text:
Frosh in Focus
Recapping Apple's lackluster iPhone XS & XR reveal
The tech giant's latest smartphone unveiling leaves much to be desired
Ally Mastantuono
The iPhone XS unveiling.
Screenshot from Apple
This month, Apple announced a line of new products, including the iPhone XS, XS Max, and a more affordable alternative, the iPhone XR. If the tech giant's release of new phone models is news to you, you're not alone—the launch flew largely under the radar, and for good reason.
Although Apple's latest iPhones boast various improvements, they lack standout features. You'd be hard pressed to spot the differences between the new phone models, and even more so with their predecessor, the iPhone X, released in Nov. 2017.
If you're deciding which model to choose, or debating upgrading at all, the following breakdown might help cure your indecision.
The new and exciting
The new iPhone models may look like they're straight out of 2017—with the iPhone X's trademark edge-to-edge display and missing home button—but all three products are smarter, faster, and louder than any iPhone released to date.
According to Apple, the new smartphone models' A12 Bionic processor and superior
face-scanning algorithms will make using your phone and securely unlocking it more efficient. The changes will speed up app performance and officially improve the once-finicky Face ID.
Immersive listening experiences are also in store for the new iPhones, with four built-in microphones per phone and a wider stereo sound. That means purchased, recorded, and shared audio and video will be louder and richer than ever.
Of course, you can't have enhanced sound quality without an improved camera. The three phones share a brand-new camera sensor capable of Smart HDR, which combines various frames to create one great photo—selfie Sundays will be forever changed.
The underwhelming
While Apple has made some clear technological advancements in the past year, it's fair to say the new phones are far from revolutionary. Improved performance, audio, and visuals are things to applaud, but maybe not break the bank for.
The phones' prices range from $800 to $2,000. If the hefty price tag doesn't scare you off, the poor Wi-Fi connectivity and cell reception new iPhone owners are already complaining about might.
The difference between iPhone XS and XR
Since the XS Max is merely a larger version of the iPhone XS, the real consumer decision is between the XS and XR.
Whether you splurge on the XS or settle for the XR, the core hardware is the same in each phone. The real difference is in the display, camera, and battery life.
Naturally, the pricier—and thinner—XS has a better screen, higher resolution, and more innovative cameras.
While the XS has two cameras in the back—a wide-angle and telephoto—the XR only has one, albeit with the same quality as the XS's wide-angle. But the cheaper XR has both a longer battery life and comes in a variety of colours including blue, yellow, and coral.
Keep in mind you'll have to wait at least another month before you can get your hands on the XR. If you think the cheaper iPhone is worth the wait, it might be the one for you.
For those not willing to upgrade to a new hardware, Apple's latest iPhone software update, iOS 12, might be enough to last you through the year.
Not only is the free update compatible with any device dating back to the iPhone 5S, its features include better notification management, a built-in tape measure feature, and a tool in the Settings app to help you manage and limit your screen time.
Sadly, in order to take advantage of the viral Memoji feature, you'll need to have a phone no older than the iPhone X.
iOS 14 proves the iPhone is far from revolutionary
Point/Counterpoint: Should little kids use technology?
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Details and assitance for the Search is available on the Searching help page.
This page provides information about each individual "search column" available in the site. That is, specifics about the individual data elements in the site that can be "searched in". It also provides a simple enterable area for each search column to be used for searching, though this is obviously not as convenient as just using the options available in the main navigation bar for the site.
There are separate sections here for Everything, Publishers, Brands, Indicia Publishers, Series, Issues, and Content Items.
Searches all of the fields listed here for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of issues.
Searches all of the fields of data in Publishers for the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Publishers.
Searches the Publisher Names field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Publishers.
Searches the Publisher Notes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Publishers.
Searches all of the fields of data in Brands for the search terms entered. Brands are textual interpretations of the company, firm, individual, and/or marketing image that a comic book is publisherd under (e.g. "Marvel Comics Group" as opposed to "Marvel Comics"). This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Brands.
Searches the Brand Names field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Brands.
Searches the Brand Notes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Brands.
Searches all of the fields of data in Indicia Publishers for the search terms entered. Indicia Publishers are the actual company names printed in the indicia that a comic book is published under. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Indicia Publishers.
Searches the Indicia Publisher Names field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Indicia Publishers.
Searches the Indicia Publisher Notes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Indicia Publishers.
This is a customized search with very particular results. It searches in the Publisher, Brand, and Indicia Publisher Names and displays the results from all three "entities".
Searches all of the fields of data in Series for the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Publisher Name field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Name field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Colors (in the Format section) field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Dimensions (in the Format section) field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Paper Stock (in the Format section) field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Binding (in the Format section) field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Publishing Format (in the Format section) field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Format Notes (in the Format section) field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Tracking Notes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches the Series Notes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Series.
Searches all of the fields of data in Issues for the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Publisher Names field only in Issues for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Brand Names field only in Issues for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Indicia Publisher Names field only in Issues for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Series Names field only in Issues for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Number field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is merely a "contains" search for all words entered as search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Variant Names field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Titles field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Volumes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is merely a "contains" search for all words entered as search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue ISBNs field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is merely a "contains" search for all words entered as search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue UPCs/EANs field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is merely a "contains" search for all words entered as search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Indicia Frequencies field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Editors field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Notes field only for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches all of the fields of data in Content Item for the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms (see the general Search documentation, above). Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Titles for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Genres field of Content Items in Issues for matches to the genre selected. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Characters field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Editors field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Writers field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Pencillers field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Inkers field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Colorists field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Letterers field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Features field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Synopses field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.
Searches the Issue Content Item Notes field for matches to the search terms entered. This is an intelligent search for calculated root words of the entered search terms. Results are displayed as a list of Issues.


