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• UNICEF FieldNotes - Clay's visit Mexico was a huge success, and Claymates responded with $110,000 for UNICEF's efforts in Mexico -

  Congratulations to everyone who participated in UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken's holiday challenge--once again you have amazed us and surpassed our goal of raising $100,000 to help the children of Mexico. Thank you so much for sharing the true spirit of the holiday season with children who need it the most.
  
  We're putting together Clay's Mexico Holiday Photo Album now -- in the meantime, here is one photograph we wanted to share with you to start off the New Year -- faces of two of the people your generous gifts are going to help.
  

• Winston Salem Journal - American Idol returns January 15 -

  American Idol (8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, on Fox, with additional episodes on Wednesdays): The biggest show on Fox returns for a new season. Will there be a new North Carolinian following in the footsteps of Clay Aiken, Fantasia Barrino, Chris Daughtry and the rest? Tune in and see.

• Clayigraphy - the "Claymate robber" strikes Michigan and elicits hysterical response from fans -

  My first reaction was OMG... No!... Clay's fans don't need any further press. And I stuck to my guns all night! Even posted that I thought Clay would be absolutely mortified if he were to see this (which he will) even though I continued laughing quietly to myself at all of the responses this story elicited.
  
  auntdementia:
  OMG!! BWAH!!
  
  Ya think she was trying to raise money for the "Dinner with Clay" auction?
  
  Good Baby Brush:
  The article next to the video says "Midland police said they know what motivated the woman to rob three banks, but won’t comment."
  Wouldn't it be a hoot if... nah *g*

• Carolina On My Mind - 2007 a big year for Clay nation and for Carolina Clay -

  Only a few hours old, 2008 blew into Carolina with blustery winter conditions for the mountains and bone-chilling, gusty winds for the middle of the state.
  
  As I watched reports of the atypical southern weather, my thoughts naturally transitioned from the continuous parade of wind chill factors to favorite soup recipes. In a previous blog, I shared some of these cold weather dishes; but, typically, the versions printed below have endured many alterations.
  
  While excitedly anticipating Clay's Jan. 18 Broadway opening as Sir Robin in "Spamalot," I, like most CA fans, have enjoyed this week's steady stream of 2007 replays by montage creators and graphic artists. The photo interlude below also reflects attention to the annual rewind.