Upcoming Event: Creed Chamelon's Aloha Farewell Party

Join Got Rice Show & Hip Hop at the Trops for Creed Chameleon's Farewell Party on Friday (4/15)!

This will be Creed Chameleon's last show on the island, he'll be performing old, new & unreleased tracks.

It's also the return of The Direct Descendants. Beats will be provided by Packo & Une. There will be an open mic cypher all night long.

This is an 18+ event with NO COVER!

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1020 Auhai Street. Honolulu, Hawaii
Blog: http://gotriceshow.blogspot.com
Email: gotriceshow@gmail.com
Facebook: Creed Chameleon's Farwell Party & Jus Bone Kaneshiro
Twitter: @BoneHI & @Creed_Chameleon

Tango Market

Maybe it's just me, but whenever I read a food review, I feel like my mind automatically sides with the writer's opinions & their review determines whether I decide to eat somewhere new. That's why I love stumbling upon a new eatery & experiencing what they have to offer before reading any of their food reviews. This way I have an honest opinion of their food without another writer's bias.

I was in town waiting for a meeting & I decided the best way to kill time was to eat lunch. I originally planned to visit Kaka'ako Kitchen, but I couldn't step inside since it was packed with hungry customers (FYI: when I'm starving, I have very little patience when it comes to waiting). While I walked towards Ala Moana Shopping Center, I stumbled upon Tango Market (located in the old Satura Cakes location) & immediately thought place is too cute to pass up!

As soon as I walked inside, I was immediately greeted by their smiling staff (brownie points) &the delicious aroma of freshly baked goods lingering in the air. I was thrilled to learn they bake & make all of their food (brownie points). Since I couldn't read their lunch specials on the board, this adorable employee described each of their lunch specials without a trace of irritation in her voice (MAJOR brownie points!).

Normally, I prefer lasagna filled with meat, but I decided to try their veggie option since it came with a side of salad. While I waited for my lunch to be warmed in their oven, I ordered their Rice Pudding because their dessert display was too appetizing to pass up. This was my first time trying Rice Pudding & I'm still trying to decide how I feel about this, maybe next time I'll enjoy it more since I'll know what to expect.

When my food arrived I was shocked to see how small the portions were in comparison to their plate. However, after I ate each morsel of my delicious veggie lasagna, devoured their Nalo salad & enjoyed their garlic bread, I realized that Tango Market's portion sizes were perfect. After I eat a meal, I have an intense desire to take a long nap, because I ate too much however, after my Tango Market lunch I felt energized & ready for my meeting.

If you didn't already noticed, I'm the type of person that appreciates amazing customer service, because I've only worked in that industry & I can't sing enough praises about my Tango Market experience. I loved their super friendly staff, the open seating indoors & outdoors, the delicious aroma of fresh baked goods that envelopes their space. Did I mention their desire to put the customer first? Since I wasn't thrilled with the Rice Pudding, one of the employees happily exchanged it for Strawberry Mousse which is another example of their amazing customer service.

Tango Market is open for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Try them for yourselves & if you're not sure what to order, just ask the staff whose more than happy to assist your needs.

Here's pictures from my Tango Market meal:

Rice Pudding

Veggie Lasagna w/Nalo Greens & Garlic Bread

Strawberry Mousse

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1200 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu Hawaii 96814
Facebook: Tango Market
Fax: 808.596.4488
Phone Number: 808.596.4888
Website: http://tangomarket.com/

Upcoming Event: Lightsleepers x Space&Sound: Japan Aid

Wanna help Japan & listen to amazing musicians? Be sure to attend Lightsleepers x Space&Sound: Japan Aid, a benefit for the people of Japan happening Saturday (4/16) at Loft in Space.

Enjoy live performances from the following: ALT/AIR with special guest musicians, DJ Oliver Twist, Clones of the Queen, Earwig Origami, The Samples, DJ Observ, Nomasterbacks, Ely the producer, Parlous, Kavet The Catalyst & Vezzen.

This is an all ages event takes place in Loft in Space (warehouse behind Fresh Cafe) from 5 pm - 11 pm. $10 cover at the door will go to Japan!