HONOLULU — Six mariners are safe after their vessel began sinking approximately 173 miles north of Oahu Monday.
At 11:15 a.m., a Good Samaritan notified watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Command Center that the 66-foot commercial fishing vessel Sea Moon was flooded and dead in the water with crewmembers using buckets to dewater the boat.
The Good Samaritan did not know the position of the vessel, but was able to pass the owner's information to the Command Center.
The owner provided the vessel's satellite phone number and at 11:27 a.m., Coast Guard watchstanders established communication with the fishing vessel. The crew reported that the engine room was flooded and that the cause of the flooding was unknown.
They reported no injuries and that they had life jackets, life rafts, flares and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon aboard.
An HC-130 Hercules airplane crew was diverted with dewatering pumps aboard and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew launched from Air Station Barbers Point. The Coast Guard Cutter Ahi, an 87-foot patrol boat homeported in Honolulu, was also launched. The Sea Moon's sister ship Sapphire also rerouted.
The Hercules crew arrived on-scene at 12:51 p.m. and dropped a dewatering pump to the fishing vessel.
Sea Moon's crew retrieved the dewatering pump and brought it aboard. The crew was then able to stop the flooding and restart the engine. They are now enroute to Honolulu Harbor and are expected to arrive Tuesday afternoon.
Coast Guard Hercules crews routinely practice dropping a variety of lifesaving materials to mariners in distress. This is especially pertinent in the Pacific where extreme distances can take ships days to reach mariners in need of assistance. In cases such as this where uncontrolled flooding can force mariners to abandon ship, speed is of the essence. The Coast Guard is scheduled to replace the HC-130H with the HC-130J, which is capable of greater speed and range. Likewise, the 87-foot patrol boats are also scheduled for replacement by the new fast response cutter.


text:
PML-N papers: The Sharif family and the gifts they keep on giving
The following information is based on documents submitted to the Supreme Court by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's legal counsel for the Panamagate hearing. The assertions made in these extracts are solely the view of the respondents. Dawn.com does not endorse or confirm the claims made in the case file.
The petition filed by the PM's legal counsel shows how the Sharif family gifted each other large sums of money and land. Here are some highlights.
PM Nawaz Sharif's wealth statement for 2012.
Nawaz Sharif in an income tax return filed in 2012 declared that he received more than 684 kanals of land from his mother as a gift.
In another income tax return filed in 2011, the PM declares ownership of a Toyota Land Cruiser and a Mercedes Benz ─ among others, both gifted to him. It is unclear, however, who the gifts are from.
In a Wealth Reconciliation Statement filed by the PM in 2011, Nawaz states that he has received Rs129,836,905 from his son. It is not specified which son gave him the gift.
Wealth Reconciliation Statement showing gifts to and from the PM's children.
Additionally, the statement shows the PM gave his daughter Maryam Nawaz and his son Hussain Nawaz gifts of Rs31,700,000 and Rs19,459,440 respectively.
Although Kulsoom Nawaz, the premier's wife, did not give her family members gifts of money, she donated a sum of Rs1,000,000 to the family's trust, Sharif Trust, according to a Wealth Reconciliation Statement as on June 30, 2011.
Find the rest of the relevant documents here.
To view Dawn.com's compilation of extracts from Panamagate case files, click here.
Panamagate
PML-N papers: PM Nawaz's assets increased 57pc from 2011-12
PTI papers: Money laundering through fake accounts
PML-N papers: Purchase of London flats and the Al-Thani connection
Sheikh Rasheed papers: Hasan Nawaz's involvement in 8 companies
PML-N papers: How the Gulf Steel Mills were born
PTI papers: Rehman Malik's investigation into the Sharif family
"... he received more than 684 kanals of land from his mother as a gift." How/Where did his mother get the land from?
'Gifted' family.
H. Ali
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is very honest person
What are the sources of income of the family members who gave each other huge gifts???
NaveedKhan
Isn't this a very common practice in Pakistan? There are loop holes in our tax system and everyone is taking advantage of these loop holes. If something is not illegal, what is the harm in Sharif family taking advantage.
Maverik
What a "gifted" family, that was once so poor, but at the same time very rich. They think the whole nation is full of head-nodding dumbos.
@H. Ali Yes yes, and George W. Bush wanted welfare of Muslims around the world.
@H. Ali Yes, and At night Mr. Nawaz walks the streets to make sure none sleeps on empty stomach
@anees zed . This family has made 'gift' and 'graft' synonyms. Just like their 'steel' business is synonymous with 'steal' business.
Farrukh Arshad
I do not think by law the PM has done something wrong (though we know morally it sure is wrong if it is a lie) as declaring gifts (unless things do not add up by cross examination), but this "Gifts" section is something that can be exploited very easily. I am not a tax expert but In my opinion this gifted clause in this form of FBR is flawed by nature. There should be limits as to what you can declare as gift and if something is beyond that limit, it should be considered as earning. That limit should be moderate and should be calculated using some kind of formula involving percentage of ones income (the monetary value of a gift is different for one who earns 100,000 monthly and one who earns 1000000).
kanwarch
How the tax authorities and election commission never challenged these gifts. This is insane. A family is getting expensive cars and gifts from all over the world and are gifting land and cash to each other and reconciling the accounts and nobody is questioning the source of these gifts. Amazing
Are these gifts on Eid or New years??
khanm
HUM KHURMAYOUN HUM SAWAB... FUNNY MONEY GOING FROM ONE POCKET INTO ANOTHER...The truth is that all men having power ought to be mistrusted. specially in third world countries...folks..If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary. In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.Any way now the question what are we going to do about it...I guess nothing.. and if that is the case why are we wasting the time...
Fawad
@qamar Source of income are the gifts.
Adeel Saleem
I dont understand why do they give each other gifts, it is like returning the favors?
I would like Mian saheb to adopt me so that I too can be gifted something.
@NaveedKhan who left made loop holes in the law?
The problem with our country is that everyone sees the faults in others but never tries to see their own. Honestly, dont we all know of anyone in our families who has bought some land on someone else's name only to avoid tax. Our law has these loop holes and everyone uses them to their benefit. What should be investigated is the source through which the money was obtained.
Most gifted family in the entire world. People are queuing up to give them gifts.
@anees zed That is the question tax authorities need to ask his mother. Unfortunately Nawaz Sharif in his effort to clear his name is dragging his old mother and dead father into this mess. What a son
Rich family expensive gifts.does it explain all?
Madora
Dec 01, 2016 07:05am
Like he gifted ministries to his family members. Wake up Pakistanis

