Since the launch of the new chewstick.org almost a month ago, we’ve gotten an incredible response from people of all sorts and from all over the world – letting us know that they are really vibing the new website. We couldn’t be more proud and happy that it’s proving itself a resource worthy of 4 minutes and 41 seconds of your casual internet surfing. (We know this because of Google analytics ; ) That said, we are working hard to keep it updated with informative, relevant and entertaining content that will enrich your life (and the world), but we really want your input and insight. Our hopes for chewstick.org is for it to become a community soap-box for sharing stories from real people about things that effect them, inspire them or even enrage them. We are trying to stay away from “party-politics” as this can get too combative, polarizing and down-right bloody. But everything else is pretty much fair game. So what kind of story makes a good article? Who knows! Maybe it’s something that irks you, an interesting debate you constantly have with your bredrins or a tale of something that changed your life. Share it! And if you’re not sure or want some help, let us know. We are developing a network of editors to help emerging writers develop their voice as well as to ensure that the overall content maintains a high-quality standard. This is an open-call to join the roster of contributors to help make chewstick.org the storyteller of the people – join us!

Here are some guidelines for creating/sharing your story with Chewstick:
1. Write from your perspective, speak from the heart.
2. Truth is better than fiction.
3. Remember: beginning, middle and end.
4. Let someone you know read it for feedback before we get it.
5. Articles will be edited and revisions may be requested.
6. Avoid personal attacks and keep in mind that our comments are open for anyone to reply.
7. Think of an accompanying picture concept.
8. If you’re using outside information or sources, be sure to include where you got them from.
9. Leave the audience wanting to contribute to the discussion.
10. Keep it short and sweet.

The technical side:
1. For a funky unique avatar image sign-up to gravatar
2. Simple submission: submit your article by email to submissions@chewstick.org
3. A little more effort/time: request a chewstick.org contributor account at submissions@chewstick.org