Black Weblog Awards Livecast Tweetup at Whiz Tech Cafe

The 2011 Black Weblog Awards are tonight and LIVE for the first time ever in Los Angelos, California. It seems to have become the capstone of the weekend of events of the Blogging While Brown Conference, now in its 4th year. Tonight's award ceremony is hosted by actress Kim Coles. Recognizing the best and brightest African-American bloggers, the Black Weblog Awards will announce winners of the coveted awards in over 30 categories including Best Science/Tech Blog and Best Green Living/Outdoor/Nature Blog - the two categories I, Danielle N Lee, was proud to be a finalist for.

I'm not in LA, but I will be tuning in this evening - on the web and tweeting, too.
The ceremony is 6:00 - 10:0 pm (PST) .
You can join me if you like. I'll be down at Whiz Tech Cafe at 8:00 pm (CST). It's the greatest, newest internet cafe in the midwest (a woman and minority owned local business).

So come on down, pull up a chair and order a tasty coffee drink, too.
Location Whiz Tech Technology Cafe
1629 Locust
Downtown Saint Louis, MO

In the meantime, here are some important links and folks to follow for the event.
Black Weblog Awards website and Twitter @BlkWeblogAwards
Blogging While Brown Conference website, Twitter @BWBConference and hashtag to follow - #BWB
Me - on Twitter @DNLee5
Kim Coles - on Twitter @KimColes
The Whiz Technology Cafe Twitter @WhizTechCafe
Live cast here:

Video clips at Ustream

Autumn 2010 Events

As you may noticed by the paucity of posts and updates, that I’m not maintaining the Fête Society like I once was. I graduated in May and since being hooded, I’ve been wearing my science hat more prominently. I decided that my science blogging would get my full attention.

If you’re interested in following Dr. Lee then feel free to check me out.
Urban Science Adventures! © is my blog about urban ecology, conservation, and environmental education. I also talk about diversity and science education to broader audiences. It’s a perfect resources for teens and families who are interested in learning more about science in a friendly, fun, and engaging way.

SouthernPlaylisticEvolutionMusic is my newest science blog - Evolutionary Science remixed with phat beats. It’s a blog about evolution and sexual selection but I explain all of the scientific concepts through hip hop songs. I’m having a blast and folks are really responding to it. This site is definitely for adults because it’s almost always about sex and dating.
You can also follow me, as Dr. Lee, on Twitter - @DNLee5 and on Friend Feed - DNLee.


I’m not closing the Fête Society page or the email account, but I am officially suspending emails and weekly updates. However, I WILL maintain the Fête Society Twitter account and Facebook Fan page, and will continue to share interesting events that catch my attention via those tools.


In fact, here are some great upcoming events (that I will be participating in) that I do want you to know about and check out.

Fri Oct 15
6:00 pm -10:00 pm
Fest-of-Ale
Join the Young Friends of the Missouri Botanical Garden for their annual autumn homage to ale. Enjoy a dozen beers from Missouri Craft Brewhauses and judge your favorite.
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House
Faust Park
Chesterfield, MO
Tickets: $15 Members of the Botanical Garden, $30 non-member.
Join or renew your membership and you and guest attend for free. Memberships start at $65.
More information or to RSVP, visit this link.

Tue Oct 19
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Homestead Earth: An Evening with Women Environmentalists
Presented in conjunction with the History Museum gallery installation, Homelands: How Women Made the West, on display at the Missouri History Museum, October 17, 2010 – January 15, 2011.
Panelists include Catherine Werner, an environmental lawyer and St. Louis’ first sustainability director; Marjorie Melton, with the U.S. Green Building Council and CEO of M3 Engineering; and Danielle Lee, an outreach scientist and blogger whose work focuses on urban ecology.
Missouri History Museum – Lee Auditorium
Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park
St. Louis, Missouri 63112
FREE and OPEN to ALL. Middle and high school students welcome.
Parking free in Museum lots or in Forest Park.

Sat Oct 23

8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Show Me the Blog Conference: Social Media and Blogging Conference

Own a blog? Want a Blog? Want to build a lasting online presence for you, your business, or your brand? Then attending this conference is definitely the place to start. Several great presenters will be on hand to share all of the secrets of their social media success.

