Toni Baker-Tyson describes herself as a social butterfly and writes about the Qcity's grown-folks nightlife. Her entertainment picks are published each Thursday. Opinions expressed are solely her own. Email her at toni@qcitymetro.com.

Can you believe it's almost October? I can, and I'm looking forward to many exciting events taking place next month.

Concerts featuring Brian McKnight, Norman Brown and Ledisi are just around the corner, along with Cam Newton and the Panthers. Comedy Zone has George Wilborn and Nephew Tommy, and make sure to get your costume for grown folks Halloween parties. I'll do my best to keep you posted.

The verdict is in. I'm pleased to announce the R&B party featuring the band Peace and Love was a huge success. I'm so glad that Jazz Diva Tammy trusted my judgment. Old school tore it down on the dance floor. What a great evening, and by the way, if you missed the band, you can check them out this coming Friday night at Wet Willies. I hope to see you there.

The recent rain certainly played a major roll with outdoor events. I was on my way to Praise in the Park, but was greeted by an unexpected downpour, so I decided to go with Plan B -- Northlake Mall and see director John Singleton's new movie “Abduction.” I thought about movie hopping (like when I was a teenager) but instead, after the movie I attended a women's health fair in the mall. (Great literature, massages and bath treats)

I did make it to Festival in the Park, my all-time favorite event for the fall season. I saw the jazz group Flutepraise (They will be out at the Blakeney Shopping center this weekend.) The African American Men Standing for Christ choir also performed. As for food, I had my annual heart attack sandwich -- Italian sausage, peppers and onions on a roll – and a funnel cake. Thank goodness I had on my tennis shoes for walking.
Check out my weekend picks:

FRIDAY:
A Jazzy Wine Tasting ~ Hosted by Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists. A benefit to fund college scholarships. Come out for a worthy cause to mix, mingle, drink and eat with friends. Free parking in gated parking deck. I hope to see you there.
Location: Press Wine and Food (333 W. Trade St)
Cost: $20 per ticket
Time: 7 p.m.
For more information: Call 704-900-3584, or go online at http://CAABJ.COM/
***
SATURDAY:
Smooth Jazz Saturday Night ~ Bassist Bryan Anderson. Mature jazz for grown folks. I continue to receive feedback from folks who tremendously enjoy this weekly venue on Saturday evening.
Location: Fanz Sports Grille (3425 David Cox Blvd)
Cost: Free
Time: 9 p.m. - midnight (Get there early!)
For additional more information: Call 704 597-7413, or go online at http://fanzsportsgrill.com/events.cfm
***
SUNDAY
The Civil War ~ Thrilling, dramatic theater. A musical focusing on firsthand accounts and words of Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass and Walt Whitman.
Location: CPCC Halton Theater (1206 Elizabeth Ave)
Cost: $10- $18
Time: 2:30 pm
For additional information: 704-330-6840, or go online at CharlotteCultureGuide.com.

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