Company announces new version of its tablet on the same day it posts a profit decline. The new Nook Tablet, with half the memory, shaves $50 off the original’s price. Also: Nook Color e-reader is shedding $30.

The Nook Tablet can now be had for the same price as the Kindle Fire.

Barnes & Noble has Amazon’s Kindle Fire directly in its sights. Its latest ammunition: a $199 Nook Tablet with 8GB of memory.

The new version of the Nook Tablet–$50 cheaper and with half the memory of the original–now matches the Kindle Fire in price and memory specs. The book retailer hopes the lower price will make it more of a rival to Amazon’s tablet, which has established itself as the No. 2 player behind Apple’s iPad. Amazon has attracted customers through a lower-end price and a decent selection in its online store.

Barnes & Noble also announced a $30 price drop for the Nook Color e-reader, which will now cost $169.

The company badly needs a success in the tablet arena to offset maturing sales in its traditional book business. The company, which released quarterly earnings today, saw sales rise 5 percent year over year to $2.44 billion. However, profit fell 14 percent from a year ago to $52 million, or 71 cents a share. The earnings report, which covered the three-month period ending January 28, said that per-share earnings would have been 99 cents excluding one-time items.

Analysts, on average, had forecast earnings of 92 cents a share on revenue of $2.53 billion.

Related stories Amazon taps Foxconn for 10-inch Kindle Fire, says report Barnes & Noble reportedly readying 8GB Nook Tablet Two Android tablets take on Apple: One is up to the task Amazon Kindle Fire climbs to top of Android pack Apple’s biggest iPad rival: the iPhone 4S

The company did see a surge in online sales, driven by purchases of its Nook line of e-readers and tablets.

The company expects full-year revenue of $7 billion to $7.2 billion. Its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization are expected to be $150 million to $180 million, and its per-share loss is expected to be $1.10 to $1.40. The Nook business is expected to generate $1.5 billion in comparable sales this fiscal year, the company said.

The Nook Tablet promises to figure prominently in Barnes & Noble’s business. While the Kindle Fire has captured much of the buzz that isn’t already surrounding the iPad, the 16GB Nook Tablet at $249 has seen fewer takers. Still, Barnes & Noble could become a stronger competitor with its new 8GB tablet and the large distribution capabilities of its stores.

Like the original Nook Tablet, the new version has a 1GHz dual-core processor and a slot for up to a 32GB microSD card. Both also boast 11.5 hours of reading time and 9 hours of video playback.

The new version of the Nook Tablet and cheaper Nook Color are available at Barnes & Noble’s Web site, starting today. The Nook Tablet will also be available at retailers such as Best Buy and Wal-Mart in the coming weeks.

Correction at 7:10 a.m. PT: The story incorrectly stated the amount of memory in the new Nook Tablet, based on the company’s press release. The new Nook Tablet has 8GB of memory.

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Source: New $199 Nook Tablet to compete with Fire

Quite often, the goods may be transported to harm the environment. However, some of them are simply necessary for the industrial sphere, and sometimes required, and to save lives. Therefore the transport of dangerous goods by sea is not only fast, but also the safest. Under such materials typically involve products of the chemical and defense industries, agricultural products, as well as emergency transportation of drugs.

Man is surrounded by a variety of natural and synthetic materials. One does not become a threat, as required for the transport of other special conditions. The main task today – to make shipping containers of hazardous mitigation substances as safe. In other words – to prevent damage to the packaging and the penetration of harmful substances into the environment.

There are certain rules by which the transport of dangerous goods by sea. First of all, apply only to generic package, which can be used both in direct and interport messages. They must also be technically operable and have a definite sign, which should include access to the security and guarantee safe delivery of product or material that may pose a danger to others. Containers must not be damaged or deformed. These are the transport of containers will not allow the emission of harmful substances into the environment.

It is also important and the preparation of the container. And it must occur both before sending the goods, and in his acceptance. First of all, he inspected inside and out, and packaging and the weight of transported goods shall comply with the performance. At the same time transported goods should be stowed and secured so that it could not be damaged or deformed.

Some of the dangerous cargo to justify its name from the established classification for them. The properties of these materials speak for themselves. For example, they may be not only toxic, but at the same time and combustible. Such materials are referred to as particularly dangerous. Incorrect shipping containers of such substances may lead to irreversible consequences. However, if you need special delivery of drugs, for example, for cancer patients, such transportation will be necessary to save human life.