Spazio's Westport
Tickets: $60 and includes admission to the conference, conference materials, luncheon, and tickets to the pre-conference mixer on Friday. Register here.

Sat Oct 23
9:30 pm 1:30 am
Steppin’ at the Royale
DJ spin by Disco T. This is a Grown & Sexy Event. Dress code enforced (by me! So come correct)
Set ups will be available along with special drink selections
The Royale Food & Spirits
3132 South Kingshighway
Saint Louis, MO
Cover: free if you RSVP or you get taxed that night. Ages: 28 and up. I said, Grown & Sexy.


Sat Nov 6
6:30 - 10:00 pm
Pesto Festo 3 - A Community Celebration of local FARMS
Enjoy live entertainment, delicious home-grown edibles, and the best company in the world we dance, cheer and celebrate the Earthdance Mission Awards.

Savoy

119 South Ferguson
Ferguson, MO
Tickets: start at $40. Purchase online. Proceeds benefit EarthDance FARMS and its outreach programs.

More info here.

Sun Nov 7
6:00 pm

St. Louis Kick Ass Awards

A fun and quirky award program that honors local do-gooders and thought-provokers. 13 Saint Louis buisnesses, individuals, organizations or other entities will be honored, with a dozen nominees invited to the event and a 13th winner decided on the night of the event, with that winner coming from the audience.
Joe's Place

6014 Kinsbury

UCity/St. Louis border


It’s been a joy keeping you up-to-date with St. Louis Metro Area events.

See you out and about town.
Your Hostess.

Out & About 101: What’s happening this week? May 25-29, 2010

The city is warming up, and I am not only referring to the temperatures. Memorial Day holiday Weekend is approaching and this town will be on fire! I’m not thinking of leaving town because the itinerary is too hot!

I'm too ready to shake a tail feather!

Tuesday
- Twilight Tuesdays featuring Steve Shankman Orchestra's tribute to Frank Sinatra
at The Missouri History Museum
- Soul Sessions: The Remedy presents Mahogany Dust, BRICKZ THE POET, and Miss Kriss at the Label

Wednesday
- Best Damn Happy Hours May Event
- Stella Dot Spa Party!
- Preview Performances of Shakespeare in the Park Festival. This year’s play is Hamlet.

Friday
- STRESS FREE FRIDAYS at Bar Napoli
- Jungle Boogie Friday Night Concert Series presents The Ralph Butler Band

Saturday,
- GLOBAL WARMTH - Listening Party at Urban Lounge

You know you want to be there. Check out the link for full details.

Out & About 101: What’s happening this week? May 25-29, 2010

What's happening this weekend? May 14-16, 2010

This weekend is so busy, I'll be updating this listing several times.

For starters, there are several Weekend festivals happening locally. This beautiful weather is the perfect excuse to spend time with your family.

• Creve Coeur Days
• Belleville Art on the Square
• Macklind Days
• Chinese Culture Days at the Missouri Botanical Garden

Get full details here: Weekend festivals are perfect family outings

The rest of the weekend promises to be a rip-roaring time, if for no other reason that yours truly graduates from the university. Yes, the journey of graduate school has finally come to a halt. So be sure to come out and party with Your Hostess. Dance with me, Buy me drink. Give me a hug. I might be leaving for a grand career track job in the near future so enjoy me while you can.


Here's what's shaking so far:

Friday
- Stress Free Fridays at the Celebrity Room
- Hot Chocolate Soul at The City Lounge


Saturday
- Race Around the Lou presented by Metropolis
- Vatican Exhibit opens at the Missouri History Museum
- DJ Needles spins a Lola Lounge (and this is my official Graduation party)


Sunday
- SoulSTAGE FT. Deana Dean at STL's Finest Bar and Grill

Get full details of these events here and What’s happening this weekend? May 14-16, 2010

What's happening this week? April 20-24, 2010

You filed your taxes on time. You mailed off your census form. You've been a great citizen. Now it is time to enjoy yourself. Get out about town and have a ball. Here are all of the great events happening in St. Louis including my My Tuesday Night Pick.
See you out and about.

