Leadership
President’s Message
by Darlene Conkle, NWC President
darlenec.nwc@gmail.com
Dear Members,
November always brings back cherished memories from our time living in Valparaiso, Indiana.
Initially, moving to a small town was not my preferred choice, but joining a Newcomers Club again turned
the experience into a blessing.
At the time, my daughters were six and nine years old. Thanksgiving was a special occasion when
families gathered, reflected on what they were grateful for, and shared a wonderful meal. Since we did
not have family nearby, we were fortunate enough to meet another couple through the Newcomers Club. They
also had two daughters who were about the same age as ours. My husband and I quickly realized that we
shared many common interests with the parents, and our hope was that our daughters would get along.
Thankfully, they did.
Life is never perfect, and after we began sharing holidays with this family for a few years, they
were transferred to Ohio. I was heartbroken when they told us they were moving but felt thankful and
touched when the husband suggested we could continue spending Thanksgiving together by taking turns
hosting. For thirteen years, every other year, we made the five-hour drive to Hudson, Ohio on
Thanksgiving Day to spend the holiday weekend with them, and they did the same for us. We always planned
something special for those weekends together.
Our families remained close throughout the years. One of their daughters eventually moved to
Portland, and now I have three daughters living nearby, which is a wonderful reminder of the connections
and traditions that began so many years ago. It’s never too late to start new traditions.
Since Thanksgiving is about giving and sharing. I’m excited to let you know we’re bringing back, as
part of the charitable/volunteering arm of the Club, “Heart to Heart.” Nancy O’Neill and Mary Chancellor
will be leading to organize monthly volunteer opportunities for those interested. Watch for more
details.
NOTE:
We want to remind our members that there will be no Newcomers Luncheon in November. I would like to
encourage members to plan to go out to lunch and invite another member or two to get to know each other
better…try a new restaurant in Lake Oswego or somewhere close to you.
Coffee and Conversation will be meeting the 3rd Friday, on November 21st. RSVP to Birgit Woodward.
Warmly,
Darlene Conklé
President, Newcomers Welcome Club
Philanthropy Committee News
by Barb Brannon
brannonbarb@yahoo.com
703-973-5486
Our annual Holiday Boutique and Bake-sale takes place at the at the
December Luncheon at the Hilton Garden Inn Clackamas (formerly The
Monarch Hotel). The Boutique and Bake-sale is one of our main
fundraisers for the year and all proceeds go to Hungers Fighters Oregon.
We invite those who sell art and handicrafts at the Boutique to donate a
portion of their sales, and 100 percent of bake-sale proceeds go to the
charity.
For the Boutique, we are looking for club members and outside vendors to
bring their creations to sell. If you, or someone you know, make craft items,
jewelry, sculpture, pottery, fabric goods etc. and would like to participate,
please let us know as soon as possible to reserve space. We have several
bakers/candy makers who are bringing goodies to the Bake-sale but still
have room for more! Please contact Barb if you wish to contribute to either
the Boutique or Bake-sale at brannonbarb@yahoo.com or (703)973-5486.
Hunger Fighter’s most recent newsletter included some key messages that
highlight the importance of this organization to our community. Food
insecurity is increasing in our area, and so is the number of families who
rely on Hunger Fighters to supplement their food supply.
Over 40% of Hunger Fighter’s current guests also receive SNAP (the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and/or Medicaid benefits. Both
programs were subject to major cuts on October 1, 2025 when the One Big
Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA; H.R. 1) took effect. A few key takeaways:
- New rules mostly affect seniors and immigrants
- Refugees, asylum seekers, trafficking survivors and other
conditionally allowed non-citizens who were eligible for SNAP
have lost their eligibility.
- New work requirements for “able-bodied adults ages 18 through 64
with no child under age 14” may cause the loss of benefits to more after 3
months.
The role of Hunger Fighters and other food pantries is even more critical as
people navigate these changes. These days the problems of the world can
seem overwhelming. We can each make a positive difference by
supporting organizations that help those in need and, if we work together,
our impact can be exponentially greater.
Welcome to Newcomers Activities
by Barbra Crumley (barbracrumley@gmail.com, 925-785-1142) and
Nancy O'Neill
We are an inclusive group of women and men that have formed a vibrant community and welcome new and old members to join in
our many offerings. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Is there an activity you would like to see in our club? Let us know. We will work with you to make it
happen including arranging for a co-leader and mentoring. Some of our newest groups include Canasta, Ladies
Cooking Class and a Women's Discussion Group.
