Throwback Thursday! Hosting the International Children's Festival - Asia IG Style!

Had THE BEST time hosting at the International Children's Festival! My family and I have gone almost every year, with Mom in all her glory, a staple representing at the Thailand Booth. So when I had the opportunity to emcee, heck ya? On board!

 Even better, I was planted at the Asia stage to announce many of the countries and acts through out the day. Fun! Fun! Fun!  Each country had a special traditional performance and man, amazing! There were so many great performances, but I will always love the Chinese Dragon Demonstrations. The colors, the movement, the bodies, the sounds.  Enticing.

Growing up mostly in Asia, this really brought me back to my roots! I loved being around so much culture at one time and I salute the city of Hampton for bringing us all together!

 

More than 30 countries were represented at this years festival. Yeah, the weather did show out, raining most of the day, but that didn't stop the magic!


In addition to traditional performances, each country's booth had cultural crafts and presentations. Kids received "Passports" and were encouraged to get a stamp from each country they visited. Tell me that isn't the cutest ever!

Not only did the kids have a ball, but the food? Ah, amazing! I mean, Greek Gyros to Pad Thai to Korean Bulgogi to Mexican Tacos and I can go on really. This is one of the many things my family and I enjoy about the Hampton International Children's Festival. The fact that you can have an international lunch? ROCKS.

Always a good time! This year, the new addition? Those exotic animals, that you get to pet and take that quick "Selfie" with. All in all, I was honored to be apart of Hampton History!


This year represented the 15th Annual International Children's Festival in Hampton. Interested in being a vendor or sponsor next year? Call  (757) 727-8311 or (757) 728-2085.

To have your country represented at the festival, contact Event Coordinators at 727-8314. Looking forward to seeing what new cultures we can explore next year!




         Visit me at https://www.facebook.com/alicesidaii/internationalchildrensfest to see more pics!

Live Well Live Fit Expo

 

There is something to be said, when bringing together a community in Natural Health, Wellness and Fitness!



Sponsor & Community Partner
http://www.traderjoes.com/
 

Agape Wellness and Fitness' focus is to promote overall wellness; mind, body, spirit and soul! We would like to invite you to the "Live Well Live Fit" Expo!  This will be a day of fun for the whole family! 

Kicking off at 9:00 am we will have fitness demonstrations! All kinds! Level U Zumba, Circuit Training, Yoga, Tai Chi, FABulous Soul Line Dancing, BodyByKen Bootcamp Training and more! We will also have an awesome Children's play area with face painting, ceramic, crafting and a special visit from Ms. Hello Kitty!  Special musical performances by Romonta, Joselyn Best and Montreal! See schedule below!



Over 25 vendors will be present selling items from jewelry to natural based products and holistic services! We have some great raffles line up! You will also have the opportunity to get free health check ups as well! Visit AFI online at for more info!



 

Also on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/events/509238095842633/

Full listing of vendors and community partners here:

http://www.agapefoundationsinc.com/CommunityPartners_Vendors



Sponsor & Community Partner
http://afacpc.com/about/



Sponsor & Community Partner
https://www.facebook.com/LEVELUFITNESS





Sponsor & Community Partner
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/famousradio
 

Get Your Fitness On For Free!



9:30 AM Tai Chi

 

10:00 AM Level U Zumba Kick Off

 

10:30 AM Level U Circuit Training Session

 

11:00 AM Living Divinity Yoga with Amani

 

11:30 AM Fabulous Soul Line Dancing with Erica Still

 

12:00 PM Body By Ken Bootcamp Session

 

1:00 PM Level U Zumba

 

1:30 PM Level U Circuit Training Session

 

2:00 PM Living Divinity Yoga with Amani

 

2:30 PM Fabulous Soul Line Dancing with Erica Still

 



 

 

Throwback Thursday: It's American Idol Time! Let's Go Back LA for Season 12's Finale & Red Carpet Coverage!

Media outlets swarm Country Superstar Keith Urban at the American Idol Finale & Red Carpet. 

Red Carpet Action with Jessica Sanchez!

Alice@Large with American Idol Winner Candice Glover.  

 Anyone else psyched JLO is back on board with American Idol? No-Just me (Oh and the tra-billion Jenny from the block lovers!) I'm digging the new judges. I really like the dynamics between the three. Harry Connick Jr., who was a guest coach last season, keeps it brutally honest. (I think we may have found our new Simon!) Country crooner superstar Keith Urban charms again. He seems to thoroughly enjoy and appreciate those true artists who lay it all on the line for that AI title. Jennifer of course brings the fashion, and keeps the business side on top! The team hit the Motor City, Detroit for a little action in last nights episode. Next week their search for the next American Idol takes them to Georgia! Home state for host Ryan Seacrest.  A few months ago, my guest reporter duties with FOX Japan had me @Large in Los Angeles, California for the Season 12 American Idol Finale & Red Carpet! It was such an exciting time, as I interviewed and got to know all top 12 sweethearts! I cannot tell you my fave, but I can tell you who SAAAANG! Ms. Candice Glover! She tried out three times, finally winning the coveted title for Season 12.  Talk about never giving up! Although I didn't get a chance to speak to my favorite diva of all time, Mariah Carey, I will tell you that from where I was sitting during the viewing of the results show, I could see her up close and personal. Being the true fan that I am, I was star struck! Almost in tears...yeah, that was me. She looked immaculate, skin like a porcelain doll! Much, much smaller of course in person.  

