Business+Pleasure

From the computer screen to the bar scene, successful endeavors in social networking are built upon like minds with similar goals. For urban professionals in this cowtown, networking means being familiar with kcsoul.com, a source of information about social events for African-Americans, created by Higher Ground Entertainment LLC, which will sponsor tonight's event at the Uptown Theater (3700 Broadway, 816-753-8665). Marking the start of a networking year revolving around business issues and self-promotion, tonight's theme is financial services, with a business fair from 7 to 9 p.m. and a presentation at 8. After the dry-erase boards and table displays are gone, the real networking will begin. Entertainment will include Sean Tyler, comedian B-Rich, nine DJs, R&B crooner Levelle, and the Upscale Groove. The dress code for tonight's 21-and-older party calls for suits and stilettos — no jeans, saggy pants, athletic wear or tops with writing. Champion social networkers will attend the afterparty (location to be announced) when the Uptown closes. See 1stfridayskc.com for additional information or call 816-246-5286. kcsoul.com
Fri., Jan. 2, 8 p.m.-3 a.m., 2009