Popcycleman

Clay Aiken-Bridge Over Troubled Water

2011-04-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken preforming Bridge Over Troubled Water on AI Season Two

Clay Aiken - Someone Else's Star

2011-03-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken preforming "Someone Else's Star on AI Season Two

Clay Aiken Fan Fest and National Inclusion Project benefit scheduled for May 21 and 22 in York

2011-01-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

York, PA - The Clay Fan Fest and National Inclusion Project benefit is scheduled for May 21 and 22 at the Yorktowne Hotel, 48 E. Market St., York.

Last year, the event raised $3,300. The goal this year is $5000 for the National Inclusion Project, which helps bridge the gap between young people with disabilities and the world around them. "American Idol" contestant Clay Aiken supports NIP.

The fan fest and benefit are open to the public. Registration is from 10 a.m. to noon May 21 the Yorktowne's lobby. A tour of Historic York will be available.

A marketplace, featuring Aiken items, crafts and other vendors as well as a café serving refreshments will be open noon to 4 p.m. A cash bar will be open 1 to 3 p.m. and 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.

The fan fest and dinner event will run 6 to 8 p.m. followed by a live auction from 9 to 11 p.m.

A breakfast featuring prizes and raffles will run 8:30 a.m. to noon May 22.

Admission to the marketplace and café is $10 at the door. Admission to the marketplace, café and fan fest dinner is $65. The dinner is limited to 110 people. Admission to all events is $80. This does not include hotel accommodations. Payments for the dinner and all events are due by May 10.

The event is also seeking sponsors, vendors and Aiken memorabilia.

For details, call Diane "Cookie" Knappenberger at 755-0579 or e-mail djknappy.1@juno.com.

For details about the National Inclusion Project, visit www.inclusionproject.org.

Link:

http://www.ydr.com/living/ci_17204613

Happy Birthday Clay!

2010-11-30T11:44:00.001-08:00

He's an American Idol finalist, a father, a former Broadway star and, now, a 32-year old man.

Indeed, Clay Aiken celebrates a birthday today, as Claymates around the world are likely sending their favorite artist a slew of best wishes as we type this. We encourage readers to do the same.

After all, we're talking about one of the most humble, charitable artists around, one who spent the summer promoting the release of his fifth studio album and touring with Ruben Studdard. Aiken seems like a very nice guy and we hope he's having a terrific day!

Birthday Wish

Album Review

2010-05-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a great review of Clay's upcoming album Tried and True from the Examiner.com

Clay Aiken Tried & True (Decca)
This is Clay's fifth studio album, and it features classic songs from '50s and '60s. The American Idol Season 2 runner-up does have a great ear for good melodic songs. To wit, Tried & True cuts like "Can’t Take My Eyes Off You," "Moon River," "Crying," Herman's Hermits' much-under-appreciateed "There's a Kind of Hush," "Suspicious Minds" and "Misty." Aiken also includes two songs he made his signatures on Idol: "Unchained Melody" and "Mack the Knife," which are the perfect vehicles for his soaring vocals. Congrats, Claynation, your idol will be out on the road with Ruben Stoddard this summer.

IN OTHER WORDS: Love his style or not, Clay's a great vocalist, and these terrific selections are right up his alley.

Sneak REVIEWs ANTICIPATION RATING: 8.7/10

Link

All Is Well......

2009-12-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

The voting foolishness is over...Thankfully!

From WRAL:

Clay Aiken withdraws Wake voter registration

Posted: Today at 4:01 a.m.
Updated: 4 minutes ago

RALEIGH, N.C. — Raleigh native and former "American Idol" runner-up Clay Aiken has withdrawn his voter registration in Wake County, following a challenge to whether the singer is eligible to vote there.

Aiken sent a letter to the Wake County Board of Elections, which scheduled a meeting Wednesday to examine a complaint from Wake Republican Party Chairman Claude Pope.

Pope filed the complaint last month, after Aiken called candidates for the county school board "selfish idiots." He has said the challenge isn't about Aiken's words but making sure people are lawfully registered.

Aiken was not in attendance at Wednesday's meeting, in which Pope testified that Aiken voted this fall in Raleigh after he bought a house in nearby Chatham County.

The Wake residence, where he was registered to vote, is owned by Aiken's mother, Faye Parker, Pope told the board, and although the Chatham home is owned by a trust, mortgage documents require it to be Aiken's principal residence.

In a blog entry posted Monday on his Web site, Aiken said he remained registered at the "permanent address that I've long used here in Wake County because I consider Raleigh home."

"While I believe my registration is perfectly valid, I've decided to change my registration from Wake County rather than get into a technical dispute," he wrote.

The elections board concluded that Aiken did vote improperly but that he has avoided any future problems by withdrawing his registration.

"Sometimes, people don't understand the law," board chair Sharon Everett said. "There was no intention of law-breaking. I think this should be over and done today".

Link:

http://www.wral.com/news/local/story/6577916/

Sad that Clay had to withdraw his Wake voter registration but he DID
what was BEST for himself as to avoid any future trouble.

Bravo Clay!!
All Is Well now!!

Poll Reminder

2009-10-22T15:19:00.002-07:00

Please keep voting for Clay in this poll, he has dropped some

http://www.tbwe.com/entertainment/celebrities.htm

Thanks!

Help the National Inclusion Project win America's Giving Challenge

2009-10-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

Help the National Inclusion Project win America's Giving Challenge!

The National Inclusion Project has posted on Facebook about their participation in America's Giving Challenge. Donate now and help them win $50,000! You do not have to be a member of Facebook to donate.

Our cause is in America's Giving Challenge—Let's win $50,000!
Hi everyone,

The National Inclusion Project just entered in America's Giving Challenge, which gives us a chance to win $50,000! To win, between now and November 7th we have to get the most donations to our cause (every person can donate once per day between 3pm and 2:59pm the next day and have it count as a unique donation). We can also win daily awards of $1,000 and $500 if we can get the most people to donate in any 24-hour period. The great thing about this Challenge is that it doesn't matter how much you give, but instead how much you do to encourage friends and family to get involved in our cause. We all need to come together and start promoting the cause if we want to win.

Each of us has tons of friends on Facebook who we can ask to donate to our cause. But let's think big too—can you put our cause in your email signature, can you throw a party and get people to donate through the cause when they enter, can you organize other people to go out and fundraise from all of their friends? As you reach out to your friends be sure to tell them why this cause matters to you. The possibilities are endless so let's talk about what we can do to win on the Wall of the cause or by replying to this bulletin.

I think we can do it! But it's going to take all of us. Check out the Giving Challenge (www.causes.com), then visit our cause to see how we're doing so far and get involved.

Let's win $50,000 for our cause!

National Inclusion Project

2009-08-05T13:15:00.001-07:00

My Congratulations to Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel!! Today, the following press announcement was posted on the Official Fan Club!

Bubel/Aiken becomes National Inclusion Project

We are so proud to launch the National Inclusion Project. As our foundation grows, so does its impact. In order to better reach the ever growing goals we have for this foundation, we felt that a new name would better suit our position as a national leader on inclusion as well as recognize the Foundation’s start and the efforts of its faithful supporters.

The National Inclusion Project is poised to continue to make an impact with thousands of children nationwide as well as raise the national consciousness about the need for and benefits of inclusion. We are excited beyond measure to see Clay’s original “project” become one that so many people have invested time, energy, and dollars in to see doors opened for children who may have never gotten the opportunity to participate in life the way their peers do. The National Inclusion Project is moving forward hand-in-hand with supporters, families, program providers, and other advocates to see the vision of full inclusion nationwide become a reality. Please join us in our push to make a difference in communities all over the country.

For all of us that have watched a dream become a reality, today is real celebration. We all look forward to more and more exciting information from the National Inclusion Project, a real leader for inclusion. For more information, be sure and visit the National Inclusion Project.

Clay also blogged at the OFC. He seems so excited about this project

Broadway To Help Out Man's Best Friends

2009-07-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

Food bank steps in to help feed the best friends in the toughest times
BY Amy Sacks
DAILY NEWS WRITER

Saturday, July 11th 2009, 4:00 AM

Peter Dressel

Rejeania Mollette and her sibling Papillons Midnite and Eve, who will receive pet food from the Food Bank of New York City.

By the time Rejeania Mollette pays the rent on her upper Manhattan apartment, the 42-year-old single mom has barely enough cash to feed her family. The slumping economy is making it even harder to feed her papillons, Midnite and Eve.

"They eat whatever I eat; if I eat vegetables, they eat vegetables. If I eat chips, that's what they eat," said Mollette, who is currently unemployed and will do anything to avoid surrendering her playful companions to a shelter.

"I'll miss a meal before they miss a meal," she said of the 6-year-old sibling pups.

With unemployment at a 26-year high, shelters across the city are reporting that dire financial straits are forcing many people to give up their pets.

Last month, Bideawee received nearly 100 calls from people who said they could no longer afford to keep their pets, said President Nancy Taylor.

And NYC Animal Care & Control's operation director Richard Gentles said its safety net program - which helps care for pets while their owners try to get back on their feet - is also fielding a record number of calls.

Now, thanks to a pilot program launched this week by the city's largest food bank, Mollette and other financially strapped dog owners won't have to choose between feeding themselves and feeding their pets.

"We're recognizing the urgent need for people and pets to remain together during bad economic times," said David Grossnicke, director of food sourcing for the Food Bank for New York City, which has begun distributing dog food to about a dozen pantries in Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan. (Check www.foodbanknyc.org for participating pantries.)

The food - 6,000 pounds of Iams brand dry dog food - was donated by Bideawee and supplied free from Proctor & Gamble Pet Care.

While 6,000 pounds of food sounds like a lot, it's expected to go fast. Grossnicke says in order for the program to continue and expand, the Food Bank must rely on additional donations from other pet food companies and pet supply chains. And cats need food, too.

Success will also depend on demand, which one animal relief group says is growing fast.

"As soon as the word spreads that pet food is available, the pantries report a steady growth in demand for it," said Susan Kaufman, who runs the Manhattan-based Animal Relief Fund, which has been distributing donated pet food to city pantries.

ARF recently teamed up with Long Island Cares, a Hauppauge-based food bank that is distributing donated pet food at 46 of its L.I. pantries.

Meanwhile, New Yorkers can help alleviate the overburdened shelters by adopting.

Today, from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., head over to the Theater District for the 11th annual Broadway Barks, hosted by stars Bernadette Peters and Mary Tyler Moore.

Actors from Broadway shows will share the spotlight with gaggles of adoptable cats and dogs from dozens of city shelters and rescue groups.

New this year is bidding on the "Hounds of Broadway" - a series of stuffed dogs signed by cast members of various shows, including "Spamalot" star Clay Aiken which will be auctioned off to benefit the Picasso Veterinary Fund.

The benefit takes place in Shubert Alley, between 44th and 45th Sts. in Manhattan. Check%A0www.nycanimalalliance.org.

