Content of the Day

2007-05-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Content Producer Tsu Dho Nimh received over 200K page in less than a week from his tutorial about Ubuntu, the new community developed linux-based operating system.

"After hearing Dell's recent announcement that it will sell computers with pre-installed Ubuntu Linux," Tsu writes, "I decided to see if Ubuntu was user-friendly. "

Tired of having your computer infested with spyware and viruses? Read about how Tsu put the new OS to the test in Migrating from Windows to Ubuntu Linux.

Congratulations Tsu! Your content has already earned you $300, thanks to AC's Performance Bonus program.

2007-05-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

US Army Soldier and Content Producer Soldier6575 shares his experience coming home from Iraq in Am I a Coward for Having Fear?

He writes:

"There were times in Iraq when I was scared, I won't lie to you. I literally had various occasions where I thought "I may not make it home". Do not let anyone tell you that in a combat situation they had "no fear", they are lying. Fear should not be confused with being a coward. We all have fears in one form or another. You must not let your fears overtake you to the point where you no longer become and effective soldier."

Read more here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/239709/am_i_a_coward_for_having_fear.html

2007-05-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

Published editor, writer and acrylic painter Pam Gaulin created an interesting discussion with Are Ethics Missing in Citizen Journalism, including a nod from the Social Media Podcast & Blog.

Pam's article was published on the heels of the widespread media criticism of the Virginia Tech shootings. She how she addresses the serious topic of writing about tragedy here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/221308/are_ethics_missing_in_citizen_journalism.html

2007-05-04T13:42:00.000-07:00

Interesting content on timely topics has always been an AC strongsuit, and coverage of this weekend's events is no exception.

Content Producer Lisa Andrews stirs up controversy - and some good food for thought - in Cinqo de Mayo - Is it About Cerveza or Civil Rights, while Content Producer Wade Peery champions Derby Day in Kentucky Derby- A Sporting Event Unlike Any Other.

Look at a calendar and submit your story today - publishing it around a month before the holiday or event date is a good rule of thumb.

2007-05-01T13:46:00.000-07:00

Content Producer Sophia S. writes: "All across America today, May 1st, immigration rights advocates will be organizing to demand that illegal immigrants be granted a path to citizenship and that raids that tear apart families..."

Sophia brings us to the heart of this issue through interviews with family and friends in Why We March for Immigrant Rights. Read it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/230553/why_we_march_for_immigration_rights.html

2007-04-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

Last month, the recall of over 90 pet food products set the Internet abuzz. Searches for "pet food recall" are still strong, and Yahoo continues to highlight recall searches in their daily Buzz log.

Around the time the recall hit, AC saw a direct growth in traffic to homemade dog and cat food content. CP Kassidy Emerson is just one of the Content Producers who brought in views with her April 2006 article Homemade Dog Food Recipes.

2007-04-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Content Producer John Kim was just one of the many Virginia Tech students who published first-hand accounts of the tragic campus shooting earlier in the week.

Read his story here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/217415/ac_exclusive_a_students_firsthand_account.html

2007-04-12T14:35:00.000-07:00

Content Producer Futura Condensed generated a buzz this morning with Is Digg a Boys-Only Club in Disguise?

Have a personal experience with digg? Join the discussion here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/212377/is_digg_a_boysonly_club_in_disguise.html

2007-04-12T14:34:00.001-07:00

Before Sanjaya, American Idol had its fair share of season favorites.

Content Producer Cindy Wright has already interviewed Idol stars Taylor Hicks, Katharine McPhee and Kellie Pickler, and added country swooner Bucky to her portfolio last week.

Read Cindy Wright's Exclusive Interview with Bucky Covington here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/204058/cindy_wrights_exclusive_ac_interview.html

2007-04-03T13:15:00.000-07:00

CBS invited nine journalists to tour their LA set last week, and Content Producer Kobina Wright was one of them.

Read about Kobina's experience - On Set with CBS's Ghost Whisperer here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/196118/on_set_with_cbss_ghost_whisperer_.html

2007-04-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

NYU student Mike Devlin's AC content debut caught the community's attention. How could something titled Sharing a Name with an Alleged Pedophile not catch your attention?

Mike writes: "Remember the scene in Office Space where Michael Bolton laments his unfortunate name-twin? I used to laugh at that scene. But I never realized the pain that comes with losing sovereignty over your name's reputation to a balding soft-rocker or a chubby pedophile."

Read more here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/197418/sharing_a_name_with_an_infamous_alleged.html

2007-03-29T12:23:00.001-07:00

The NCAA brought in $6 billion deals for the television rights to March Madness. Given the revenue generating power of many college sports, many have questioned as to why this pay doesn't trickle down to the players.

CP Lee Andrew Henderson tackles the topic in Should College Athletes be Paid?

What's your take? Weigh in on the issue here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/184556/should_college_athletes_be_paid.html

2007-03-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

Content Producers are constantly helping AC grow through their submissions, referrals, and community involvement.