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Control, the upcoming sci-fi explorefest from Remedy Entertainment, releases on August 27th.
Control, the upcoming sci-fi explorefest from Remedy Entertainment, releases on August 27th. I played some of the game last week at the Game Developers Conference and will have impressions and details later this week.


text:
package dillon.gameAPI.gui;

import java.awt.Color;
import java.awt.Font;
import java.awt.FontMetrics;
import java.awt.Graphics2D;
import java.awt.event.KeyEvent;

import dillon.gameAPI.core.Core;
import dillon.gameAPI.security.SecurityKey;

/**
 * This is a replacement for the old gui system's blackout method, using text.
 *
 * @since 1.11
 * @author Dillon - Github dg092099
 *
 */
public class BlackoutText implements GuiComponent {
	@Override
	public int getZIndex() {
		return -1;
	}

	private boolean closable;
	private Color background;
	private Color foreground;
	private String text;
	private Font textFont;
	private int textX, textY;
	private SecurityKey key;

	public BlackoutText(boolean cl, Color back, Color fore, String txt, Font f, SecurityKey k) {
		// Initiates variables.
		if (back == null || fore == null) {
			throw new IllegalArgumentException("The colors must not be null.");
		}
		if (txt == null) {
			throw new IllegalArgumentException("The text must not be null. It can be an empty string.");
		}
		if (f == null) {
			throw new IllegalArgumentException("The font cannot be null.");
		}
		closable = cl;
		key = k;
		background = back;
		foreground = fore;
		text = txt;
		textFont = f;

	}

	@Override
	public void bringToFront() {

	}

	@Override
	public void dropBehind() {

	}

	private boolean rendered = false;

	@Override
	public void render(Graphics2D g) {
		if (!rendered) {
			rendered = true;
			FontMetrics fm = g.getFontMetrics(textFont);
			// Get where to draw text.
			textX = Core.getWidth() / 2 - fm.stringWidth(text) / 2;
			textY = Core.getHeight() / 2 - fm.getHeight() / 2;
		}
		g.setFont(textFont);
		// Create background.
		g.setColor(background);
		g.fillRect(0, 0, Core.getWidth(), Core.getHeight());
		// Draw text
		g.setColor(foreground);
		g.drawString(text, textX, textY);
	}

	@Override
	public void onMouseClickRight(double x, double y) {

	}

	@Override
	public void onMouseClickLeft(double x, double y) {

	}

	@Override
	public void onKeyPress(KeyEvent evt) {
		int keyCode = evt.getKeyCode();
		if (closable) {
			if (keyCode == KeyEvent.VK_ENTER || keyCode == KeyEvent.VK_ESCAPE) {
				GuiSystem.removeGui(this, key);
			}
		}
	}

	@Override
	public void onUpdate() {

	}

	@Override
	public int[] getTopLeftCorner() {
		return new int[] { 0, 0 };
	}

	@Override
	public int[] getSize() {
		return new int[] { Core.getWidth(), Core.getHeight() };
	}

	@Override
	public void slide(int x, int y) {

	}

	@Override
	public String getDebug() {
		return toString();
	}

	@Override
	public String toString() {
		String str = "";
		str += "\n\ndillon.gameAPI.gui.BlackoutText Code: " + hashCode() + "\n";
		str += String.format("%-10s %-5s\n", "Key" + "Value");
		str += String.format("%-10s %-5s\n", "---" + "-----");
		str += String.format("$-10s %-5s\n", "Closable", closable ? "Yes" : "No");
		str += String.format("%-10s %-10s\n", "Background color",
				background.getRed() + ", " + background.getGreen() + ", " + background.getBlue());
		str += String.format("%-10s %-10s\n", "Foreground color",
				foreground.getRed() + ", " + foreground.getGreen() + ", " + foreground.getBlue());
		str += String.format("%-10s %-5s\n", "Text", text);
		str += String.format("%-10s %-10s\n", "Font", textFont.getFontName() + " size " + textFont.getSize());
		str += String.format("%-10s %-5d\n", "Text X", textX);
		str += String.format("%-10s %-5d\n", "Text Y", textY);
		str += String.format("%-10s %-5s\n", "Rendered", rendered ? "Yes" : "No");
		return str;
	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


When you start looking for private label content (PLR) sources you'll quickly find that the good, the bad, and the ugly definitely exist. Bad PLR is a complete waste of time and money. Even free PLR costs something, because the time you spend trying to make something useful out of it could be spent on other money-making tasks.
Here are some tips for finding the best sources for professional PLR articles.
You get what you pay for. Good PLR articles generally cost about $1 each and special reports and ebooks can start at about $15 and go upwards from there. When comparing sources be sure to understand what you get with each package. Some may be just the special report while others may include more than one report, a sales page, articles, or marketing materials such as autoresponder messages.
Check the quality of the writing. First impressions may be one clue to the quality of the content. If the sales page is poorly written and full of spelling and grammar errors, it's probably a good indication that the content might be too. (And I'm talking text here; site design is just aesthetics.) Many PLR services will offer a free report or an introductory package; use them to evaluate the quality of the writing.
Check the validity of the information. If you are purchasing content that isn't your area of expertise, take the time to research the information in an article or two before you use them. Is the information and advice accurate?
Select a service that limits the number of times they sell each package. By limiting licenses there's less chance your readers will see the same articles over and over again.
When buying a membership, be sure the monthly content pertains to your niche. If you have a food and recipe site and the majority of the articles will be about car repair, acne cures, and solar energy you'll end up with more expensive articles and a hard drive full of article you can't make use of.
Only buy what you can use. I've learned the hard way that no matter how good the deal is, if I don't have an immediate use for the content it often ends up unused and taking up storage space on my hard drive. If you don't have an immediate plan for how you'll use PLR content, don't buy it.
Can you completely modify the content? It's one of the big benefits of using PLR – you can edit it to make it unique and targeted. You don't want to be restricted in how you can modify it.
Like anything else, one of the best ways to find a good resource is to get a recommendation from a friend or other business owner you trust. But if you can't find someone to recommend a resource for you, using these tips will help you make a better choice.
EasyPLR – New PLR articles packs on a variety of topics added regularly. Buy only what you need. Read my review of Easy PLR.
All Private Label Content – A good variety of PLR memberships and PLR article bundles to choose from so you can find content specifically for your niche market. Read my review of All Private Label Content.
Special Report Club – Get a complete package that includes many extras in addition to the main report. Read my Special Report Club review.
DIYplr – Illustrated how-to guides.