On Sunday from 4 p.m. to sunset, Stray from the Heart will host a fund-raising event at the Boat Basin Café, 79th St. and the Hudson River, featuring wine tasting and raffles. The $20 admission will help finance the group's great dog rescue and adoption program. Dogs are invited, too.Check www.strayfromtheheart.org.

A Stalker's Web of Lies

2009-06-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

From Chexxy Pearls:

Friday, June 05, 2009

Adam Lambert Fans Listen up!

I hate to give a particular stalker any attention but it has to be done:

The SCARY STALKER:

I’m talking about John Paulus. He is a middle aged gay man who started out a fan of Clay Aiken’s. He had Clay’s pictures all over his computer and in Dec of 2005 he bragged to his sister that he was talking to Clay on Yahoo instant messenger. He didn’t realize it at the time but he was talking to one of many impostors who amuse themselves by posing as a celebrity. Its nothing new, others have posed as celebrities countless times on the internet. Many other stars have stalkers too.

The problem this time is that he was convinced it was really Clay. The fake Clay was a young woman who was posing as Clay and entertained herself by sending Clay’s picture to unsuspecting gay men and she flirted with them, sometimes going so far as to pretend to make a date to meet up with her victim and then not showing up.

There are numerous posts made by men over the past 6 years that claim that they had an encounter with Clay online. These men often expressed anger that “that asshole” stood them up and they go on to rant about how Clay isn’t all that and who does he think he is anyway!

John Paulus was one of those men who the Fake Clay made a date to meet up at a hotel. Of course Clay Aiken didn’t show up but this time the guy “screwed with the wrong queen” said Paulus. John attempted to extort big money from Clay Aiken before he went to the National Enquirer but Clay’s lawyers told him he could pound sand.

He sold his story to the National Enquirer and made the rounds of every sleazy tabloid media he could get to listen. He told Howard Stern, Michael Lucas (porn producer), Perez Hilton, Queerty, Feast of Fools, Gawker/DListed and Billy Masters (filth2go) all about a sexual encounter that never happened. His story was rehearsed and coached by Michael Lucas so that it covered every possible form of character assassination that could be crammed into each telling. He went so far as to open several accounts on gay dating sites like manhunt.com posing as Clay Aiken to back up his story.

He wrote a letter to Queerty telling them his real name and location, which they published. He went on the radio with Bob Dumas of G105 in Raleigh to repeat his filthy tale and his sister also had her 15 minutes with Dumbass on G105. The interview with his sister Tina infuriated Paulus because she told things he didn’t want told, including the fact that John was a huge fan (his version of the story was that he didn’t know who Clay was before he “met” Clay online) and that he threatened to kill her for talking to the press. Her version did not match his and he was enraged.

Cue the Clay fans who went after him for telling lies about Clay.

Adam Lambert’s fans are angry because there was an “insider” report that Adam is a bit of a Diva on msnbc.com. They are in a fury over such a sleight to his good character. Imagine how they would react if someone lied about Adam in the same way as was done to Clay!

Adam’s fans need to be aware that this same sociopath that has been using his contacts with the National Enquirer, Star Magazine, msnbc, Globe magazine, Howard Stern, Michael Lucas (porn producer), Perez Hilton, Queerty, Feast of Fools, Gawker/DListed and Billy Masters (filth2go) has been planting gossip with those outlets for over 3 years.

He is responsible for most of the gossip and rumors that have been targeting Clay and his fans for years. He has made it his job to destroy Clay’s life in every way he can. It is all payback because Clay’s fans despise him and don’t mind telling him so and because Clay has denied the tabloid rumors.

Every celebrity has haters, the more fame, the more haters. Its just how it is. Clay’s haters have aligned themselves with Paulus and they work as a team to do as much harm as they can to Clay’s career, his charity and to his good reputation. They often pose as Claymates and post in as crazy and as demeaning a way as they can to give Clay’s fans a bad reputation.

Adam and his fans are in peril. Paulus not only is using Adam’s fans to incite a fan war and to create more hatred for Clay, he is also trying to get Adam’s attention and approval. Paulus owns and operates a number of blogs. The 2 that are of interest right now are clayaiken411 and adamlambert411, both on blogspot.com

Paulus is attempting to play the Adam fans into doing his dirty work. He is the one that sent the Diva rumors to msnbc and pointed his accusations at the Claymates. He is the one that sent the rumor to Gawker/DListed that Clay was not welcome at American Idol. He is the one that sent the rumor that Clay’s charity is dropping him to Feast of Fools. He is the one that sent the rumor that RCA dropped Clay to msnbc. None of these stories or many previous ones, are true, but the above mentioned roster of idiot bloggers and tabloids will publish anything as long as they have a source. The source doesn’t have to be legitimate and the story doesn’t get checked out. All they want is someone they can point at if there is a lawsuit.

Be aware of what is being said and where you read it. Those blogs I listed above are despicable in their practices and if you think this is bad only 2 weeks into Adam’s career, fasten your seatbelts because us Clay fans have been there, done that and got the T-shirt.

Yes I know that Clay didn’t like Adam’s ROF. He probably shouldn’t have said so but he is so much like Adam that it is amazing. They both tend to tell it like they see it but they are both very nice guys who are getting attacked by homophobes and haters from all sides. Clay has been enduring this shit for years. His reputation has been harmed. If John Paulus continues to go after Adam, and if Adam doesn’t give him the attention he wants, Adam and his fans are in for a rough ride.

In March 2007 Paulus confessed that it was a hoax,

then he took back the confession and changed the story. This time he claimed he was raped. It never ends because he is not sane.

Please visit the following blog as well, give it lots of comments explaining all about the stalker's web of lies

Link

Clay Aiken NOT Being Dropped By His Own Charity

2009-06-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

To try to be as clear as could be, to the best of my knowledge the Bubel/Aiken Foundation is not – not – dropping Clay Aiken, that story being slightly more than fabricated, however, the foundation is undergoing an update, a rebranding of sort, and to that point Aiken is attempting to create more attention upon the charity itself, instead of on himself. The story of Aiken being removed from the charity, is an outright falsity,concocted a scary STALKER in an effort to discredit Aiken, while at the same time, perhaps unwittingly, damaging the reputation and role of the Foundation. The charity was founded in 2003 to offer opportunities and support to children living with disabilities, including autism. And as an aside, it seems perfectly cruel to play with the good work this or any charity organization does only in a vain and vague attempt to humiliate someone.

To learn more about this wonderfull charity click here:

http://www.bubelaiken.org

Clay Aiken Responds To The Tabloidish Media's Response To His Comments Re American Idol

2009-05-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Clay posted this blog in response to the controversy his previous
blog stirred up:

Wow! Such influence! ha ha

Who knew I had so much influence and that my words and opinion mattered so much to so many people!?!?! HA HA HA I’ll be the first to admit that my opinion is just that, only my opinion, but for as much as some of the bloggers seem to dislike me and care so little about my thoughts, they sure can waste a lot of their space on what I say! If only many of them took the time to pay attention to important things like the US economy and the welfare of the world’s children. But… nah… I could blog about that type of stuff anytime and most wouldn’t think twice, but let me say something that they can pick and choose quotes and misinterpret me… and it’s showtime! I never assumed my opinion mattered so much! I guess I may have been wrong.

That said, since my previous blog got dissected like a biology lab frog, i suppose I should clarify and even retract some of what I wrote.

I am sure that some were upset by my choice of words describing my opinion of a performance I heard from Adam Lambert. I hope no one actually believed that blood truly poured forth from my ears when I heard him. I obviously meant it as a colorful statement to imply that I did not enjoy what I heard. Any performer hopes that their music will appeal to all people, but no singer realistically expects it to. God knows, I am SURE there are PLENTY of people who can’t stand to hear me sing either. I wouldn’t dream of assuming that, and I am sure that far worse things have been said about my performances than I would even venture to type here. To me, that’s fine. I don’t expect unanimous, nor even majority support for my music. But, my guess is Adam doesn’t either. I would not venture to make judgements on the personality or demeanor of anyone I don’t know, so none of what I said in my previous blog was directed as a “slam” on Adam as a person. At the same time, I wouldn’t dream of slamming him as an entertainer. He does what he does, because he enjoys it, and he obviously has many fans who enjoy it as well. If what i said in my previous blog regarding my impression of a single performance from Adam upset or offended any of his fans, I expect that the mature ones will realize that it was simply a poorly worded metaphor describing my personal tastes. The only person I would really dream of apologizing to is Adam. And the irony is, if he’s smart he couldn’t give a crap what I think of his Ring of Fire performance. As an entertainer, Adam knows that one person’s opinion of one performance really matters a little less than zero, in the grand scheme of things. He could not have gotten on Idol (nor made it as far as he did) without an immense amount of talent. He surely doesn’t need my approval to know he has a gift. At the same time, he realizes that amazing talent doesn’t always equal universal appeal. (I could NEVER have the amount of skill and talent that ballet dancers have! that’s talent! But, I don’t particularly enjoy it!) I am sure that I will have plenty of opportunities in the coming years to hear Adam sing. I imagine he’ll be around for years to come. But in the meantime, I definitely don’t want to stoop to the level of so many negative freaks on the internet… so, I do apologize to Adam for my colorful (and negative) choice of words. I hope he can forgive me. I imagine he doesn’t give a damn! :-) God knows he shouldn’t. :-)

Now, for those of you who are able to comment on this…. lets take bets as to which bits and pieces of this blog will end up mass distributed. Be creative…. they don’t seem to care about punctuation or whether or not they use all of the words in a sentence… so, have fun…. ;-)

I believe everyone in this country should have the right to express
his or her opinions/views/critiques without fear of being lambasted,
trashed or villified by the tabliodish media and all the reprehensible
vile gossip bloggers out there. We ALL should RESPECT one another's
opinions/views/critiques even if one doesn't agree with it.

Brooke Shields situation Update

2009-05-19T14:47:00.000-07:00

Airdate: 5/19/2009

Brooke Shields has moved her 75-year-old mother Teri, who suffers from dementia, to a new nursing home.

She made the move after a freelance reporter for the National Enquirer checked her mom out of a New Jersey assisted living facility and took her to lunch.

Though the police tell INSIDE EDITION they have found no evidence of wrongdoing, the actress, who called the incident "reprehensible and disgusting", is weighing all legal options, according to her lawyer.

Link

I glad Brooke moved her mother to a new facility, hopefully
no more tabloid reporters will be able to bother her again.

Just thought I'd post this update.

Just When I Thought The Rag Mags Couldn't Stoop Any Lower.......

2009-05-17T07:27:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought tabliods couldn't stoop any lower down two
National Enquirer reporters go and commit this reprehensible deed
in order to get a "scandalous story" for their filthy rag:

Brooke Shields: Reporters Took My Mother From Her Nursing Home

May 15, 2009, 10:13 PM EST
Entertainment Tonight
Brooke Shields tells People.com that two tabloid reporters checked her mother out of a nursing home in Old Tappan, New Jersey on Thursday.

