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. Many people in the Apple ecosystem love to stay on the latest and great iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If you’re trading in an old iPhone to one of your carriers, have you ever wondered what happens to them? Especially in recent years, old iPhones continue to offer a ton of value to new people, so I recently talked with the team at to learn more about their new facilities. When you trade in a device, it’s easy to think the story ends there, but that’s just the beginning. Behind the scenes, companies like Assurant play a critical role in breathing new life into your old tech. Their latest facility, a 259,000-square-foot Innovation and Device Care Center in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, shows the scale and sophistication of today’s device lifecycle process. Assurant’s new Nashville-area center, which doubles the size of their previous site in La Vergne, is set to process and repurpose millions of devices yearly. At this facility, about 800 people test, refurbish and prepare devices for new users or responsibily recycle if they’re beyond repair. In 2023 alone, their efforts kept 1.16M metric tons of carbon emissions out of the atmosphere. It’s a massive impact from the devices users once thought were bound for the trash. Once a device reaches Assurant’s “Device Care Center”, it goes through a series of carefully calibrated processes, many powered by AI and automation. A team of engineers works on-site to constantly improve these systems, using robotics and machine learning to enhance efficiency and quality. From diagnostics to software wipes, to component replacement and beyond, each step is part of a streamlined process designed to give devices a new purpose, often extending their lives by years. While others may outsource, this new facility demonstrates our investments in innovative technologies and our people, allowing us to continuously improve our customer and employee experiences by owning every step in the process, said Biju Nair, EVP and president, Global Connected Living and International. These investments, along with our talented team, contribute to greater sustainability in the connected device ecosystem by efficiently supplying the global secondary device market. Centrally located and in close proximity to our state’s capital, Mt. Juliet is primed to support Assurant and the opening of its new Innovation and Device Care Center,” said Stuart C. McWhorter, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. Assurant will benefit from Nashville’s thriving tech talent pool and access to top-tier research institutions while also having the local support and resources needed for continued growth in Wilson County. I thank Assurant for its decision to stay in Tennessee, and we look forward to seeing the success that follows today’s grand opening. But Assurant isn’t just focused on refurbishing; it’s also making a significant investment in the future of the Tennessee region. The company’s $100,000 grant to Middle Tennessee State University will help fund the Assurant Engineering Innovation Lab, which will support the training of future engineers in mechatronics and automation. This investment underlines the ongoing shift toward a circular economy in tech, where keeping devices in circulation as long as possible is both a business model and an environmental mission. So, the next time you trade in an iPhone or iPad, remember that it likely ends up in a place like Assurant’s’s repair center, where it’s given a chance to power another person’s work—or at least help spare the planet a few more grams of waste . . Many people in the Apple ecosystem love to stay on the latest and great iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If you’re trading in an old iPhone to one of your carriers, have you ever wondered what happens to them? Especially in recent years, old iPhones continue to offer a ton of value to new people, so I recently talked with the team at to learn more about their new facilities. When you trade in a device, it’s easy to think the story ends there, but that’s just the beginning. Behind the scenes, companies like Assurant play a critical role in breathing new life into your old tech. Their latest facility, a 259,000-square-foot Innovation and Device Care Center in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, shows the scale and sophistication of today’s device lifecycle process. Assurant’s new Nashville-area center, which doubles the size of their previous site in La Vergne, is set to process and repurpose millions of devices yearly. At this facility, about 800 people test, refurbish and prepare devices for new users or responsibily recycle if they’re beyond repair. In 2023 alone, their efforts kept 1.16M metric tons of carbon emissions out of the atmosphere. It’s a massive impact from the devices users once thought were bound for the trash. Once a device reaches Assurant’s “Device Care Center”, it goes through a series of carefully calibrated processes, many powered by AI and automation. A team of engineers works on-site to constantly improve these systems, using robotics and machine learning to enhance efficiency and quality. From diagnostics to software wipes, to component replacement and beyond, each step is part of