text:
Open Letter: We Condemn International Oil Companies in Bangladesh and State Violence against Bangladeshi Activists
On September 2, 2009, the members of a nationwide alliance in Bangladesh—the National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources, Power, and Ports—were brutalized by the state police in Dhaka. More than fifty members were injured. The national committee was conducting a peaceful demonstration and march as part of an announced program to protest the Bangladesh government's offshore gas and oil exploration deals with international oil companies. Such anti-people deals, according to the protesters, would enable those companies to explore, extract, and eventually own the country's gas resources without the people's consent. Indeed, those deals reveal how the ruling classes in Bangladesh operate in close class cahoots with corporations and imperialism.
The immediate reason for the protest in question was the Bangladesh government's recent decision to award gas and oil exploration rights in the Bay of Bengal to international oil companies. The national committee announced the program in protest against the government's decision to award three blocks to two international oil companies—the US-based company called ConocoPhillips and the UK-based company Tullow Oil plc—with a provision allowing them to export up to 80 per cent of gas. The protesters feared such a move would threaten the energy security of Bangladesh, and, by extension, the very sovereignty of the country. In fact, the National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources, Power, and Ports has long argued that the government's drive for plundering its own people's resources comes at a high price, and lacks forethought about how these resources might benefit the people of Bangladesh instead of multinational companies.
As the protesters were marching peacefully in Dhaka, the police charged on them, threw many of them to the ground, while brutally beating them with batons and kicking them with heavy boots. Over fifty protesters were injured, and a number of them even suffered serious injuries. Certain key members of the committee were clearly targeted. Among the seriously injured was the member-secretary of the National Committee—Professor Anu Muhammad. His legs were badly fractured by police batons. Anu Muhammad is not only chair of the Department of Economics at Jahangirnagar University and the leading political economist in Bangladesh—whose work has proven immensely influential among the youth—but he is also internationally known for his committed political activism for democracy and justice, and against capitalism, imperialism, racism, patriarchy, and many other forms and forces of oppression—local and global. We see the brutal attack on Anu Muhammad and his co-activists as an attack on democracy and progressive politics. Others injured included Saiful Haque, the general secretary of Biplobi Communist Party in Bangladesh and Biplob Mondol, the Chhatra Front leader, along with such activists as Mushrefa Mishu, Jannatul Marium Tania, Montu Biswas, Srikant Samaddar, Gazi Shafiullah and Sumi Akhtar.
As teachers, students, writers, artists, and activists—who also consider ourselves citizens of the world believing in peace, justice, and democracy—we declare the following:
a) We condemn the police brutality against the members of the National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources, Power, and Ports in Bangladesh.
b) We condemn the international oil companies involved in exploiting the natural resources of Bangladesh. We think they should back out of any deals they have or wish to have with Bangladesh.
c) We demand that the Bangladesh government ensure the most appropriate and effective medical treatment of all who were wrongfully injured by the police.
d) We demand that the action plan and demands of the National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources, Power, and Ports be taken seriously rather than silenced through any form of brutality.
We express our deep solidarity with the people of Bangladesh who are struggling to protect their own national and natural resources from foreign companies. And we support the Bangladeshi people's right to self-determination under any circumstances.
Concerned Teachers, Students, Writers, Artists, and Activists Around the World:
1. Dr. Azfar Hussain, Convener of the International Campaign against Oil Companies in Bangladesh, and Visiting Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
2. Rumana Hashem, Researcher and Lecturer, University of East London, UK
3. Melissa Hussain, DeVry University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
4. Nurul Kabir, editor, (daily) New Age, Dhaka, Bangladesh
5. Dr. Joel Wendland, Editor, Political Affairs Magazine, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
6. Dr. E. San Juan, Jr., writer and activist, Philippines Cultural Center, Connecticut, USA
7. Dr. Bertell Ollman, Professor, Department of Politics, New York University, USA
8. Dr. Vijay Prasad, the George and Martha Kellner Chair of South Asian History and Director of International Studies at Trinity College, Connecticut, US
9. Dr Gopal Balakrishnan, Associate Professor, History of Consciousness, University of California, Santa Cruz, USA, and member, Editorial Board, New Left Review
10. Dr. Michael Lupro, North Carolina A&T, Greensboro North Carolina, USA
11. Aimee Nolte, Pomona, California, USA
12. Robin Witt, California State University Northridge, Los Angeles, California, USA
13. Faisal Rahman, Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh
14. Matthew Trease, University Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
15. Kenneth Tennyson, Northern Virginia, USA
16. Karin Barbee, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio, USA
17. Dr. Maria J. Estrada, Harold Washington College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
18. Dr. Carmen R. Lugo-Lugo, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
19. Dr. Carlos Adams, Green River Community College, Auburn, Washington, USA
20. Mahbub Sumon, Narayanganj, Dhaka, Bangladesh
21. Nasrin Siraj Annie, MA student, VU, Amsterdam, Netherlands
22. Zahirul Islam Kochi, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
23. Abdullah AL Mehdi , North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
24. Zakir Kibria, Director, BanglaPraxis, Dhaka, Bangladesh
25. Arup Rahee, poet and singer, Dhaka, Bangladesh
26. Nusrat S Chowdhury, Dept. of Anthropology, University of Chicago, Illinois, USA
27. Fatina Sarwar, Lecturer, English Department, Bangladesh University of Business and Technolgy (BUBT), Dhaka, Bangladesh
28. Rehnuma Sazzad, Nottingham Trent University, UK
29. Dr. Matthew Mace Barbee, Defiance College, Defiance, OH, USA
30. Dr. José Anazagasty Rodríguez, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez, Puerto Rico
31. William J. Emerson III, Siena Heights University, Detroit, USA
32. Maheen Sultan, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
33. Anna Keenan, Youth Climate Advocate, Gordon Park, Australia
34. Dipankar Chakrabarti, Editor, Aneek, Kolkata, India
35. Chowdhury Golam Kibria (Jibon), Associate Professor and Ex-Chairman, Department of Business Administration, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
36. Elizabeth Siler, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
37. Dr. Lamia Karim, Associate Professor of Anthropology, University of Oregon-Eugene, USA
38. Renato Redentor Constantino, Manila, Philippines
39. Dr. Meghna Guhathakurta, Research Initiatives, Dhaka, Bangladesh
40. Ratan Bhandari, Water and Energy Users' Federation, Nepal
41. Anuj Sitoula, Himalayan and Peninsular Hydro-Ecological Network, Nepal
42. Rabin Subedi, Nepali Policy Institute, Nepal
43. Rana Raihan, Samhati Publications, Dhaka, Bangladesh
44. Raihan Sharif, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
45. Faruk Wasif, journalist, writer and activist, Dhaka, Bangladesh
46. Hana Shams Ahmed, Journalist and Human Rights Activist Coordinator, CHT Commission, Bangladesh Secretariat, Bangladesh
47. Dr Rahul Mukherjee, Consultant Physician, Milton Keynes, UK
48. Salil Biswas, Retired Lecturer in English/Translator and Writer, Kolkata, India
49. Hasan Mehedi, Environmental and Human Rights Activist, Chief Executive, Humanitywatch, Khulna, Bangladesh
50. Dr. Sezan Mahmud, Associate Professor of Public Health, Florida State University, USA
51. Fardeen Ferdous, Freelance Journalist, Writer and Researcher, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
52. Nikhil Neel, Shah Jalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
53. M Sohieb Murtuza, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
54. Meherun Minu, Lecturer in political science, Jatir Pita Bangabandhu College, Kaliakair, Gazipur, Bangladesh
55. M Yasin Bazli, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
56. Anisur Rahman, scholar and writer, Sweden
57. Tara MacKay, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
58. Izlal Moin Husain, North South University Alumni. Dhaka, Bangladesh
59. Soumitra Chakraborty, Department of Fisheries, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
60. Adrita Mulk, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
61. Khan Asif Imran, Department of Economics, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
62. Nasrin Khandoker, Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
63. Dr. Michele Ren, Assistant Professor of English & Women's Studies, Radford University, Radford, Virginia, USA
64. Santanu Chacraverti, Secretary, Society for Direct Initiative for Social and Health Action, Kolkata, India
65. Dr. Partha Joarder, Scientist, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
66. Moshahida Sultana, Lecturer, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
67. Dr. Susan W. McDowall, Central Community College, Hastings, NE, USA
68. Rabindranath Chakraborty, President, Hindu Muslim Friendship Association, Bangladesh
69. Dr. Jessica Maucione, Assistant Professor of English, Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington, USA
70. Dr. Rosemary Briseno, Lecturer in English, The University of California-Merced, Merced, California, USA
71. Sufia Jamal Khan, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
73. Maksudur Rahman, Dept. of Economics, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
74. Syed Jashim Uddin, Assistant Professor, Dept of English, Premier University, Chittagong, Bangladesh
75. Tarek Chowdhury, Dhaka, Bangladesh
76. Murad Khan, Birmingham, UK
77. Dr. Kelvin Monroe, Assistant Professor of Ethnic & Religious Studies, Metropolitan State University, Twin Cities, Minnesota, USA
78. Imran Saadat, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
79. Rifat Islam Esha, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
80. Nabeel Hassan, Macquarie University Alumni, Sydney, Australia
81. Rifat ara Shova, BUBT, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
82. Parvin Sultana, Melbourne, Australia
83. Shehroon Ifteker, Birkbeck College, University of London, UK
84. Sky Wilson,Washington State University, Vancouver, Washington, USA
85. Dr. Lisa R. Williams, Creswell, Oregon, USA
86. Ayse Asim, Kent, England
87. Sarah Bostock, Harcum College, Bryn Athyn, PA, USA
88. Rafiq Uddin, Dhaka, Bangladesh
89. Md. Manzoorul Kibria, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
90. Abe Tarango, Golden West College, Huntington Beach, California, USA
91. Rubaiyat Aumi, development worker, Dhaka, Bangladesh
92. Abu Saeed Md Galib, South East University, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
93. Dr. Taufiq Rahman, Cambridge University, UK
94. Rahman Siddique, cultural activist, Dhaboman Literary movement, Narayanganj, Bangladesh
95. Saif Ahmed, Ottawa, Canada
96. Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, Dhaka, Bangladesh
97. Musharrat Sharmee Hossain, Department of English, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
98. Sabera Ekram, University of East London, UK
99. Nishat Khan, UK
100. Hasan Tarique Chowdhury, Dhaka, Bangladesh
101. Melissa Baker-Boosamara, Affiliate Professor of Liberal Studies, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA
102. Shantanu Majumder, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Dhaka University, Bangladesh
103. Soma Dey, AIT, Thailand
104. Paul V. Dudman,University of East London, UK
105. Jennifer Kalafut, Co-Director, International Accountability Project
106. Mehedi Hassan, political activist, Dhaka, Bangladesh
107. Callie Palmer, Instructor, Linn Benton Community College, Albany, Oregon, USA
108. Tomas A. Madrigal, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA
109. Saydia Gulrukh, Department of Anthropology, Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh
110. Dr. Tony Zaragoza, Associate Professor of Political Economy, The Evergreen State College, Olympia, Washington, USA
111. Dr. John Streamas, Associate Professor, Department of Comparative Ethnic Studies, Washington State University, Washington, USA
Posted by admin at 2:26 AM