Police tell the Web site that 75-year-old Teri Shields, who is afflicted with dementia, was later discovered talking with a reporter in a restaurant located next to the assisted living center.

"She wasn't harmed in any way, shape or form. She was fine," Old Tappan Police Department Capt. Thomas Shine tells People.com. "The officers discussed the circumstances with her. And she literally walked with one of my officers next door to the assisted living center."

Brooke says Old Tappan police told her that her mother had been checked out of the nursing home by two reporters claiming to be Teri's friends. Shine tells the Web site, "It was more along the lines that [Teri] had been allowed to leave, based upon [the nursing home's] protocol or policy."

Booke tells the site that the reporters "then drove my 75-year-old mother around looking for a tabloid story." She continues, "As anyone knows who has a parent who suffers from dementia or Alzheimer's, it is one of the most difficult experiences you can go through as a son or daughter."

"I intend to take every lawful action against all who were involved or who authorized this despicable act," the actress adds. "My mother Teri Shields has been diagnosed with dementia. For her safety, she has temporarily been in a senior living facility, a very difficult decision for me."

An officer from the Old Tappan Police Department tells ET the incident is still under investigation.

My late grandmother(who passed away in Jan 2007) suffered from
Alzheimer's Dementia, we made the difficult decision to put her
in a nursing home after she suffered what we believe was a pre-tuner
(TIA)to a stroke when she fell at home in her bathroom not long after
my grandfather passed away. I find it absolutely reprehensible and
disgusting for anyone to take advantage of/kidnap a poor 75 yr
old woman from a nursing home without authorization who is
suffering from this devastating illness in order to get
"scandalous story". Watching someone you love very dearly slowly
degenerate from this terrible illness is one of the most difficult,
painfull experiences for any family to go through. My thoughts
and prayers are with Brooke and her family.

I miss my both my grandparents, I know they are both in heaven with
the Lord/Jesus and are no longer suffering. I can't wait to
see them again in heaven one day.

I do hope Mrs Shields takes the appropriate lawfull
action against those responsible for this reprehensible,
despicable act.

Link

Clay To Appear at David Foster and Friends

2009-05-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 9, 2009, Clay Aiken will be joining David Foster, Philip Bailey, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti and Charice for David Foster & Friends at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. I Can't wait to Read all the reports&see pictures.

I'm looking forward to seeing Clay on 30 Rock May 14th!

Know it's been a LONG time since I blogged last, I took
a MUCH deserved break but I have been around the boards alot
lately catching up on the latest Clay happenings.

Some SAD news to report my aunts beloved Rat Terrier Lucy died
yesterday afternoon of Kidney failure, we buried her in my aunts
back yard. We'll MISS her! She was a SWEETIE PIE. My aunt
got another dog before Lucy passed away his name is
Winston he's a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel puppy, he's a
CUTIE PIE too.

Clay Aiken Attends Ruben's Play

2009-01-18T10:25:00.000-08:00

Clay Aiken Shows Up To Watch Ruben Studdard Star In 'Ain't Misbehavin'
Posted by: Amanda Bazemore Created: 1/18/2009 11:56:06 AM Updated: 1/18/2009 12:15:09 PM

Greensboro, NC -- Clay Aiken arrived in Greensboro Saturday night to enjoy American Idol Winner Ruben Studdard's performance in Ain't Misbehavin' Saturday night at the coliseum.

Aiken and Studdard hung out back stage after the performance was over.

A public relations manager for the Greensboro Coliseum says Aiken's visit was not a surprise.

Aiken and Studdard were the last remaining finalists on American Idol 2.

WFMY News 2

Link:

Clay Aiken on ET this Thursday

2008-11-03T11:18:00.000-08:00

Be sure to watch Entertaiment Tonight Thursday evening for an
interview with Clay:

According to Rock On TV,

Episode: (#7084) - 2008/11/06
Network: (SYN) Syndicated
Date: Thursday - November 6, 2008
Time: 7/6c PM
Duration: 0:30

About: Jake Gyllenhaal springs into action! Catch advance shots from his video-game-turned gotta-see flick, "Prince of Persia." Clay Aiken comes clean about fame, fatherhood & so much more.

Clay Aiken Preforms at BAF Gala Auction

2008-10-18T19:15:00.000-07:00

Aiken performs at charity gala

Posted: 16 minutes ago

Raleigh, N.C. — Clay Aiken performed in Raleigh Saturday night during a gala held by the Bubel-Aiken Foundation.

The 2008 “Champions of Change” event honored companies and individuals who help promote the foundation’s mission to promote programs which give children with disabilities the opportunity to experience life with their typical peers.

The event was held at the Raleigh Marriott City Center. It included a silent and online auction of Aiken-related items including photos; clothing worn by the “American Idol” runner-up and a bust of the Raleigh native’s head signed by him and Jimmy Kimmel.

Also up for auction was a New York travel package which includes a Tiffany bracelet, tickets to “Spamalot,” which Aiken has been starring in, and dinner with Aiken.

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation grew from the friendship between Aiken, Diane Bubel and Diane’s, then 13-year-old son, Mike, who had been diagnosed with autism, according to the foundation’s Web site. Aiken met the Bubel family while pursuing a career in special education.

Link:

Ask A Star

2008-10-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

From Broadway.com

Ask A Star
Clay Aiken

When Clay Aiken made his Broadway debut last winter as Sir Robin in Spamalot, more than a few eyebrows went up. Could this big-voiced American Idol runner-up deliver a credible stage performance, in a Monty Python musical comedy, no less? Aiken’s exuberant comic turn silenced the doubters and impressed Broadway’s tough critics—and he had such a good time in the process that he’s back for a return engagement on the Great White Way. Through January 4, fans can see Clay and his fellow knights onstage at the Shubert Theatre. In the meantime, the super-popular star has agreed to take questions from Broadway.com readers! Want to get the lowdown on how this North Carolina native transformed himself into a Python-esque hero, complete with a British accent? Do it—ask Clay yourself!

Here a link to the site where you can submit your questions to ask Clay:

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Star

Clay Aiken: The Agony and the Ecstasy

2008-09-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

The following is from the Ideal Idol:

THE AGONY AND THE ECSTASY :
Comments by Mitzi Gill

I seldom read the message boards for lack of time, but recent circumstances
have led me to click on some to examine reactions of other fans to Clay's coming out.Following is a recap of my own thoughts and why I continue to stand behind
him. Over the past five years, I believe Clay has demonstrated consistently who he is regarding his purpose and his drive for the inclusion and well-being of
children worldwide as well as his empathy, faith, gentleness, intelligence, integrity,sense of humor, and multi-talents. All of these traits have
endeared him to me,and none of them have been diminished by his sexual
orientation.

Because of my thirty years in entertainment, I have numerous male friends
who are gay. In learning their stories, there is a common thread.
All of them realized at an early age that they were different, that they
did not know why they were different,and they did not want to be different.
To my knowledge, there is not a consensus of opinion nor any conclusive research relating to why a person becomes gay. Is it genetic? Is it due to circumstances in childhood? Whatever the reason, being gay is not an elective, and it demands
an excruciating process of self-realization and self-acceptance.

It is aprocess that deeply involves family and friends, and there appear to be no easy choices in dealing with this scenario. Most of my friends have opted
to protect their family and their friends as a first priority, thus remaining in discrete relationships.

Clay came from a North Carolina town with a simple and stable lifestyle.
His was to be the road of a special education teacher. He never anticipated
being thrust into the madhouse of the music industry. Just making this transition
alone had to have been an astronomical adjustment. Underlying this was the
agony of recognizing his sexual identity. Already bombarded with horrible press
and ugly comments all over the Internet, it is not surprising he was unable
to publicly acknowledge early on that he is gay He was still sorting it all
out and sheltering family. I cannot fault him for this.

Clay's journey to the point of admitting he is gay had to have been emotionally
staggering. Put yourself in his shoes. How would you respond if lies about
the intimate and private details of your life were blasted to the world
through the tabloid media? Could Clay have come out sooner? In my estimation,
no. Was he hiding the truth about himself? No. His delay was due to his concern
for his mom, family and close friends. When he did go public, it was because
of his love and concern for his son Parker. He was willing to sacrifice
his career for the sake of his son. Clay's decisions and timing were not
focused primarily on himself.

I have to agree with Diane Sawyer when she contradicted Clay about his
opinion that he is able to handle adversity better than most. Yes, he is an
astute problem solver and does not collapse under pressure, but he often covers those things that are highly emotional for him with comic relief. Some took
offense at his seeming irreverence for his mother when recounting how he first told her that he is gay, but I believe his laughter was an escape mechanism when
the tone of the program was becoming too intense for him. I know Clay holds
his mother dear to him, and he would never treat her feelings disrespectfully.

Responding to religious issues, I am a Christian, but I will not judge Clay.
To do that I would have to be perfect, a concept far from who I am. My job is
to love one another and Clay remains worthy of my love.

I do not think that Clay has "used" his fan base in any way. Like any
gifted entertainer, he has taken time to understand his audience
and has provided them with what they enjoy,often making himself
the brunt of jokes during his interactive concerts.

On numerous occasions, he has thanked fans and told them how much he loves and
appreciates them. I have seen tears in his eyes when someone in the audience
called out to him. He walks the lines of fans waiting for touches of his
hand following each of his concerts. He has posted blogs, stopping only when he was working 'Spamalot', recording a new album, honoring his UNICEF obligations, and preparing for a baby simultaneously. In current posts to fans, he acknowledges
he is "speechless" regarding the many messages of support he has received and adds, "I love you all." Clay is a giver rather than a taker, and it is obvious
that the relationship between Clay and his fans is a two-way street. I have no doubts about his sincerity.

I fully understand the emotionally charged air that exists right now as an
aftermath to Clay's coming out because I am also engulfed by it. There is no emergency for making a decision within a few of days of his confirmation while
many may still be confused and hurting. Why not calm down and enjoy the Clay
that we have known since AI2? Wouldn't it be wiser to grant Clay time to
express himself within the new parameters that now exist? Wouldn't it make more sense to give ourselves a chance to test the waters? I don't see the
necessity of a deadline, and there is certainly no need for anger, hostility,
or disrespect aimed at Clay&Jaymes or among his fans.

I now have an opportunity to get closer to Clay, to understand him more
deeply, and, most importantly, to continue to celebrate an exceptional man with a
compassionate heart and a voice that takes me to places of ecstasy. I could never repay him for the joy, encouragement, new friends, and sheer fun he has
brought into my life with his unfolding story. I cannot and will not
abandon my commitment to unconditional love.

Clay Aiken is Truly Amazing!

