The Oconee Progressives and Oconee Democrats are inviting area residents to the “New Friends for the New Year” community building event. Everyone, including Republicans and Independents are invited. Organizer Pat Priest emphasizes the event is not political, but it’s intended for fun, bonding, and conversation.
“A chance for people to come in, set aside their political difference and talk about questions provided, so you don’t have to worry about small talk,” according to Priest. “You talk in pairs in a kind of a speed dating set up with a new person after a timed bout; some sort of bell will sound and they’ll move on and get a new question.”
Organizers say the questions make you think, but they’re not complicated.
"So we’ll be asking question like If you have a million dollars to give to a charity, which one would you donate money to? “What are some things in your home that are particularly meaningful to you? What are some habits that define you?
Tracey Wyatt is a founding member of the Oconee Progressives. She says most people in the community have more in common than not.
“For us at the Oconee Progressives, we were originated out of the notion of unification and solidarity in our community,” Wyatt said. “There’s a lot of unrest in our nation right now, and we know that in our community many more of us think a lot more alike than we think differently.”
Priest says the hour-long event is free, but those attending can stay for a reception afterward.
The New Friends event is Sunday at 3 pm in the Oconee County Library.