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Introduction On April 18, two journalists arrived near a state-owned ranch in Tana River County in southeast Kenya to investigate residents' claims that local paramilitary police had impounded a large herd of cattle for allegedly trespassing and were demanding bribes...
3. Critical journalists silenced by threats of arrest or violence Harassment of the press from official quarters does not begin or end with the passage of troublesome legislation. Journalists say they are routinely threatened, intimidated, and even attacked, and...
Sidebar: Covering the International Criminal Court By Robert Wanjala When the International Criminal Court (ICC) began its investigations into the 2007-2008 post-election violence that killed over 1,000 people, it had wide public support. Kenyans desperately wanted to see justice for...
Mission Journal: Crimea's journalists in exile as Russia muzzles free press
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How patriotism with a Cold War tinge is damaging Crimea's press
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Gambia should disclose whereabouts of radio journalist
July 9, 2015 2:01 PM ET
Abuja, Nigeria, July 9, 2015--The Committee to Protect Journalists calls on Gambian authorities to disclose the whereabouts, health, and legal status of Alagie Abdoulie Ceesay, a radio journalist who was last seen on July 2 with individuals reported to...
Myanmar detains, obstructs journalists from reporting
July 8, 2015 8:30 AM ET
On May 31, 2015, Myanmar's navy questioned and briefly detained several journalists. The journalists, who were in small boats, were attempting to reach a remote island off Myanmar's southwestern coast where a ship carrying hundreds of migrants had drifted, according...
In censored Saudi Arabia, Raif Badawi filled a journalistic void
On the third anniversary of the arrest of liberal activist and writer Raif Badawi in Saudi Arabia, his supporters all over the world are working hard to prevent what may lay ahead: the completion of a 10-year, thousand-lash sentence....
Exiled: When the most dangerous place for journalists is your country
Syrian journalists have been harassed or imprisoned by the Assad regime as well as threatened or attacked by militant groups such as Islamic State. Ultimately, dozens have been forced to flee into exile. These are four of their stories....
Baku 2015: Press freedom, Azerbaijan, and the European Games
Tomorrow 50 countries are due to take part in the opening ceremony of the inaugural European Games in Baku, but Azerbaijan's most prominent journalist, Khadija Ismayilova, will not be at the celebrations. The award-winning investigative reporter has been in...


