*~`++`~*  Headline News  *~`++`~*

                      Blizzard Strikes

It was on the night of March 13th that the blizzard rolled in. One it is said followed Aaric on his return from a mission. The light of day was not seen for near four leaving only shades of gray and white. The snow fell so heavy at times one could not see a foot in front of their face. So, Old Man Winter would not step down from his yearly throne without leaving his mark. One to pile high and deep. Once again the citizens proved their worth in gold in the way all lent a hand. The Royal Guards were sent out to fortify the troops of guards in keeping the main streets cleared around the clock along with helping ones stranded and getting food to those who could not get out.

Causalities were kept at a minimum and the full extent will not be known until the snows melt enough that places in higher elevations can be reached. There were many roofs that caved in, trees falling on homes along with drifts so high due to the winds it covered smaller buildings and trapped many in their homes until they could be dug out. It had the trips by ship cancelled due to the lack of visibility and choppy waters. The normal flow of life came to an abrupt halt to accommodate. There were many snowball fights, sleighing and such winter sports by the younger crowd old enough to be out in such weather and enjoy the lighter side of potential disaster. An advisory was spread to keep children indoors that were not over five feet.

On the darker side, an elderly couple, Jed and Mary Dolan, were found dead in each others arms within their home that had been crushed under a huge tree felled during an avalanche. It was only the fact one knew they lived there in the mountains that an effort had been made to dig them out but to no avail. Four men, believed to be wandering trappers, were found along the Ballicastle mountain range frozen and broken. It is believe they were brought down during another avalanche taking them three hundred feet to their deaths. A young man, who is being treated at Barrington Hospital for exposure, was found wandering into the Tyremoor Commons dazed and confused, the uncle he had been with fell through ice of a smaller lake and drowned. A lake they didn't even know was beneath their feet for the snow. The younger man had been able to pull himself out and was rushed to Barrington. He is in stable condition.. --submitted by Lah Barrett Suex

Kildare Update

The land of Kildare has begun the process of rebuilding after many years of oppression following the death of King Seamus McLarkin.  The Kingdom of Heathfield has graciously allowed men from their own Guard to travel to the capital city in order to train, and in some cases, retrain, soldiers for the protection of the realm.  Offers of lumber, seed, and food have also been made and accepted and in time, the generosity will be repaid.

Farms and land will be given to those returning to their homeland.  It is hoped as the rebuilding continues, and Kildare thrives, that we will be able to establish trade. The land is rich in forest lands, furs, and possibly minerals.  There also seems to be an abundance of fish.  There had been some resistance by followers of the vanquished Witch but that has been dealt with and no more trouble is expected.  The lands are recovering slowly from the dark magic that had held it so long in thrall but by summer, it is expected all traces of that time will be gone.  --submitted by Gaidan M McLarkin

       It seems that the gifted and talented always find their homes to be made in the lands of Heathfield.  This month I speak of a starlet that also is on the blossom of womanhood.  Gwenyth Powell.  Renowned around the world as the greatest voice of our time.  The soprano singer that one praise and adoration before even hitting her tenth birthday.

       She was born in Ys, Wales.  Though her father was a Duke in those lands, her mother was native of Heathfield.  It was the key ingredient to her decision to return here after the tragic loss of both parents.

       "My grandmother, known to others as Ms. Aptkins, remained here.  She is the only surviving member of my family that I remember very well.  It made the idea very easy to cope with."

       Now, the question is, why would she give up the home she inherited, as well as the title and monies?  "Oh, that was an easy decision to make as well.  I had every lordship I could think of knocking at my doors, proclaiming to take my hand.  They really wanted the dowry I came with and nothing more.  So, I gave it all back to the crown and renounced it all."

       That was such a brave move for one considerably a woman, but lacking experience.  Or, did she lack it.  I had the honor of writing a piece about this young lady years ago.  When she was still touring the Opera houses from London to Paris and more.  Even then, at the age of fifteen, she had a handle of where her mind was and where she was going.  Not once did her parents pressure her.  She sang because she wanted too.

