NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2023 - ISSUE 2
IN THIS ISSUE:
A MESSAGE FROM THE NT POLICE LEGACY BOARD CHAIR
2
CHAIR UPDATE
4
MESSAGE FROM OUR PATRON
6
NTPL BOARD UPDATE
There have been many changes to the NTPL Board of
7
2022/23 HIGHLIGHTS AND EVENTS
Management over the past 12 months, but none more painful than losing Board member Kiim Parnell APM who passed away earlier this year. Along with Karen Cheal, our Secretary, Kiim was the heart of the Board and her
11 EMPOWERING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT 14 LEGATEES IN THE SPOTLIGHT
absence has been sorely missed. I encourage you to read more about Kiim on page 5; she was truly a remarkable
15
HOW YOU CAN HELP
woman and an inspiration to many of us on the Board. Further changes occurred when in mid-2023 our Chair Mr Murray Smalpage APM resigned from the NT Police and thus his position on the NTPL board. Unfortunately with our Vice Chair temporarily overseas with family, this has meant for the very first time the Board had to nominate a
THE NT POLICE LEGACY BOARD:
Chair temporarily outside of annual nominations. Having been a Board member since 2020, it has been a true honour to step into that role. I must thank the Board, members both past and present, for their continued
CHAIR: MELINDA BURNETT (NTPA ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE)
contribution, dedication and support to NTPL and its
VICE CHAIR:
families.
MS AUDREY KO PSM (CHIEF MINISTER ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE)
I would also like to extend our thanks to the following NTPL contributors: Our patron of NTPL and our Administrator, His
TREASURER: BRUCE PAYNE (CURRENT SERVING NT POLICE OFFICER)
Honour, Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM The Commissioner of Police, Mr Michael Murphy APM and his executive team
SECRETARY: KAREN CHEAL
Northern Territory Police Association President Mr Nathan Finn and Staff Dr Gary Manison APM and valued members of the Retired Police Association The NT Police Legacy was established as a charitable organisation for the benefit of the surviving spouses and children of NT Police Officers, who have been killed, died on duty or died whilst serving, including those that have retired for reasons of ill health or age. The majority of our income is derived from payroll deductions. With an 86% membership participation rate and an average $3.96 contribution rate per person/pay we are asking those who are in a position to help, to do so. Whether it is increasing your payroll deduction or
BOARD MEMBERS: COMMISSIONER MICHAEL MURPHY APM (COMMISSIONERS REPRESENTATIVE) SUPERINTENDENT DREW SLAPE (NTPA ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE & CURRENT SERVING NT POLICE OFFICER) A/SUPERINTENDENT PETER DASH NTPA ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE & CURRENT SERVING NT POLICE OFFICER) MARCUS TILBROOK (RPANT ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE)
continued next page | PAGE 2
donating directly, every little bit helps. We hope you never need our help but reality is that you or someone you know might. In the last financial year we have provided $34,200 to Police Legatee Families. Thus, fundraising to support NT Police Legacy is important and our future relies heavily on fundraising efforts and contributions from police officers. NTPL wish to acknowledge significant fundraising and donations throughout the last financial year: NTPL Ball 2022 ($39,480) Run 4 Blue ($16,645) Vending Machines / NT Snack ($7,750) Wall to Wall ($8,500) We continue to commend and acknowledge those who contribute and give support to our cause including but not limited to: NT Police Members and others NSW Police Legacy for allowing NT to participate in the Kokoda Trek PFA Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance & NT Long Riders Run 4 Blue virtual run Volunteers and Sponsors; and In particular other Police Legacies around Australia for their inclusion of NTPL families in events and activities where those families reside out of the Northern Territory. All of who continue in kind and financial support to the Board and its families. This year has been a very busy year with the Board continuing to review the constitution, policies, procedures, structure, grants and compliance to ensure we are contemporary and accountable. We came into 2023 with a shared goal to further build on our communication and exposure amongst the community - and with the help of many we have been able to achieve this. In June we produced the Inaugural NTPL Newsletter, which will continue to be created on a biannual occurrence. We are proud of this as it becomes a new way for us to communicate to our Police Legatee families and supporters. Speaking of communication, the implementation of a new CRM system has allowed for a one stop shop for NTPL information. Benefits include improved communication with NTPL Legatee Families and stakeholders, better efficiency and productivity, reporting and analytical ability. We are excited to continue to grow this system to thus use it to our maximum potential. In October we introduced the first of many collectible plush dogs – the German Shepherd and Labrador dogs. These were a huge hit with the Black & White Labrador dogs selling out within a matter of weeks. We expect to bring out a new design each year so keep your eyes peeled and watch this space! Other event highlights have included the Wall to Wall ‘Ride for Remembrance’ in September, attendance at the National Police Legacy Conference in Sydney, the National Police Remembrance Day services, the Run4Blue virtual run, Bunnings sausage sizzle fundraisers and the 2023 ‘Triple Zero NTPL / Variety NT Ball’ which was held early September. The Northern Territory Police Legacy Board of Management is dedicated to the ongoing effort and commitment to such an important cause and are looking forward to holding our Christmas gathering in December for NTPL Legatees, Legators and major stakeholders. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you in 2024. Melinda Burnett Chair, Board of Management Northern Territory Police Legacy
THANK YOU MURRAY SMALPAGE APM On 30 August Deputy Commissioner for People, Crime and Capability Mr Murray Smalpage APM announced his retirement from the Northern Territory Police Force. Upon this resignation he also relinquished his position as Chair and Board member of Northern Territory Police Legacy. Mr Smalpage was appointed to the position of Deputy Police Commissioner within the Northern Territory Police Force in 2020 from his position as Assistant Commissioner for the Western Australian Police Force. Mr Smalpage’s policing career spans over four decades including 40 years serving in Western Australia in a number of senior roles. We wish Mr Smalpage well and thank him for his dedication to both the Northern Territory Police Legacy and Northern Territory Police force.
