For many years, the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay has sponsored groups and activities that help fulfill our mission of providing a great quality of life in the Back Bay. Collectively known as Friends & Neighbors, these groups offer over 20 ways to meet your neighbors and enjoy common interests. They are all open to all NABB members.

Some F&N activities, such as book discussions, are so popular that new groups are constantly being started. There are day groups, evening groups, fiction groups, non-fiction groups, fiction and non-fiction combined, and history groups.

The Wine and Dine group is a great way to eat excellent food, drink fine wine, and meet interesting people. For those who can do without eating, Wine Tasting is an alternative. If one likes to eat, but not cook, the On the Town Dinner Group might fulfill those needs. The group meets monthly at some of the finest restaurants in Boston. For members who don't like eating past 6 p.m., the Sunday Brunch group is a delicious alternative.

We have film discussions and theatre going. New moms can enjoy friendship and support with other new mothers in the Mom's Groups. Bridge groups need no details. Stitch and Chat members bring projects they are working on or have had in their drawers for a while and can't quite finish.

Everyone is always interested in making money, so the investment groups can be counted on to be lively and lucrative. Boston is full of history and what better way to discover gems than with the antiques and architectural walking tours. Artists can have fun and learn in the sketching/painting group as they perfect their talent either on canvas or listening to fellow artists. For members who like to stay in condition in a musical way, swing dancing provides a great outlet. Women in business meet periodically to network. And for those who like to walk, they never have to walk alone again. The Tuesday Group provides informative and diverse speakers for retired men. And winter is never far away for skiers who want getaway weekends during the winter months.

Getting involved with NABB's Young Friends and Neighbors is a great way for young professional NABB members to meet, mingle and get involved in a variety of activities.

An opportunity for gay and lesbian neighbors to socialize and hear about supporting organizations and their work is available with the bi-monthly events of Gay and Lesbian Friends & Neighbors. The early evening receptions provide a forum for guest speakers from a variety of organizations.

Friends & Neighbors activities are interesting and fun. The friendships developed in the groups help strengthen the neighborhood. And for those who are new to the Back Bay, it's a great way to get involved and meet your neighbors.

A complete list of current activities and contact names is available from the NABB office. If you have any questions, please contact F&N co-chairs Linda Zukowski at lzuke@aol.com or Deborah Kane at debkaneboston@comcast.net. You may also contact the NABB office directly at 617-247-3961 or send an email to nabbinc@verizon.net