CP theBarefoot added the latest and greatest contribution with How to Use the Associated Content Publishing Template. Read it and email it to your friends here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/184272/how_to_use_the_associated_content_publishing.html

See all of AC's Content of the Day at http://acdailycontent.blogspot.com

2007-03-23T10:38:00.001-07:00

Convicted murdered Roy Pippin is scheduled to be executed on March 29th in Texas.

Content Producer and prison activist/advocate Doreen Hawk interviewed Pippin by mail and explores issues of fair treatment, prison conditions and more in Interview with a Condemned Man. Read it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/176719/interview_with_a_condemned_man.html

2007-03-21T11:19:00.001-07:00

Rebecca has been producing content since May 2005, after hearing about AC from her sister.

She was one of the more than 120 Content Producers who were awarded AC's first Performance Bonus.

Learn more about Rebecca and her content in "I Received More Than $200 From the AC Performance Bonus".

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/184933/ac_content_producer_rebecca_i_received.html

2007-03-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

University of Maine student Cory Ritchford spends a lot of time MMORPGing. For those of you not in the know, that stands for "massively multiplayer online role-playing game."

One of the most popular MMORPGs is World of Warcraft. Look no further than Cory's video tutorial How to Start a Character on World of Warcraft for a sneak peek into this fictional and highly popular virtual environment.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/5592/how_to_start_a_character_on_world_of.html

2007-03-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Content Producer Tammy Gowans spent 8 years in the Marine Corps. She writes:

In my eight years as a fellow woman Marine I had seen and heard just about everything regarding the bad actions of certain women. In recruit training not enough information was put out there about the challenges women will face both physically and morally.

She sets the record straight for future soldiers in How to Gain and Keep Respect As a Woman in the Marine Corps. Read it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/153261/how_to_gain_and_keep_respect_as_a_woman.html

2007-03-13T16:47:00.001-07:00

Professional voice-over actress and technical writer Joniv is also skilled in video production.

When she heard the news about AC's new Performance Bonus program over the weekend, she thought: great content topic!

Joniv quickly put the gears in motion and created The Associated Content Performance Bonus Beta video promo.

View Joniv's video, and learn how AC is sending extra cash to Content Producers here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/7455/the_associated_content_performance.html

See all of AC's Content of the Day at http://acdailycontent.blogspot.com

2007-03-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Oscar nod, the pseudo presidential race announcement - you'd have to be living in a cave to not have seen Al Gore on the news.

Content Producer Eric Fleming exposes something you may not know about the former V.P. Read it here in An Inconvenient Truth About Al Gore's Electrical Bill.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/162671/the_inconvenient_truth_about_al_gores.html

2007-03-08T13:13:00.000-08:00

Ever since Britney took a razor to her head, the internet has been abuzz with people wanting to know more about the ex-pop queen's latest move.

Content Producer Candice Cain takes her own spin on Spears' drama in her song Look I Just Shaved My Head.

Listen to it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/audio/373/look_i_just_shaved_my_head.html

2007-03-07T12:28:00.001-08:00

If you're like most people, chances are you have faced the laundry day conundrum of the missing sock.

Content Producer Lisa Stephenson takes a whimsical look at this ubiquitous happening in In Search of the Sock Monster.

Read it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/159860/in_search_of_the_sock_monster.html

2007-03-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

When confronted with a panhandler on a street corner, how do you react?

New Content Producer Kevin Barbieux first became homeless in 1982, and has been in and out of homelessness ever since.

Read How Best to Help the Homeless for Kevin's take on how you can help change a life.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/149746/how_best_to_help_the_homeless.html

2007-03-02T12:35:00.000-08:00

Interested in the Art of Mackin'? Want to know how to Play or Be Played?

Read AC's new and exclusive interview by Content Producer J. Castor: Tariq Nasheed, Best-Selling Author and Expert on Relationships, Talks to Associated Content.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/160336/tariq_nasheed_bestselling_author_and.html

2007-03-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the new look of AC's video channel?

While you're there, check out the new video What is Associated Content?

Send it toyour friends, embed it on your blog or website, and spread the word about Associated Content.

Watch it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/6040/what_is_associated_content.html

2007-02-27T13:13:00.001-08:00

If you are an Idol fan, you'll probably remember the trio of cowboys in the early rounds of season five.

This season, one of the cowboys advanced to the Top 40. When the judges voted him off, they kicked off the last remaining country singer.

Content Producer Caitlin Brozna talks to this cowboy about his Idol experiences and his plans for revenge in Matt Buckstein: The Lost American Idol.

Read the interview, hear him sing and watch him perform here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/158041/matt_buckstein_the_lost_american_idol.html

2007-02-26T11:24:00.000-08:00

Content Producer Willie Jefferson is a veteran gamer and has long aspired to see what goes on behind-the-scenes in the video game industry.

He got his big break last summer with Atari's "Test Drive Unlimited." In A Gamer's Dream Come True: Becoming a Character in a Video Game he writes:

"My likeness, aka Willie "Mad Skillz" Jefferson, is now a member of a racing club on the PS2 and PSP versions of the game. So, if you get an invite to a motor club and race against guys like Ominous Gamer, Big Blazer, FordGTMan or S31ender, you'll know the racers are actually people like me."