2008-09-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

All Hail Sir Robin as Clay Aiken Returns to Spamalot!
Date: 9/19/2008

If you were taking a cab across 44th Street on September 19, chances are it wasn't cheap. With Daniel Radcliffe appearing down the block in previews for Equus, the sidewalks got even more crowded with fans and onlookers, thanks to Clay Aiken's splashy return to Spamalot. After leaving the show in April (and becoming a father last month), the pop phenom reassumed the role of Sir Robin and brought down the house with his seemingly effortless performance and an ace rendition of "You Won't Succeed on Broadway." Aiken's signed on through January 4, so if you missed him the first time, here's your chance to be impressed. And trust us, the guy's pretty darn amazing.
Photos by Jenny Anderson/Broadway.com

Link

Clay Aiken TV appearances(wk of 9-22-08)

2008-09-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Here are some upcoming TV appearances:

Sat, Sept. 27, 7:00 PM
Paula's Party - Food Network

Episode Detail: House of Blues Party
Clay Aiken, Dionne Warwick and Duff Goldman are guests as the host creates a blues-inspired menu that includes blue-corn-crusted bass, blue-velvet cake and a blueberry crème brûlée tart.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
mjsbigblog reports that Clay is scheduled to appear on Good Morning America on Thursday, Sept. 25 and Friday, Sept. 26 to do a two part segment titled "Clay Aiken: My Story". I have not seen it posted anywhere else, so we will just have to program our Tivo's.

Claymates and Clay Aiken Conquer Spamalot

2008-09-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

Claymates and Clay Aiken Conquer Spamalot
By Edith Haight, Broadway Magazine

There was an invasion on Broadway this weekend, as American Idol star Clay Aiken returned to Spamalot to reprise his role as Sir Robin. Aiken first played the role last Spring, and then left for the summer. His return to the show was greeted with an outpouring of enthusiasm and accolades from fans. The most passionate Aiken fans are known as Claymates and they rival the theatre gangs of long ago.

The celebrated British actor Edmund Kean had "the Wolf Club." Kean's wolves were fans who would drink with him, and hound out theatrical rival actors with the violent tactics more commonly associated with criminal street gangs. The loyal fans of American actor Edwin Forrest and British actor William Macready fought to the literal death spurred on by their loyalty to their respective actor. The Astor Place riots were a real theatrical tragedy caused by passionate fans. Well, Clay Aiken can rest soundly at night knowing that he has his own passionate gang of theatre and Broadway fans known as Claymates, and they are ready to do battle for Clay if need be. From the moment the news of his reprise on Broadway broke, the Claymates have been out in full force supporting their Idol. Katie Holmes doesn't have fans like these. Few people do.

No worries about violence, the Claymates seem more about celebration than intimidation. Those fretting a Shubert Alley Riot with Claymates battling Ace Young Fans or Daniel Radcliffe enthusiasts will be disappointed. Looking over the sea of exuberant comments posted on Broadway.tv, Clay Aiken's return should give all Broadway fans a reason to smile.

"Opening night was amazing, the entire show was magical!," writes Dolly. "Clay brings an excitement to the stage that infects the entire audience and cast. Clay's performance last night was full of joy and everyone seemed to enjoy the night," posts music fan. Bedford posits, "For those of us fortunate enough to have seen this young man in concert, we knew he could do anything he wanted to. We were, once again, amazed at his talent. The entire cast is to be congratulated on making this play so darn funny! Mike Nichols was correct when he said Clay Aiken was an amazing comic actor!" The list of comments seems endless, and a quick trip through the blog will bear witness to the enthusiasm Clay Aiken is bringing to Broadway.

Spamalot is a musical-comedy that embraces the absurd and delights in the unusual. As a recording artist, Aiken clearly has the vocal capacity to interpret any number of musical roles (one fan suggested "Pippin"). That said, that Aiken has chosen to come to Broadway and return to Broadway in this comedy says a great deal for his willingness not to take himself too seriously. His fans' enthusiasm and joy in his performance suggest that Broadway should enjoy taking Clay Aiken very seriously indeed. Like Fantasia igniting The Color Purple, or Reba transforming Annie Get Your Gun!, Clay fits Sir Robin and Spamalot like a glove.

Link:

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Live Auction Result

2008-09-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids Live Auction Result

The live auction part of The 22nd Annual Broadway Flea Market and Grand Auction has concluded. the "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life... with Clay Aiken" package went for the final bid of $10,000! Congratulations to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids.

The winner of this auction receives VIP House Seats to see the return of Clay Aiken in the Tony Award-winning musical, SPAMALOT. After the show, they will go backstage for a special behind-the scenes tour with Clay. They will have their photo taken with Clay and get his autograph. Also included in the package is a SPAMALOT poster, autographed by Clay and the cast when he was in the show earlier this year.

Congratulations to the lucky winner!!

Clay Aiken Return's To Monty Python's Spamalot

2008-09-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

Photo Coverage: Clay Aiken Returns to 'Monty Python's Spamalot'
Saturday, September 20, 2008; Posted: 10:01 AM - by Pablo Pimienta

Clay Aiken returned to the scene of his triumphant Broadway debut Friday September 19th as he reprised the role of 'Sir Robin' in the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Monty Python's Spamalot. Clay's debut on Broadway earlier this year was met with wild enthusiasm from both his legion of fans and the New York press. He'll be performing the role of 'Sir Robin ' at the Shubert Theatre from September 19 2008 - January 4 2009. BroadwayWorld.com made sure our camera was there as he made his return to the New York stage!

When he made his Broadway debut in Monty Python's Spamalot at the beginning of this year, Newsday said "Aiken is a charmer" and the Associated Press said that "Clay Aiken deftly handles supremely silly."

Clay Aiken became a music superstar following his success on the "American Idol" television series, and has sold more than six million albums; co-authored a best-selling book; and, played six sold-out concert tours, said "Since leaving Spamalot in May, jokes have just not been funny. Food has lost its taste. The grass is no longer green -- the sky no longer blue. And, babies WON'T stop crying!! I'm so excited about coming back to the funniest show in the world!"
This spring, Aiken released his fourth album, On My Way Here, his first album of original songs since his 2003 chart topping, double platinum debut Measure of a Man. On My Way Here's debut in Billboard Magazine's Top 5 continued his streak of all four of his albums having debuted in the Top 5.

Directed by Mike Nichols, who won his eighth Tony Award for his direction of the new musical, Monty Python's Spamalot has a book by Eric Idle, "lovingly ripped-off" from the screenplay of the Pythons' best- loved film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail by Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin. The music is by Eric Idle and John Du Prez.

Tickets are available online now at telecharge.com or by calling (212) 239-6200/(800) 432-7250.

Other members of the Monty Python's Spamalot creative team include Casey Nicholaw (choreography), multiple Olivier Award-winners Tim Hatley (sets and costumes) and Hugh Vanstone (lighting) and Acme Sound Partners.

Winning more awards than any other show in the 2005 Broadway Season, including the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Grammy Award for Best Cast Recording, Monty Python's Spamalot has set box office records since opening on Broadway to critical acclaim in March, 2005 at the flagship Shubert Theatre.

Monty Python's Spamalot is currently running in London's West End at the Palace Theatre and is also on National Tour around the US. Monty Python's SPAMALOT is produced by Boyett Ostar Productions, The Shubert Organization, Arielle Tepper, Stephanie McClelland/Lawrence Horowitz, Elan V. McAllister/Allan S. Gordon, Independent Presenters Network, Roy Furman, GRS Associates, Jam Theatricals, TGA Entertainment and Live Nation.
For more information on Monty Spamalot, please visit: www.montypythonsspamalot.com
Photo Credit Pablo Pimienta

Photos can be seen here:
Link:

Broadway Cares Auction

2008-09-18T06:24:00.001-07:00

September 17, 2008

Broadway Cares Auction: Always Look on the Bright Side of Life... with Clay Aiken!

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS has an auction up for bid offering the following:

Item DescriptionYou and a guest will receive VIP House Seats to see the return of Clay Aiken in the Tony Award-winning musical, SPAMALOT. After the show, you’ll go backstage where he will give you a special behind-the scenes tour. You will also have the opportunity to have your photo taken with Clay and get his autograph. Go home today with a SPAMLOT poster, autographed by Clay and the cast when he was in the show earlier this year.

COURTESY OF Cheryl Jacobsen & Clay Aiken with special thanks to Allison Lee.

Live Event ItemAfter the online close, this item will be going to a Live Event for further bidding. Absentee Bidding offered. Online Close: Sep. 20, 2008 12:00 PM EDTOpening Bid: $500.00

link: Broadway Cares Auction

Spamalot Playbill News

2008-09-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

September 16, 2008

News About the Spamalot Playbill

There is new information about ordering the Spamalot Playbill with Clay's fan-written bio:
From: merchandise@playbill.com

Hello, thank you for writing. Our experiences with Clay's fans have indeed been overwhelming positive, and we would be happy to offer all of you the opportunity to purchase the Spamalot Playbill with his fan-written bio. I will check with our program editor on Monday morning and find out when the first issue featuring the bio is scheduled to be delivered to the Shubert Theatre for distribution to the audience, and then will set up a pre-sale at PlaybillStore.com. It will be the same price as the last two, $10 with shipping and handling included in the purchase price.I will write back to you and let you know as soon as the pre-sale is scheduled. Please feel free to post this email on any Clay messageboards you may be a member of, and have a great weekend!

Regards, Bruce Stapleton
Director of MerchandisingPlaybill, Inc

Clay Aiken Offers Fans Chance to Write His Playbill Bio

2008-09-13T06:59:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken Offers Fans Chance to Write His Playbill Biography for 'Spamalot' Return
Thursday, September 11, 2008; Posted: 11:02 AM - by BWW News Desk

Clay Aiken, who will be making his anticipated return to Monty Python’s SPAMALOT on Friday, September 19, has offered members of his fan club the chance to write his official Playbill biography. This marks the first time a Broadway actor has held a contest allowing fans to write their official Playbill biography through their official fan website.The selected winner will see the biography they wrote appear in Playbill, two tickets to SPAMALOT courtesy of Aiken, and a backstage tour hosted by the music idol himself.The contest is open to all members of Aiken’s official fan club. To join the fan club, please visit: www.ClayOnline.com/join.

Read the rules here: Rules

Clay Aiken to attend Matt Lauer Roast

2008-09-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

Matt Lauer Set to Be Skewered at Celebrity Roast
By Stephen M. Silverman
Originally posted Friday September 12, 2008 03:30 PM EDT

The burning question is, will Matt Lauer still be speaking to them in the morning? Lauer, 50, is slated to be the victim – that is, "honoree" – when the Friars Club gathers at the New York Hilton Oct. 24 and rakes the Today host over the coals, humorously, at its annual celebrity roast

– an event noteworthy for wildly uncensored remarks at the expense of the guest of honor. Among those scheduled to appear at the by-invitation-only, not-for-broadcast event include Lauer's predecessor Bryant Gumbel, his former sidekick Katie Couric and the current one, Meredith Vieira – as well as his across-the-channel rival, Good Morning America's Diane Sawyer.
Some may think Couric should know better. The year Donald Trump was roasted, she sat quietly on the dais only to be the target of a particularly raunchy remark by comic Susie Essman – for which Trump felt compelled to apologize. Trump now is on the bill to help roast Lauer.

