1. I think you would be surprised how much people are friendly in a socializing event if you just showed up and said hey I'm new, can I join in this conversation. Then just listen 80% of the time and maybe ask a question or two. Then do it again with a follow up of what you listened to. Just keep at it.

2. What are your interests, precisely? And what do you mean the demographic you are interested in meeting-- what is that demographic, precisely?