Read Willie's full story here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/153305/a_gamers_dream_come_true_becoming_a.html

2007-02-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

Rap star Robin Hood and his Merry Men are back on the music scene with a new name.

AC arranged for Content Producer Saba, Ink to cover the group and their upcoming album release.

Read the exclusive interview Slim Thug & the Boss Hogg Outlawz Speak with Associated Content here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/158208/slim_thug_the_boss_hogg_outlawz_speak.html

2007-02-21T10:36:00.000-08:00

Content Producer and aspiring writer lucky19 loves to watch the hit tv show Lost. He reached out to ABC and landed a meeting with Other character Juliet.

Read his exclusive AC interview Elizabeth Mitchell: Lost with the Others here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/144134/elizabeth_mitchell_lost_with_the_others.html

2007-02-20T13:53:00.000-08:00

Jack Oceano has used his skills and knowledge as an attorney, former Hawaii resident and freelance writer to produce engaging content for AC since September 2005.

He shares some secrets to his readership success in How to Develop a Following on Associated Content.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/146112/how_to_develop_a_following_on_associated.html

2007-02-19T13:21:00.000-08:00

Fashionistas and media reporters across the country are getting ready for Hollywood's big event this Sunday.

Want to know more about what goes in to selecting Oscar nominees and winners? Look no further than CP Will Wright for the answers.

Will is a film industry veteran and shares the secrets behind the process in How Academy Awards Are Determined.

See it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/127453/how_academy_awards_are_determined.html

2007-02-16T10:29:00.000-08:00

Content Producer Phil Dotree takes on the founder of one of the web's most popular community websites in Associated Content's Exclusive Interview with Drew Curtis, Founder of Fark.com.

Drew talks about the site's beginnings, his most memorable Farkisms and more here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/142976/associated_contents_exclusive_inverview.html

2007-02-14T12:50:00.001-08:00

Last week Content Producer Alicia Michelle Jett was chosen as the winner of AC's Valentine's Day Challenge.

Single? Married? Dating? Doesn't matter. Anyone can enjoy Alicia's article titled Worst Valentine's Day Date.

Read it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/116678/worst_valentines_day_date_ever.html

2007-02-12T10:35:00.001-08:00

AC sent New York-based Content Producer Leslie Richlin to cover Gen Art's kick-off event for New York Fashion Week.

Check out Leslie's event review Gen Art:"The New Garde" here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/141896/fashion_week_2007_gen_art_the_new_garde.html

2007-02-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

Associated Content is home to a variety of tech-related tutorials - a growing number of them videos.

Ken Zuki is just one of the AC Content Producers who is building AC's video How-To offerings.

Want to know more about Adobe's HTML editing software? Look not further than Ken's How To Get Started in Golive screencasts. View it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/3870/get_started_in_golive_how_to_create.html

2007-02-07T15:23:00.001-08:00

In honor of National Heart Month, AC turns the spotlight on Content Producer Jean Riva.

Jean writes from Michigan, where she takes care of her husband and serves as a board member for a stroke support website.

See Jean's latest inspiration - How My Husband's Stroke Changed My Life - here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/135289/how_my_husbands_stroke_changed_my_life.html

2007-02-06T15:30:00.001-08:00

CP Lisa Stephenson writes from Deland, Florida and lived through last week's deadly storms.

She shares her account in Experiencing Central Florida's Storms.

View Lisa's story here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/139702/living_through_central_floridas_storms.html

2007-02-05T14:51:00.001-08:00

Today's scuttlebutt is more about the commercials than yesterday's actual game.

Thanks to a partnership with ifilms, Content Producers from across the country reviewed the ads and published their thoughts on AC. From Amateur Super Bowl Commercials Prove Most Popular to Nationwide's Ad Stars K-Fed: Good Choice? Read all of the reviews in our content showcase: Super Bowl Ads Past and Present.

View them here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/926/super_bowl_ads_past_and_present.html

2007-02-02T15:32:00.000-08:00

One of the highest honors of the 2006 People's Media Awards was bestowed to CP Timothy Sexton.

In Content Producer of the Year Acceptance Speech, Tim writes:

...without Associated Content I could not now be realizing my dream of actually making a living as a freelance writer. The use of AC as a live portfolio has resulted in my being approached with offers of work from faceless individuals to famous corporations. None of that could have happened without Associated Content.

Read more of Tim's speech here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/138039/content_producer_of_the_year_acceptance.html

2007-01-31T13:56:00.001-08:00

Have you heard? Associated Content announced the winners of the 2006 People's Media Awards today. Read them here.

A total of 17 honors were bestowed. One of the top honors went to Content Producer Barry Freiman for his article Getting HIV Isn't a Death Sentence.