Dr. John Welty, the president of Fresno State will address the congregation of the Bethesda Apostolic Church in Fresno about the importance of education. Students of local colleges and high schools have been invited to gain valuable information http://www.netvibes.com/verdede/. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRLog (Press Release) – Feb 17, 2012 – On Sunday, February 19, 2012, Dr. John Welty, president of Cal State University, Fresno will address the BethesdaExperience concerning the power of education. The event is being called “College Day” by the church, but is formally called “Super Sunday” by CSU promoters. Educational vendors, counselors, and other educational resources will be on site to help high school students and other attendees gain meaningful information. This is the second year that the BethesdaExperience has been selected as the endorsed site for Super Sunday, a program fueled by the CSU school system. This program selects church sites to create attention to the great need for higher education. In a down economy, taking advantage of educational opportunities is both wise and important.Lead by Pastor Tobaise Brookins, the BethesdaExperience is becoming a popular church in Fresno because of its continual work in meeting the spiritual and natural needs of people. The BethesdaExperience regular service schedule is: Sundays 8am, 11am, & 6pm. College day will take place at the BethesdaExperience 3723 E. Dakota Ave, Fresno, CA. The event begins at 11am and will be followed by reception for all students….

Source: Dr. John Welty of Fresno State to Address the Bethesda Church about the Importance of Education

The “Process Improvement – The Global Trends” IT conference organized by Unicom Learning will take place in Bangalore, India on 12 Apr 2012. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRLog (Press Release) – Feb 17, 2012 – Backed with successful forums and conference in United Kingdom, Unicom is proud to present one-day forum in Bangalore on Process Improvement – The Global TrendsThe Process Improvement Forum features a high quality speaker programme, discussion sessions and networking platform http://socialworkdegreesonline.net/community-organizer.html. The forum is designed to be an important source of guidance and advice for organizations implementing or considering implementing software and systems process and service improvement. Benefits of attending Process Improvement Forum:In software and systems engineering as in business and manufacturing, mature and well-managed processes provide consistent quality and productivity.The Process Improvement Forum is an independent event providing guidance and advice to organizations implementing or considering process improvement strategies, it also provides a balanced guide to methodologies and practices such as such as CMMI; TMMI; Agile; ITIL; Lean; Six Sigma; BS20000; BS15000.By attending the event, you will hear high quality presentations of real value, be able to engage in discussion, ask direct questions and get to meet face-to-face with the organizations and individuals who can help you ensure the success of your software and systems process improvement strategy.Whether you are seeking a basic understanding or a full process improvement roadmap, this event will be invaluable. The attendee will get the essence of process improvement of implementing appropriate best practices in their organisation. By “appropriate” we mean what fits the organization

The Purpose Plan is designed to help individuals uncover their Overarching Purpose and Purpose Themes. For entrepreneurs and solopreneurs, the process leads to understanding their best Natural Niches, products, services and ideal clients. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   The Purpose PlanPRLog (Press Release) – Feb 12, 2012 – The Purpose Plan is a step-by-step process designed to help individuals uncover and discover their Overarching Purpose and Purpose Themes. For entrepreneurs and solopreneurs, the process leads to understanding their best Natural Niches, products, services and ideal client profiles. Patricia Kelley of TheChangeTeacher.com is creator of this breakthrough process and is now offering group and individual coaching and consulting. Kelley is also Author of forthcoming book, When Change Knocks—Open the Door: Find Peace, Power, Purpose & Prosperity through Chaos and Change.Purpose Plan Workshops, Teleseminars and Keynotes are also available for businesses and organizations. “Patty Kelley is quite simply one of the most effective and delightful inspirational speakers I have had the pleasure of hearing in a long time,” reports Rebecca Pratt, Chief of Production, (Ret) Newsweek MagazineKelley’s inaugural group coaching program launches on March 15th. This four-month program consists of 13 sessions, worksheets, and email support.The investment for this first group only, is $97.00 per month with an additional discount if prepaid in full. More detailed information can be found at: http://www.thechangeteacher.com/the-purpose/ . The Purpose Plan process helps individuals clearly see and understand the “Themes” running through their lives and how that translates into callings and missions at different stages of life. “Patty is able to not only see the whole picture,” reports Dinny Lansdowne, Branding Expert and Founder of www.InspiredMentors.com, “which may not even be visible to you yet – but also all of the moving parts and details.”It’s not uncommon for people to have more than one very strong Purpose Theme running through their lives. The Purpose Plan process helps uncover these and illuminates how they fit in life, relationships and business.“Finding one’s purpose is the source of much personal angst as more and more people are drawn to living a more meaningful, peaceful and abundant life,” said Kelley. She went on to clarify, “The lead up to 2012 and beyond and all the reports on “changing times” has fueled the renewed seeking of millions of people wanting to live purposeful lives. People are seeking positive, life-affirming change. The Purpose Plan supports that positive first step of figuring out what direction best serves a life of authentic meaning for them.”Kelley’s expertise is in empowering others to step out of “who they are, into who they want to be” in a grounded, purposeful and inspired way. Barbara Beck, owner of Turning Point Coaching, offered this about Kelley’s abilities. “Patty is a powerful combination of change-agent, bright intelligence, creative genius, motivator, inspiration and Spiritual guru all in one.” Beck is an expert Life and Relationship Coach, having coached hundreds of people. She goes on to say, “As a professional Life Coach and teacher myself, I know the value of having a deeply intuitive, compassionate, yet challenging force in my life.    For more information on The Purpose Plan group coaching program, individual coaching, or contacting Patricia visit http://www.TheChangeTeacher.com/the-purpose/ . William F. Martin, M.D. of Seattle and Phoenix, AZ says it boldly, “Do not go to Ms. Kelley if you want to remain unchanged.  Once her empowering energy grabs you– you’re hooked!” ABOUT: The Change Teacher, Patricia M. Kelley – Patricia Kelley is a ‘Clarion Call’ Coach, Speaker & Change Catalyst. She offers inspirational Keynotes on The Purpose Plan, When Change Knocks-Open the Door, Want What Life Wants and several other empowering subjects. She is also an experienced emcee, and hosts events and fundraisers. http://www.TheChangeTeacher.com# # #Media that makes a difference. Ideas, tools and actions that lift consciousness and inspire change. Books, events, public relations, speakers and more….