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Garver produced final design and construction plans in just one month for a replacement of the U.S. 51 bridge over the Coldwater River in Mississippi. The project recently earned the Grand Award at the American Council of Engineering Companies of Mississippi Engineering Excellence Awards.
Garve'rs work in providing the Arkansas International Airport with a LED high-intensity runway lighting system earned an Engineering Excellence Award from ACEC-Arkansas.
A Garver-led report provides the Oklahoma Military Department with necessary information to upgrade its Fire and Emergency Services capabilities. The project was recently honored by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Oklahoma.
The Nashville International Airport was presented with the Jay Hollingsworth Speas Airport Award, for its geothermal cooling system project involving a pipeline corridor designed by Garver.
The Mississippi Engineering Society and the Wichita Society of Professional Engineers each recently recognized Garver for its hiring and professional development practices.
Each year, Garver honors the employees who best display a passion for their profession and a dedication to displaying the company values with a Spirit of Garver Award. This year, three were honored during Garver Summit 2018 in Huntsville, Alabama.
More than 300 employees from Garver's 26 offices gathered for company meetings, awards, and team-building activities in the celebration of Garver's accomplishments over the last year.


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RNC Silent about Israel Trip Sponsored by American Family Association
Ryan Lenz
The Republican National Committee is heading to the Holy Land, compliments of a hate group that has denigrated Muslims, African Americans, the LGBT community and even Jews.
But the RNC isn't answering any questions about its American Family Association-funded trip, scheduled to begin tomorrow. Email and telephone messages left Friday with Kirsten Kukowski, the RNC's national press secretary, were not returned. Presumably the trip is still on despite a week of bad press for the AFA.
Last week, the SPLC wrote to all 168 members of the RNC urging them not to accompany the AFA on the trip because of the group's long track record of bigotry and hate. The SPLC has named the AFA as a hate group due to its history of making false, demonizing statements about the LGBT community.
Longtime AFA Bryan Fischer, for example, has claimed that "Homosexuality gave us Adolph Hitler … the Nazi war machine and six million dead Jews." He has also characterized African Americans as "people who rut like rabbits."
The AFA responded by seeking to distance itself from Fischer and redefine its character by removing him from his duties as its chief spokesman and director of issues analysis. Fischer, however, will remain as a talk show host on the AFA's radio network – a bullpen of bigoted pundits known for incendiary statements.
In a letter this week to the Southern Poverty Law Center, AFA general counsel Patrick J. Vaughn wrote, "AFA has concluded that it must renounce some statements made by American Family Radio talk-show host Bryan Fischer. In its 37-year history, AFA has never held these views and wishes to clarify that it still rejects such sentiments."
SPLC President Richard Cohen responded in a letter, "[T]he AFA's 11th-hour disavowal of Mr. Fischer appears to serve only one purpose: to give the AFA a degree of plausible deniability while it continues to spew hateful rhetoric. It's a shell game and a transparent one at that."
While the AFA has taken a job title away from Fischer, he isn't the only mouthpiece spewing hate on its network. AFA officials, including its president, Tim Wildmon, and founder, Don Wildmon, also have made similarly bigoted statements. "Hollywood and the theater world is heavily influenced by Jewish people," Don Wildmon once said.
The RNC has predictably chosen to remain nearly silent on these developments, and at least presumably, some of its members are still planning to make the trip to Israel. Kukowski told MSNBC's Rachel Maddow that they were "glad AFA has severed ties with him."
But just like the AFA trying to weather the storm by "rejecting" Fischer's statements while keeping him on the payroll, the RNC not talking about the trip won't make the questions about its relationship with a known hate group go away.
Comments, suggestions or tips? Send them to HWeditor@splcenter.org and follow us on Twitter @Hatewatch.
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Oh where, oh where is the cow on the farm?
Oh where, or where can she be?
Oh where, oh where is the horse on the farm?
Oh where, oh where are the hens on the farm?
Oh where, or where can they be?
Oh where, oh where are the cats on the farm?
Oh where, oh where are the pigs on the farm?


