Toni Baker-Tyson describes herself as a social butterfly. Her entertainment picks are published here each Thursday. Opinions expressed are solely her own. Email her at toni@qcitymetro.com or join her Chocolate Social Network.

This week I was invited to dine at the chef's table at Chimas Restaurant, which certainly would have been a wonderful experience. Instead, I chose to have dinner at Samaritan House, a place where homeless residents can recuperate after they are released from a hospital.

I host a monthly dinner there with friends from my Chocolate Social Network. Often guarded at first, the residents quickly warm up as we serve them a sit-down meal.

Special thanks to Sharon Roberts and her team for welcoming us to Samaritan House.

If you are age 40 or older and would like to join us, feel free to contact me. Male role models are especially needed and greatly appreciated.

Here are my weekend picks:

FRIDAY
Peace and Love Band ~ Relax after work with this six-piece R&B group, complete with outstanding vocals. Get there early because this is one band with a huge local following.
Location: Label (900 NC Music Factory Blvd, Suite B6)
Times: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Costs: Free
More info: http://www.eastcoastentertainment.com/artist/peace-and-love

SATURDAY
A Night in Rio ~ Join the Latin American Coalition for its fourth annual Brazilian celebration, featuring traditional dance, live music, authentic foods, and arts and crafts. This one-of-a-kind cultural event was sold out last year.
Location: Neighborhood Theatre (511 E. 36th St)
Time: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Cost: $12 - $15
More info: Visit CharlotteCultureGuide.com

SUNDAY
Big River: The Musical Adventures of Huckleberry Finn ~ Join Huck and Jim, the escaped slave, as they float down the mighty Mississippi. This production is now at the end of a two-week run, but tickets are still available for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Location: Halton Theater on the CPCC campus (1206 Elizabeth Ave)
Time: 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Sunday)
Cost: $10/$16/$18
More info: visit CharlotteCultureGuide.com

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