Source: The Purpose Plan Offers New Hope for Purpose, Peace and Prosperity Seekers

The survey asked new ideas on the importance of having an experience "on the other side" of treatment before and during the professional work of mental health care.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Log-PR (Press Release) – Aug 25, 2009 – Goodtherapy.org (http://www.goodtherapy.org/) is an international directory of about 5,000 therapists operating in line for about 2 years now. In a recent survey conducted through an electronic questionnaire distributed to approximately 4350 members therapist, he was asked whether respondents favor licensing programs of states that require professionals to participate in psychotherapy as clients. A very high 85% of respondents said they would in fact support such measures, and several of them have expressed their desire to help facilitate and promote an initiative to convince the licensing of State to adopt the idea.On the other hand, 11% of respondents did not agree with this response and negative, while only 3.9% gave a vague answer choosing "it depends". "Although the investigation was not very scientific with only 13% of responses, it was an effort to assess the scope of this positive change in the requirements of state licensure, said Noah Rubinstein, LMFT is the Executive Director to GoodTherapy.org. "One of the basic and much-vaunted principles of psychotherapy in good health, the idea that therapy for professionals in mental health care should be available encouraged and used may be relatively new on the scene, but it can quickly become de rigueur for an increasing number of professionals to show their support. "After the announcement of the results of the investigation, the site has hosted a long discussion the issue, in which the majority of readers warmly welcomed the idea and expressed their interest to help put the issue to a wider audience.Some join the discussion have added their own twists on the possibilities to require that licensed therapists, counselors and other professionals in mental health to receive their therapy, including ideas on the obligation to make a part of the post-graduates, and develop a program to encourage widespread rather than a strict license conditions. In the coming months, further developments in this initiative will undoubtedly arise as more professionals consider the benefits for both therapists and their clients – the proposed requirement and contribute their own thoughts and resources to the project. It should be noted here that GoodTherapy.org is a staunch supporter of non-pathologizing psychotherapy and all members agree with this position before being allowed membership.So this bias could have skewed the results slightly and there is clearly room for further investigations on a wider scale.About GoodTherapy.org: Created in 2007 by Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Noah Rubinstein and supported by a network of therapists who offer all collaborative and non-pathologizing therapy, GoodTherapy.org is an online hub for clients, therapists and anyone interested in the positive, effective and meaningful mental health care. The site recently reached a monthly output of more than 120,000 unique visitors….

Source: Survey Reveals 85% of Therapists Advocate Being a Psychotherapy Client as a State Licensure Required

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Source: How to make e-books show up under “Books” on the Kindle Fire

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Source: Nannies4hire.com Helps with New Year’s Resolution to be a Better Parent

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The regulator for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is actively considering a proposal that would allow for a reduction in the outstanding mortgage debt of homeowners in Chapter 13 bankruptcy, Financial Times reported on Tuesday http://radiologydegreeonline.net/radiology-diagnosing-efficiency/.

The plan under review by the Federal Housing Finance Agency would call for the mortgage financing companies to allow bankrupt homeowners who owe more on their housing debt than their homes are worth to pay zero per cent interest for five years, the report said.

Participation in the debt reduction program would be subject to approval by bankruptcy judges, the FT said.

Details of the proposal were laid out in a letter to Congress dated Monday, the newspaper reported.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, combined with the Federal Housing Administration support, about 90 percent of all U.S. mortgages.

An FHFA spokeswoman confirmed the proposal to assist underwater homeowners was under discussion, but declined to provide additional details, the FT said.

But the White House said the proposal was not under consideration.

"While we continue to talk to the FHFA and other market participants about ways to help borrowers and support the housing market, the administration is not at this time considering this particular idea," White House spokeswoman Amy Brundage told FT.

Spokesmen for the White House and FHFA were not immediately available for comment on the FT report late on Tuesday.

(Reporting By JoAnne Allen; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman)

Regulator considers mortgage debt reduction for bankrupt: report

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Source: Automotive Expert and Car-Talk Host Bobby Likis Gives Away Final Prizes in “Get Your Gas ‘n’ Gear” Sweepstakes