       So now that she was just Gwenyth of Heathfield, what would she do to pass the time?  Would she see the stage again or save her voice for any children later in life?  "There is word of a theater opening in the lands soon.  If I feel the urge or one asks for my presence, I will take the stage again.  As for Paris, Rome, or London; I can only say that it would not be anytime soon, if I perform there.  But, when I am much older and blessed with children, they would be my captive audience."

       Always with her head on straight and her priorities set.  This songbird has found a place to settle her nest.  And we of these are lands are thankful to have the spectacular talent as one of our own.

Life Around Here

Spring returned to the realm in the midst of clean up after what was hopefully a last blast from Old Man Winter.  She sneaked in silently and with patience.  Signs are already appearing of her return. Geese have been seen flying in formation northward.  Robins have been spotted and heard cheerfully calling out her praise.  The days are still chilled but there has been slow improvement though much snow remains and will be slow to melt. The snows will be put to use for a Farewell to Winter Festival.  More details will follow, but there is a toboggan run being built near the Lake.

Many a roof is being repaired, while trees and branches that fell have been removed from roadways and fields.  A few folks have been snowbound and efforts are in progress to reach those in the mountains and wilds to check on the families there.  The storm has also brought a few new faces to the lands.  Be sure to welcome those newcomers you meet!

Births: None this month. Marriages: None this Month. Engagements: None this month. Deaths: Jed and Mary Dolan. Mattias Smidthe and four others, all males, whose identities are unknown. Citizenship: Please welcome Claire O'Reilly who will be opening an artist shop in the near future. Please welcome Donovan and Kat MacKnight who have recently returned.

Thought for the Day

"Spring is a heart full of hope and a shoe full of rain." -- Unknown  --submitted by Sara Devonshire

Job Finder

Contact Draven MacShire for: Butcher needed to take over established business. Music Store Proprietor wanted. Firemen needed along with a Veterinarian wanted to take over business, willing to make house calls. Glass Maker, expertise in blown glass wanted to open shop.

Contact Malcolm Douglas for: Dentist needed to set up office. Sign Maker needed Teacher Aids still needed, school will be opening soon. Leather Worker Craftsman/ Proprietor needed to take over established shop.

Spring is nearly here as the various ranches are looking for hired hands needed for the season. Fair wages, good working conditions, guaranteed work if qualified. Need to be healthy, strong, sixteen or older and without excessive vices. Food and shelter provided. Apply at Ravanna Farmlands - Draven MacShire, McCormick Sheep Ranch - Ian McCormick, McDonough Cattle Ranch - Maurice or Joe McDonough and for those looking for ship work, contact Bovee Shipping - Andre Bovee or Pierre Lafayette, Dunshire Mercantile Enterprises - Rhett Shawnesey, Shipwrights - Collin McAndrews or Thomas Douglas.

Thanks to the Job Finder: A number of hired hands have already signed up for the coming season. Anyone looking for a job not listed or offering their services/hiring please contact Draven MacShire.

Monthly Horoscope

Aries (March 21 - April 20)
  This is a good month for purchasing new items.  And if others want to venture into their own fields of interest instead, allow them to do so.  Do not take to heart what everyone says and you will feel better for doing so.  This month might also project potential lovers.  Look for the best to arrive on a Saturday during the month.

Taurus (April 21 - May 21)
  There will be a talk that will leave you with more on your mind and open your attention to current events that are happening around you.  You will push forward because of this.  There is also the chance that you will become distraught if you have allowed friends take advantage of your currency.   Beware of releasing a close kept secret to others and hold it safe.  The ideal day for the month is Sunday.

Gemini (May 22 - June 21)
  There is a rage that might be manifested from offering or borrowing currency.  To meet a new flame or just maintain your already blooming love life, just go out and entertain yourself.  Be forward and bright and all will be yours for the taking.  A Monday will be your best day this month.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)
  Now is the time to get your life back on path.  Keep things that are personal to yourself and be careful with what you divulge.  Remain away from gatherings that will pit you in the same area as those you do not get along with.  Problems with your lover may create a separation.  The best events will happen during a Saturday.

 LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)
  Your mind may not be on the job. You should be looking at ways to spoil yourself. You will be relentless when it comes to getting yourself back into shape. Follow through on some of the good ideas that come up, and you could have a real winner of a deal.  Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

 VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23)
  Look for professional guidance if it will help unite the family. Matters pertaining to your home environment will be favorable if you are direct. Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness. You can make money, but try not to let it slip through your fingers. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

 LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23)
  Communication must be open, precise, and honest. Be prepared for an active but rewarding day. You must not let fellow workers take advantage of your fine talents. Opportunities to pamper yourself may unfold. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

 SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
  Make sure that new mates live up to your high standards. The answers can only come from within. Try looking into new ways to make extra money. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

 SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21)
  Remember that no one can walk through your door if there's someone standing in the doorway. Listen to the problems of others and offer suggestions where possible. Be careful when using machinery or electrical equipment. Your practical approach to life may charm someone who has been observing you. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

 CAPRICORN (Dec 22. - Jan. 20)
  Don't push your mate if you want to keep this union going. You can increase the value of your dwelling. Look into residential moves that will give you more space. You can accomplish a lot if you work out of your home this month. Move forward if you want to turn your life around. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19)
  A little overtime may help you reduce the workload. You may be more emotional than usual. Relationships will become stronger. Don't bother complaining, do the work yourself. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

 PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20)
  Relationships will be erratic this month. You need to get out and have some fun to reduce tension. Travel and creative hobbies will be your best outlet. Accept the inevitable and continue to do your job. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.
-submitted by Nataliya Andree

Many thanks to those who contribute to this newspaper. Anyone wishing to run an ad please contact Lahoneee.

Where To Find It - Services Offered

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OTHER LIFE FORMS

PIXIES -- Tricky by nature, pixies particularly delight in tormenting humans. For this reason they can be found living in suburban and rural areas and sometimes even in parks of cities, any greenward, basically here people frequent. Ranging between two fee and the height of a human child, pixies (also known as piskies) make their homes in hollows of logs, lean-tos formed by felled trees, and in gardens. Unlike boggarts and brownies, pixies never live inside houses, preferring to dwell outdoors. They sometimes can be spotted alone but are more commonly found in groups of three to five. Their desire to dwell in groups place them in the trooping category within the Invisible World.

Due to their prankish nature, pixies are unremarkable in coloring. Their clothing is usually natural in tone, all the better for hiding themselves as they wait for someone to fall into their next trap. Like many faeries, pixies dislike rude, greedy and cruel people and often single them out to be the victims of their pranks. Pixies are particularly known for knotting hair, leading people astray, and pinching skin black and blue. Pixies also have a fondness for stealing horses. An excellent sign of pixie presence is small items going missing. Of particular interest are thimbles, pincushions, toothpicks, eating utensils, paper clips and straight pins. If you are lucky enough to discover a pixie's lair, you will be surprised at the array of things they've borrowed.  -- from Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide

Dear Tae...

Would you say that the age difference between a man and a woman is important?  Or is it not more important if they make each other happy while together? - Curious

Dear Curious,

Age is a factor that people place way too much importance in. If they are happy, that's all that matters. No matter what other people may say or think, any discouraging words are most generally formed from envy and jealousy, because they have not what those they speak against each other do. 

But, always keep in mind, the main problem in the extreme distance of age, is that when it passes, one will wear down more quickly than the other. Wants will differ, because one has already gone through what the other has yet to experience. With this in mind, the older of the two should always remain open minded and hearted. Happiness is the bottom line here curious one, if that is had, all else can be worked through in time.

Dear Tae...

If you had been dating someone, going steady with them and then of a sudden they disappear without a word with weeks going by, how long does one wait for another under such conditions before moving on? Under such circumstances does the waiting period last according to commitment such as dating, going steady, courting, engaged and even married? -Footloose

Dear Footloose,

If you are dating, why would you worry about waiting? Dating is not a commitment to another, but something you do to see if you and the person can get along, and coexist together. Many people, who date, date more than one person. This does not make them promiscuous, nor a bad person, they are just trying to find the one in which they're compatible with. So, in answer to your question, go ahead and date others. If and when this other comes back, inform them, you will not wait forever for someone you are not committed to, and if they wish to try again, then so be it. That is unless you've found another to whom you commit to, then I would say it's their loss.