With I-270 as a backdrop, Gov. Larry Hogan announced three major road projects for the Maryland suburban region Thursday, targeting new lanes for I-270, the Capital Beltway and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.
"Added all together, these projects will substantially and dramatically improve our state highway system and traffic throughout the region," Hogan said. He estimated the projects would cost more than $9 billion.
The I-270 and beltway projects would be financed through public-private partnership, or P3s, to reduce the effect on taxpayers, Hogan said. They would be the largest P3 projects in North America.
In a P3, the state partners with a private industry partner that would design, construct, operate and maintain a project. The Purple Line is being constructed with a P3.
I-270 would get four new lanes from Frederick to the beltway. The beltway in Maryland would get four new lanes from the American Legion Bridge to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.
As P-3s, motorists could expect tolls on the new lanes, Hogan said. Maryland transportation Secretary Pete Rahn said the P-3 projects would have the same number of existing general purpose lanes would remain toll free.
No official at the announcement would estimate the amount of the tolls. "That's not a question we're able to answer at this point," said Gregory Slater, administrator for the State Highway Administration.
Under Hogan's proposal, Maryland would take over the Baltimore-Washington Parkway — Md. 295 — from the U.S. Department of the Interior. The department has said that to focus on the nation's parks, it wants to sell its roadways, Hogan said.
Once the road is purchased, the Maryland Transportation Authority would take over the parkway, adding tolls for the new lanes, Slater said.
Hogan announced the project on a hillside in Gaithersburg next to the park and ride lot on Quince Orchard Road. Traffic from I-270 thundered by.
State Sen. Richard Madaleno of Kensington, a Democrat who is running for governor, attended the announcement and said Hogan would end up raising the tolls on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the state's other tolled roadways.
The transportation authority manages the state's tolled roadways, bridges and tunnels. The money is pooled, Madaleno said, so all tolls would increase to pay for the projects.
Hogan said he didn't need the Democrat-controlled General Assembly's approval to proceed with the projects. Madaleno said state law required legislator approval before P-3s are awarded.
Madaleno said he didn't oppose the projects, but he questioned Hogan's estimate on costs.
"Widening the beltway, I don't know where you put four more lanes from Silver Spring to Bethesda without an enormous dislocation of homes and parks," Madaleno said.
The state has already announced it will spend $100 million to improve I-270. Slater said this project was planned with the $100 million in mind.


text:
Home » News Room
For Immediate Release: October 19th, 2011
As protest pressure builds, CESR joins letter to US Congress
One month has passed since the Wall Street protesters first descended upon New York's iconic financial hub. And with similar demonstrations continuing in London, Toronto, Spain, Tokyo, Auckland and a plethora of other major cities, it has become clear that citizens' frustration over the conduct of the financial sector shows no sign of abating.
At the heart of their anger lie government policies that, in the face of economic crisis, have prioritized the demands of the financial markets over the wellbeing of ordinary people. Such inequitable and short-sighted decision-making is nowhere more evident than in the United States "Great Regression", where massive bailouts have been handed to reckless and intransigent financial institutions, while the general population is forced to endure soaring unemployment, a pervasive housing crisis, deep cuts in basic social protections and unprecedented levels of inequality.
It was with this stark reality in mind that CESR joined dozens of other civil society organizations in an initiative led by the National Economic and Social Rights Initiative and the US Human Rights Network to demand that the country's political leaders uphold basic human rights and dignity in its budget decisions. A letter delivered to the US Congress when it returned to session on October 3 called for a more equitable and redistributive tax system, eliminating the loopholes exploited by the mega-wealthy and adjusting tax rates in proportion to income and wealth.
Amidst the rhetoric of belt-tightening and necessary sacrifice, it has been all too easy for those in power to ignore more equitable and effective policy alternatives in the face of the crisis. Basic needs and fundamental human rights are put in jeopardy when the demands of an influential elite are placed above all else. And with the devastating social impacts of draconian spending cuts continuing to ramify through US society, the Land of Opportunity's reputation as a champion of democratic values and fair play is being undermined too.
Moreover, the effects of economic policies deployed in the US are felt far beyond the country's borders, and the decisions taken on Capitol Hill serve as a significant precedent for other countries struggling with the financial crises. Given that similar protests were staged in over 900 cities around the world on October 16, it is clear that people everywhere are feeling the squeeze of economic mismanagement. Spain's "15-M" movement, which has served as inspiration for the Wall Street occupation, has been pressuring the Madrid government for over five months now, with no signs of relent. Such determination and perseverance may eventually convince political leaders that the call for justice and human rights cannot be ignored indefinitely.
The letter delivered to Congress can be accessed in pdf format below. CESR's factsheet on the state of ESC rights in the US can meanwhile be downloaded here.
Budgeting and Human Rights Letter October 2011.pdf