For more info visit the following:
Address: Loft in Space. 831 Queen Street. Honolulu, Hawaii
Email: lightsleepers@gmail.com
Facebook: Lightsleepers x Space&Sound: Japan Aid
Twitter: @loftinspace. @lightsleepers & @spaceandsound
Yelp: yelp.com/events/honolulu-lightsleepers-x-space-and-sound-japan-aid
Website: www.lightsleepers.net & www.spaceandsound.org

No Suck Fest Kickstarter/Kickoff Party

Whenever I learn that a friend is in the process of turning their dreams into a reality, I do my best to support them by promoting their cause or event. Sometimes I can't remember how I become involved with helping their dreams, but the twinkle in their eyes & passion in their voice which attracts me like a moth to a bright light.

I ran into my friend Kevin Tit, bassist of False Crack, at February's Art&Flea & learned he was a vendor raising money for No Suck Fest 2011. No Suck Fest is in its third year of creating yearly, all ages festivals in Hawaii & celebrating the DIY punk culture & spirit. I love that No Suck Fest wants to bring bands from the outer islands & mainland in order to, "unify the DIY music scene in hawaii again and get people to start caring again."

You don't need to be in a band or rock a certain hairstyle to bring the punk scene back to Hawaii. No matter how much contribute to the non-profit organization No Suck Fest, remember that this is the vehicle that will enable others to get involved & put Hawaii's underground DIY scene back on the map. Check out their Facebook page for upcoming No Suck Fest events & I promise they won't suck!

Here's some of my favorite No Suck Fest Kickstarter/Kickoff Party pixs:

For more info visit the following:
Email: nosuckfest2011@gmail.com
Facebook: No Suck Fest 2011, SUCK'n FUNDS [a NO SUCK FEST fundraiser] & No Suck Fest- April RULES Day @ ASTERISK!
Kickstarter: www.kickstarter.com/projects/nosuckfesthi/no-suck-fest-2011
Twitter: @NoSuckFest
Wordpress: http://nosuckfesthawaii.wordpress.com

For all the pictures from No Suck Fest Kickstarter/Kickoff Party visit Aloha Update:
www.alohaupdate.com/2011/03/28/photos-from-no-suck-fest-kickstarter-partayy/

Upcoming Event:: No Suck Fest - April RULES Day @ Asterisk!

Make your way to Asterisk on Saturday (4/9) to celebrate the 3rd year of No Suck Fest! This event will feature an awesome line-up of bands & No Suck Fest will be raising money to bring maniland bands to the island.

Bands in the line-up include: GRLFRNDS, Makua Valley Blast Test, Pimpbot, Itty Bitty Kitty, Uvovu + Yeda, Substioots & Dicks of Doom.

This is a FREE show & it's all ages! The event takes place from 7 pm - 1 am. Also bring cash to buy raffles for prizes, merch & more!

Email No Suck Fest to find out the address of this secret location!


For more info visit the following:
Address: Asterisk House
Email: nosuckfest2011@gmail.com
Facebook: No Suck Fest 2011 & No Suck Fest- April RULES Day @ Asterisk
Twitter: @NoSuckFest
Wordpress: http://nosuckfesthawaii.wordpress.com/

Upcoming Event: VarieTease Carnal Carnival

If there's one event that you MUST attend during April, it's the Cherry Blossom Cabaret's VarieTease: Carnal Carnival. This production is only available for 2 weekends (April 8-9 & April 14-17).

What happens when an angel & devil make a bet on the fate of a human soul? Cherry Blossom Cabaret presents their biggest, boldest & wildest VarieTease show to date. Watch at the circus of virtue & a slideshow of vice collide to weave together a magical story incorporating group dance numbers, song, aerial dance, drama, burlesque, spectacle & more!

Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. $15 pre-sale tickets available online & $20 at the door.

For more info visit the following:
Address: The ARTS at Mark's Garage. 1159 Nu'uana Avenue. Honolulu, Hawaii
Email: cherryblossomcabaret@gmail.com
Facebook: CherryBlossom Cabaret & VarieTease: Carnal Carnival - Cirque Du Soul April 8-9, 14-17
Phone Number: 808.838.3006
Tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/160582
Twitter: @cherrybl0ss0m <--- the o's are zeroes
Website: www.artsatmarksgarage.com, www.cherryblossomcabaret.com

Art & Flea: Short Circuit Robot Party

I say this about EVERY Art & Flea, but this was my favorite event so far! Seriously, what's not to love? A short circuit robot theme + amazing finds located in one place & great music? There's nothing that compares to this fun-filled event, especially on a week day!