Also promised by the entertainers' fraternity to deliver no-bars-held remarks at its event: Clay Aiken, Joy Behar, Bob Saget, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, Vanessa Williams, Aretha Franklin, Eric McCormack, Tony Shaloub, Jerry Stiller, Mario Lopez and others.

Link

Lalate has Clay's UNICEF Malaria No More video

2008-09-11T18:55:00.000-07:00

Lalate news now has Clay's Malaria No More UNICEF appeal video,
the OFC contacted lalate and asked them to post it at their new
Lalate2 site, they did:

Link:

http://news.lalate.com/2008/09/11/clay-aiken-unicef-lalate2-exclusive/

Wow!! Thanks again lalate! I wish there were more postive
celeb news sites out there like this one besides all the nasty
gossip monger sites

Clay's new page at Lalate news

2008-09-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to Clay's brand new page at Lalate News.
Check it out! It's great! Thanks Lalate!

http://news.lalate.com/celebrity/celebrities/celebrities-a-h/clay-aiken.html

Clay on Scrubs finale?

2008-09-11T09:42:00.001-07:00

Clay was recently spotted in LA, it's possible this was the reason:(see highlighted portion)
We shall see if we get a look at our old friend "Kenny" again. Can't wait!

Exclusive: NBC Talent Banned from 'Scrubs' Finale
Sep 8, 2008, 10:46 AM by Michael Ausiello
Categories: Scrubs

Four months after ABC stole Scrubs away from NBC, absence apparently has made the Peacock's heart grow...Wait, no. It's actually grown smaller than the Grinch's on Christmas Eve!
For the death-defying comedy's likely series finale on ABC, which was shot last week for a probable spring airing, series creator Bill Lawrence gathered all of the significant guest stars from the past eight years for a jaw-dropping scene that'll rival the mass reunion in Seinfeld's sendoff. But two actors currently appearing on NBC programs -- Heroes' Masi Oka and Chuck's Sarah Lancaster -- weren't permitted to participate.

"They both wanted to do it, but NBC said they weren't allowed to," explains Lawrence, who, as you know, has never been shy in calling out his old network for its lack of Scrubs promotion and constant time-slot changes. "Typical classy stuff."

Although networks tend to frown on letting their stars fraternize with the enemy, things have been loosening up in recent years. For instance, ABC gave Scrubs leading lady Sarah Chalke the OK to continue her recurring gig on CBS' How I Met Your Mother this season. In turn, the Eye loaned out The Unit's Scott Foley for Scrubs' penultimate episode. Even NBC has been known to play nice on occasion: The net is allowing its newest Law & Order: SVU ADA, Michaela McManus, to revisit her alma mater, The CW's One Tree Hill, this season.

Natch, the double standard is not lost on Lawrence, who suggests that the slight is almost certainly sour grapes over Scrubs' defection. "But [Masi and Sarah] should not have been part of that fight," he sighs. "It felt kind of petty to me."

Well, despite the NBC dis, the scene in question -- which featured such Scrubs grads as Tom Cavanagh, Amy Smart, and Nicole Sullivan -- "turned out awesome," tattles one spywitness. "It was very emotional. It should be an incredible finale."

And before you ask, yes, that was the scene I was invited to appear in -- and would have appeared in had "forces beyond my control" not intervened. (Someone was going to ask, right?)

Clay Aiken Fans Don't Tell

2008-09-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken Fans - don’t tell ….
Posted on September 8th, 2008 by lalate

Clay Aiken LALATE fans - here’s a quick hush. Keep you fingers crossed because LALATE can tell you that the rush is on. LALATE2 will launch in just a couple of days!

Currently, it looks like LALATE2 will drop by next week, but perhaps by the end of this week … if sleep deprivation does not kick in soon.

There are some big surprises.

First LALATE2 is going to have much more features that even anticipated during development. Multi-media, multi-dimensional.

Second, for Aiken, initially LALATE had said he would be the first few celebrities in the initial launch of LALATE2. That’s been changed. LALATE2 will launch with hundreds of pages of celebrities, yes hundreds.

However, Aiken will get an enhanced / premiere celebrity page with more features than someone like an Eva Longoria would get. Aiken and a small number of other hit LALATE celebrities will get the initial enhanced feature

Can’t give all the details away. Let’s just say this - there will be a lot for you to see, do, and people to meet — yep, that too — on LALATE2!

Wow!! Can't wait to see Clay's enhanced page.

Will the Real Clay Aiken Stand Up......and Take a Bow!

2008-08-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

Will the Real Clay Aiken Stand Up…..and Take a Bow!

Five years ago, a skinny, bespectacled guy auditioned for American Idol. He was a college student studying to be a Special Education teacher. That should have told the world that he was something different, and it did. During his run on Idol, people saw many different things about Clay Aiken. Some saw a very naïve boy, sweet and very gentle. Others saw a child who needed their care. Many assigned traits and preferences to him without knowing anything about him other than the one dimensional character they saw twice a week for five months. Many defined his religious and political beliefs based on two minute interviews for the show, and then decided his beliefs where exactly like their own. Some people caught on to the fact that he had a biting sense of humor when they saw the Jaded Journalist interviews, while others missed that completely.

Over the last five years, bits and piece of the real Clay Aiken have become known, or as well as we can know someone from their public actions alone. The private Clay Aiken is still unknown to us, his fans, admirers, and detractors. Some people in all three of those groups have been busy assigning personality traits to him faster than the early fans did. The early group of fans who believed that Clay was a naïve, childish little boy had a rude awakening when a picture of Clay and a certain make-up artist was found on her website. The picture would not have been enough to raise an eyebrow if it had been anyone else, but it was Clay, who was pure as the driven snow. In spite of the fact that he repeatedly told fans that he was no saint, people still screamed that he was not a Christian, not what they thought he was, and they couldn’t support such a guy, who by the way, was perfectly normal. Somehow, their religious beliefs had been transferred to Clay, and he had not lived up to the assignment for them.

The child that needed a million mothers to care for him disappeared when Clay walked onto the stage of the Jimmy Kimmel Show for the first time. He walked into hostile territory and held his own with them, and won the respect and friendship of Jimmy Kimmel. Some of those mothers were disappointed because he really didn’t need them to tuck him in bed at night in his footie pajamas. Young he was, but not a child.

Probably the most eye-opening look at the real Clay came during the tours that began in 2004. Here was the consummate entertainer, the comedian, a man with a bawdy sense of humor, no saint, but not dirty in any way. However, some took offence because this wasn’t suitable for Sunday church services. His quick wit and intelligence shown during the tours, and many people realized what a gem he is on stage, while others found room to criticize.

The latest group to jump off the fan bandwagon or onto the critical bandwagon, are the ones who planned his personal life for him, picked out his ideal wife, or in some really insane cases, boyfriend, planned his 1.9 children, and were all ready to see the Aiken’s live happily ever after. Clay did the unthinkable. He choose the mother of his child without any input from the public, he did not share with them that he was going to be a father, he did not tell them that he was planning to raise a child with “best friend” Jaymes Foster, and worst of all, he still hasn’t clarified his relationship with her! How could he do this to them!!!! Doesn’t he realize that he has shattered their dreams???

It is a shame that some people liked their one dimensional person so much better than the real Clay Aiken. Here is a man, not boy, not child, who has a great sense of humor, is a very good actor, is compassionate and caring of the worlds lost children, intelligent, well read, and highly respected by those in the industry who have worked with him, wonderful singer, who lives his life as his religious beliefs dictate. And there are some who don’t like this man, because he didn’t do it their way!

Three Clay Aiken songs featured in Korean Olympic coverage

2008-08-26T16:05:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Three Clay Aiken Songs Were Featured on Korean Olympic Coverage

A fan in Korea reports that three of Clay Aiken's songs were used there for various events such as medal awards ceremonies, before and after various events and for pre-Olympic broadcast promotions. Here is a list of the songs used:

Promo for Olympics broadcast before the Olympics (On My Way Here)
After Park Tae-hwan won gold medal at 400m free swimming (On My Way Here)
Promo for Park's 200m free swimming (On My Way Here)
After Park won silver medal at 200m free swimming (On My Way Here)
Promo for rhythmic gymnast Shin Soo-ji's game (Where I Draw The Line)
Promo for female handball team's bronze medal match (On My Way Here)
Promo for marathoner Lee Bong-joo (This Is The Night)
During the evening news (On My Way Here)

Source link -- Clay Aiken: Korean Olympic coverage featured songs by Clay Aiken

Clay Aiken UNICEF Somalia Trip

2008-06-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken appeals for world attention on Somalia

Wed Jun 25, 2008 6:26pm BST

By Guled Mohamed

HARGEISA, Somalia (Reuters Life!) - Clay Aiken appealed on Wednesday for the world not to forget Somalia, where conflict and hunger have created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.

Aiken said U.S. and international interest in Somalia had been minimal since failed military intervention in the early 1990s.

"There hasn't been much discussion of Somalia since the early 1990s in the U.S.," said Aiken, a U.N. goodwill ambassador, on a visit to Somalia. "The American population kind of got a bad taste of Somalia in the early 90's and hasn't really had much interest in the country since."

Somalia has suffered relentless civil conflict since the 1991 toppling military dictator Mohamed Siad Barre.

In the latest cycle of violence, an Islamist-led insurgency against the Somali government and its Ethiopian military advisers since the start of 2007 has killed thousands and made one million people homeless.

"It's the most dangerous place for a child to be," Aiken said. "In the lower part of the country, southern part, I feel it's a more desperate situation than any place we've ever been."

Aiken, 29, who was traveling on behalf of U.N. children's agency UNICEF, was in Somaliland, a relatively peaceful northern enclave of Somalia that has declared itself independent but not been recognized internationally.

While there have skirmishes with neighboring province Puntland, Somaliland has functioning political institutions.

"In Somaliland, you really do have a sense of people who really want to help themselves, who want to do better, who want to effect change for themselves, that is very hopeful," he said.
Somaliland authorities hope a high-profile visit like Aiken's may bolster their case for world acceptance of their separation from Somalia.

For 12-year-old, Ubah Mohamed, her wants were simpler.
"I understand he is famous. I hope he will give us food and build a school for us," she said, near to a refugee camp.
(For full Reuters Africa coverage and to have your say on the top issues, visit: africa.reuters.com/ )
(Editing by Matthew Jones)

http://uk.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUKL2571576820080625?sp=true

Mr. UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken truly has a heart of gold when it comes to bringing attention to the plight of people, especially children who are suffering in war torn, impoverised countries. One of the many reasons why I love him. I pray he had a safe trip and makes it home safely soon.

Lets hope the media helps bring attention to the plight of the people of Somalia instead of focusing on rag mag baloney, I seriously doubt they will though, heaven forbid they give attention to something that truly deserves it.

OK Mag Clay interview

2008-04-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

FRI APRIL 18 2008, 7:00AM
CLAY AIKEN SPAMS-A-LOT

Clay Aiken challenges me to a trivia game he’s reading off the menu when we meet upstairs at Planet Hollywood in Times Square. (Help! I only had a free movie pass from 2005-2007.)