April Fool's Day

April Fools' Day or All Fools' Day, is the first day of April. In many countries, including the United States, it is the custom on this day to play tricks on people. A favorite joke is to send someone on a fool's errand, a search for something that does not exist. In the United States, the victim is called an April Fool. No one knows where the April Fools' custom began. But some historians believe it may have started in France. There, the old New Year's festival was observed from March 25 to April 1 and ended with an exchange of gifts. In the mid-1560's, King Charles IX changed the New Year to January 1. People who still celebrated the New Year in April were called April fish and sent mock presents. April Fools' Day may be related to the ancient Roman spring festival Hilaria, which celebrates the resurrection of the god Attis.  --World Book Encyclopedia. submitted by Kathleen Frasier

Month of April Contest

In honor of April Fool's Day, a contest is being conducted during the whole month of April on who can play the best prank on another. The best Prankster will receive the prize of an Arabian stallion, a pouch of fool's gold, plus a gold plaque engraved with their name depicting them as King or Queen of Pranks. Second prize will be a finely crafted Dagger and sheath,  given to the one taking a prank in the light it was given. There will be one trick to all of this too, if the one on the receiving end can pull off a coupe then it will be a winner take all! Those of other allied castles and friends may join in if they feel so inclined or mischievous.

 Events recorded of such pranks and reactions will be submitted to Lahoneee.

RECIPES of the MONTH

HARVEST BEEF STEW

2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes * 4 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces * 2 medium onions, cut into eighths * 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped * 2 cans (16 ounces each) whole tomatoes, undrained * 1/3 cup uncooked quick-cooking tapioca * 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves * 1 tablespoon cumin seed * 1 teaspoon salt * 2 ears corn, cut into fourths or 1 package (10 ounces) frozen whole kernel corn * 8 small new potatoes, cut in half (1 pound) * 2 small zucchini, thinly sliced

Heat oven to 325ºF. Mix all ingredients except corn, potatoes and zucchini in Dutch oven, breaking up tomatoes. Cover and bake 2 1/2 hours, stirring 2 or 3 times during the first 1 1/2 hours. Stir in corn and potatoes. Cover and bake 1 to 1 1/2 hours longer or until beef and vegetables are tender. Stir in zucchini. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. -- Meaghan O'Leary

CHICKEN POTATO STEW

2 cups broccoli flowerets or snap pea pods * 1 cup water * 6 new red potatoes, (3/4 pound), cut into fourths * 3 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, (3/4 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes * 1 jar (12 ounces) chicken gravy

Mix all ingredients in 3-quart saucepan. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and chicken is no longer pink in center. -- Meaghan O'Leary

STUFFED EGGS

Eggs, hard-boiled * Parsley, fresh, minced * Spices - salt, pepper, &  any medieval/period spice that you prefer; suitable seasonings could be a savory blend of such herbs as basil, thyme, savory, etc., or a sweet mixture of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, etc. Keep in mind that whatever you choose needs to be complimented by the freshly chopped parsley. * Egg, raw * Butter

Slice the eggs in half length-wise. Remove the yolks. Set the whites aside.  In a large bowl, mash the yolks. Combine with the freshly chopped parsley and seasonings. Add enough beaten raw egg to thoroughly moisten the mixture. Spoon the stuffing into the hollow egg whites. Cook as indicated in the next step, or follow the option of batter-coating. In a skillet or frying pan, melt the butter until sizzling. Fry the eggs, stuffed side up, until the bottoms are lightly browned. Gently turn over the eggs and fry the stuffed sides until lightly browned as well. Remove from the butter & serve. -- submitted by Acacia Sterling

CHAMP (for children)

1 1/2 pounds potatoes * 6 scallions * water * 1 1/2 C. milk * Pepper * 1 teaspoon salt * 4 pats butter