Do you enjoy Friendship Luncheons?
by Nancy O'Neill
In order to continue to make them happen, we are in need of two new leaders to head up
this activity and facilitate new groups. It does not require a lot of time. We encourage
co-chairing so that it allows for backup and sharing of time. Carol Jo and Lissa have done a
great job the last three years and are ready to pass the baton. If you would like more
information or are willing to help out, please contact Nancy O’Neill.
Thank you,
Nancy
Help Wanted: Co-leads for Friendship Luncheons, Saturday Night Socials, & Single Dining Divas
Calling all new members! Newcomers strives to welcome and support all members by providing social
gatherings to meet and support each other. In order to make this happen, we need new leaders to coordinate
these activities. It is a great way to assimilate into the organization, and training and support are always
provided.
We encourage co-leadership because we understand our members have other commitments with family, travel,
personal time, etc. Partnership can share the load. Have you met someone in the club you’d like to get to
know better? Reach out and ask if they’ll partner with you. If you are interested, we have job descriptions
for your review that include the estimated time commitment.
A huge thanks to members who have been leading these activities for many years. Now it’s time for a
second string to help out and lead us into the future. If we do not have anyone to step up to help with
these activities, we will no longer be able to provide future new members a referral into these groups.
WE are successful because of YOU! Thanks for your consideration. If you are interested in helping out,
please contact Barbra Crumley (925-785-1142,
barbracrumley@gmail.com) or
Nancy O'Neill
LO Adult Community Center
by Sally Roach
sallyroach@comcast.net
If you enjoy volunteering, please contact Sally Roach to serve lunch at the community center
located at 505 G Ave, Lake Oswego. We serve lunch on the 4th Monday of each month from 11:00 am to
1:15 pm, and we'll be doing this during the summer months as well. We set tables, serve lunch, and
clean up. Volunteers receive a delicious, free lunch! We are a very flexible group so it’s not
necessary to serve every month.
Board meetings
Monthly NWC board meetings are on the first Thursday, at 10am, located at the Lake Oswego Adult
Community Center. They are open to members. Simply notify the president
(darlenec.nwc@gmail.com) in
advance that you wish to attend.
Social & Classes
Ladies Cooking Class
by Susan Slovacek and
Mary Costa
maryctoo@comcast.net
Would you be interested in a holiday cookie exchange on Thursday, December fourth?
Instead of a cooking class, each participant would bring 3 dozen home made cookies along with
the recipe and containers for the cookies they take home. Let us know if you’re interested. If
there’s enough interest sign up information will be in the December newsletter.
To keep this group going, we need hosts for the upcoming cooking classes. If you have a favorite
recipe to demonstrate and share, and/or a large kitchen to host an event, please contact Mary or
Susan.
Women's Discussion Group
by Sharon Samson
Engage, Inspire, and Explore… A group discussion is a structured exchange of ideas among
participants aimed at sharing insights and perspectives. The most engaging discussions often touch
on themes that are relevant in everyday life: education, technology, history, current events,
ethics, diversity. The group will offer suggestions for prospective topics.
The Women's Discussion Group is currently full. If you're interested in participating, please
stay tuned for future openings.
Coffee & Conversation
by Birgit Woodward
birgitwoodward@gmail.com
Phone: 626-590-1465
Enjoy getting to know other members in a small group setting. Prospective, new members and current
members are cordially invited to coffee to hear more about the Newcomers Welcome Club.
This month (due to the Thanksgiving Holiday) we will meet on the third Friday at 10:00 am, at a location to be
determined closer to the date. Please mark your calendars for Friday, November 21.
Please email Birgit Woodward by Monday, November 17th, if you wish to receive an invitation and location where
we will be meeting.
Saturday Night Social
by Merryl Sawicki
This monthly Saturday evening social is an opportunity for newcomers, their spouses, and single members to meet other members in the
warmth and comfort of a member's home. Please bring an appetizer to share and your own beverage that is not shared.
The November Saturday Social is on November 15, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and is hosted by
Linda Anderson. Please
RSVP to Linda at her phone.