We have just launched our very first Spring/Summer collection with a whole new range of Aran styles and colours especially designed for the milder months ahead. The collection, which was photographed on the scenic coastline of Co. Kerry, is compiled of lightweight Aran styles, all crafted in Ireland using 100% Soft Merino Wool.
With seasonal temperatures becoming more and more unpredictable, we recognised the importance of providing cosy knits all year around so expanded our range to include other lightweight styles. We believe that Aran Sweaters are no longer just a Winter wardrobe essential and understand the need for warm garments that can also work well with your Summer staples such as dresses, shorts and t-shirts. However style isn't the only reason for the introduction of this new breed of knits as there are also many other benefits to be reaped from wearing Merino Wool during the warmer Summer months.
Whilst Wool is well documented for keeping the heat in, it has also been proven to help keep the heat out. This collection is made from Merino Wool which is an active fibre that acts as a temperature moderator, helping you stay cool in the Summer by working with the body's natural temperature. In contrast to synthetic fibres, Merino Wool can also absorb large quantities of moisture vapour, keeping it away from the body and resulting in less sweat and dampness on your skin - good news for those of you that cherish those spontaneous Summer strolls along the beach!
One of Merino's biggest benefits is of course its softness, a quality which unlike other Wools, it owes to its exceptionally fine fibres. Often described as 'soft to touch', it is by far one of the most comfortable and natural choices to have against your skin. Furthermore, it absorbs odors better than cotton and other synthetic fibres so is a great material to wear for outdoor activities like hiking or hill-climbing this Spring/Summer.
We hope you've learnt something new and are now feeling inspired to snuggle up to Wool this Summer.


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This means that you have collected 10 total, but you have spent or given away 5 of them, so you currently have 5.
This means that you have collected 10 total, but you have spent or given away 6 of them, so you currently have 4.
The CP Curr/Accum field in the Score displays how many Character Points (CP) you have currently and how many you have earned total over time (respectively).


The Cobblers have lost games by bigger margins over the past 18 months but it's possible they have not lost one in such embarrassingly inept circumstances as this frankly terrible 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened, crisis-hit Port Vale.
For 44 minutes, it was all going so well. The Cobblers had not been devastating but they were in control and in command, leading through Sam Hoskins' early opener and a man up thanks to Leon Legge's cynical pull back on Andy Williams.
They looked certain to capture three points and collect a fifth win in seven games, keeping alive faint play-off dreams in the process and maintaining a positive vibe as the season approaches its conclusion.
But then it all unravelled in spectacular fashion. What followed in the subsequent 46 minutes was a stark reminder of the work manager Keith Curle must still do. He's made progress, no doubt, but not nearly enough to satisfy supporters in the long-term.
Clueless and static in possession and shapeless out of it, Town were run ragged by 10-man Port Vale. This is a team that quickly runs out of ideas when the onus is on them to attack and take games to the opposition. If you were watching from afar, you'd have thought Vale had the extra man such was their superiority in the second-half.
Northampton's recent eight-game unbeaten run was all well and good but it gave a false perception of how good this current squad is and the amount of changes that are required in the summer. On the evidence of Saturday, a mass clear-out and major overhaul is desperately needed.
As for dissecting this game, where do you start? Factoring in circumstances, opposition and the notion players are playing for their futures, it was as bad as it gets. The scoreline will not grab headlines but there's a case to be made this was Town's worst, most incompetent defeat of the season.
They began brightly enough but Sam Hoskins' fifth-minute opener was not built on in the way it should have been. While the better side, Northampton stuttered and stumbled their way through the opening half, creating only one real moment of note when Jack Bridge started and ended their best move, only to slash wide.
Legge's red card – a simple decision for referee Neil Hair – should have encouraged the home side further but it had the opposite effect. It lifted the visitors and Cobblers, suddenly with more time and space on the ball, had no idea how to react. They panicked.
With the first-half almost up, Marvin Sordell lost possession on halfway, Vale broke and David Worrall was allowed to race between David Buchanan and Aaron Pierre before slotting past David Cornell.
Still, Northampton had an extra man and could regroup at half-time so surely everything would be fine? Far from it. A disastrous second-half laid bare their shortcomings. So poor were the Cobblers, they never remotely threatened a second goal, either before or after Tom Pope's spot-kick with 15 minutes to go. For Vale, a vital win. For Town, plenty of food for thought.
The key to playing against 10 men is keeping possession, remaining patient and dragging opposing players out of position by passing and moving. The Cobblers did none of that. The passing was either overly cautious or inexcusably wayward, making life extremely comfortable for the 10-man visitors.
The fact that visiting goalkeeper Scott Brown did not have a save to make, either before or after half-time, told the story. Bridge slashed wide and Pierre scuffed a close-range effort but, other than Sam Hoskins' early goal, Vale's defence enjoyed a relatively straightforward afternoon.
The problem of creativity and ingenuity in the final third is not a new one. It was an issue when Matt Crooks and Kevin van Veen were at the club and their exits have only exacerbated it. Unless Bridge conjures up something all by himself or an opponent makes an error, Town are far too reliant on set-pieces.
This is a team that quickly runs out of ideas when the onus is on them to attack and take games to the opposition. If you were watching from afar, you'd have thought Vale had the extra man such was their superiority in the second-half.
Curle's post-match interview was one of a manager who has reached the end of his tether with this group of players. He has largely remained measured, patient and protective in the media but Saturday's performance and result was the end of the line. It was simply indefensible.
There were no lighthearted remarks or attempts at humour. He never once tried to put a positive spin on it. That would have been an impossible task in any case. An overhaul has always seemed likely in the summer and Curle's words on Saturday only made that more inevitable.
While he deserves credit for steadying the ship and steering Cobblers into mid-table, the next challenge will be to lead a promotion challenge. Even accounting for the expected overhaul in the summer, Saturday's dismal defeat suggested they are a long, long way short.