Finding Friends (for PDX Mid-Lifers)

Speed-FRIENDING @ W.Linn Library

Wed, Aug 19 · 5:00 PM PDT

West Linn Public Library, 1595 Burns St, West Linn, OR, US

COME FIND YOUR PEOPLE, YOUR TRIBE, YOUR TROOP!
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This is an every other month event on the 3rd Wed. of Feb., Apr., Jun., Aug., Oct., & Dec. 2026, unless otherwise noted

Go here for 20s-30s events held on alternating months
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SIGN UP IN 2 STEPS:

1. Please RSVP here
2. ALSO register with the library!
   (choose date, then time, & input your info.)
   The West Linn Library will manage the real, full, "official" registration list via the Calendly link above

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WHY
Making new friends isn’t always easy – back in school we mixed and mingled with a variety of potential chums, all in the same stage of life, all the time. If your job puts you in touch with a lot of people perhaps you still do, but that’s not the case for many gig workers, entrepreneurs, empty nesters, retirees, and others.
If:

• now feels like the time to meet new people and forge new friendships, and
• you’d like to take a purposeful approach, but
• you aren’t sure where to start, or how to get beyond polite small talk,

…then let’s give this a try!

WHO
Mid-life locals interested in meeting potential pals. You'll meet new people every time you come out!

The focus is on meeting new peeps, enjoying conversation, and potentially forging new friendships so, please, no youngins and no soliciting.

West Linn, Oregon City, and Lake Oswego are the focus; that said, you do not have to live or work in these communities to participate. All who are willing and able to be kind, respectful, and good-natured are welcome.

WHAT
Within minutes you’ll quickly find common ground, and begin to get to know others around the room.

The idea is something akin to Speed-DATING, sans the romantic intention.

The event consists of short, structured conversations with different people. We’ll first set the stage with a couple easy warm up ice breakers that have proven successful at getting folks engaged right off the bat.

Then we’ll pair up (regardless of gender, orientation, or status, unlike a dating event) to visit one-on-one for a few minutes, then switch partners and chat with someone new for a few minutes, and so on. In addition to brief opening exercises, there'll be optional conversation starter prompts to help you keep the conversation going. We wrap up with a few minutes of group sharing at the end.

WHO ATTENDS?
These events have consistently brought out shy, introverted, and / or "Highly Sensitive" folks -- though those traits can be expressed in many different ways! Most admit to being nervous about stretching their comfort zones to come out, and also being amazed by how much fun they have once they're there!

Those who are, perhaps, more socially outgoing but looking for more meaningful conversation and connections, also turn out to these events.

Folks are pleasantly surprised how easy and enjoyable the events are. They rave about feeling welcome, and surprised to find it much less "painful" than expected.

THEN WHAT?...
During the event, if and as you connect with others over shared interests, you’re encouraged to exchange contact info.** You might continue chatting over coffee or drinks when the event over, or schedule your own get together at another time.

This absolutely can work! I've nurtured two astoundingly close friendships since starting this group in early 2024, and I've dramatically expanded my friend group in the process.

That said, like so many things in life, you get out of it what you put in. If simply showing up is a stretch for you, no sweat! But come again, and proactively share your contact info. with one person (or everyone!) the next time! Maybe getting there and talking to strangers isn't so difficult for you, but you don't make a real connection the 1st time -- that's okay, come out again!

Obviously, there's no guarantee of connecting with a future bestie at any given event. Come again and again to meet new folks, and get to know repeat attendees better. This has worked for me (and several folks I've met), but remember, I've been there, at Every-Single-Event!

This can work for you, too, if you make the investment in yourself. Be open and wholehearted. Come once, and then back again. And attend posted "MEET'CHA THERE" events as yet another vehicle for meeting new people.

**SAFETY
Registrants are not vetted. Only share what you’re comfortable with in each instance. For example, you might share your first name vs. your full name, or offer to communicate by email vs. phone, etc.

COST
None

RSVP
To guarantee a seat at the event, be sure to RSVP with the library.

Please also register here on MeetUp to:
--help me gauge interest
--keep you informed of additional upcoming events, including notice of the next Speed-FRIENDING event, as well as other social activities not held at the library

Note that the library is also promoting these events; not all attendees are included in MeetUp's RSVP list.

Those who choose not to register at all, may drop by and see if there’s room to join in; however, priority will be given to those who've registered with the library.

To claim a seat go to
https://calendly.com/wlpl-adult-services/speed-friending-at-the-west-linn-public-library?month=2025-12

I'm so looking forward to this and am excited to meet / see you!
-Jo / Finding Friends group organizer

MEET'CHA THERE!--Veteran's Night @ Vanguard Brewery

Thu, Aug 20 · 5:00 PM PDT

Vanguard Brewing Company, 27501 SW 95th Ave #945, Wilsonville, OR, US

My Father & I 1st checked out the monthly Veteran's Night at Vanguard Brewing in Wilsonville in 2025, and we're going back for another visit.

We typically arrive ~5PM and stay toward the end -- during that time people come and go with ~20-30 attendees in total.

The 1st two drinks are complimentary, as is (some really good) pizza as a tribute to the vets in attendance.

My Father's the vet in our family. 'Heartfelt thanks to him, and to all of you who've served in one way or another!

'Hope to see you there -- If I know you're coming I'll watch for you,
-Jo

Veterans Night
Vets night is turning into a really fun group of all ages, telling war stories, networking, and looking out for each other. Stop in for beer, food, and some camaraderie with other vets -- all vets welcome! Sponsored by www.ForwardAssistNW.org

Background
Vanguard Brewing is an independent, veteran family-owned and operated craft brewery located in Wilsonville, Oregon. Originally founded by a former Army Chinook crew chief and his wife who purchased a homebrew kit in the 80’s during their time stationed in Germany. Now owned by Ted & Silvia Minshall, Vanguard continues on, brewing great beers and providing an inviting environment for the entire neighborhood.

Products and Services
Vanguard Brewing offers a variety of classic-style craft beers, including stouts, porters, and seasonal selections. They also have a tasting room and beer garden on site, where visitors can sample their beers and enjoy food from visiting food trucks.

Reviews and Ratings
Reviewers praise the brewery’s friendly owners, great beer selection, and welcoming atmosphere. Some reviewers noted that the tasting room is small and there is no on-premise food, but the brewery makes up for this with its generous beer by-products donation to “Farmer John,” a local veteran and farmer. Overall, Vanguard Brewing is a great spot for beer enthusiasts and those looking for a unique, locally-owned brewery experience.

Additional Information
The brewery has a strong commitment to its veteran roots, with the owners and staff sharing their passion for brewing and community. Vanguard Brewing is a great example of a small business making a big impact in its local community.