Editor's Note: 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.

***

Last week I decided to take off Friday to jumpstart my weekend. Since I had already seen "The Help", which I enjoyed at a private screening. I decided to see Final Destination.

Yes, I'm a “Destination” junkie. I don't know if it's because I'm getting older, but the anxiety and suspense during the movie was killing me. I still managed to come out in one piece and I loved it, so check it out when you have a chance.

Afterward I opted for a more tranquil setting -- meeting friends at Wet Willies to see Peace and Love, my favorite band from Rock Hill. Shout out to my friend Ryan who plays in the band and, by the way, I recruited two new groupies, Kashka and Tonya.

Recovering from a late Friday night, I made my way Saturday morning down to the Harvey B. Gantt Center, one of the most beautiful places in Charlotte for African American arts and culture. Volunteerism is one of my passions, and I assisted with greeting new volunteers for the upcoming fall season. If you are ever thinking about volunteer work, the Gantt Center is the place for you. I consider it my home away from home.

My next stop was to meet up with my childhood friend, Jo-Anne from New Jersey, who was in town for the Panther/Giants preseason game. Unfortunately, I was catching another movie, “Monte Carlo” in Matthews.

I know what you're thinking: Where does she get the energy? I'm not drinking Red Bull; I just take a One A Day multivitamin and enjoy living my life like it's golden, to borrowing a line from Jill Scott, who I will see next week at the Verizon Amphitheater, tickets still available.

In any event, I wasn't able to meet Jo- Anne, and I was disappointed. I was pressed for time to get to a VIP party at the Halton Theater. Jazz Diva Tammy was presenting an event featuring Ken Ford and Euge Groove. Folks, let me tell you; I was mesmerized by Ken Ford. I thought I was thrilled when Sade appeared on stage from beneath the floor. Ken Ford's band was performing and he comes running out on stage full force, with his violin!!! I was on full speed like the Energizer bunny and was blown away.

I introduced myself to a gentleman named Keith sitting on my right, and my friend named Toni was sitting on my left. It's important that I meet people sitting next to me before I expose my enthusiasm for the musician. I'm extremely animated, and I don't want to step on any one's toes or invade their space.

If you're on my Facebook page, check out my picture tagged from Jazz Diva Tammy. You'll see how great a time I was really having.

Sunday I managed to wrap up the weekend by attending the 2nd International Black Cinema film on Josephine Baker. I really had no idea how lovely her voice truly was. I'm really enjoying this series, and I’m eagerly awaiting next month's final film. And I hope to see you there. Enough about me…

If you haven't made plans, check out my weekend picks:

FRIDAY
Ikea's Annual Swedish Crayfish Buffet ~ Join in the fun for an all-you-can-eat crayfish party. I know; you're surprised to hear about dinner at Ikea. I was, too, until a few months ago when I attended the annual summer buffet. The menu consists of crayfish, shell-on prawns with cocktail sauce, smoked salmon, meatballs and mash potatoes, just to name a few. There is also an assortment of salads, desserts and the best-ever Swedish coffee. Make sure you eat a light lunch that day and arrive early. I will be there about 5:30 pm and you're welcome to join me.
Location: 8300 Ikea Blvd (just off of I-85) in the University Area
Cost: $9.99 for adults; $2.49 for children 12 and under (Tickets must be purchased at the store and not available online).
Time: 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
For more information: Call 704 549-4532 or http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/IKEA_Food/index.html
***

SATURDAY
Smooth jazz with saxophonist Dante Lewis ~ Jazz for the mature crowd. I was there two weeks ago for Terence Young. The crowd was nice; the food and drinks were very reasonable. The staff was very accommodating. Get there early because the mature crowd is huge. Hosted by Jazz Diva Tammy.
Location: Fanz Sports Grill (Formerly Midtown Sundries) 3425 David Cox Blvd. off of Harris Blvd.
Cost: Free
Time: 9 p.m.- midnight
For more information: go online at http://fanzsportsgrill.com/

SUNDAY
Beats, Rhymes, and Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest ~ Documentary and musical film. A portrait of one the most innovative hip-hop bands of all times. Starring Mary J. Blige, Common, Mos Def, Phife Dawg and De La Soul. Is there a possibility to mend the wounds over the years?
Location: Regal Park Road Terrace (4289 Park Rd., Charlotte)
Call the box office (704 523-9771) for times and pricing.

Got news to share with Qcity readers? Email us at editor@qcitymetro.com.
Sign up for our weekly email newsletter below

Sign up for our Weekly Email Newsletter Email: For Email Marketing you can trust

Other Ways to Share Twitter Del.icio.us MySpace

Discussions and Submission Agreement