February 11 th was a cold night for a heart-warming gathering. The Young Friends of the Public Garden hosted their third annual private skating night for all ages on the Boston Common Frog Pond. Attendees were all smiles, despite the freezing temperatures, while mingling with other skaters, drinking hot chocolate, and enjoying skating with fellow park supporters. Despite more than a foot of snow falling just days earlier, the Frog Pond was miraculously cleared of snow in time for the event, and the great work of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department in clearing paths in the Boston Common made it possible for would-be skaters to reach the rink. Nearly 50 people braved the snowy landscape and chilly weather, united by a love for Boston's greenspaces and a chance to enjoy a fun evening together. All of the proceeds from the event will benefit our work in the Boston Common, Public Garden, and Commonwealth Avenue Mall. The event was organized with the help of Young Friends leadership: Chair Kate Gundry, event Co-Chairs Rich Hornblower and Anne Mostue, and host group members: Nazli Kfoury, Lara Maggs, and Katherine McCord. The Young Friends group hosts several social events throughout the year in order to raise funds for the Friends work. . The Young Friends offers an opportunity for community members to enjoy festive gatherings while helping better the parks. If you are interested in becoming involved with this group or attending an upcoming event, please email [email protected] or visit www.friendsofthepublicgarden.org to learn more.