This was my favorite Art & Flea for two reasons: 1) I unexpectedly participated in the "Dance Your Bot Off" contest (Thanks Nicole & Aly for the "push" :) & won a gift certificate from my favorite hair salon: ryanjacobie. (Thank you for my fabulous bangs!). 2) I met a real life philanthropist who officially earned, "The Woman With The Heart of Gold" title. I'm so in "like" with her that I've decided she's one of the people that will be featured in my upcoming one year anniversary special blog posts!

Honestly, if you've never checked out any Art & Flea events, you're depriving yourself of all this fun! In case you missed it: Art & Flea was voted BEST event in the March 2011 issue of Honolulu Magazine + SuperCW voted it as the BEST event of 2010. Make sure you stalk their Facebook page & dress up for April's theme (trust me, you're gonna LOVE it).

Here's some of my favorite pictures from Art&Flea: Short Circuit Robot Party:

For more info visit the following:
Email: artandflea@gmail.com
Facebook: ArtandFlea Hawaii
Tumblr: http://artandflea.tumblr.com
Twitter: @ArtandFlea
Website: www.artandflea.com

Upcoming Event: Urban Renaissance: A Biography of Hip Hop, Vol. 1

If you're in the mood for art & hip hop make your way down to Ong King this Saturday (3/26) from 9 pm - 4 am.

All hip hop elements will be strategically placed in one setting & illustrated through art, music & interviews. Throughout the musical performances the artists will connect with the audience by sharing their history in hip hop.

Attendees can expect to hear performances by RUN808, a high energy local hip hop fusion band. They'll also enjoy solo & group performances by Dancers Unlimited & witness live graffiti.

This is an all ages event with $7 cover.

For more info visit the following:
Address: 182 North King Street. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Facebook: Urban Renaissance: A Biography of Hip Hop, Vol. 1
Myspace: myspace.com/RUN808 & myspace.com/KenaSage
Tumblr: www.Rudified.tumblr.com
Website: www.ArtoniWorld.com, www.CuratorsofHipHop.com, www.DancersUnlimitedHI.com, www.OngKing.com & www.UrbanMediums.com

Look What Arrived In The Mail!

Sometimes it feels like people are only concerned about themselves, oblivious to the fact that there are people in desperate need of help. That's why it warms my heart to know that when disaster strikes, people feel compelled to rise up & make an effort to help in any way they can.

I was so touched when I learned Cindy Yokoyama (owner/designer) of Ginger13, created a limited edition line called: Kokua Japan Jewelry. 100% of all proceeds will go to The American Red Cross.

Ginger13's Kokua Japan jewelry collection is proof that you'll not only feel good helping out a great cause, but have gorgeous eye candy to remind you that there's still good in everyone. Whether you're a fan of earrings, necklaces or bracelets; there's something beautiful for everyone & you better place your order soon because quantities are limited.

Here's one of the fabulous Kokua Japan Jewelry pieces:

For more info visit the following:
Email: cindyyokoyama@gmail.com
Facebook: Ginger13 & Cindy Yokoyama
Fax: 888.796.3659
Phone Number: 808.224.4318
Website: www.ginger13.com

Upcoming Event: NextCoast

Next Saturday (3/26) be sure to check out the 2nd Nextcoast event happening at Next Door. Join them as they celebrate the CD Release of WEFLYHI Mixtape 2 with performances by Flip The Bird artist Prie.

KLUV will be hosting & performing new material. New dubstep tracks by Creed Chameleon, live beat performance by BADNEWS. Enjoy music video preview of Slapp Symphony & Kimie Miner + special guest King Kapisi: the international amabassador of New Zealand hip hop. Also check out DJ Matt Ratt spinning at this event.

This is a 21+ event that takes place from 9 pm - 2 am. $10 cover.

