3rd December 1999 Christmas came early with 1999’s Christmas party for service users, volunteers and staff at The Upper House, Barlaston. The theme for the party was 70’s attire, with balloons crackers and food to add to the enjoyment. The impromptu best rear competition judged by Rosie and friends was won by Paul Berrisford who had shoe horned himself into a size six loons. There was lot’s of dancing to be had with many photographs (see later), with some censored for good taste. Most people thought that it was the best party they had been to at Buddies and I would certainly endorse that. I can’t wait for next year’s party. 21st December The Christmas drop in once again proved to be very popular with a bottle of Bubbly and some fancy biscuits as prizes for the free raffle. We had a glass of bubbly for a toast to all of us at the centre and for those who couldn’t make it due to other commitments. 1st February The drop in had been organised to have Peter Butler and Georgina Paget, Clinical Nurse Specialists from Stoke and Stone respectfully, to chair an informal question and answer session. Many questions were asked, including: drug regimes, resistance testing, alcohol abuse, recreational drugs, compliance, nutrition and health. This proved to be a very worthwhile session with questions coming from links with other subjects. Peter and Georgina have said they will do more if wanted, with maybe one subject (such as resistance) to be discussed more fully . Please let me have any subjects that you would like to be discussed at any future sessions. Future Events Body Positive has been in touch with Henry Grahame-Smith to put on a talk in April at the Hanley Centre. This will be a similar talk to the one which was organised in 1998.I will keep you posted of developments regarding this event as soon as I have confirmation of dates and times etc. One of the most enjoyed trips last year was the boat trip. I have been in touch with Brian Williams and we are in the process of planning a trip for May 2000. Are there any trips or events you would like to have? Please let me know and I will do my level best to try and organise them. NEWS In the Nov/Dec addition I mentioned that Jean our complimentary therapy co-ordinater was preparing a questionnaire to be sent out soon. Unfortunately Jean has been ill and it has had to be delayed. A meeting with Jean, Bob and myself was held recently and we have almost finalised the form. I will send it out as soon as it is completed. Drop in attendance has been on the low side since the New Year but has now increased back to normal with lots of people attending over the past few weeks, with some very interesting and lively conversations!! Interestingly, the 21st February 2000 will be the 10th Anniversary of the very first meeting set up by Body Positive North Midlands, the forerunner of Staffordshire Buddies Parking Parking facilities at the centre have always been a bit of a squeeze to say the least, but with extra staff and services taking place at the Centre they had become even more difficult of late. However, GOOD NEWS!...the on-street parking outside the centre has recently become “pay-and-display” which means that any Orange Badge holder can park in front of the centre free of charge and for an unlimited time as long as you display your badge. Neil Pepper