Join the network

Networking -- the word makes me cringe. If you look it up in the dictionary it should read, "Friendships with a motive."

The idea seems cold and detached to me. Mixing, mingling, discussing life goals and my five-year plan just doesn't sound like much fun. In five years, the only thing I can hope for is that my car will be paid off and my dog will be fully house trained. For many of my peers, this probably isn't the case. I'm sure some attend these type events to meet like-minded people and other up-and-coming professionals in their area.

But, I can't knock it until I try it. So, I'm going to network. I'm taking a friend with me and inviting you to come along. The notice says the event is a "wine and cheese networking/social hour." Since my friends and I gather weekly for wine and cheese nights, I'm feeling at ease knowing my friends Swiss, Munster and Gouda will be in attendance. The event is Thursday night and reservations are a must. Here are the details.

Attention all Young Professional Employees, you're invited to join other Young Professionals in attendance on Thursday, July 19th at ArtSpace on Texas Street in downtown Shreveport. The event celebrates the opening of a contemporary computer digital work exhibit by artist Matt DeFord. A wine and cheese networking/social hour with a cash bar and live music by Blues Duo Howell and Caskey will begin at 6 p.m. Art Mobbers will board a trolley at 7 p.m. and visit more than a dozen cultural and historic locations downtown, and learn fascinating facts about Shreveport. Prize tokens will be presented to winners of a trivia contest following the ride. Admission is $7.00 per person. RSVP TODAY, Seating on the trolley is limited!!!! Call FeFe at 318.677.2505 or email your RSVP to info@shreveportchamber.org. This event is sponsored by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council at ArtSpace on Texas Street in Downtown Shreveport.