He’s moments away from getting his handprints to celebrate his role in Monty Python’s Spamalot when he admits this is his first time in the eatery.“I’ve never been before, but is that Spamalot on the TV now? Look at that! It’s very busy. It’s a very excitable place. There’s a lot of memorabilia that I’ve never seen before. I didn’t really know the importance of it, but now that I see everything else they have hanging here, it’s an interesting honor to have my hands put beside some much bigger names than mine.”The North Carolina native, 29, is in work mode now that he’s wrapping up his run in the Tony-award winning musical May 4. His fourth album, On My Way Here, will be released two days later on May 6.

Poor Clay. He tells me he hasn’t had any free time to enjoy life in NYC, and he shakes his head “no” when asked about his plans to vacation this summer. (He also squelches a roundup question about Madonna.)

Since Spamalot is the topic du jour, why did this American Idol finalist have to have this role?“Well, the reason we chose to do this show is because it was so different from any other Broadway show out there,” he tells me. “It’s silly, it’s more about acting than it is about singing, it’s about pushing me out of my comfort zone. That’s what made it exciting.

”How does he compare to his zany character Sir Robin?“Oh gosh. Hm. Probably in more ways than I care to admit. I’m very timid in a lot of situations. I don’t think I’m quite as dumb as he is, and I’ve never soiled my own pants, but [coughs] I’m timid in some ways but the character of Robin is very cartoonish in general. All of them are.”

Moments after we chat, Clay sticks his hands in wet concrete. With mouth agape, he poses for photos with sticky residue on his hands. “I’m blind!” he exclaims after flashes pop. “Am I going to fall?” he says, as he stumbles into the Spamalot sign. Should he tumble, hundreds of Claymates are clamoring to catch him — including one former OK! staffer who stepped out to greet him during her lunch hour.

Clay is grateful for the love of his fans. “They’ve been very supportive. Some of them have been many times, and still laugh at it every single time.”

Catch Clay in Monty Python’s Spamalot, which takes place at Broadway’s Shubert Theatre now through May 4.

Clay Aiken Reveals On My Way Here Tracklisting

2008-03-29T15:11:00.000-07:00

March 29, 2008 07:40:40 GMT by Staff Writer

As reported earlier, Aiken's album will be released on May 6 via 19Recordings/RCA, featuring a production from Kipper (Sting, Chris Botti). His camp now reveals that Jaymes Foster will once again be back executive producing the album and that one of the tracks in the album will be a Ryan Tedder-written. The OneRepublic frontman wrote the song "On My Way Here" that Aiken "fell in love" with instantly. The lyrics tell how lessons are learned as we grow up and those are what eventually shape us as adults. "I thought if we could find songs along those lines, that deal with my life over the past five years and what I've learned from my experiences, it would be a great concept for an album," Aiken said. "Since I got into this business, I've learned so much about myself and about life and the world. I'm nowhere near an expert, but this album has taken on the form of addressing how far I've come in those five years and how I feel like I've found myself." Aiken who made his Broadway debut in January playing Sir Robin in Monty Phyton's Spamalot, has sold more than six million copies from his three albums, "Measure of a Man", 2004's holiday CD "Merry Christmas With Love" and the 2006 "A Thousand Different Ways". "On My Way Here" Track Listing:

1. On My Way Here
2. Ashes
3. Everything I Don't Need
4. Something About Us
5 .Falling
6 .Where I Draw The Line
7. The Real Me
8. Weight Of The World
9. As Long As We're Here
10. Sacrificial Love
11. Grace Of God
12. Lover All Alone

http://www.aceshowbiz.com/news/view/00014961.html

People interview w/Clay Aiken

2008-01-17T11:02:00.000-08:00

Clay Aiken Aches from Prepping for New Role
The Idol star of Broadway's Spamalot says rehearsals nearly waylaid him
THURSDAY JANUARY 17, 2008 11:15 AM EST

Clay Aiken as Spamalot's Sir Robin Photo by: Joan Marcus
It may be a long leap from Raleigh, N.C., to the kingdom of Camelot – with a memorable stop on American Idol in between – but Clay Aiken is apparently ready to take his seat as Sir Robin at the Round Table. The singer, 29, officially joins the cast of the Tony-winning Monty Python musical Spamalot on Friday, having told Newsweek that he was so sore from the arduous rehearsals to prepare for his Broadway debut that he "couldn't even get off the toilet the other day." It will remain to be seen if Aiken's acting and dancing can measure up to his singing, CD-selling (6 million) or even his candor – as well as who's really tougher, Simon Cowell or New York theater critics. Aiken is due to remain with the show through May 4. – Stephen M. Silverman

Link

Clay Aiken Entertainment Tonight Interview

2008-01-17T08:47:00.001-08:00

Clay Aiken Weighs In On the Press and 'American Idol'
The former "American Idol" competitor heads to Broadway, but first he chats with ET on the media, Britney and "Idol."

CLAY AIKEN makes his debut amid the bright lights of Broadway on Friday, January 18 in the musical version of "Monty Python's Spamalot," but first, the former "American Idol" contestant chats with ET about his news-making interview with Newsweek magazine, his take on BRITNEY SPEARS, and the new season of "American Idol."
When Clay sat down with an interviewer from Newsweek, he was asked questions about the appearance he made on "Live with Regis and Kelly" on which he covered KELLY RIPA's mouth with his hand, as well as an altercation he had with a woman on a plane. He refused to answer both questions, telling the reporter: "We're done. I thought Newsweek would be more reputable. I'm surprised." His refusal to respond to those questions was reported, and this is what he told ET in defense of his position:

"There are so many other things in this world that are more important. Newsweek usually does hard news. I think it's the press that cares about dirt, so that's what they print."
As for the media's fascination with the pop princess, Clay comments: "We have a presidential election going on, and for whatever reason this is what people are interested in. I think that is probably the saddest thing. Leave her alone, just leave her alone."

The second season "Idol" runner-up also admits that he has not kept up with the talent competition the past few go-rounds, but not because he is trying to distance himself from the show that launched his career.

"I haven't watched 'American Idol' in three years now," he admits. "It stresses me out so much. I compare it to high school. I needed college to understand and know what I know now. Most people wouldn't be where they are if it weren't for their education. I see 'Idol' in the same way and I wouldn't be where I am without it, but I don't still go to my high school football games."

Posted January 17, 2008 12:04:00 AM

Link

American Idol Exclusive Interview w/Clay Aiken

2008-01-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

Our Exclusive Interview With Clay Aiken

January 15, 2008 - Posted by Marnie

Even with a grueling rehearsal schedule for his upcoming role in the Broadway show SPAMALOT, Clay Aiken conveyed nothing but high energy and endless enthusiasm during his interview with americanidol.com. This certainly isn't due to him getting a lot of rest these days, however. As Clay so bluntly put it, the rigors of Broadway are "kickin' my butt!" With the debut of SPAMALOT on Friday, his schedule will only get busier. The show will run once a day from Tuesday to Friday and then twice on Saturdays and Sundays! As Clay relayed, having to put together all the acts of singing, dancing, playing piano, and speaking in an accent is more than he ever expected!
This is not to say that Clay isn't enjoying the whole process. On the contrary, he is completely fulfilled by the experience and constantly amazed by those around him who do this on a regular basis. According to the popular singer, once you do Broadway, you can do pretty much anything. Clay is also astounded by the level of talent that has surrounded him during rehearsals. By the end of the day, they have filled his head with so much information that he has trouble remembering his own name! Clay admits that he was warned about the challenges he would face by another "Idol" alumnus, Fantasia Barrino. Thankfully, he is nothing but pleased with the result. He says that the show is "atypical of a musical," calling it a performance that's filled with "silly nonsense," which is what makes it so hilarious. Clay feels that he has really spread his wings by taking part in this, as the show doesn't even involve that much true singing. In fact, he admits that the one "big song" he performs is actually "talked sung."
Despite his participation in this farcical play and some guest stints on shows such as "Scrubs" and "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," Clay is reluctant to tout his comic abilities. As he joked to us, the only thing comical about him is that he is "funny looking." All kidding aside, Clay was quick to say that he doesn't think of himself as the complete marketing package, like Carrie Underwood or Chris Daughtry might be. Explaining further, he said that he knows he's "not this hip, cool radio guy," but he embraces the strengths he does have and enjoys pursuing things that will play up these qualities. In fact, one thing he thinks he would really excel at is hosting his own daytime talk show. While he doesn't want to pursue this to the point of missing out on other great opportunities, he did admit that this certainly something at the forefront of his mind. However, he realizes that this could be a long process and, as he said, sometimes it's best to "let go and let God."
Clay also discussed two things that are very close to his heart—his charities and his fans. What's interesting is the fact that the two are not mutually exclusive. In fact, his fans have helped to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for organizations in which Clay is involved. The Bubel/Aiken foundation, formed by Clay, helps to include kids with disabilities in things like summer camp and sporting events. He also works closely with UNICEF to raise awareness about poverty stricken areas around the world. As Clay mentioned, his fans were the ones that helped raise over $100,000 in the ten days he spent in Mexico recently, helping those who were devastated by floods. They also helped to raise approximately $250,000 during his time in Afghanistan last year.
"Claymates," as his fans are often called, can expect something huge in return for their loyalty—a new album by Clay! While his last album was something that was desired by others, Clay says that this album contains music that is definitely desired by him. It is also the first time he is having one producer help him to put out the entire album. The result, he says, will be an album of original material that is consistent in its sound and its message to his fans—look for it to hopefully be released this May.
Check out this photo of Clay really belting out a tune during season two!

Link:
http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/?pid=1144

Clay Aiken & Family Celebrate Christmas With Survivors of Mexico's Floods

2007-12-25T17:36:00.000-08:00

Clay Aiken & Family Celebrate Christmas With Survivors of Mexico's Floods

CHIAPAS, Mexico, December 25, 2007: UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken celebrated Christmas at a flood shelter with the children of Ostuacan, Chiapas. In one weekend last month torrential rains in produced the worst flooding the region has seen in more than 50 years. More than one million residents from Chiapas and the adjoining state of Tabasco have been affected, one third of which are children. (PRNewsFoto/U.S. Fund for UNICEF) CHIAPAS MEXICO

UNICEF Ambassador Aiken visits flood affected states of Tabasco and Chiapas CHIAPAS, Mexico, Dec. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- UNICEF Ambassador and critically acclaimed recording artist Clay Aiken today wrapped up the first leg of his trip to the flood affected areas of southeast Mexico by participating in a gift exchange and "sing along" with over 300
children and their families at a camp erected for flood victims.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071225/AQTU002) Aiken, who is traveling in the region with his mother and younger brother, a Marine on leave from Iraq, will also be part of a UNICEF delegation scheduled to visit the state of Tabasco over the next two days."The situation in Chiapas and Tabasco has really become a forgotten emergency," said the U.S. pop star who became an ambassador for the children's agency in 2004. "Telling the story of these brave people, especially the children, to a U.S. audience is the reason that I am here.