Tuesday
- Soul Sessions at The Label

Wednesday
- Posh Wednesdays at The Label

Thursday
- Bounce for Autism Fundraiser at Pump it up!

Friday
- Stress Free Fridays at Ozzies
- Night Society & The Label Anniversary Party

Saturday
- Con-tamination Kickoff Party

Details for these and more events: What’s happening this week? April 20 - 24, 2010.

Plus, check out The Lou Has Talent - discovering and showcasing local artists -a multi-part series of interviews with local talent cultivators. Check out the first Interview with SoulU.

Top events for this weekend: April 13 - 17, 2010

The Cards have opened, the weather is nice all week and St. Louis is blooming. Yes, blooming. I'm excited about this week's line up. I hope you are too.

See you out and about.

My Tuesday Night Picks
- Fuel 5th Anniversary Celebration at The Flamingo Bowl
-Soul Sessions: The Remedy! Neo-Soul Open Mic Night at the Black Label

Wednesday
- Pizza & Politics with MO DESE Commissioner Chris Nicastro at Webster University
- Romeo & Juliet Opens: an adaptation presented by the New Jewish at the Missouri History Museum

Thursday
- YWCA "So Reel" Series: Out of Darkness - Mental Illness at the Wheatley Heritage Center
- The Detour by Metropolis St. Louis: Bowling on Wash Ave at Flamingo Bowl

Friday
- Alderman Shane Cohn’s Fabulous 30th Birthday Extravaganza at eaturing Grbic’s

Friday & Saturday
- 2nd Annual St. Louis Indian Dance Festival
- Main Street BBQ and Blues Fest


Details for these and more events: What's happening this week? April 13 - 17, 2010

Plus, here are some more great things happening in St. Louis. Everything you need to know.
Cardinals Opening Day Events
The Lou Has Talent - discovering and showcasing local artists - this is the first in a multi-part series of interviews with local talent cultivators. Visit the St. Louis Examiner to get read the whole series.

Top events for this weekend: April 1-3, 2010

Is it April already? No fooling? This beautiful spring weather surely has everyone wanting to get outside and enjoy themselves. Then do it. Go out and have a great time!


Thursday, April 1 - Saturday April 3
- Screening of Skin - apart of the RACE Exhibit at the Missouri History Museum$5 or witht he admission to the Exhibit


Friday, April 2
- Stress Free Fridays, Special Birthday Bash at Lola

- Alist Showcase w/ Hot Chocolate Soul Band & Dj Quinn at The City Night Club

Saturday, April 3
Meet the Artist: David R. Hanlon whose award-winning works are currently featured in "Honor Awards 2010" at Art Saint Louis.


Get full details of these and many more events at: What's happening this weekend? April 1-3, 2010

Top Weekend Events for Thursday March 18 -Sunday, 21, 2010

If you purchased tickets to see Jay-Z and/or John Mayer then your weekend was set weeks ago. For the remainder of us, you may still want to get out and about and shake a tail feather around town. Never fear, your hostess is here. With top picks for this weekend that are easy on the wallet and great fun (and informative) for you, your family and all of your friends.

Thursday
- Gap's Give & Get campaign kicks off. Save money and donate to local charities
- Mound City Bar Association and the St. Louis Association of Real Estate Professionals (SLAREP) Networking Social

Friday
- Third Friday Open House
- Cafe Soul

Saturday
- Breakfast with the Bunny at the Zoo
- Holi Hai with NetIP St. Louis
- Drink the Link Pub Crawl
- Why Did I Get Married Too? Date Night
- TSU Alumni Scholarship Dance

Sunday
- 18th Annual Grape Arts Fundraiser

Full details of these and many more events at

What’s happening this weekend? March 18-21, 2010

A weekend of Honors! March 5-7, 2010

This is the Honors edition of Weekend Fun. Like the upcoming Academy Awards Show on Sunday, everything this weekend is all about the best. Join me an all of St. Louis as we show this town how to Shine.