Hosts Wanted: If you'd like to host a social at your house in 2026, please contact Merryl.
Friendship Luncheons
by Carol Jo Bays
cjbays503@gmail.com
Newcomers Friendship Luncheons offer the opportunity for you to develop new and lasting friendships in a
quieter setting. Our format is for 6-8 ladies to meet monthly, rotating homes. Each host prepares a casual meal
or selects a restaurant, with each member paying for her own meal. Groups set their own meeting day - for
example, second Tuesdays - so that members can keep those calendar dates clear.
Happily, there are many ways to socialize with Newcomers; these smaller gatherings are perfect for getting to
know one another better on an ongoing basis. Please contact me if - and when - you wish to be part of the
fun.
Single Dining Divas
by Sharon Harvey
smharvey50@gmail.com
408-609-3430
The Single Dining Divas have two events each month. Each dinner is hosted by a Diva member in their home.
One of the monthly dinners is hosted on the second Tuesday of each month. And the second is designated by the
host. That designated host Diva chooses from Brunch, Lunch or Dinner as their preference, as well as the
date. All of our Diva members take turns hosting the monthly gatherings in their homes, and should be able to
accommodate at least 10 people. The host sets the menu and provides the entree; guests bring the side dishes,
desserts and beverages designated by the host.
If you are a single Diva and interested in joining our fun group for home-hosted potluck meals, please contact
me, Sharon Harvey.
Wine Enthusiasts
by Joanne Nowak
nowakjzn@aol.com
503-655-4163
There is a nip in the air, leaves are changing and falling, and one of my favorite holidays is around the
corner. Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends around a table with a bounty of food
and perhaps an Oregon bottle of wine or two along with expressions of gratefulness.
This holiday weekend also carries on a long standing tradition of a Thanksgiving in Oregon Wine Country. Live
music, food pairings, savings on wine, rare bottles opened to taste and a truly magical experience at most of
the wineries in Oregon. My husband and I have been there, done that, and I think we even bought a tee shirt along
with having a memorable time sipping some award winning Oregon wines.
If this sounds intriguing to you, visit WINE COUNTRY EVENTS.
Cheers,
Joanne and Maria
SeniorNet
by Ed Sawicki
SeniorNet helps keep you safe on the Internet and helps with your technological challenges.
Visit the SeniorNet page for details.
WashCo Fun
Washington County Fun in Beaverton and Hillsboro
by Joyce Porter
portjoy24@gmail.com
860-209-2060
WashCo Fun is a coed group for all members of LONWC, and the spouses
of WashCo Fun members. Our activities in Washington County include an
event and a meal at an area restaurant. To join and participate in
future activities, contact Joyce Porter. Your Welcome letter will list
upcoming WashCo Fun activities, an optional preference Questionnaire,
and a list of fellow WashCo members.
Upcoming events include a WineDown in November, and a holiday theater performance Play in December.
Please let me know if you have questions or need more information.
Books
Reading Between the Wines
by Barbra Crumley
barbracrumley@gmail.com
925-785-1142
We enjoy reading novels, memoirs, biographies, historical fiction, and history as we gather
with a glass of wine and a bite to eat and discuss the book of the month.
Bagels and Books
by Lynn Chazin
petslovers61@yahoo.com
925-352-6698
Bagels and Books is Newcomers newest daytime book club. We read novels and historical fiction
and gather to nosh and discuss the book. Meetings are held the third Friday of each month from
11:00-1:00. Members take turns hosting, selecting books, and leading the discussion. If you are
interested in joining, contact Lynn Chazin.
Tea, Cookies, and a Good Book
by Anne Dantzig
dantzighome2@yahoo.com
At our next meeting on November 17, we will discuss our final book of the year “And There Was
Light: Abraham Lincoln” written by Jon Meacham. The meeting is from 1:30-3:00 pm on the
third Monday of each month in the hostess’ home. There is currently a waiting list to join our
book club. If you would like to join, please send your name and contact information to Anne at
Dantzighome2@yahoo.com.
From Memories to Memoir
Linda Morris
Linda.morris5@comcast.net
503-998-8925
Carol Jo Bays
cjbays503@gmail.com
503-941-8646
Memoir is really anything that impacts your life. We all have life stories. Each session
we hear family memories, humor, poetry, musings and more. We don’t teach writing.