a streamlined process designed to give devices a new purpose, often extending their lives by years. While others may outsource, this new facility demonstrates our investments in innovative technologies and our people, allowing us to continuously improve our customer and employee experiences by owning every step in the process, said Biju Nair, EVP and president, Global Connected Living and International. These investments, along with our talented team, contribute to greater sustainability in the connected device ecosystem by efficiently supplying the global secondary device market. Centrally located and in close proximity to our state’s capital, Mt. Juliet is primed to support Assurant and the opening of its new Innovation and Device Care Center,” said Stuart C. McWhorter, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. Assurant will benefit from Nashville’s thriving tech talent pool and access to top-tier research institutions while also having the local support and resources needed for continued growth in Wilson County. I thank Assurant for its decision to stay in Tennessee, and we look forward to seeing the success that follows today’s grand opening. But Assurant isn’t just focused on refurbishing; it’s also making a significant investment in the future of the Tennessee region. The company’s $100,000 grant to Middle Tennessee State University will help fund the Assurant Engineering Innovation Lab, which will support the training of future engineers in mechatronics and automation. This investment underlines the ongoing shift toward a circular economy in tech, where keeping devices in circulation as long as possible is both a business model and an environmental mission. So, the next time you trade in an iPhone or iPad, remember that it likely ends up in a place like Assurant’s’s repair center, where it’s given a chance to power another person’s work—or at least help spare the planet a few more grams of waste .The Toronto Blue Jays have tried to land a game-changing slugger twice in the past two winters. Unfortunately for the club, it wasn't able to sign Shohei Ohtani or Juan Soto. Now the Jays must decide whether it's worth committing to first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a lucrative long-term deal. Guerrero has been very specific with Toronto regarding how much money he wants and a deadline to get a deal done. Things will only get more complicated if the two-time Silver Slugger winner begins 2025 without an extension. The Blue Jays could send him packing before the trade deadline if they're not viewed as a legitimate postseason contender. But if that doesn't happen, they risk losing a homegrown superstar via free agency. Which of Toronto's American League East rivals could be the best fit for Guerrero? The least likely landing spot is the Tampa Bay Rays. They did kick the tires on Soto before he signed with the New York Mets, but committing hundreds of millions to one player isn't part of their recipe for success. The Baltimore Orioles are more of an option with new ownership in place. But if they can't pony up to retain ace Corbin Burnes, would they really be a serious suitor? Baltimore will also have to eventually pay its elite homegrown talent. An intriguing option is the New York Yankees. By signing Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year, $12.5 million deal , some believe general manager Brian Cashman is preparing to make a run at Guerrero next winter. Will the right-handed slugger be open to donning pinstripes? Vlad Jr. famously said two years ago he'd never play for the Yankees but softened his stance ahead of the 2024 trade deadline. If he has full control over his next destination, could the Bombers be a legitimate suitor? That remains to be seen. With all this in mind, one AL East rival that makes the most sense for Guerrero is the Boston Red Sox. Boston was in the running for Soto, reportedly offering him a deal of around $700 million. But since coming up short, the Red Sox haven't committed long-term to any offseason upgrades. Could they be saving pennies to pursue Guerrero next year? Pairing him in the middle of the order with third baseman Rafael Devers would be a lethal one-two punch . Guerrero, who will be 26 years old in March, reportedly has a "realistic" target of $500-600 million for his next contract. Spotrac estimates he'll earn $28.8 million next season before hitting the open market. More MLB: NL Rival 'Could Be Desperate Enough' to Steal $152 Million Slugger From Mets
Pakistan sentences 60 more civilians in military courts for May 9 riots