Sharing this experience with my family during this time of year makes it even more special." In one weekend last month torrential rains in Tabasco and Chiapas produced the worst flooding the region has seen in more than 50 years. More than one million residents of the two states have been affected, one third of which are children. While an integrated humanitarian response lead by government and U.N. agencies has stabilized the emergency in Mexico, thousands remain homeless and displaced.

According to UNICEF officials in the region, children are the most vulnerable in these situations. Hundreds of them are at risk of psychological trauma and many more are out of school due to extensive structural damage to school buildings. Today's event, also attended by Hon. Isabel Aguilera de Sabines, First Lady of the state of Chiapas, was held in the city of Ostuacan where 19 deaths were recently reported after a series of mudslides engulfed the small mountain community of Juan de Grijalva and the search for six missing residents is ongoing. Chiapas is bordered on the north by the state of Tabasco, on the south by the Pacific Ocean, on the east by the Central American nation of Guatemala and on the west by the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz. Chiapas has 111 municipalities. Its capital, Tuxtla Gutierrez, lies near the center of
the state. Tabasco is bordered to the north by the Gulf of Mexico, to the south by the state of Chiapas, to the east by Guatemala and Campeche and to the west by Veracruz. Villahermosa is Tabasco's capital city.

How To Help:
Please visit: http://www.unicefusa.org/ or call 1-800-4UNICEF
Attention Broadcasters:
Hard copy b-roll footage available.
About UNICEF:

For more than 60 years, UNICEF has been the world's leading international children's organization, working in over 150 countries to address the ongoing issues that affect why kids are dying. UNICEF provides lifesaving nutrition, clean water, education, protection and emergency response saving more young lives than any other humanitarian organization
in the world.

While millions of children die every year of preventable causes like dehydration, upper respiratory infections and measles, UNICEF, with the support of partnering organizations and donors alike, has the global experience, resources and reach to give children the best hope of survival. For more information about UNICEF, please visit
http://www.unicefusa.org/.
SOURCE U.S. Fund for UNICEF

Clay Aiken & Family Celebrate Christmas With Survivors of Mexico's Floods

Clay Aiken- Christmas In The Heartland

2007-11-24T18:20:00.000-08:00

There is excitment in the air in Clayland, we're counting down
till Tuesday Nov 26th the start of Clay's Holiday tour........it's
coming to a town near you........

Clay Aiken- Christmas in The Heartland:

Monday 11/26/07 - Wichita, KS, US - Central Christian Church
Tuesday 11/27/07 - St Louis, MO, US - Fox Theatre
Wed 11/28/07 - South Bend, IN, US - Morris Auditorium
Thurs 11/29/07 - Waukegan, IL, US - Genessee Theatre
Friday 11/30/07 - Kalamazoo, MI, US - Miller Auditorium
Sunday 12/02/07 - Washington, DC, US - Warner Theater
Tuesday 12/04/07 - Wilkes Barre, PA, US - FM Kirby Center
Thurs 12/06/07 - New Brunswick, NJ, - State Theatre
Friday 12/07/07 - Albany, NY, US - Palace Theatre
Saturday 12/08/07 - Poughkeepsie, NY, US - Mid-Hudson Civic Center
Sunday 12/09/07 - Uncasville, CT, US - Mohegan Sun
Tuesday 12/11/07 - Red Bank, NJ, US - Count Basie Theatre
Wed 12/12/07 - Easton, PA, US - State Theatre
Thursday 12/13/07 - Morristown, NJ, US - The Community Theatre at Mayo Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday 12/15/07 - Williamsport, PA, US - Community Arts Center
Sunday 12/16/07 - Erie, PA, US - Erie Civic Center Complex
Monday 12/17/07 - Cleveland, OH, US - Playhouse Square Theater
Wed 12/19/07 - Minneapolis, MN, US - Orchestra Hall
Thursday 12/20/07 - Minneapolis, MN, US - Orchestra Hall
Friday 12/21/07 - Omaha, NE, US - Orpheum Theatre
Saturday 12/22/07 - Merrillville, IN, US - Star Plaza Theatre

If you are attending you will NOT be dissapointed......he's a truly amazing talented singer.

Clay to preform at Neil Sedaka: 50 Years Of Hits" Benefit Concert

2007-10-24T19:28:00.000-07:00

Clay will be performing at the "Neil Sedaka: 50 Years of Hits" benefit concert this Friday, October 26, 2007 at the Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center. 100% of the net proceeds will benefit the Elton John Aids Foundation. Other artists performing at this concert are: Natalie Cole, Connie Francis, Dion, Captain & Tennille, Paul Shaffer, David Foster, Renee Olstead, The Bad Plus, Cousin Brucie Morrow, Lou Christie and, of course, Neil Sedaka!

Clay Aiken: Dedicated to the cause

2007-10-20T10:53:00.001-07:00

Paris to Rwanda: Socialite Becomes Latest Star Hitched to CharityHow Involved Are Celebrity Charity Activists, and Do They Have Ulterior Motives?By BLAIR SODEN

Oct. 19, 2007 -

The pictures are everywhere -- celebrities dressed down in earth-tone T-shirts and jeans, covered in dirt and looking incredibly out of place among a group of villagers in some Third-World country; it's a far cry from the red carpet.Now Paris Hilton says she, too, is jumping on the humanitarian aid bandwagon as she plans her upcoming trip to Rwanda. Some are questioning Hilton's motives for linking up with a humanitarian aid organization, wondering if she's only doing it in effort to revive her tarnished reputation, or if she is truly involved in the charity Playing for Good's cause.Hilton's recent entrance into the world of charitable giving raises the question: Are celebrities lending more than just their names to a cause, or is it all about the photo-op?Celebs and Causes Go Way BackCelebrities' association with humanitarian aid organizations is nothing new. Danny Kaye was one of the first actors to join a charitable organization when he was named a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) in 1954. The comedian paved the way for other entertainers, among them Audrey Hepburn, Sarah Jessica Parker, David Beckham and Clay Aiken.While Unicef was one of the first international aid programs, as need spread throughout the world other organizations started popping up, adding to the list of charitable celebrities.Now organizations are even being established by celebrities. In 2006, actor Don Cheadle founded the Enough project with human rights activist John Prendergast.Prendergast said the celebrity attachment is an integral part of his organization."Celebrities are like major recruiters to the humanitarian cause," said Prendergast. "They certainly increase the number of people and donors interested in the cause."Lisa Szarkowski, who heads the ambassador program for Unicef agreed."Celebrities have the ear and attention of the public," said Szarkowski. "They tend to command more attention than talking heads from our organization."Attention that leads to big bucks. Aiken asked fans to donate money to Unicef to help the children in Lebanon and raised more than $75,000 in 24 hours.So getting involved in causes may help celebrities draw attention to a specific need in some other part of the world as well as get their names in the spotlight -- but just how involved are they?How Do Celebrities Get Involved?It's not easy to be selected as a Unicef ambassador. The group sets high standards for celebrities to live up to."In terms of becoming an ambassador, it's definitely a process," said Szarkowski. "We like to work with people who are committed to the cause and the mission and to align themselves with us for the long term."Aiken made the cut when he was named a Unicef ambassador in 2004. The organization approached Aiken after hearing of his involvement with his own charity, the Bubel/Aiken foundation that helps young people with special needs.Aiken said he felt obligated to help those in need."One of the most important responsibilities that you have if you're answering to the public is that you try to use that position in a way that serves the people you're trying to entertain," said Aiken. "I think you have a responsibility when you realize you have kids watching you. ... You can set an example to have kids doing drugs, or you can set an example to have kids helping their communities or their world."Preparing for a TripDespite some common misconceptions, celebrity representatives don't just jet set off for a photo-op; they prepare for months before taking a trip."We prepare them pretty well," said Szarkowski. "People don't become ambassadors or supporters of ours unless they go through a process of learning about us and engaging with us."Celebrities sit through classes to learn about Unicef and all the various issues that threaten children's survival around the world."We study as much as we possibly can before we go," said Aiken. "And I study after I go, because I want to be an expert on it. I think it's a disservice to the country you're going to and the children you're trying to help if you don't know what's going on and can't speak knowledgably about your experience.'Aiken said the preparation is necessary in order to meet with health ministers and other officials on these trips."It wouldn't behoove anyone if we just went in to take pictures and came back," said Aiken. "The goal of all these visits and the reason we sit through extremely long sessions sometimes is so when we come back we know what we're talking about."What Really Happens on Field VisitsAiken didn't know what to expect during his first visit to Uganda. He walked into the minimalist community center, where he expected nobody to know his name. Suddenly, he was greeted with bows from the crowd."When we walked in, they kept calling me your excellency," laughed Aiken. "I think both visits we've been on there have been misconceptions about how important I am."All joking aside, no matter how famous -- or infamous -- a celebrity is, celebrity support is essential.But with so many problem areas across the globe, how do celebrities decide which country they want to visit? For most, the decision is made based on where the greatest need is at that time."The celebrities we work with want to go where they can be most helpful," said Szarkowski. "We're fortunate to have that caliber of people who basically say to us, 'Tell me where you want me to go.'"In her eight years at Unicef, she said she's never had a celebrity refuse to go where they were asked to go. And the places they're asked to go certainly don't come with luxe accommodations."It's usually a tent somewhere.That's our standard accommodation," said Szarkowski.Aiken and others pay their own way when they travel on behalf of Unicef. However, once they reach their destination, they don't have the need for many expenses. Most nights they're sleeping in tents on the ground.In addition to the bare bones travel accommodations, celebrities must cope with extremely dangerous situations. In order to avoid conflict, Prendergast said every minute detail of the trip must be mapped out."These trips have to be planned very well to ensure maximum impact and security," said Prendergast.Security is something Hilton has expressed concern about regarding her upcoming trip, which has some people questioning her motivations."I'm scared, yeah. I've heard it's really dangerous," she said. "I've never been on a trip like this before."All Attention Is Good AttentionHilton will be filming scenes for her new reality TV show while she's in Rwanda, which has left some questioning the genuineness of her visit. But not everyone is upset about celebrities like Hilton lending their name to causes without much further involvement, if that is so in her case."I wouldn't judge people for what their motivations are," said Szarkowski. "We need everyone with a voice to help us get behind that and change that reality."But, Aiken cautions, a focus on one organization or charity is important to the public."I get requests from every organization to come and do this or that," said Aiken. "It's not that I don't have a passion for kids with cancer, because I do. I feel like you can dilute your message if you talk about too many things."While it remains to be seen how involved Hilton will be with her organization of choice, one celebrity who no doubt has stolen the humanitarian aid spotlight is in it for all the right reasons, according to Aiken."I look to Angelina Jolie as a prime example of someone who is doing an amazing job," said Aiken. "She really has a passion and she goes in and makes a point to educate herself about what's going on and that's the only way to do it."

