One of the things I discovered was that John C. Fremont had been governor of Arizona as well as a governor of California. Editors like short articles about how you solved a particular problem. Your solution to an everyday irritation can be valuable to others as well as your bank account. Interview your friends and find out about their hobbies and interests. That's a good place to find idea starters.
Seasonal ideas can be fun.
Friends stopping by are likely to see my desk and wall space festooned with red construction paper hearts and flowers decked out for Valentine's Day in the middle of September. I like to write six months ahead of the season and must be coerced into the mood. Writing six months ahead of the season gives you time to write, re-write and submit. Editors love this kind of thing - especially for fillers. I Hate About My Body.