If you recently lost your job, be assured that you most certainly aren't alone. The State Department of Workforce Development recently released preliminary results showing a 9 percent unadjusted unemployment rate by Wisconsin Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) for Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis.

High unemployment rates tend to lead to a highly competitive job-seeking environment. So how do you differentiate yourself from the competition? Bay View resident Dean LaGrow is confident it comes down to good, old-fashioned networking, and he plans to help you help yourself with Milwaukee's first Pink Slip Party.

On Thursday, April 30, LaGrow has organized the Pink Slip Welcome Party at Bar Louie, 1114 N. Water St., at 5 p.m. Attendees can congregate with other job seekers, recruiters, resume experts, and other consultants to take control of their own professional advancement.

The event offers "recession pricing" with $2 tap beers, $4 wines, $5 martinis and free appetizers while you network your little heart out.