Barry publicly accepts the 2006 Editorial Choice Award here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/137770/editors_pick_for_top_content_of_2006.html

2007-01-30T15:15:00.000-08:00

Content Producer Jay L. covers a bizarre new trend in A New Rural Craze: Wal-Mart Dating.

He writes: "It's the new watering hole for the 21st century. Who wants to go to the diner for a root-beer float when it's "Always Low Prices" at Wal-Mart?"

Read more:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/127482/a_new_rural_craze_walmart_dating_a.html

2007-01-29T15:27:00.000-08:00

CP Matt Nimerosky designs minaiture golf courses for a living (how cool!) and is a self-proclaimed college football fanatic.

He weighs in on this Sunday's big game in Super Bowl XLI: Who Do I Root For?

Read Matt's article and join the discussion here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/134250/super_bowl_xli_who_do_i_root_for.html

2007-01-26T14:35:00.000-08:00

Are you an unpublished writer who has dreamed of writing a book, but worry you can't compete in the cutthroat publishing industry? Content Producer Tara Koellhoffer brings good news. As a children's book editor for more than ten years, she has helped many get published.

Tara offers her insider advice in 10 Tips from a Children's Book Editor: Break Into Print With YA Nonfiction.

View it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/116904/10_tips_from_a_childrens_book_editor.html

2007-01-25T15:14:00.000-08:00

Does your town have a football club for five year olds?

While more and more parents are quick to enter their prodigies into organized sports teams, most experts agree that it's better to wait. Trainer and Coach Brian McCormick discusses current sports education research and offers parents valuable information in Developing Your Son or Daughter into an Athletic Superstar.

View it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/75936/developing_your_son_or_daughter_i

2007-01-24T13:30:00.001-08:00

NM-based Tess Fleming has battled both cancer and domestic violence. She shares her painful story in Broken Smile.

Tess writes: "I share my humiliating and sometimes horrific story with you because my story is not uncommon....One out of every two women will experience domestic abuse at least once in the course of their marriage."

Read her account here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/118584/broken_smile_domestic_violence.html?page=2

2007-01-23T14:46:00.001-08:00

Through the efforts of AC, Content Producer Cindy Wright landed her second interview with an American Idol contestant.

Last fall, Cindy interviewed Idol winner Taylor Hicks. This time around, she talks with the season 5 runner-up in Katharine McPhee Speaks with Associated Content.

View their conversation here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/126674/american_idol_katherine_mcphee.html

2007-01-22T15:49:00.000-08:00

For almost a year, Content Producer Thomas McCabe has used his culinary background to craft popular articles on cooking techniques and in-depth East Coast restaurant reviews.

This content is turning him into a local celebrity.

When Thomas recently walked into a local pizza joint, he was met with warm greetings from the owner and a free meal. The owner had read Thomas' first AC Content - The Best Pizza Restaurant in West Harftord and wanted to thank him for all the buzz it created.

Thomas' review is framed and sits prominently next to the counter at South Whitney Pizza. Read it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/22909/the_best_pizza_restaurant_in_the_west.html

2007-01-19T14:59:00.000-08:00

In Gaffes and Obsessions in American Cable News, Content Producer A.J. King questions: Do we have politically motivated gremlins working behind the scenes of our "trusted" news sources?

Read it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/116209/gaffes_and_obsessions_in_american_cable.html

2007-01-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Content Producer "theBarefoot" shares his secrets to viewership in The 7 Deadly Sins of Writing for the Web. 7 Quick Reasons Why No One Read Your Last Article.

In his usual humorous tone, "theBarefoot" tackles the basics, such as title and abstract, as well as more...personal qualities. Read more: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/121115/the_7_deadly_sins_of_writing_for_the.html

2007-01-17T15:12:00.000-08:00

At three, Content Producer George Kouri was diagnosed with Dubowitz Congenital Muscular Dystrophy. George shares his story in What Life is like with a Severe Disability.

He writes: "Still with all of the problems I had I never really felt different and I guess I owe a lot to my family and friends for that."

Read more: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/107894/what_life_is_like_with_a_severe_disability.html

2007-01-16T16:28:00.000-08:00

During the World Cup last summer, Content Producer Timothy Sexton published the timely Why Americans Hate Soccer, but Not Golf, Bowling or Nascar. Thanks to AC's wide distribution, many people saw Tim’s article, including conservative talk-show host Al Rantel.

Last night, Rantel invited Timothy to be an on-air guest to discuss David Beckham's US move and it's predicted effect on US soccer.

Way to go, Tim!

Read more: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/124469/associated_content_article_nets_cp.html

2007-01-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

CPs:

The balance between POPULAR content and QUALITY content is something we debate every day at AC headquarters. It is a slippery slope, for sure.

No matter the topic, AC Content Producers push themselves to deliver text and videos that bring them page views and massive exposure - that's popularity. In the next, they struggle to produce content that that is of superior quality. Those who can produce submissions that are popular and high quality have really solved the puzzle. These folks really work hard to achieve that balance. Sometimes, it seems as if CPs have only one or the other motive in mind when they submit. For other CPs, we find that an attention to quality comes naturally and goes without saying.