We just read our stories and actively listen to others.
Our group meets by Zoom on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 10:00 to noon.
Each week, members share a 5-7 minute piece followed by positive feedback from the
group.
November meetings are November 5 and 19. Members will get a link a couple of days before.
If you are interested in joining the group, or would like more information, please contact
Linda Morris or Carol Jo Bays.
Book It Forward
by Claire Vaeth
claire.vaeth@gmail.com
617-501-6672
We meet the 4th Monday of each month 10am-noon. Contact Claire for more information.
Games
Bunco Afternoon #1
by Sherry Kuntz
Skuntz421@msn.com
503-860-9813
The Bunco group will meet at the home of Julie Coari on November 20, 2025 at 12:00 noon.
If you are unable to attend, please contact Julie by email or by phone with the name of your sub.
Bunco #2
by Paula Sorensen
demelza35@aol.com
503-680-8413
This group meets in the evening on the second Wednesday of the month and is
managed by Paula Sorensen.
Date/Time: Wednesday, November 12, at 7:00 pm
Hostess: Jan Schmidt
RSVP to Jan.
Canasta: Hand Foot & Tush
by Judith Davies
davies24@gmail.com
310-600-6373
We usually play this 5-deck Canasta game called "Hand Foot & Tush" on the 4th Wednesday of the
month, at 11:00 AM. Due to the upcoming holiday, THIS MONTH, we will be playing Canasta on the 3rd
Wednesday, November 19, 2025. We ask players to bring their own lunch and the hostess to provide
drinks.
Please email Judith Davies if you are interested in playing. If you are a new player she will send you the rules
and guidelines. Looking forward to seeing you!
Dominoes
by Judith Davies
davies24@gmail.com
310-600-6373
You are invited to join a new group to play Dominoes on the 3rd Tuesday of each month.
This month we will play on November 18, 2025 at 12:30pm
Drinks and a light snack will be provided. Please
contact Judith Davies if you would like to play
Mah Jongg
by Cheryl Robins and
Susan Muhm
sgmuhm@gmail.com
425-443-1862
American Mah Jongg is a tile game loosely based on the original Chinese version. Players use the
tiles to make hands, chosen from an official card that changes annually. We play at 1:00 pm on the
first four Mondays of the month.
Nov 3 @1:00 —Joan Baines
Nov 10 @1:00—Lynn Chazin
Nov 17 @1:00—Barb Brannon (Will be held at Cheryl Robin's home.)
Nov 24 @1:00—TBA
Best regards,
Cheryl and Susan
Men's groups
Men’s Breakfast Group
by Dave Hull
davehull2008@gmail.com
503-703-0256
The Breakfast Group meets on alternate Tuesdays at 9:00am at Biscuits on Mercantile
Drive in Lake Oswego. It is a time for camaraderie, good food, and just catching up. This
month, the breakfasts are:
Nov 4
Nov 18
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please email me. I will send out a email the Sunday morning before our
next breakfast.
Men’s Discussion Group
by Marc Bond
marcbond55@gmail.com
Tuesday evening 7th October we held an excellent discussion on the topic of ‘Where Should
Responsibility End?’. There were 12 of us in attendance, which allowed for a lively and great
discussion, with several great thoughts and ideas expressed.
Our next MDG is planned for December, and as with last year, we would like to make it a bit
festive with a pot-luck.
If you have any questions or ideas, please do not hesitate to contact Marc Bond for further
information.
Undaunted Saunterers
by Gary Crumley
doctorcrums@gmail.com
The ‘Undaunted Saunterers’ walk every Wednesday with members taking turns to find walking destinations,
leading the walks, and arranging for a congenial lunch spot.
We are looking forward to the fall foliage and return of rain to the PNW.
Contact Gary Crumley for more information.
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Social & Classes
Ladies Cooking Class
by Susan Slovacek and Mary Costa maryctoo@comcast.net
Would you be interested in a holiday cookie exchange on Thursday, December fourth?
Instead of a cooking class, each participant would bring 3 dozen home made cookies along with the recipe and containers for the cookies they take home. Let us know if you’re interested. If there’s enough interest sign up information will be in the December newsletter.