Just WOW!!

Link: http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/Story?id=3748792&page=1

Kansas Church Has NO Plans to Cancel Clay's Concert

2007-10-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

Kansas Church has no plans to cancel Clay Aiken concert
BY JOE RODRIGUEZ
The Wichita Eagle

A concert by Clay Aiken at Wichita's Central Christian Church will go on as scheduled next month, a church leader said Wednesday as the leader dismissed a tabloid's article that the church was under attack for hosting the performance.
Aiken, who gained fame on the show "American Idol," is set to perform a Christmas concert at the church Nov. 26.
An article in the most recent issue of the National Enquirer cited a source who said "the church received a lot of attacks" when it announced earlier this year that Aiken would perform. The evangelical church has Wichita's largest Protestant congregation. The article claimed the outrage was centered on Aiken's sexual orientation.
One church leader characterized the article as "just absolutely false." Senior Pastor David Welsh was unavailable for comment.
In June or July, shortly after the church decided to hold the concert, church leaders crafted a memo that addressed, in part, questions that could arise about Aiken's sexual orientation.
A copy of the letter, circulated among church leaders, made many points, including:
• "Clay has always spoken openly about his Christian beliefs. He doesn't drink, smoke, swear or womanize. He won't sing about sex or even use lyrics with innuendo. During his Idol appearance in 2004, Aiken wore his WWJD bracelet each show."
• "His holiday CD includes several songs about Christ's birth. During a tour for Disney, he sang an explicitly Christian song ('You Were There') which references Abraham, David and Jesus."
• "In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine in July 2003, Aiken... stated that he is not gay. This fact was again confirmed in an interview with 'Today's Christian,' an internet website and service of Christianity Today, International."
The letter went on: "Keep in mind, this is an 'outreach event.' Many of Clay's fans are Christians, however some may never darken the halls of a church, but for this one event."
The Central Christian Church leader said that the memo surfaced outside the church within the past few weeks, when someone claiming to be "a concerned citizen" e-mailed the church about Aiken's sexuality. A copy of the memo was sent to the person, the church leader said.
The church has not made any changes in its plans to hold the concert.
"Our official position is we are hosting a Christmas concert and have invited Clay Aiken to be our guest," said Gary Walker, chairman of the church's Board of Elders, its governing body.
"He will be singing songs from his 2004 Christmas album. The concert is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 26 and tickets are $30, $35 and $40."nsas.com 10/11/2007 Church has no plans to cancel Clay Aiken concert.

Link: http://www.kansas.com/news/local/story/197882.html

John Paulus Lies part 1

2007-10-10T19:38:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Despite his assertions that he never filed bankruptcy and never defaulted on his debts, these documents prove otherwise.

"Listen if there was any information on me that was legitimate it would be on every Claymate operated blog before it could be verified. That's not moth balls your smelling, that's Claymate desperation.John Paulus Homepage 10.07.07 -11:22 pm #"Posted by John Paulus in a comment on his blog Naked Truth.

Since you asked . . . .Here it is. This is the first in a series where we will reveal legitimate information Paulus contends does not exist.

He posted in a comment on Naked Truth on June 15, 2006:

John Paulus said...Hi I am back. I was away for awhile and then I was toldthat someone was using my screen name on another blog. These games these people play. The lastest is the posting of my alleged bankruptcy. I thought that I had address that a few months ago and spoke about being a victim of identity theft by a soldier in my unit by the name of Anthony Harrison? They won't post the court papers which fixed it. I will let them play. I have those papers in a box and when I can I just might post those to make them feel stupid again. 12:42 AM

He alleges that someone by the name of Anthony Harrison stole his identity and filed bankruptcy in his name, presumably forging his name and appearing on his behalf in court. Paulus claims that he filed court papers to fix it. Really? Let's examine the real court papers. Below is his bankruptcy petition:

Please notice the signature on the second page of the official bankruptcy petition and compare it to the signature on the mortgage Paulus signed on property he used to own in Ft. Lauderdale (which will be the subject of a future blog). The signature on the mortgage was notarized, leaving no doubt that Paulus signed it himself. There is no doubt that the signatures on both documents are identical.

There are no "court papers which fixed it." This was a legitimate bankruptcy, signed and filed by Paulus to discharge all his debts. The case proceeded through the bankruptcy system in an orderly fashion and was concluded with a Discharge of Debtor signed by the bankruptcy judge:

Stay tuned for Part 2........

JP: IT WAS ALL A HOAX

2007-10-06T18:52:00.001-07:00

JP Admits He Was Hired To Lie

John Paulus Says… “It Was All A Hoax” On the morning of March 2, 2007, former Green Beret, John Paulus, said on his weblog that he lied about his alleged January 2, 2006 sexual tryst with Clay Aiken. Paulus said he was recruited by a group of eight people in July of 2005 to carry out a plot to discredit Aiken and portray him as a promiscuous homosexual. Paulus says this group found him on the gay website “Big Muscle”.

“They saw me there and that I was muscular, attractive, and from NC. and persuaded me to help them. So we worked out this scheme over 6 months and put it into place going over ever detail. I even took 3 prior lie detector test so that I could pass one by any media that gave me one.”According to Paulus,

“… it was nothing but a story concocted by another Idols fans and I was nothing, but the front person in this scheme.”He had this to say about the "evidence" he supposedly had:
“Oh what about the rag? Used a prop. And the cell phone calls? They were calls made by “haters” to my phone. And the hotel room? There was really a room 207 and I really did check in and I did walk with someone into the room.” “Clay and I never met nor have we ever had sex.”Why would John Paulus participate in such a scheme and then continue the lie for more than a year? Paulus explained,

“My only compensation was that they would get me in touch with Lucas to do porno.”In his estimation, Paulus’ porn flick, for Lucas Entertainment, New York City, paid his bills for an entire year.

Paulus claimed that some of Aikens’ fans (also known as Claymates) sent threatening emails and death threats, telephoned him at his job, and got him fired from his job, prompting him to contact the FBI for protection, but his plea was rejected. "It was turned down by the U.S. attorney, and the FBI determined there are no federal statutes that have been violated," an FBI spokesman tells us. "It is a little strange." Side Dish - NY Daily News (Rush & Molloy 7/31/06). An added incentive for Paulus to stick with his story, after his Lucas Entertainment deal, was…

“Because Claymates pissed me off and it was fun messing with them.”So after getting his porn deal and messing with the Claymates what caused John Paulus to do this sudden about face and confess that his liaison with Aiken was all a hoax? Paulus explained that his co-conspirators were offended by his apparently softening stance on Aiken, and he felt they were attempting to discredit him….

“Because when I told the haters I was over this and didn’t want to be a part of their game and I defended Clay by saying he looked good and happy on Kimmel they attacked me and said I was a traitor. I can not go on lying for them and destroying a good person.”One of that group of 8 who Paulus claims was involved, included a blog owner who uses the name of “Percocet” (“Clay Aiken Fraud Squad” formerly named, “Rabid Claymates Exposed”). Percocet denied that she had any involvement the “scheme”.

“I am not, and to the best of my knowledge, no one on my blog is in any kind of cooperation with JP. It is becoming clear how insane he is. You can read his e-mails that he sent to me earlier tonight in my blog comments at 411. JP is just concocting a big story.”Paulus went on to say,

“I’d be willing to have a press conference admitting that this was all a lie and that Clay and I never met nor did he ever solicit me for sex and that as far as I know he is straight.”Paulus then says the truth is that he never met Clay.He says he had a 30 minute conversation with the real Clay Aiken.

He now knows he never spoke to the real Clay but that's another story for another day.

The tangled web of LIES he weaves...................

Clay's statement to ET re:Plane incident

2007-07-09T15:29:00.000-07:00

The singer talks exclusively to ET about his bumpy ride to Tulsa over the weekend!
Singer CLAY AIKEN was involved in a minor dispute with a woman on a plane Saturday. Now, in an exclusive statement to ET, the singer tells his side of the story, saying:

"While sleeping on a plane over the weekend, my foot evidently found a home on the arm rest of the passenger seated directly in front of me. I didn't realize I was causing the woman any distress until she woke me up with a quick hit to the chest. "Unfortunately, being that this happened on a plane, the FBI was called in to investigate and eventually we were all sent on our way. I'd like to thank everyone for their concern; I am fine and have taken steps to prevent any foot wandering in the future."Clay cleverly implies that there are far greater sources of distress in the world. "Now that I have your attention," he continues, "if you'd like to learn more about how you can help the world's children, please visit www.unicefusa.org."

YOU GO CLAY!!!

Link to ET website:
http://www.etonline.com/celebrities/news/48910/index.html

Update re:Clay attacked on a plane

2007-07-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

There has been some firsthand eyewitness accounts about the incident yesterday where Clay was attacked by a fellow passenger on his flight to Tulsa on Continental Airlines:

...one of the organizers of the pre-concert event was on the flight and witnessed the kerfuffle. She was questioned and had to sign a witness statement and everything.According to the people who witnessed it, Clay was asleep with one leg crossed over the other (kind of parallel to floor) and his foot was apparently touching the armrest. The woman hit at his foot and told him to get his foot off her arm. Clay slept through that apparently and she got pissed and started swatting at him and smacking him. He woke up to the woman hitting him.According to the witness, they were all questioned by authorities after the flight touched down and the woman was "led away" by authorities. They think she was arrested but don't know for sure, just that she was in custody.

Ok guys....I was in a meet and greet with him tonight before the concert......Clay told us exactly what happened and he was asleep...he's a tall guy and his foot accidentally touched her armrest...He didn't even hear her talking to him until she began screaming at him, at which point he pulled up his visor and she started swinging... she hit him 3 or 4 times and being the gentleman that he is he did not swing back......He was not hurt......one of our other Oklahoma fans was sitting across the aisle from him and was a witness to this woman's personal attack.
So, Clay was sound asleep and his foot inadvertently touched her armrest. When she was unable to rouse him, she started screaming at him. And when he finally awoke, and before he could respond, she starts hitting him.

No reason to hit another HUMAN being, if there was a problem
the woman should have gotten a flight attendant to wake Clay up and politely tell him to move
his foot, it's common sense. Doesn't sound like "diva" behavoir on Clay's part IMO.

No suprise the "reliable" mainstream media conviently left out these details, talk about
irresponsible journalism. Journalism has gone to the DOGS.

Sighting

2007-06-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Rita Skeeter our Nosy News ace reporter/witness

NY Nosy News Exclusive photo

Clay Aiken on a date with a bevy of female dancers

by Rita Skeeter

June 28th 2007

Clay Aiken and a bevy of female chorus dancers partied into the wee hours at Pinky's Ice Cream parlor over the weekend. He was celebrating the forthcoming Off- Broadway show, "Idol: The Musical" which is all about Clay and his "Claymates," the fans who love him. Clay and his

female companions ordered Snow Queen ice cream sundaes each, after downing their sundaes

Clay and his compainions hopped into a cab together and headed back to his hotel room.