With the Legedary Ray Chew.

Judge Niki Minaj gave her two cents as Mr. Urban gives a shout out to our Japanese friends on the red carpet.  My face beat red after he said to me "Your  beautiful, baby!" in that super sexy Australian accent! Again, that charm thing I mentioned, he does so well. So many of your favorite stars also walked the red carpet, including past AI winners, Scott McCreery and Taylor Hicks. Even silver screen legend Anthony Hopkins made a quick appearance! Who knew?  A very pregnant Tamar Braxton, arrived a little late, but looked gorgeous!  She was adorable, waving to everyone as she scurried in. See our American Idol Special Coverage Footage where I speak to Ms. Minaj, Keith, Anthony and many others!  Link below!

Enjoying the lights of LA Live after Day 1 of the American Idol Finale.

View More American Idol Coverage Pictures on my Facebook! 

Day 1: https://www.facebook.com/#!/alicesidaii/media_set?set=a.10151625455796539.1073741831.627421538&type=3

Day 2: https://www.facebook.com/#!/alicesidaii/media_set?set=a.10151625280246539.1073741829.627421538&type=3

VIDEO!!See the awesome two-day coverage
FOX Japan American Idol Red Carpet & Finale Special hosted by me at:

http://www.youtube.com/Aliceatlargeevents

Get Candice new Single "Cried" out now!

Special Shout Outs: 

Make Up Artist Carmen Diane of www.carmendianne.com for the glam! 

Celebrity Stylist Kemar Jones of Hair Jones Celebrity Salon for the hair! 

                                          

                                                Hair Jones Celebrity Salon 

www.carmendianne.com

Throwback Thursday! Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2012 My NY Adventure!

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2013 just wrapped up! Due to air in December! Last year I had the honor of covering the event as a Guest Reporter for FOX International Channels Japan & FOX Backstage Pass! A dream gig!

Ready to tackle the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2012 PINK Carpet 

Two lucky ladies from Tokyo won a trip to New York City that included a make-over, tickets to the show and a chance to meet their favorite Angel with me!

Interviewing Angel Miranda Kerr for FOX Japan

Us media & press folks had our chance to interview the Angels during their Hair & Make-Up Session! Talk about fast pace! There were cameras flashing, a billion reporters lined up with their questions and mics! Make-Up brushes and lip gloss everywhere! Models, Make Up Artists & Hair Stylists galore! So many Angels wrapped in their signature pink satin robes, milling about, eating, laughing, lounging.   My mind is literally in heaven! We had about 20 minutes, to get as many interviews with the Super models. Oh, about 25 other media outlets are in the same predicament. You can image the tug of war!

Alesandria & the 2.5 Million Dollar Bra.

My first interview was with Illinois native Erin Heatheton, who dated everyone's favorite bachelor, Gatsby star Leonardo Di Caprio. She was such an American Beauty!  I shared that we were born in  the same state, and that she has come along way from being a Vikings Basketball player in High School. After a chuckle,  she shared what it feels like to gear up for probably the most famous runway show! She was cooler than a fan, really. Laid back and super nice!

Waiting right behind Inside Edition for my turn with Miranda Kerr!

My favorite interview was with the super gorgeous Miranda Kerr! She was literally getting her hair rolled, and done while we talked. She shared her "Secret" & what prep work goes into the big dance! We also talked about her new Organic skin care line KORA that recently launched in Japan. She was gracious enough to meet the lucky winners. Of course we caught it all on film! She was amazing! True beauty! Weird how both our now NOT with their significant others.  If you didn't know, she gave birth last year to a beautiful baby boy with hubby Orlando Bloom. Another True beauty!  Off topic. That bejeweled 2.5 Million dollar bra! AMAZE! I was scared to look at it. Its super powers mesmerize you! Angel Alessandria donned the spectacular set! Werk honey!

I really wanted one of these!!! 

 We were in the middle of like the worst winter storm, right after Sandy. That didn't stop us from toughing it out for the Pink Carpet! Seeing RihRih, Justin B, Bruno Mars and few other super stars, made it worth while! Rih rocked the house by the way! Loved her performances and she got cheeky with the models! I was side by side with E! Next to one of my favorite TV personalities Alicia Quarles and AJ, former BET fame. That alone, had me on cloud nine! There were so many parts of this trip that really, were moments I took in and will cherish for the rest of my life!  Check out the FOX Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2012 special below!

