That's for sure Ernie - and you have to throw yourself out on a limb once in a while. Walk up to folks and introduce yourself, maybe have some kind question to ask. You know, "hi, I'm new to town and I was wondering if you could tell me - where the library is, where the new book store is located, where the best local deals on scuba diving are, where you can join a poker game, where the Kingdom Hall is located - you know, something broad." Some folks will answer and engage you in further conversation, others will answer and then be cool. Take your cues from their behavior. Sometimes people are preoccupied or busy so they are a little curt. I wouldn't let that dissuade you. You just have to find your niche.
A great way to break the ice is to chat with the merchants too. Church of course is a great place to meet people. And we all know that we have a watering holes about every 50 ft where people are socializing.