Friday, March 5, 2010
- The RFT Blogger Happy Hour Yours truly has been listed as one of St. Louis' must-read local Bloggers. Pick up a copy of this week's Riverfront Times, turn to page 11 and you'll see why. Blueberry Hill
Alist Showcase w/ Hot Chocolate Soul Band & Dj Quinn

Saturday, March 6, 2010
- NOH8 Project St. Louis Public Photo
- Mizzou v. KU Basketball Watch Party

Sunday, March 7, 2010
- Oscar Party with 3-Course Dinner at West End Grill and Pub

Get more details of this weekends events at What's happening this weekend? March 5-7, 2010

I will definitely see you out and about this weekend!

What’s happening this weekend? February 4-7, 2010

The weekend kicks off early with some really great events on Thursday. Friday and Saturday don’t disappoint either with their respective line-ups. Actually, it is weekend full of events for every personality: Party People have Mardi Gras Events to enjoy. Families have pet parades and zoo Funday Sunday. Civically inclined have a meeting to attend. And the socially gregarious have way too much to choose from. I’ll see you all out and about this weekend.

Thursday
- The Walk: Pub Crawl near SLU presented by Metropolis St. Louis
- SoulSTAGE: Open Mic Night in North County

Friday
-Flirting with Disater, the Kickoff Event for Club RED (American Red Cross) at Thaxton Speakeasy
- ALIVE Magazine Buzz List Party at Lucas Park Grille
-One Love Haiti Benefit Show

Saturday
-Pound Pals Trivia Night
-Southern Comfort Taste of Soulard begins and continues until Sunday

Sunday (Family day)
- Mardi Gras Events include the Pet Parade and Wiener Dog Races
- Winter Zoo activities with the Penguins

Full details of these events plus more here.

What to do this week: January 27 -30, 2010

There's much to do this week - have fun, support Haiti, do both.

Wednesday
- State of the Union Watch Party at the Royale!
- OH! So Fabulous Drag Show at the Fountain on Locust

Thursday
- Benefit For Haitian Earthquake Relief at the Tin Can Tavern Downtown

Friday
- STRESS FREE FRIDAYS: B FREE PAPARAZZI EDITION Happy Hour at El Borracho
- An Evening with Sonia Sanchez at the Missouri History Museum

And Mardi Gras Festivities
The Wine Taste on Friday and the Canjun Cookoff on Saturday. Both are a hit.

Get full details for these events and more here.

NYE in the Lou - What are YOU going to do?

Arguably, the biggest party night of the year, the last night of the year is all glitz, glam, and champagne. This year, we also celebrate the end of the first decade of the new millennium and a spectacular celestial event. Wow! Ever prepared to keep you grooving and moving, this NYE offers several party options – for the pair-bonded, the sizzling singles, the whole family, and the budget conscious.

Here are your Hostess’ recommendations for Thursday, December 31, 2009.

Black Velvet & Bluegrass Night at Schlafly’s Bottleworks
Music by "Naked" Mike Newman, The Wayward Mountaineers and The Foggy Memory Boys.

Royale Speakeasy New Years Eve at The Royale Food and Spirits
A prohibition style NYE celebration.
free

NYE at Fraizer’s Restaurant and Lounge
Happy Hour Specials, Free Oyster bar, Free Appetizers, Champagne Toast and Party Favors
free

Jive & Wail the New Year at Jive & Wail Piano Bars (2 locations)
Maplewood & St. Peters

Wonderland of Arts - First Night St. Louis
Grand Art Center
Family event, non-alcoholic

NYE at City Hall
Music provided by Bernie Hayes
St. Louis City Hall Rotunda

Once in a Blue Moon NYE Party
Music by DJ Andrew and DJ SF&Edgar
Hyatt Regency at the Arch
18th Floor Ballroom


Details of of these events can be found at New Year's Eve in St. Louis: Celebrate a new decade, a blue moon, and good times.

Weekend Lineup: December 17 - 20, 2009

Get an early start on your weekend. There is an event for you whether you’re home from school, want to re-unite with friends or enjoy some quiet time out on the town.

