Hi Everyone,

I must admit that it felt good to be dressed and "out and about" after so many weeks off over Christmas and New Year. It was good to see a healthy attendance at the first Seahorse meeting for the year, but, not so good for Northern. Hopefully, more members will avail themselves of the opportunities to get "out and about" that Northern and main meeting provide.

I had (at short notice) an opportunity to appear with Jaye Monroe on `Transmission Time' on JOY 94.9fm at 8pm on Tuesday 14th Feb. This is a regular programme presented by Jaye and Lauren about all issues in the transgender world. Prior to the show going to air, Jaye had prepared many different articles from all around the world just in case my thoughts couldn't fill enough time. As it turned out, we didn't really have enough time to think about the fill in material, let alone use any of it.

We spoke about Seahorse and its place in the transgender community; how we have served this community for over 30 years; how we have provided a safe and supportive environment; how we have and can help individuals develop confidence in their self, and; how we intend to continue doing what we can to help those with transgender issues to become comfortable and confident with whom they really are. I recounted a few of my own experiences to illustrate what Seahorse can do for us; how I was very nervous about being `out' for the first time in public; how relieved I was when I first got to the venue and saw people like me (well, almost!); how my confidence grew with each meeting, and; how I couldn't help myself when asked to be on the committee (everyone has some sort of compulsion!). We discussed that how behind the scenes, we were working (sorry, April is working) frantically to do a major overhaul of the website which will bring us more into the modern age and be a little more interactive than was the case. In short, being on the radio was a wonderful experience and a great opportunity to talk about Seahorse.

AND talking about developing confidence, Jaye asked me why did I volunteer to be President. Without being too brash, I said that as Seahorse had done a lot for me, I felt that I was in a position to give something back. To my mind Seahorse is not there for the past but the future as (and while society is now by and large more accepting) there will be a continuing need for the safe and supportive environment for many with transgender issues. While the AGM seems along way off, please consider what you can do for the Club. As the old adage says "many hands make light work'".

As Danielle always says, "any excuse to dress up is a good one", then consider Seahorse one of the best excuses that you can offer anyone.

Greer