Allison Iraheta Won a Telemundo Singing Competition

Allison Iraheta may be young, but the 17-year-old is practically a pro when it comes to TV singing competitions.

In 2006, the Californian won the Telemundo reality show, 'Quinceañera: Mama Quiero Ser Artista' ('Sweet 15: Mom, I Want to Be an Artist'). The prize was $50,000 and a recording contract, which make us wonder if Allison has an unfair advantage.

Of course, contestants who formerly appeared on reality shows or had recording contracts are nothing new. Season 7's Carly Smithson had once released a record for a major label, while fellow finalist Syesha Mercado competed on ABC's failed 'The One: Making a Music Star.' Even runner-up David Archuleta came to the show with a 'Star Search 2' win on his resume.

Should singers with previous record contracts be allowed on 'American Idol'?

Americans struggle through a day in the recession

It's morning in America — but it's not a good morning.

The nation is suffering in a deep recession, there's no denying that: Unemployment is at its highest level in more than 25 years. The auto industry is on the skids. Foreclosure and for-sale signs are as common in some communities as street lights.

And more bleak days seem to be ahead.

Many private economists expect the monthly jobless rate will climb to 10 percent by the end of the year — it already has surpassed that level in states such as Michigan, South Carolina and Rhode Island.

The bankruptcy rate is rising, too. Nearly 1.2 million debtors filed for bankruptcy in a year period ending in April, according to federal court records collected and analyzed by The Associated Press. In March, nearly 131,000 sought bankruptcy protection — an increase of 46 percent over a year earlier.

Those are the numbers. Then there are the people.  How is the recession effecting you?