For more info visit the following:
Address: 43 North Hotel Street. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Email: chris@nextdoorhnl.com
Facebook: Nextcoast & Nextdoor Hnl
Phone Number: 808.852.2243
Twitter: @nextdoorhnl
Website: www.nextdoorhnl.com

HIFI Pop-Up Fashion Incubator

If your heart skips a beat whenever you look through a fashion magazine, I suggest checking out the HIFI Pop-Up Fashion Incubator located in the Ala Moana Shopping Center (Level 1 Makai of Old Navy). This week long event takes place from March 18th - March 27th.

When I first stepped inside the HIFI Pop-Up Fashion Incubator, I felt like this was a tiny preview of my dream closet, filled with adorable pieces made from local designers. It was like a fashionista's dream come true. If you're in the mood to shop, check out these exclusive pieces from local designers before they're gone! Pick up something adorable for yourself or someone special; you're also supporting HIFI's mission statment: "helping to inspire, promote & sustain an integrated fashion community in Hawaii."

Visit their website for this week's fashion events & registration for fun activities. Be sure to check out their website to see all of the fun activities you're able to participate in & .

Here's some of my favorite pictures from HIFI Pop-Up Fashion Incubator:

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, Hawaii 96814 (Level 1 Makai near Old Navy)
Email: melissa@hawaiifashion.org
Facebook: Hifi Pop-up Fashion Incubator
Website: www.hawaiifashion.org/pop-up & www.indiegogo.com/hawaii-fashion-incubator

Upcoming Event: MénageÀ3: BLING

April's MénageÀ3 theme is BLING. If you got it, flaunt it! If it shines then wear it. Dress to impress but remember to keep it classy!


Former MénageÀ3 former DJ Kitty Lee will be provide music for the Cherry Blossom Cabaret dancers to perform their sexy peepshow in the main showroom. Firebird Photography offers retro photobooth to immortalize the night.

Cover $10 after 9pm. For bottle service & dinner reservations contact Apartment3 via email or telephone.

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1750 Kalakaua Avenue. Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Email: cherryblossomcabaret@gmail.com & hello@apartmentthree.com
Facebook: Saturday, April 23: CBC Presents...MenageA3: BLING at Apartment3
Phone Number: 808.955.9330
Twitter: @cherrybl0ss0m, @apartm3nt, @firebirdphoto & @alohaupdate
Website: www.cherryblossomcabaret.com & http://apartmentthree.com

MenageA3: Cirque Du Sexy

If you weren't at Apatment3 last night for MenageA3: Cirque Du Sexy; you MISSED the Cherry Blossom Cabaret's amazing peep show performances & dazzling costumes + you deprived yourself of some of the best-looking people I've seen around town.

As usual Apartment3's staff dressed in theme & looked absolutely fierce! I felt giddy as a school girl when I saw one of my favorite movies: Moulin Rouge being played on the flat screen TVs & I was amazed at how perfectly it fit with the Cirque Du Sexy theme. There was also a huge private party in the back that celebrated with stunning masquerade masks & fabulous party dresses. The only way this event could've been more extravagant is if I rode to Apartment3 on an elephant.

If you missed this past MenageA3 event, make sure you attend their upcoming events which will add sizzle to your weekend. BLING- diamonds, pearls, sequin, pearls & more takes place on April 23rd & Slumber Peep Show- a lingerie/pajama party happening on May 21st.

Here's some of my favorite pictures from MenageA3: Cirque Du Sexy:

For more info visit the following:
Email: cherryblossomcabaret@gmail.com
Facebook: CherryBlossom Cabaret, Saturday, April 23: CBC Presents... MenageA3: BLING at Apartment3 & VarieTease: Carnal Carnival- Cirque du Soul April 8-9, 14-17
Twitter: @cherrybl0ss0m
Website: www.cherryblossomcabaret.com

Respect The Mic

With the numerous advancements in technology, it feels like we've lost the ability connect with another person that doesn't involve 140 characters. Our feelings are reduced to smiley faces & letters meant to express an emotion. Sometimes it feels like we're too busy tweeting about what happened in our life vs. living in the present moment.

Respect The Mic was an opportunity for attendees to reconnect with the meaning behind words; it was also a chance to look at life from a different perspective.

