GaySurrey Chat

The 17th was a day to remember, despite the weather we actually had sun and the children had a great time on the bouncy castle, playing on the Fire Engine, police and Fire car. I say children but there were a few adults that were enjoying that part of the day too

The team at Gay Surrey worked so hard to make this day happen and the support was amazing with over 160 people attending the afternoon and evening, everyone was excited that so many helped the charity prove we are a great community and one that has families too.

The afternoon kicked off with a welcome IDAHO ****, the smells of the BBQ on the patio, the cutting of the IDAHO cake all making the launch of IDAHO packed with family fun with an atmosphere that was electric and one we will never forget

The exhibitors were amazing and we have received such positive responses about the work they are doing in helping the LGBT community, their family and friends within Surrey

The speakers were truly touching, sharing their heart filled stories and covering key issues surrounding life in Surrey, some made many realise what an amazing community we are and opened some people's eyes to the good and bad, for that the charity thanks everyone that spoke yesterday

The evening came to a great end with the launch of Gay Surrey's new yearly event -
Heart of Equality Awards

These awards were given to those who have worked hard in raising awareness to Equality and Diversity in Surrey

2009 winners

• Oatlands Park Hotel
• Elmbridge Borough Council
• Ian Cole
• Elmbridge Guardian Newspaper
• Sam King
• TEASE club – Guildford University
• David Gill
• Gino's personal choice award went to - Mick Day of Surrey Police

After such an amazing day it's hard to believe that we are already thinking and planning IDAHO and the “Heart of Equality” Awards 2010, so watch this space

Thank you to everyone that supported the charity not only yesterday but over the years as well

Gino
Chair
Gay Surrey
There 24/7 for equality

Come join us to celibrate IDAHO 2009 on Sunday the 17th May at Oatlands Park Hotel, Weybridge.

4.00pm onwards Oatlands Park Hotel, receive a welcome IDAHO ****
4.30pm BBQ

We also have on the day a...
* Police car
* Surrey Fire and Rescue car
* Fire Engine
* Bouncy Castle for all ages (come on be a kid again)
In addition for the children.
Surrey Fire and Rescue are giving away “Fire Kits” These early learner packs contain jigsaw, books, games and more. It's a great fun kit to have to take away and play on the day

7.00pm Speeches

* Opening speech Gino Meriano, Chair Gay Surrey.
* Bill Buckley - Patron of Gay Surrey
* Scott Salmon - Surrey Police DCI surrounding Hate Crime projects.
* Mike Patey - Surrey Police LAGLO Officer.
* Denise Saliagopoulos - Executive Member for Surrey County Council and Young People
* Cllr Chris Ward - Liberal Democrat Guildford Borough Councillor. Chris is openly gay and one of the youngest councillors in the country.
* Pam Frost - Diversity Lead for Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
* Terry Reed - Trustee of Gender Identity Research and Education Society (GIRES)
* Ian Cole - Development Worker for Gay Men.

8.00pm Gay Surrey's Equality Matters Awards ceremony
11.00pm Evening comes to a close

For the latest news check http://www.gaysurrey.org/idaho2009.htm
IDAHO 2009 International Day Against Homophobia, May 17th - Weybridge