If we look web wide, we find two illustrative extremes. The content categories that attract the most page views are humor and porn. Conversely, it seems that b2b and academic research are of the highest quality.

The producers of both types are likely proud, but the mindsets of the produces are wildly different. Don't you think?

With that mind, I suggest the following exercise: The next time that you attempt to conceive a video or article for your portfolio on AC, please attempt to submit two - produce one that that is solely intended to attract page views and another that holds quality paramount - no matter what topic you have in mind. I think this will help folks understand the balance and will push them to look at their content from another perspective.

-Luke

2007-01-15T20:10:00.000-08:00

Last week, Content Producer Daria Fennell netted an exclusive phone interview with one of her heroes.

Daria shares her interview in "American Idol" Judge Randy Jackson Speaks with Associated Content.

Read more: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/120585/american_idol_judge_randy_jackson_speak.html

2007-01-11T15:43:00.000-08:00

It was a battle between Colorado and New York, and Denver-based AC couldn't be happier that the Mile High City won the duel.

Content Producer Sam Dewitt broke the news on AC early this morning: Denver to Host 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Sam writes: "According to the Denver convention website, Boston saw an economic benefit of $163.2 Million when it hosted the 2004 convention. It is estimated that Denver would reap $150-200 Million in economic benefits."

Read more: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/122259/denver_to_host_2008_democratic_national.html

2007-01-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

CP Victor Sanders started his career in military intelligence in 1996 and draws on this experience in A U.S. Counterintelligence Agent Reports: Why and How We Are Lied to About Iraq.

Victor writes: "Today's Generals hear the positive and will go to great lengths to measure it. Whatever may seem as a failure...is categorized as momentary challenges."

Read more: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/56157/a_us_counterintelligence_agent_reports.html

2007-01-08T16:18:00.000-08:00

CP Emily Price is in Vegas covering the Consumer Electronics Show, the world's largest tradeshow for consumer technology. Check out Emily's first report, titled CES: The International Consumer Electronics Show Hosts Celebrity Electronics and People.

She writes, "Previously products unveiled at CES include the VCR, CD Player, Camcorder, Microsoft Xbox, and Plasma TV. Each year makes very big advancements in the world of consumer electronics, and brings journalists and exhibitors from around the world."

Read more here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/118463/ces_the_international_consumer_electronics.html

2007-01-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

CP Jeffrey Gorman read Confessions of a Stay-at-Home Mom and chose to share his personal experience as a work-at-home father in Confessions of a Stay-At-Home Daddy.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/105994/confessions_of_a_stayathome_daddy.html

2007-01-04T14:30:00.000-08:00

By now, we all know that Time magazine named "you" as the person of the year. Content Producer Laurie Boris shares her reaction to the news and graciously accepts the Time award in An Open Letter to Time Magazine.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/112847/an_open_letter_to_time_magazine.html

2007-01-03T15:12:00.000-08:00

CP Dianna Zaragosa read fellow CP Kathy Reed's Leaving the Mormon Church and decided to publish her own version of the truth.

Dianna has been a member of the LDS chuch for 33 years and explains - and defends - her religion in Leaving (and Returning to) the Mormon Church.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/108231/leaving_and_returning_to_the_mormon.html

2007-01-02T16:27:00.000-08:00

New Content Producer Steve Hicks has been a working musician for over twenty years and since 9/11, he's also been a Christian.

He challenges the quality and direction of the secular music industry in Why is Christian Music Inferior?

Do you think the next Jimi Hendrix will emerge from the Christian rock scene? Join the AC discussion.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/112881/why_is_christian_music_inferior.html

2006-12-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

Studies show that a little over 60% of the people who make New Year's resolutions are still committed to their goals in March.

We sure hope that Content Producer Mary Ward holds up to her lofty AC objectives for 2007. Mary sets ten goals for becoming a better Content Producer and AC community member in My Top Ten AC New Year's Resolutions.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/104497/my_top_ten_ac_new_years_resolutions.html

2006-12-27T15:39:00.000-08:00

Chances are high that you received some rather...uhm...interesting gifts this holiday season.

If you're eyeing a present you're just dying to get rid of, look no further than CP Tori's tips on How to "Regift" Unwanted Presents With Class.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/49493/how_to_regift_unwanted_presents_with.html

2006-12-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

As the People Media's Company, AC encourages all to "Share What You Know." For some, that means becoming vulnerable and sharing a dark past so that other's might learn from your experiences.

Content Producer Jeanne Sparks-Carreker did just that. She opens her soul and brings us into her journey as a former imprisoned Meth and Oxycontin user in A Day in the Life of a Methamphetamine Addict.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/91768/a_day_in_the_life_of_a_methamphetamine.html

2006-12-20T19:05:00.000-08:00

If you haven't entered one of AC's weekly Read & Win contests, now is the perfect time.

This week, AC is upping the ante and giving the winner a Sony PS3 Entertainment System.

Give the Ultimate Read and Win: Win a PS3 from Associated Content a shot!

