I'm also still writing for AC using some tactics from the thead, but only as a secondary source of writing cash, through 'stacking.' For example, write several related 500 wd articles for Textbroker (say you're a Level 4 writer), or in a freelancing job that corresponds to a minisite or ebook you're going to write. Next, manually re-write each for AC. When AC approves the articles, do not publish it yet on AC. Instead, publish them to your WSO, minisite or blog, get them indexed, then publish the AC approved articles.
In this fashion you make $7 for the TB original, plus at least $2 and change for the rewrite, which you will be using on your Adsense/CB/Amazon/CPA or whatever site. One point of labor to write them, 3-4 profit centers using them. At worst, this tactic acts as a hedge against not making money from your end project. If your site earns nothing, at least you made money writing the content for it.