West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose found himself embroiled in a new controversy after photographs of him unveiling his statue emerged on social media. The Governor has launched elaborate celebrations to mark two years in office. As the photograph went viral, the Raj Bhawan Media Cell issued a statement saying that the statue was presented to the Governor and he did not unveil it. “In some media reports it has come out that HG (Honourable Governor) has ‘unveiled his own statue’ at Raj Bhavan on 23.11.2024. The fact is as follows: Many artists submit their artistic creations to HG. Many painters made HG’s portraits and presented to him. Similarly, a creative sculptor had created a sculpture of HG and presented to HG. This has unfortunately been described as ‘unveiling his own statue’,” the Raj Bhawan posted on social media. The development, however, sparked criticism in political circles with the ruling Trinamool Congress and Left parties criticising the Governor. Trinamool spokesperson Jayprakash Majumder described the act as “megalomania”. “Governor C.V. Anand Bose has inaugurated his own statue, which is something unheard of. He did it because he wanted some kind of publicity. But the point is, what is the next step? Will he garland his own statue? It’s a sign of a megalomania,” Mr. Majumdar said. CPI(M) central committee member Sujan Chakraborty said that the act of the Governor was “disgraceful and unfortunate”. Congress spokesperson Soumya Aich Roy said it was a “matter of shame”. This is not the first time that the Governor has found himself at the centre of a controversy. During the Lok Sabha election, Mr. Bose was accused by the Trinamool of running a “parallel electioneering system”. Earlier this year, a female employee of Raj Bhawan had accused the Governor of “sexual harassment” and had lodged a complaint with the Kolkata Police. Since the Governor enjoys constitutional protection with respect to criminal charges, the matter could not be taken up by the police. The Governor and the Chief Minister have also been at loggerheads with the former approaching the Calcutta High Court alleging defamation by the Chief Minister. Published - November 24, 2024 09:22 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit West BengalNew York, Nov 30 (AP) Retailers used giveaways and big discounts to reward US shoppers who ventured out for Black Friday even as earlier offers, the prospect of better bargains in the days ahead and the ease of e-commerce drained much of the excitement from the holiday shopping season's much-hyped kickoff. Frequent deals throughout the month and more awaiting on Cyber Monday gave consumers less of a reason to squabble over store shelves while trying to get their hands on TVs or toys. But shopping malls and merchants big and small used the day after Thanksgiving to entice customers into physical stores at a time when many prefer to browse and buy online. Some Target shoppers lined up as early as 11.30 pm on Thanksgiving Day to get their hands on an exclusive book devoted to Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and a bonus edition of her “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” album. Although both will be available purchase online starting Saturday, many locations sold out their supply of the products, the discount retailer said. At a Target in Southfield, Michigan, a few miles north of Detroit, Marge Evans, 32, used her cellphone to take and send photos of shirts, sweaters and other apparel with Black Friday markdowns. Her shopping cart was full, but she was shopping for an upcoming cruise with her fiance, not Christmas. “I'll see what things are looking like the first week in January,”the 32-year-old massage therapist said. “Really, after the holidays are over is when the real deals come through. They get rid of everything.” Industry analysts observed Black Friday shoppers displaying the same choosy, deal-driven behavior many U.S. consumers exhibited all year while adjusting prices after the period of inflation that started toward the end of the coronavirus pandemic. At many stores, the huge crowds of Black Fridays past never returned after the pandemic. A Walmart in Germantown, Maryland, had only half of the parking spots filled on Friday morning. Some shoppers were returning items or buying groceries. Bharatharaj Moruejsan, a 35-year-old software engineer, decided to check out Walmart's offers because he was jet-lagged after returning from a month-long family vacation to India. He scored an iPad for his 1-year-old daughter for $250, 32 per cent off its original USD 370 price tag. “That's a good deal,” Moruejsan said. After visiting stores and shopping centers on Long Island, Marshal Cohen, chief retail adviser at market research firm Circana, said that apart from people lining up for Target's Taylor Swift merchandise, the number of shoppers appeared typical. “The spreading out of the holidays has created the lack of need and lack of urgency,” said Cohen, who had a 20-person team monitoring crowds nationwide. “This is going to be a long, slow tedious process” of getting shoppers to buy, he said. Retailers that offered at least 40 per cent off drove shoppers' attention, according to Brown. For example, Forever 21 had 50 per cent to 70 per cent discounts and had lines to the stores, while H&M, which offered 30 per cent discounts, was relatively quiet. Enough consumers still enjoy holiday shopping in person that Black Friday nonetheless was expected to retain its crown remains the biggest day of the year for retail foot traffic in the US, according to retail technology company Sensormatic Solutions. At Macy's Herald Square in Manhattan, the setting for the 1947 Christmas movie “Miracle on 34th Street,” a steady stream of shoppers early Friday found some shoes and handbags priced half-off, special occasion dresses marked down by 30 per cent, and 60 per cent off the store's luxury bedding brand. Keressa Clark, 50, and her daughter Morghan, 27, who were visiting New York from Wilmington, North Carolina, arrived at 