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/107463/ultimate_read_and_win_win_a_ps3_from.html

2006-12-18T15:33:00.000-08:00

When flying, are you a chronic call button ringer? Do you let your kids run wild on the plane? Do you stroll to the restroom in only your socks or, worse, bare foot?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s time for an airplane etiquette refresher. Content Producer Savvy Stewardess offers all the advice you need in How to Annoy the Hell Out of a Flight Attendant: Tips From a Stewardess.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/98925/how_to_annoy_the_hell_out_of_a_flight.html

2006-12-15T08:12:00.000-08:00

What's more predictable than Lindsay Lohan making the headlines again for partying too much? Finding a Starbucks on every major street corner in America.

While many complain that the coffee giant is making every town in this country (and someday the world) look identical, Content Producer Bryan Alaspa is appreciative.

Read about why he likes the idea of having the same cup of joe in the US, London or even Outer Mongolia in The Starbuck-izing of America & the Benefits of Homogenization.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/99005/the_starbuckizing_of_america.html

2006-12-14T20:12:00.000-08:00

Don't believe everything you hear, especially when it's bad news about foods you love.

Content Producer Ayanna Guyhto enlightens us of the "delicious truths" regarding coffee, alcohol, chocolate and other favorites in Five Foods that Society Says are Bad, Just to Spoil Our Fun.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/99059/five_foods_that_society_says_are_bad.html

2006-12-12T15:46:00.000-08:00

What would you do if you found $100,000? How would you spend the money?

A filmmaker recently documented how a homeless man reacted to finding $100,000 in a garbage can. Read about how he spent the money and other details in A Homeless Man Blows $100,000 of Free Money As Seen on Oprah.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/95216/a_homeless_man_blows_100000_of_free.html

2006-12-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Fox let down many expectant readers (and pleased many more) by canceling a book contract with OJ Simpson for If I Did It.

Content Producer Timothy Sexton has topped that read with Exclusive Interview with Pres. Bush: "If I Had Lied About Iraq, Here's How I Would Have Done It."

Even though the piece is fictitious, you might enjoy reading the president's hypothetical answers to questions that many citizens have.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/99019/exclusive_interview_with_pres_bush.html

What was your favorite content of the year? Publish your picks today.

2006-12-07T13:56:00.000-08:00

This week, AC gave Content Producer Cindy Wright the opportunity to interview American Idol Taylor Hicks. Cindy has been writing great articles about the Idol all year and has been connecting this content to Hicks fans across the web.

She shares the conversation in Taylor Hicks: An Exclusive Interview with Associated Content.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/97521/taylor_hicks_an_exclusive_interview.html

2006-12-06T15:53:00.000-08:00

AC recently announced the People's Media Awards, a celebration of the top content and Content Producers of 2006.

Content Producer Pam Gaulin follows many of AC's works, and shares her personal Best of AC in Top 10 Associated Content Articles of 2006.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/95404/top_10_associated_content_articles.html What was your favorite content of the year? Publish your picks today.

2006-12-05T20:43:00.000-08:00

Since the Democrats won control of the House and Senate last month, many are wondering: what is the fate of Iraq?

Associated Content is home to many diverse thinkers who have weighed in on the issue.

Content Producer Greg Reeson takes on Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) in Rangel Wants You for the US Army .

For a different take, check out Content Producer Robert Switzer's spin in The Democrats Have Overwhelmingly Failed to Speak the Truth on Iraq.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/87936/the_democrats_have_overwhelmingly_failed.html

2006-12-04T15:47:00.000-08:00

In the upcoming weeks, many of us will engage in a fun holiday tradition: the White Elephant Party, aka Yankee Swap.

Whether you're looking to win the crowd and bring the ultimate white elephant gift, or just want to show up with something interesting, check out Lee Andrew's White Elephant Gift Ideas.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/90119/white_elephant_gift_ideas.html

2006-12-01T14:41:00.000-08:00

Today marks World AIDS Day, dedicated to bringing awareness to the global AIDS/HIV pandemic. An ex-porn star from New York City thinks she has at least one solution to the prevention of this disease.

Content Producer J. Strong reports on her safe-sex program in STFree: Jumping in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/40537/stfree_jumping_in_the_fight_against.html

2006-11-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

True Life, I'm a Cheater?

Content is a place to share your personal experiences and opinions - even if they go against the grain. Content Producer Quiet Desperation read an article on adultery and decide to share his reasons for being unfaithful in A Response From a Cheating Spouse to "I Don't Understand Adultery."

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/92603/a_response_from_a_cheating_spouse_to.html

2006-11-29T13:35:00.000-08:00

O. Chip Robinson's husband re-enlisted in the National Guard and has been part of Operation Iraqi Freedom since last December.

