auditioned for the British version of the televised singing show, "The X Factor," and during the competition it was suggested the five become a boy band. The new group ended up finishing third, but Cowell (who was a judge and produced the TV show) signed them, and since, the band has turned into an estimated $100 million empire based on two albums and carefully tousled hair.

ARTICLE PHOTO GALLERY

Before the show, products such as One Direction fragrance, Claire's accessories, an upcoming concert film, and action figures shared space with a public service announcement on anti-bullying and an opening set by Australian pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer. The 5SOS warm-up set was largely uneventful except for the lead guitarist's Sex Pistols shirt, a cover of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream,"August 27, 2010

Barton: GOP plans tougher oversight of Obama (UPDATED)

US Reps. Joe Barton and Kay Granger were in Fort Worth Friday morning for a rally supporting Boeing’s bid to win an Air Force contract to build aerial refueling tankers.

The event was held at Parker Aerospace’s Fort Worth facility in Granger’s district. The company would supply some of the parts for the aircraft if Boeing wins the bid.

The two Republican lawmakers gave brief speeches. Barton, who’s district is based in Arlington, said he was impressed by Boeing’s bid but was staying neutral on the issue because he's "not an expert on military acquisition.” Granger is also staying neutral on the bid.*

Afterward, I asked Barton and Granger about a story today from Politico that Republicans are planning multiple committee investigations