Why resolve to lose weight in the new year when you could instead reinvent yourself as a superspy? First step: Learn to tango. All the sexy superspies are doing it; if you don't make an effort, they're going to mock you at the superspy convention, and who needs that? The Kansas City tradition of Wednesday-night tango lessons has outlived Fedora's and continues in the Crystal Ballroom of the Hotel Phillips from 7 to 8 p.m. most weeks, with an open dance until 11. This Wednesday is New Year's Eve, though, and nonspy tango dancers have made other plans -- making this the perfect opportunity to case the joint. The New Year's Eve party in the hotel's bar (12 Baltimore Street) comes with a champagne toast and a 1 a.m. breakfast buffet. Fake a vague foreign accent when you pay the $30 cover. If you're going to be a superspy, you're going to need the practice. For details, call 816-221-7000.-- Kelly Sue DeConnick
Jazz Bash
The Blue Room kills 2003.
WED 12/31
In some ways, the holidays are kind of like Mardi Gras -- one last hurrah before you try to stick to the silly resolutions you've made, like consuming less alcohol. Which, as we all know, usually falls by the wayside by January 7. One resolution you should make is to enjoy the ultimate last party before you have to be good. For that, go to the New Year's Eve Bash at the Blue Room (1616 East 18th Street). Enjoy some food, party favors and a champagne toast while the Gerald Dunn Quintet, featuring Krystle Warren, jazzes you into 2004. General admission tickets are $35 in advance ($42 at the door). Tables for four can also be reserved. Call 816-474-8463, extension 213, for more information. Best of all, the Blue Room is smoke-free, just in case you get the urge to jump-start that other resolution.-- Jen Chen
Across the Boards
ONGOING
Sunday night at the Cup and Saucer (412 Delaware Street) is the only time you can yell "Yahtzee!" in a crowded room and not be looked at funny. Game Night, every Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m., is the perfect ritual to finish off your weekend. With prizes, a horde of games -- from Scrabble to Operation to Chess -- and the option of bringing your own (Candyland, anyone?), Game Night allows you to mix the risk of a poorly moved checker with your everyday gambles of alcohol, tobacco and caffeine. For more information, call 816-474-7375.-- Chris Sebela