View beautiful NY by way of FOX Japan & my clips with the gorgeous gals on the FOX Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2012 Special here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7_pTAjalUM&feature=c4-overview-vl&list=PLjV2ufx5xAAMZ_UijpjgRqnxeIMkJkVW4

View behind the runways pictures on my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/alicesidaii/media_set?set=a.10151281272326539.512262.627421538&type=1

Hair Stylist: Kemar Jones Hair Jones Celebrity Salon

No Malice Preaches to Us in "Hear Ye Him"

No Malice "Hear Ye Him" 

Alice@Large

I commend anyone who rises against the grain. I commend anyone who has the ability to speak their truth. I commend those brave enough to take on the world, and I did just that during my interview with Grammy Nominated Artist No Malice of famous hip hop/brother duo The Clipse, native of Hampton Roads, Virginia.  I was honored to cover the "Hear Ye Him" Album Listening Party.  As soon as the guest of honor arrived he literally shook everyones hand....right then and there, I knew this was going to be something special.  I was ready to tackle the questions everyone wanted the answers to....What happened?

Creme Boutique 321 W. 21st Ghent, Norfolk VA

The backdrop couldn't have been better. Located at Pusha T's Clothing, Shoes & Accesories boutique Creme in the heart of Ghent, Norfolk, Virginia, on a beautiful crisp Thursday evening.  The "Hear Ye Him" listenting event featured many of 757 favorite faces and "Who's Who" of Hampton Roads. So much so, there was a line outside of the store as fans poured in to hear what the once hailed "Malicious One" had to say about his newfound "Faith". I cannot wait to share the footage!

TheMakeUpBaby13, Ms. Neka and No Malice's son Marcus on set!

Before we talked Music, I wanted to know about the Man. I asked him why sharing his story in "Wretched, Pitiful, Poor, Blind & Naked" was so imperative. We discussed the turning point for him as he gears towards "faith based" music and why he believes in the message.  I asked him when "Lord Willin'" hit #1 on the Billboard Charts, did he think his life would ever take all these twists and turns?

No Malice giving a shout out to Alice@Large! I spy my pink shoes!

Then came the music! First and foremost--his song with Pusha T "Shame The Devil".  I asked about the concept and how it was working again with his brother, as fans have anticipated new sounds from the pair.  "Everyone wanted us to be like a 'Cain & Abel', it's not like that" said No Malice, adding a litte chuckle. "We have the same Mother, Father, Siblings...we are Brothers!"  I told him this song really "KILLS ALL NOISE" the media tried to drum up about an aparent "Beef" between the two.  He reassured, "There is none".

Producers of lead single "Hear Ye Him" & Bury That"
-fellas of Profound Sound!

We then discussed our mutual friend & 757 legend Jon Bibbs,  featured on this song "Bury That" produced by Profound Sound.  Bibbs attended one of Alice@Large Events fundraising affairs for individuals, families & children infected with HIV/AIDS in our community. Stellar and super talented guy! I cannot wait to share the footage of what the "ReBirthed" rapper had to say about putting his old lifestyle to rest.  At the conclusion of our interview I asked him when all is said and done, and there is nothing out there but your legend or message, what do you want to leave behind....his answer "Jesus Christ".  His album debuts August 18th, and I guarantee, the buzz is going to be on a "Higher Level".

Lady C aka Cymandye made this all happen! Great Job!!!

Shout out to Cymandye and her team, including No Malice's son Marcus,  for putting together an awesome event! I mean the love and the support? Down right amazing! Special shout out to: Pure Brilliance, Creme Boutique, TheMakeUpBaby13, Alice@Large Entertainment Staff, Beach City Customs, Monster Energy Drink, Z104, HipHopSince1987, Play Clothes, REinvision Films and everyone else in attendance to support our very own "Hero!"

757 Legend DJ Jack of Spades

Discussing "Hear Ye Him" with one of the producers. 

Asian Persuasion with Ms. Cat Robinson!

Creme Boutique 321 W. 21st Street, Ghent, Norfolk, VA

Creme Boutique 321 W. 21st Street, Ghent, Norfolk, VA

Mr. Tyku himself! Lynx! 

Shout out to Pure Briliance for awesome production work! 

No Malice giving an "Alice@Large" Shout out! 

Shout out to another talented guy Keno Beats!

Stay tuned for the awesome interview via Alice@Large Youtube! By the way-HIP HOP, yeah, it lives alright...just have to open your eyes, heart, mind, spirit and soul!

Sawadee Ka! Hello! Bonjour! Hola! Konichiwa! Aloha! What's Good!

Los Angeles, California American Idol Finale 

"All I Need Is One Mic"-NAS

First Blog Post! Whoot! Whoot! I am a lover of all things...especially life and all the little treasures we find along the way! No matter where the navigation or GPS of existence takes us. High or Low. There's always a little reminder why we are lucky to live, laugh and love!!! Cliche, I know-but I mean it for real, for real.  I for one, laugh A-LOT (Jim Carey Voice) I have traveled the world and will be forever searching for that rainbow! Which comes to us, in so many different ways!  C'mon.  Let's Explore...Let's Take the Journey!