Peel the potatoes and steep in cold water for 1 hour.  Cover the potatoes with cold salted water and boil until tender. Drain well and dry off by laying a folded cloth on top and returning the pot to a gentle heat for a few minutes.  Mash the potatoes.  Chop the scallions very finely, using the green tops as well as the young bulbs.  Put them into a bowl and scald by pouring boiling water over them. (This helps to keep the tops bright green.) Drain them well. Add them to the milk and bring to a boil.  Pour the milk and scallions into the mashed potatoes. Add pepper and salt for taste.  Beat until light and fluffy. Champ is served on individual soup plates in little mounds. A crater is scooped out at the peak and a pat of butter dropped into the center. -- Hannah Frasier

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PORK AND APPLE STEW

6 shoulder pork chops * 4 Sour apples of medium size * 3 onions * Salt and plenty of black pepper * 1 tablespoon water * 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar

Trim the chops of excess fat and cut the fat in thin strips.  Peel, core and slice the apples. Slice the onions thinly.  In a wide casserole put a layer of slice onions, a layer of sliced apples, half the brown sugar, the chops, salt, a generous grinding of black pepper, and the water. Now cover the chops with a layer of onions and a top layer of sliced apples. Cover the chops with a layer of onions and a top layer of sliced apples. Toss the strips of pork fat in the other half of the brown sugar. Lay them, crisscross, on top of the apples and throw the remaining sugar over all. Season again with salt and black pepper.  Cover the casserole and cook in a moderate oven (350) for one hour. Reduce heat and cook for another hour. -- Sarah McDonough

DUBLIN CODDLE

1 pound onions * 6 slices of bacon * 1 pound sausages * Salt and pepper * 1 C. water

Skin and slice the onions. Put them into a saucepan with the bacon and sausages.  Season and add water.  Lay wax paper on top.  Cover with a tight lid and simmer gently for a half-hour.  Should be washed down by draughts of Irish stout. -- Pearl Adlam

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Mirrors

Mirrors have been associated with magic in many stories, myths, and legends.   It was once believed that one's reflection in a mirror, or any reflective surface, was a vital part of one's soul.  Mirrors were therefore regarded as "soul catchers," and were therefore draped with black cloth in the sick room of a dying person.  It is were the superstition that breaking a mirror causes bad luck.  The ancient Egyptian word for "mirror" is also the word for "life." Buddhists claim that all existence is like a reflection in a mirror.

In Witchcraft, mirrors are mainly used for divination, the user gazing into the reflective surface as into a crystal ball.  some such mirrors are blackened to cancel out any extraneous sights, while some are made with concave glass to help draw the eyes into the image.

Old grimoires for ceremonial magic give recipes for the paint used to turn a piece of clear glass into a black gazing mirror.  Ingredients include turpentine and multiple coats of asphaltum.  Some suggested inscribing the edge of the glass with the words "S. Solam S. Tattler S. Echogordner Gematur."  Others say the mirror should be standing within a triangle whose three sides are marked with the words "Alpha--Omega--Tetragrammaton" (others say "Adonay--Eloy--Tetragrammaton").

The Roman god Vulcan had a magic mirror that showed past, present, and future.  Al-Asnam, in the Arabian Nights, had a similar mirror.  Other magic mirrors appear in fairy stories and folk tales around the world. -- submitted by Aislin NiFaelan ('The Witch Book' by Raymond Buckland)

Gossip from the Wharf
"If you believe these - I have lands in Rhydin to sell you"
by The Wharf Crones - Matty and Pearl

All gossip that comes in through the port, and places least expected,  you can be sure that Matty and Pearl know every little tidbit and then some added. Embellishing is a way of life to make the tale far more colorful. If something is not certain nor clear, it is easy to fill in those gaps; there is nothing like assuming. They will make sure all gossip gets around come rain or shine and the sharing of a tea biscuit. There is a place for Drama Queens.