All the proceeds from Thursday's event went to the non-profit organization: Youth Speaks Hawaii. Their mission statement is to: "Inspire the youth of Hawai'i to take ownership of their voices and the creative power of expression because the next generation can speak for itself."

I ♥ & support what Youth Speaks Hawaii is doing for those involved in this organization. Sometimes the hardest thing is being able to express how you truly feel; but these youths have found their voice & aren't scared to tell you what's in their hearts & mind. If you're free next Friday (3/25) check out the Youth Speaks Hawaii: Grand Slam Finals, I guarantee you'll walk out of the Farrington H. S. auditorium a have a greater appreciation for words.

Here's some of my favorite pictures from Respect The Mic:

open mic freestyle cypher

respect the mic

open mic freestyle cypher

sing the body

ill hill society

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1159 Nu'uanu Avenue. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Email: info@youthspeakshawaii.org
Facebook: Youth Speaks Hawaii & Youth Speaks Hawai'i 2011 Grand Slams Final
Phone Number: 808.306.7197
Website: http://youthspeakshawaii.org

Upcoming Event: Hip Hop at the Trops presents Parlous Mixtape CD Release Party

Kick off your Spring Break with Hip hop at The Trops & The Got Rice? Show Presents Parlous "The Painted Rust Mixtape 2" CD Release Party on Friday (3/18).

Enjoy live performances from Parlous, Dyyon, The Prolific Unknowns, Milli & much more. Also be sure to support local music & pick up a copy of the Painted Rust Mixtape available that night.

DJ Revise Rocking & Open Mic all night long.

This is an 18+ event. NO Cover!

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1020 Auahi Street. Honolulu, Hawaii
Blog: http://gotriceshow.blogspot.com
Email: gotriceshow@gmail.com
Facebook: Hiphop @ The Trops presents Parlous Mixtape CD Release Party

Blogging Is My Boyfriend: 2011 So Far...

In less than 3 months, Sweet Lychee Productions will celebrate its one year anniversary!

I can't believe how much one can accomplish in the course of a year & all the blessing that are in my life because of my boyfriend (aka my blog). Sweet Lychee Productions has given me the opportunity to meet wonderful people I never would've met otherwise, I learned valuable life lessons which caused me to grow tremendously as a person.

I'm currently in the process of deciding what I'll be writing about for those extra special one year anniversary posts!

Until then remember, when it comes to following your dreams, hard work & persistence pay off.

♥ Sweet Lychee

Upcoming Event: Hawaii Fashion and Beauty Expo

The First Annual Fashion & Beauty Expo takes place from Friday - Sunday (3/25 -3/27) at the Neil Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall.

Live entertainment includes performances by: Hypersquad Dance Co., fashion shows, live giveaways from Clear Channel Radio, Andy South & Harold Julian Gallery + Hawaii’s own Operation Runway & Top Model competition presented by Wilhelmina Hawai'i & Taken Magazine.

Free seminars by top leading professionals demonstrating:
Hair by Richie Miao,
Makeup by Liz Dahl,
Fashion by Lyndzi Trang,
Cosmetic by Dr. Gregory Herbich, MD,
Health & Fitness by Matt and Alicia Jones.

General admission is $7. Children under 12 are FREE.

For more info visit the following:
Email: leilani@dollhousepromotions.com
Facebook: Hawai'i Fashion and Beauty Expo & Dollhouse Promotions
Phone Number: 808.372.8283
Website: www.hawaiifashionandbeautyexpo.com & www.dollhousepromotions.com

Upcoming Event: St. Patrick's Day at Apartment 3

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day (3/17) with Apartment 3 & enjoy $2 green drafts, $3 Jameson's whiskey & $3 Guinness until closing. Kitchen is open until at least 11:30 pm.

Remember to wear stylish attire after 9 pm: NO slippers, shorts, baseball hats, athletic wear or ugly fashionable tees.

NO COVER! 21+ after 9 pm.

For bottle service or dinner reservations contact vip@flashandmattyboy.com or Apartment 3's telephone.

For more info visit the following:
Address: 1750 Kalakaua Avenue. Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Email: hello@apartmentthree.com
Facebook: Apartment 3
Phone Number: 808.955.9330
Twitter: @apartm3nt
Website: www.apartmentthree.com