. For those who are always on-the-go, and make a stylish and useful stocking stuffer, helping them keep their devices safe and clean. Cosy are a warm and snug treat, perfect for chilly winter mornings. Need something to help keep the home fresh during the holidays? are a subtle yet effective solution for keeping rooms smelling holiday-fresh. And for those who like to stay organized, are ideal for jotting down gift lists, holiday recipes or to-do lists while adding a pop of colour to their stationery collection. 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Instead, they will play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl in Orlando. That bowl berth against Iowa State is a let-down for fans with dreams of a sixth national title in their minds, as well as players hoping to compete for a championship. However, Miami’s trip to Orlando and the lead-up to it are still crucial periods for the Hurricanes for multiple reasons. First, it’s a chance for the program to achieve something it has not done in more than two decades: win 11 games. Although the 11th win won’t get them closer to a championship, it is a good sign of the program’s progress over Mario Cristobal’s tenure. It would also end UM’s five-game losing streak in bowls. “We’re not satisfied,” Cristobal said. “We want to win every single game. We won 10. We were close on the other two, but close isn’t good enough. We want progress. We’re hungry and driven to get better, and so that’s what our focus is on: to improving as a football program, to getting better, to moving into the postseason with an opportunity against a great football team like this and putting our best on the field.” People are also reading... There are signs the Hurricanes will show up at close to full strength for the bowl game. Running back Damien Martinez announced he was going to play, and star quarterback Cam Ward said in a video call posted on social media that he intends to play, as well. “We’re trying to win our first bowl game in 20 years,” Ward said in the video, mistaking the length of UM’s long bowl losing streak. “We’re going hard.” Playing in the bowl game also provides the opportunity for the Hurricanes to get in several practices between now and the game. That means Miami can develop its young players and prepare them for next season during both the practices and the bowl game itself. “It’s extremely valuable,” Cristobal said. “You really don’t have many opportunities throughout the course of the year — time is limited more and more each season with your student-athletes. I want to state this and be very clear: it’s very important, it’s ultra-important for the University of Miami to continue to develop and grow and progress by stressing the importance of offseason opportunities ... You learn a lot about your team and learn a lot about your people and your program when you head to the postseason.” Of course, there are potential negatives. Players can get hurt; Mark Fletcher Jr. suffered a foot injury in the Pinstripe Bowl last year that cost him all of spring practice. A poor performance can also potentially set the tone for next season, like how Florida State, fresh off a playoff snub last year, suffered a devastating loss against Georgia in the Orange Bowl and went on to a dismal 2-10 season this year. “This is the ending of ’24 and the beginning of ’25,” Cristobal said. “This is the last opportunity to be on the field and carry some momentum into the offseason. So it is, in essence, it is the most important game because it’s the next game. “There’s a lot of excitement in the form of opportunity for our guys. Our guys love to play football. The chance to play one more time with this special group — this is a special group of guys now. They’ve worked hard to really change the trajectory of the University of Miami, and they want to continue to elevate the status and the culture at the University of Miami. So certainly a ton to play for.” ____ Be the first to knowControversial presidential front-runner Calin Georgescu wants Romania to be 'self-sufficient power'
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Official FED Announcement on Upcoming Social Security Payments – Alert for All RetireesEDMONTON — Alberta's Technology Minister Nate Glubish says he's hoping to see $100 billion worth of artificial intelligence data centres under construction within the next five years. Such centres are filled with computer servers used by companies like Meta to develop and train large-scale artificial intelligence models. Glubish says Meta, as well as other major companies including Google and Amazon, are on the hunt for space to build more facilities, and he wants Alberta to be an option. He says landing some data centres would create jobs and bring in much needed new tax revenue for the province. Glubish also says that since Alberta's electricity grid regulations allows for off-grid power generation, he thinks the province is an ideal location. He says allowing for off-grid power connections where power generators supply data centres directly also means there's less risk for Albertans, as there wouldn't be major drains on the electrical grid. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 4, 2024. Jack Farrell, The Canadian Press
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Tennessee Titans ’ playoff hopes are over earlier than at any point since 2015 when a coach was fired midseason. The franchise’s third different coach since then is busy trying to build for the future in his debut year. It certainly doesn’t help that team officials are busy trying to sell pricey tickets for the scheduled to open in 2027. Brian Callahan said Monday he knows the NFL is a results-based business, but doesn’t feel as if he’s coaching for his job. The Titans (3-10) were eliminated by a , a week earlier than their and helped cost . “I’m not naive and I don’t like stick my head in the sand,” Callahan said. “I understand how all of it works, but that’s not anything I’ve focused on that.” Callahan said he was honest with the Titans, who now sit at the bottom of the AFC South. What’s left is building a . “How we finish the season matters,” Callahan said. What’s working The defense. After one of the Titans’ worst showings all season and with three starters out with injuries, the Titans defense held an opponent to a season low in points even if facing a backup quarterback. They also came up with two interceptions to help Tennessee win the turnover battle for a team that came in next to last in the NFL in turnover margin. The problem? All 10 points were allowed in the fourth quarter. Safety Amani Hooker said the defense can only focus on mowing their own grass, now more than ever with only four games left. Now the Titans must look themselves in the mirror because all of the NFL will see how they play. What needs help The offense couldn’t find the end zone and finished with a season low in points. The Titans turned it over on downs twice inside the Jaguars 9 and managed only two Nick Folk field goals against what had been the NFL’s worst defense in yards allowed per game and next to last in points allowed. Callahan’s decision to try a pass after a takeaway on the final play of the first half left Will Levis needing a shot in his right, throwing shoulder for the pain from a hard sack where rookie left tackle JC Latham was beaten. It’s the same shoulder that sidelined Levis for three games with a sprained AC joint. Levis missed a wide-open Chig Okonkwo in the end zone. Late in the game, Levis could’ve thrown a quicker ball to Calvin Ridley, who also had room to run for the first down only to go out of bounds. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine couldn’t haul in a pass on fourth down in the end zone where Ridley also was open. Stock up Cornerback Chidobe Awuzie. A key free agent signee in March, Awuzie had been out since Sept. 22 and on injured reserve with a groin injury. He returned and got the first interception for the Titans’ defense — also his first this season. Stock down RT Nicholas Petit-Frere. The third-year lineman out of Ohio State is tied for the team lead with nine penalties, eight that have stopped drives. Two of those came against the Jaguars, the second on the Titans’ final play turning a fourth-and-10 into fourth-and-15 before Levis’s last-gasp incompletion. Injuries Callahan said he expects Levis will be OK after being able to finish the game, though he said they will know more Wednesday. CB Roger McCreary (shoulder) might be able to return after not practicing last week. Key number 1 — Two home games remain. Right now, the Titans are flirting with matching the franchise low for home wins at Nissan Stadium set in 2014 and 2015 during a 5-27 stretch where three of those wins came on the road. Next steps Show signs of life on offense. Only New England (17) and the Giants (14.9) are scoring fewer than Tennessee’s 17.5 points a game this season. More points will be needed to beat Cincinnati in a rematch against Callahan’s old boss Zac Taylor on Sunday. ___ AP NFL:Signing Day notes: Heinrich Haarberg venturing away from being full-time quarterback
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