To keep this group going, we need hosts for the upcoming cooking classes. If you have a favorite recipe to demonstrate and share, and/or a large kitchen to host an event, please contact Mary or Susan.
Women's Discussion Group
by Sharon Samson
Engage, Inspire, and Explore… A group discussion is a structured exchange of ideas among participants aimed at sharing insights and perspectives. The most engaging discussions often touch on themes that are relevant in everyday life: education, technology, history, current events, ethics, diversity. The group will offer suggestions for prospective topics.
The Women's Discussion Group is currently full. If you're interested in participating, please stay tuned for future openings.
Coffee & Conversation
by Birgit Woodward
birgitwoodward@gmail.com
Phone: 626-590-1465
Enjoy getting to know other members in a small group setting. Prospective, new members and current members are cordially invited to coffee to hear more about the Newcomers Welcome Club.
This month (due to the Thanksgiving Holiday) we will meet on the third Friday at 10:00 am, at a location to be determined closer to the date. Please mark your calendars for Friday, November 21.
Please email Birgit Woodward by Monday, November 17th, if you wish to receive an invitation and location where we will be meeting.
Saturday Night Social
by Merryl Sawicki
This monthly Saturday evening social is an opportunity for newcomers, their spouses, and single members to meet other members in the warmth and comfort of a member's home. Please bring an appetizer to share and your own beverage that is not shared.
The November Saturday Social is on November 15, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and is hosted by Linda Anderson. Please RSVP to Linda at her phone.
Hosts Wanted: If you'd like to host a social at your house in 2026, please contact Merryl.
Friendship Luncheons
by Carol Jo Bays
cjbays503@gmail.com
Newcomers Friendship Luncheons offer the opportunity for you to develop new and lasting friendships in a quieter setting. Our format is for 6-8 ladies to meet monthly, rotating homes. Each host prepares a casual meal or selects a restaurant, with each member paying for her own meal. Groups set their own meeting day - for example, second Tuesdays - so that members can keep those calendar dates clear.
Happily, there are many ways to socialize with Newcomers; these smaller gatherings are perfect for getting to know one another better on an ongoing basis. Please contact me if - and when - you wish to be part of the fun.
Single Dining Divas
by Sharon Harvey
smharvey50@gmail.com
408-609-3430
The Single Dining Divas have two events each month. Each dinner is hosted by a Diva member in their home. One of the monthly dinners is hosted on the second Tuesday of each month. And the second is designated by the host. That designated host Diva chooses from Brunch, Lunch or Dinner as their preference, as well as the date. All of our Diva members take turns hosting the monthly gatherings in their homes, and should be able to accommodate at least 10 people. The host sets the menu and provides the entree; guests bring the side dishes, desserts and beverages designated by the host.
If you are a single Diva and interested in joining our fun group for home-hosted potluck meals, please contact me, Sharon Harvey.
Wine Enthusiasts
by Joanne Nowak
nowakjzn@aol.com
503-655-4163
There is a nip in the air, leaves are changing and falling, and one of my favorite holidays is around the corner. Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends around a table with a bounty of food and perhaps an Oregon bottle of wine or two along with expressions of gratefulness.
This holiday weekend also carries on a long standing tradition of a Thanksgiving in Oregon Wine Country. Live music, food pairings, savings on wine, rare bottles opened to taste and a truly magical experience at most of the wineries in Oregon. My husband and I have been there, done that, and I think we even bought a tee shirt along with having a memorable time sipping some award winning Oregon wines.
If this sounds intriguing to you, visit WINE COUNTRY EVENTS.
Cheers,
Joanne and Maria
SeniorNet
by Ed Sawicki
SeniorNet helps keep you safe on the Internet and helps with your technological challenges. Visit the SeniorNet page for details.
WashCo Fun
Washington County Fun in Beaverton and Hillsboro
by Joyce Porter
portjoy24@gmail.com
860-209-2060
WashCo Fun is a coed group for all members of LONWC, and the spouses of WashCo Fun members. Our activities in Washington County include an event and a meal at an area restaurant. To join and participate in future activities, contact Joyce Porter. Your Welcome letter will list upcoming WashCo Fun activities, an optional preference Questionnaire, and a list of fellow WashCo members.
Upcoming events include a WineDown in November, and a holiday theater performance Play in December. Please let me know if you have questions or need more information.