Her support of her husband Tom - and of our country- is documented in Fearless Superhero Swoops in to Help Save Iraq.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/89152/fearless_superhero_swoops_in_to_help.html

2006-11-28T15:27:00.000-08:00

Often, you just have to look at a content's trail of comments to see if it's any good.
Vail, Colorado-based Allen Smith never fails to serve up a good laugh - and a string of positive comments - and his new Expelled from Match.com is no exception.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/88335/expelled_from_matchcom.html

2006-11-21T14:36:00.000-08:00

We all get them - those sometimes humorous but mostly annoying email forwards. Content Producer Brian Joura recently came across a group email that pokes fun at the child-rearing abilities of fathers, and decided to use it as fodder for AC.

Brian, a stay at home dad, points out the fallacies to this popular email in The Next Survivor Series: Can Men Survive on an Island for Six Weeks with Three Kids?

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/85246/the_next_survivor_series_can_men_survive.html

2006-11-20T16:05:00.000-08:00

Not sure what you're going to serve - or bring - to the table this Thursday? Needing recipes for your vegetarian guests?

Look no further than AC's collection of quick, easy and creative Thanksgiving Menu Ideas.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/875/thanksgiving_recipes.html

2006-11-17T15:11:00.000-08:00

Is AC addicting? Content Producer Amy Francisco thinks so, and reveals her top ten secrets in Confessions of an AC Content Producer.

Read the comments, and you'll see that Amy isn't the only AC addict.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/79496/confessions_of_an_ac_content_producer.html

2006-11-15T14:08:00.000-08:00

Late last week, Wired's Gear Factor praised Content Producers Gary B.'s How to Deal with Obnoxious Bluetooth Users. The blog recognizes the article for having "a raw, unedited quality to it that preserves the author's vicious hatred of these devices."

See for yourself and have some laughs on AC.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/80186/how_to_deal_with_obnoxious_bluetooth.html

2006-11-14T14:32:00.000-08:00

Are the wheels falling off the pink Cadillac?

Content Producer Lazy Gardens was recently "accosted" by a MaryKay saleswoman at a local Sears store, and decided to learn more about this "collection of over-the-hill prom queens [who] got together and formed a business."

She uncovers the charged world of "Kaybots" versus former, disillusioned saleswomen in Mary Kay Consultants: Predators in Pink?

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/80569/mary_kay_consultants_predators_in_pink.html

2006-11-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

Last week, a new article caught the eye of "The King of All Media," and minutes later Content Producer Phil Dotree's Howard Stern's Sirius Radio Show: Worth the Money? landed on the Stern home page.

While Dotree didn't purchase Sirius for the show initially, he has evolved into an avid Howard Stern Show fan and likens his daily listening to "hanging out with friends." View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/81692/howard_sterns_sirius_radio_show_worth.html

Disagree with Dotree? Publish your opinion on www.associatedcontent.com today!

2006-11-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

When Content Producer Michelle L. Devon heard her son – just entering junior high – might get spanked at school, she decided to actively investigate the school’s corporal punishment policy. She conducted interviews with students and researched the policy of the school district.

To find out what Michelle learned and hear her views on “swatting,” read Corporal Punishment in School: To Spank or Not to Spank, That Is the Question.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/78215/corporal_punishment_in_school.html

2006-11-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

Gallaudet, the only university for the deaf, made headlines recently as students, faculty, staff and others protested the appointment of Dr. Jane K. Fernandes (JFK). While the news was abundant, Content Producer Znuage worries the media did not accurately portray the situation.

She first covered the Gallaudet scene in The Truth About the Gallaudet University Protest and President Jane K. Fernandes, and recently followed up on the campus controversy in History of the Gallaudet Protest and Brief Thoughts About the Future.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/82275/history_of_the_gallaudet_protest_and.html

2006-11-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was a big day for Democrats, gaining the majority in the House and possibly the Senate. Many have attributed their sweeping wins to growing discontent over the war in Iraq. The first news out of the White House this morning seemed to support that fact with the resignation of Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.

Why did he choose to leave office the day after the mid-term elections? Timothy Sexton offers his opinion in Donald “Cut and Run” Rumsfailed Resigns: A Chickenhawk to the End.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/84357/donald_cut_and_run_rumsfailed_resigns.html

2006-11-07T15:44:00.000-08:00

With the help of AC, Content Producer April Gilford recently met the original Bo Duke when he visited her Alabama town.

Read her interview with the Dukes of Hazard actor and learn about his latest big- screen performance in John Schneider in "Collier & Co." - Finally A True Must-See Family Movie.

Schneider shares: "J.R. Collier...is really Bo at 46, making his way the only way he knows how."

View it here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/82156/john_schneider_in_collier_co.html

2006-11-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

In A Majority Vote? Content Producer Agaric urges readers to view politics - and tomorrow's midterm elections - less as "a sudden death elimination contest" and more like "the highest place for enlightened debate in the United States."

Fellow CP Paul Bright says of Agaric's article: "The more I read on AC, the less I think of those major news broadcasters that fill time by arguing over meaningless numbers, half-truths, and outright lies." CP Deuce says: "Give this man a Nobel Prize!"

