They don't have to be php, I was just assuming that would be easiest to embed.

I'd like to keep the random text and drop down menu at the top of each page so the user can select another article if desired.

I don't mind the whole page refreshing, as long as it accomplishes the goal, but if it can be done without reloading the whole page I think it would be a better interface for the customer.

Basically I thought it would be easier to put the articles in different php files (or text files) rather than having to create a separate EZ pages.

It sounds like the EZ pages may be the only way to go.