**The Importer and Rancher Brothers were seen escorting ladies late evening into a leather shop. It caused a pause in the race of our hearts visualizing all those leather straps. Could it be? Imagine! Those two hunks in leather. Is there a new rage? We want in! Of course there is that competition of the Harem Hussy right in there on all the fun. We'd like to give her a strapping of another kind if she spoils our fun. Look out Hussy here we come! Can you hear the drums?

**The Pirate Lord was seen sailing away the first night the Blizzard had calmed. It is rumored that a few others were also aboard including the Shell Lady. We wonder if she is still his love interest. Also boarding were the rather unique Alterians. The one could light my fire any night, or day. A little secret and don't tell but Pearl daydreams about getting a good jolt from the other. We tried to board ship as stowaways but Pearl tripped on the hem of her gown in her excitement and we both near ended up in the drink. They were long gone by the time our hearts stop racing, palpitations and catching our breaths. Hard work running.

**Do king's men share everything including their chairs? What had been abandoned by one set of steel buns was taken up by another. Will there be a conflict of interest. Will the buns fit? Will the elements rebel in fireworks once the other returns in a Who's been sitting in my Chair episode? We want front row tickets! It is rumored the other has just as fine an ass.

**Are there new lessons to be taught that involve mouth to mouth, lip to lip as the high Prince was seen taking such a long drink of elemental water in the tavern. If such lessons are now to be learned will the apprentice have to worry? One could wonder how cozy that cave is. None of us want to know .. really!

**The Blizzard had shaken a few up including one linen lass to land in the exotic importer's arms, or was that on his head? A new angle on cave woman claim. Was the importer literally smitten and now gained an  interest in linens, or has Heathfield's confirmed bachelor fallen prey to a love interest? Cupid where are you now?

**Where oh where have all the teens gone? Oh where oh where can they be? Has the Blizzard come and all got lost playing nookie under the sheets? A few were seen rolling around getting such friendly the bulk of clothes would allow. Melting snow they were!  Except for the two brothers wandering about late at night, most seemed to have gone into hibernation.  Will they emerge come spring with flights of fancy on their minds? Will there be new pairs? It looks like Russian Roulette.

**Has the rarely seen Highland Warlord coming back to ravish and plunder unsuspecting lips of another recluse? Was it the tease or something in the air. Wait, spring is here!! Lips .. we have lips, available and willing! We're willing to give them a new exercise. Warm and ready to go. Any male interested?

**Now that it seems one Ancient is taken will the other take up where his comrade left off? Another elusive male out on a teasing prowl and wouldn't you know it, our favorite Princess to talk about was involved! She's going to win our rumor award.

**Be still my fluttering heart for even a certain king has picked up on the flirtatious teasing. Breathe deep, breathe deep, breathe deep and catch the fever. My lips are never sealed but puckered!

**Splish splash in a blurring dash, was that the new PI in for a swim? Was he investigating the Loch Ness Monster here in Heathfield? The waters have been choppy and superstitions running high in wonder. Be still my beating heart (but not too still!), what a hunk! Dry or wet he's the hero of the Port diving in so bravely. Shining Knight in Armor is taking on a new meaning for rescue. Maybe if I push Pearl in next time around she can be rescued.

**...............whatever happened to the lass that took to the cabin? Was she trapped under an avalanche? Snowed in? Did she find a lover or is she staying hidden from spring fever mania? Will there be a rescue? We want to know how the winds blow on this one.

WANTED

Captain "Blood Bath" Black ... Dead or alive.

Crimes: High treason against England and Spain, Murder, Plundering and pillaging innocents, Thievery, Arson, Kidnapping, and Rape.  50,000 Gold for any who brings this scoundrel to justice.

500 Gold Pieces Offered in Reward

For information leading to the Murderer of Nancy Forsythe. .The young woman in her early twenties, average height, brown hair and blue eyes, has been found murdered. Anyone having information that will lead us to the apprehension of the one responsible will receive the gold. Contact the Private Investigators Office.

A Reward of 500 Gold Pieces Offered

For information leading to the arrest of the man responsible for an attack on Lisette McTiel. Contact Neale Frasier.