6.15 am. "I am actually shocked to see so many Black Friday deals because so many things are online,” Morghan Clark said. Karessa Clark, who works as a nurse practitioner, said President-elect Donald Trump's pending return to the White House made her feel better about the economy. She plans to spend USD 2,000 this holiday season, about USD 500 more than a year ago. Online sales figures from Thanksgiving Day gave retailers a reason to remain hopeful for a lucrative end to the year. Vivek Pandya, the lead analyst at Adobe Digital Insights, said consumers spent a record USD 6.1 billion online Thursday, 8.8 per cent more than on Thanksgiving last year. Bigger-than-expected discounts helped spur spending on electronics, apparel and other categories, Pandya said. Across the board, Black Friday weekend discounts should peak at 30 per cent on Cyber Monday and then retreat to around 15 per cent, according to Adobe's research. Analysts forecast a solid holiday shopping season overall in the US, though perhaps not as robust as last year. Retailers were even more under the gun to get shoppers in to buy early and in bulk since there are five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. Shoppers at Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, Louisiana, were treated to a glass of champagne and a USD 50 gift receipt. “This is a nice touch. I was just talking to my best friend and rehashing over Thanksgiving so this was a nice little treat after that conversation. Everyone needs a little drink,” said Faren Kennedy, a Houston resident who was in town visiting family and wanted to stop at the mall for the nostalgia of Black Friday shopping. At Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, some 13,000 people showed up the first hour of its 7 am opening, roughly 1,000 more than a year ago, according to Jill Renslow, the mall's chief business development and marketing officer. Black Friday no longer is an American-only sales event. Retailers in Australia, Canada, France, Germany and the UK also appealed to holiday shoppers looking to save money. In India, about 200 Amazon warehouse workers and delivery drivers, rallied Friday in New Delhi, some wearing masks of Amazon chief Jeff Bezos, to demand better wages and working conditions. Similar protests were planned in other countries. (AP) GRS GRS (This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)
NFL odds, lines, picks, spreads, bets, predictions, what to bet for Week 12, 2024: Model backing Bears, Eagles
Chargers will be without top RB Dobbins and could lean on QB Herbert against Falcons
Aaditya Thackeray meets supporters to celebrate his re-election from Worli MUMBAI: Shiv Sena (UBT) scion and party chief Uddhav Thackeray 's son Aaditya Thackeray retained Worli assembly constituency but saw a major dip in margin, down from the massive margin of 67,427 in 2019 state election to 8,801. His victory will bring little cheer to Shiv Sena (UBT) amid the washout the party faced in the rest of the state. Aaditya, at 63,324 votes, defeated Shiv Sena's Milind Deora (54,523), and MNS's Sandeep Deshpande (19,367) in Worli, one of the high-profile seats in the city that saw three-way fights. IPL 2025 mega auction IPL Auction 2025 Live: KKR break bank for Venkatesh Iyer, Ashwin returns to CSK IPL 2025 Auction LIVE: Updated Full Team Squads IPL Auction 2025: Who got whom In neighbouring Mahim, his cousin Amit Thackeray from MNS lost. "I thank the people of Worli for keeping confidence in me. I also thank police and other machinery," Aaditya said. Speaking on his party's drubbing in the state, he said, "The results in Maharashtra are surprising. It is the same state that gave us wins in Lok Sabha. We have to see whether this election was decided by the people or EVMs. The results are not as expected, so we need to discuss the technical issues. We will talk about it later." Meanwhile, Deora, a Rajya Sabha MP who lost from the seat, said, "Key takeaways from Mumbai: CM Eknath Shinde ji has proven his leadership and vision for Maharashtra. Voters chose 'progress without speed limits' over 'speed breaker' politics. The real gaddari (betrayal) was in 2019, not 2022. Hope always triumphs over fear!" Taking to X, he said, "I took on Sena (UBT)'s strongest team in Worli-1 ex-CM, 1 ex-Cabinet Minister, 1 ex-Union Minister, 1 MP, 1 MLA, 2 MLCs & 3 ex-Mayors. Despite MNS splitting 19,367 of Mahayuti's votes, we led at one point and cut Aaditya Thackeray's margin to 8,801 from 67,427 in 2019. 'Climate Change Minister' asking for ballot papers is truly ironic!" Both Deora and Aaditya had roped in star power for campaign. While CM Shinde and his son Shrikant campaigned for Deora, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy was among those campaigning for Aaditya. In 2019 assembly polls, Aaditya, the first member from Thackeray family to contest an election, defeated his NCP rival Suresh Mane by almost 70,000 votes. However, in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Sena (UBT) candidate Arvind Sawant got a lead of only 6,715 votes from Worli assembly constituency. In 2022, after the MVA govt was toppled, Aaditya had written a letter to the residents of Worli. In the letter, he took a veiled dig at BJP, saying that after his constituency made enviable progress, all parties wanted to come to Worli.