Thursday
- Cocktail party and Artist Discussion at Urban Eats
- Stroke’s No Joke Comdey Show hosted by Dee Lee
- Ugly Christmas Sweater Walk hosted by Metropolis St. Louis

Friday
- Third Friday Open House at Third Degree Glass Factory
- Café Soul 3rd Annual Holiday Show
- A Fête Society Happy Hour at Lafayette Fire Company Grand Opening
Join us as we celebrate local restaurants and bars, like we always do.
1801 Park Ave at 18th Street (Lafayette Square)
St. Louis, MO 63104

Saturday
- Citygarden for the Holidays: enjoy cocoa and carollers in the new city centerpiece. Free, perfect for families or date night.

Sunday
- Marlissa Hudson performs at Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church
- Sound Clash featuring DJ Needles

Details for these events and more check the Examiner posts:
What’s happening this weekend? Thursday, December 17 – Sunday, December 20, 2009

And to get a sneak peak at the upcoming events, check out the December 2009 Events calendar. Coming soon…the New Years Eve Lineup.

Top Events for this weekend: December 11-13, 2009

Friday
The Fête Society Holiday Banger at Yemanja Brazil - free appetizers and drink specials.
Citygarden for the Holidays - free family entertainment
Girl Friday's Annual Red-Hot Holiday Party

Saturday
Holiday Open House in Downtown Dutchtown
8th Annual Platinum Christmas Party
Najee Holiday Concert at the Ambassador
Intimate Distance Art Show

Sunday
Holiday Orchestra concert featuring Marlissa Hudson with the Town & Country Symphony - free family entertainment
Crafting with a Purpose at Paste Crafts in Soulard to benefit Haven of Grace Women Services

Details for these events and more check the Examiner posts:
What’s happening this weekend? December 11-13, 2009
What else is there to do besides shopping? Enjoy the local arts.
What’s happening this week? December 7-12, 2009
Holiday Parties for December 7-12, 2009

And to get a sneak peak at the upcoming events, check out the December 2009 Events calendar.

Top Events for this week, including Holiday parties - December 7-12, 2009

The year may be drawing to a close, but it is far from coming to an end. This month is proving to be as fun, exciting, and enjoyable as the previous eleven months. Not one to be outdone by the lush spring, shining summer or amazing autumn months, December in St. Louis is icy hot.

This week’s events include Holiday Parties for this week plus general fare.

Here’s a sample:
Monday
Hwy 40 Re-opening Happy Hour

Tuesday
SLAREP's Holiday Reception
Fuel Holiday Wine Party @ the Duane Reed Gallery

Wednesday
KETC 9 Community Cinema Series film screening of Young @ Heart
Osunlade CD Release Soirée: A Listening Party
Cocktails for a Cause to Benefit Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition

Thursday
SIMPLE PLEASURES 3
Homolatte Cocktail Party & SpeakOUT! - the LGBTI spoken word/music open-mic night

Saturday
8th Annual Platinum Christmas Party

Details for these events and more check the Examiner posts.
Holiday Parties for December 7-12, 2009
What’s happening this week? December 7-12, 2009

And to get a sneak peak at the upcoming events, check out the December 2009 Events calendar.

Thanksging Holiday Guide

There's so much to do. You'll need a day planner.

Tuesday, November 24
- Thanksgiving Dinner for New Americans hosted by i-Squared

Wednesday, November 25
- Voices From The Underground at Atomic Cowboy
- St. Louis Fashion Week Wrap Party at the red Kitchen & Bar

Thursday, November 26
- Thanksgiving Day Parade in Downtown St. Louis

Friday, November 27
- Rock & Roll Craft Show begins at the 3rd Degree Glass Factory (continues until Sunday)
- Eric Roberson Live at the Ambassador
- Kids Rock Cancer benefit party at the Over-Under bar
- Omega Psi Phi Monthly happy hour party

Saturday, November 28
- Meet the Artists at Art St. Louis Gallery
- Global Warm Music Fusion event, free at the Urban Lounge

Full event details of these and more events this weekend can be found at these links:

Thanksgiving Holiday Events Guide

And more upcoming events listed on the November 2009 & Winter 2009/2010 Calendars.

What's happening this week? November 17 - 21, 2009

One great week in store for us, especially this weekend. Whew!