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/83216/the_majority_vote.html

2006-11-03T15:29:00.000-08:00

If you produce content for AC, you'll be interested in Amy Brantley's recent submission: Get a Better Offer from Associated Content. Amy's ten tips address topic choice, writing style and process, as well as other important considerations. AC staffers couldn't have said it better!

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/78949/get_a_better_offer_from_associated.html

2006-11-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

Eight states have anti-gay marriage amendments on their mid-term ballots.

Content Producers from both sides of the fence have voiced their opinion on this hot issue, and we have collected them in Gay Marriage in America.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/755/gay_marriage_in_america.html

2006-11-01T15:14:00.000-08:00

The recent controversy surrounding Madonna's adoption of a Malawi boy is timely, as November is National Adoption Awareness Month.

While created to increase awareness of adoption-related topics in general, the focus is on the adoption of children currently in foster care.

For information, check out some of AC's foster care and adoption experts: Liz Copeland, Lawrence Adams, Kori Rodley Irons and Melody Jones, or peruse our collection of adoption information.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/754/adoption_awareness.html

2006-10-31T19:13:00.000-08:00

If you're cringing at the masses of trick-or-treaters roaming the streets this evening, then maybe you'll identify with Content Producer Bryan Alaspa's recent publication.

Check out his article From the Costumes to the Candy, I Never Quite Got the Whole Thing.

Want more? Learn how to put a religious spin on this Pagan tradition by reading dreahwrites' It is Halloween: What Is A Christian To Do?

And to everyone who loves this day, Happy Halloween!

2006-10-30T16:02:00.000-08:00

Paula Neal Mooney has been dominating our new AC Mover's & Shakers list by writing well-researched, well-written articles and promoting her content after it's been published.

Paula shares the secrets to her online success in Increase Pageviews on Associated Content Using These Tips.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/77249/increase_pageviews_on_associated_content.html

Earn your AC Bonus Bucks. Apply these tips today!

2006-10-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

Content Producer David Batterson has been publishing videos since May, including product reviews, movie trailers, and original music videos. He recently added a creative AC Commercial Contest entry to his growing video portfolio.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/886/ac_commercial_contest.html

Add your commercial to our contest today! If you have a digital camera, chances are you have the tools to create one. New to video production? Check out Tips for Your Web Video.

2006-10-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than greeting trick-or-treaters with a fun jack-o-lantern, and many people are celebrating the season with pumpkin-carving parties. But with Halloween almost a week away, will your work-of-art still be around?

It just might, if you heed the advice of Content Producer Scott Kessman. Check out his four great tips in How to Preserve a Carved Pumpkin.

View it here: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/64208/how_to_preserve_a_carved_pumpkin.html

Now, if someone could just tell me how to get rid of the squirrels...

2006-10-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

This is the perfect time of year for horror movies, and we have the perfect complement to Halloween-inspired entertainment.

Content Producer Suzanne Donahue landed an exclusive interview with Dante Tomaselli, a world-reknown horror screenwriter, director and composer.

Dante speaks about his artistic influences, greatest filmmaking moments and more in It's Time to Talk Terror: Interview with Dante Tomaselli.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/75476/blog_spotlight_horror_movie_director.html

2006-10-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

By now, you've certainly heard of Sudoku, aka "the Rubik's cube of the 21st century." But do you know what it is?

Content Producer Shawn Grover guides us through the basics in his video tutorial How to Play the Popular Puzzle Game Sudoku.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/822/how_to_play_the_popular_puzzle_game.html

2006-10-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

If you're like most people, chances are you have an ill-fitting pair of shoes in your closet. They fit when you tried them on (you swear), but now all they're good for is collecting dust on your shoe rack.

Despair no more. Content Producer William Eberhardt has over thirty years experience in the shoe repair business, and shares his wisdom in How to Stretch New Shoes: Tips From a Veteran Shoe Repair Technician.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/72285/how_to_stretch_new_shoes_tips_from.html

2006-10-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Associated Content publishes a daily news podcast? First thing each weeday, Enigma Radio Network, winners of the 2005 People's Choice Podcasting Award for World News, submits a Top World News From the Daily Dig clip.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/audio/205/the_daily_dig_101806.html

2006-10-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks to AC, Content Producer A. Bertocci got a sneak-peek at a new The Learning Channel (TLC) show. He was sent a DVD of the series three weeks before its October 22nd premier, and reviews the show in TLC's The Monastery: A Look Into the Cloisters.

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/71645/tlcs_the_monastery_a_look_into_the.html

2006-10-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

In late September, AC's Stephen Sullivan received Wall Street Journal mention for his article on the Vintage Base Ball Federation. New Content Producer Gary O'Maxfield disagrees with Sullivan's article and sets the record straight in Historically Accurate Base Ball?

Vintage Base Ball attempts to replicate the 19th century version of the sport. According to both Content Producers, neither of the two organizing leagues play historically accurate baseball. It is also clear that neither lack devoted players and advocates. To quote O'Maxfield: "When passion runs deep, truth becomes disposable."

View it here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/71552/historically_accurate_base_ball.html