Highlights for the Week, including weekend activities



Tuesday, November 17
- River City Professionals Monthly Happy Hour
- Food Outreach at Applebee's Restaurants

Wednesday, Novembr 18
- ULYP Wine Tasting Fundraiser
- "So Reel" Health Advocacy discussion by the YWCA

Thursday, November 19
- The Metropolis Walk - 3 great downtown venues

Friday, November 20
- Open House at Third Degree Glass Factory
- Cafe Soul is now on Fridays at the Loft

- Precious opens in local theaters
- Object Art Exhibition Reception to benefit United Way at Abstrakt Art Gallery

Saturday, November 21
- St. Louis Film Festival continues all week and there are great showcases and symposiums, including a free Children's Film Festival all day Saturday, November 21 at Washington University

- Trailnet Trivia night
- Zootini at the St. Louis Zoo.


The St. Louis Independent Film Festival runs now through Sunday, November 22. If you missed Precious featuring Mo'nique, Miriah Carey and Lenny Kravitz at the St. Louis Independent Film Festival, then it don't sleep on its regular release to local theaters this Fridays.

Full details of this week's events can found at the following links:
1. What’s happening this week? November 17-21, 2009 2. Don’t be tardy this party: St. Louis area organizations party with a purpose

More upcoming events listed on the November 2009 & Winter 2009/2010 Calendars.

Art St. Louis offers great entertainment and culture outings

When I first moved the St. Louis, I visited Washington Avenue one evening and discovered “Nightclub Mecca”. Evenings from Thursday through Sunday, I could find a dance club to cater to any of my dancing fancies – hip hop, R&B, Techno, House, Alternative, Dance, and there was even a great chill spot for sipping martinis. However, continue strolling down Wash Ave, past the America’s Center and you’ll discover a true cultural gem. At 555, Suite #150 you will find Art St. Louis Art Gallery. Continue reading >>.

Your hostess with local artist - Annie Bort in front of her photo featured in the current Exhibition at Art St. Louis

Art Saint Louis

555 Washington Avenue, #150

Downtown St. Louis
Free general admission. Donations accepted and greatly appreciated.

Go directly to November 2009 Calendar and Winter 2009/2010 Calendar.

Darcella Craven named YWCA Leader of Distinction 2009

The Fête Society's very own, Darcella Craven is once again making headlines. Featured in the Employment News section of the November 12, 2009 edition of the St. Louis American weekly newspaper she discusses the excitment of her newsest achievement: The YWCA of St. Louis Leader of Distinction Award. Ms. Craven , will be honored with the Nonprofit Management award at the annual Luncheon Event on Thursday December 3rd. Details here.


If you see Darcella out and about this weekend, congratulate her and buy her a drink.

Weekend events

Saturday
- 25TH Anniversary Celebration: Women United for Change Luncheon Hosted by the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Metropolitan Saint Louis Chapter
- MEET THE ARTISTS – Gallery Talks at Art St. Louis Gallery

- Art, Life & Culture Entwined - Belas Artes Fundraising Gala

Sunday
- Hayride through Historic Fort Belle Fontaine County Park
- Marlissa Hudson, soprano performs at the Soul Esteem Center
- Cranksgiving: Cycle & Charity Food Drive

Details for this weekend's Events here.

More events for November 2009 and Winter 2009/2010.

What's happening this week? November 10 - 14, 2009

Mark your calendars because this is one great week, especially for networking.

This week's highlights:
Tuesday
- Fuel Happy Hour

Wednesday
- Speed Networking with CORO Women's Leadership Association
- Community Cinema Series: Screening of the ITVS film, "Between the Folds"
- The Camille and Trackstar Farewell Extravaganza
- 18th Annual St Louis International Film Festival begins

Thursday
- Young Zoo Friends Happy Hour and Zootini Ticket Sales - get VIP tickets at regular admission prices, YZF Members enjoy extra savings.
- Homolatte Cocktail Party & Brainstorming!
- Champagne VS. Sparkling Wine-St Louis Community College Class

Saturday
- 25TH Anniversary Celebration: Women United for Change LuncheonHosted by the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Metropolitan Saint Louis Chapter
- Art, Life & Culture Entwined - Belas Artes Fundraising Gala

Get full details of all of this week's events here and if you event is listed, please leave a comment. Spread the excitement on to others.

More events for November 2009 and Winter 2009/2010.