| PAGE 3
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM OUR PATRON As the new patron of Northern Territory Police Legacy, I am very glad to take this opportunity to send you a message at Christmas. Is there anything more honourable than taking care of one’s own? The support you are providing to those whose loved ones who were NT Police members have passed is a beautiful thing. You are actively honouring your colleagues with the care you bring to their families. I am proud of your work. Territorians are proud of your work. And it is in this spirit that I thank you for what you are doing, and wish you all of the best for this Christmas time. In fact, Northern Territory Police Legacy represents the Christmas spirit, but all year around: caring for each other, our families and communities, generosity, charity and, above all, kindness. I wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.
His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM, Administrator of the Northern Territory
2023 CHRISTMAS PAYMENT TO FAMILIES Christmas can be a difficult time for our Police Legacy families and their children. In recognition of this, NT Police Legacy provides monetary Christmas payments to children. The hope is the Christmas payment will help to bring joy and happiness to the children and is a welcome support. The Christmas payment is $100 for each child 11 years and under and $150 for each child 18 years and under (as @ 25th December 2023). Christmas payments will be processed the second week of December via electronic funds transfer directly into nominated bank accounts. If you have a question, please contact the Secretary at NTPL on 0448 534 229. | PAGE 4
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
CELEBRATING THE LATE KIIM PARNELL OAM In December 2022 at our annual Christmas 'Meet and Greet' we farewelled NT Police Legacy Board member Senior Constable First Class Kiim Parnell OAM, as she made the decision to step down. Kiim was endorsed as a Northern Territory Police Association representative in November 2012 and was a vital member of the NT Police Legacy Board. Earlier this year Kiim lost her battle with an illness and sadly, passed away. Kiim proved to be an inspiration to others and NT Police Legacy is eternally grateful to Kiim for her dedication, support and commitment over the years. For those reading that didn’t get to meet Kiim – she was a truly incredible woman. During her time on the Board, Kiim was instrumental in assisting the NT Police Legacy in accomplishing success and played a key role in supporting the families who rely on NT Police Legacy to assist them. Kiim continued to volunteer her time and ideas on numerous occasions, demonstrating herself to be an essential member of the Board. Most recently in 2021 Kiim played an active role in the successful implementation of the Reflection Chairs in Darwin, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs. Her level of dedication to achieve this within a particular timeframe speaks highly of her values and commitment to NT Police Legacy. In 2021 the NT Police Association awarded Kiim with their Meritorious Service Award. This award is presented to a person who has made a significant contribution to either the Association or policing in the Northern Territory in general. Kiim first joined the NT Police in 1987 where she was posted to Alice Springs General Duties. Throughout the years Kiim, and her husband Sean Parnell, were posted to many locations throughout the NT. Kiim worked with the Junior Police Rangers, Community Engagement section, Communications, Police Training College, Remote Policing Division, Indigenous Policing Development Unit, Crime Division incl. the Fraud Squad, the Cyber Crime Unit and the newly created Territory Intelligence Centre - just to name a few! We remember Kiim for her commitment to NT Police Legacy, and thank her for allowing us to be a huge part of her life.
| PAGE 5
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
WELCOME TO THE NT POLICE LEGACY BOARD We are very sorry to accept the resignation of Ken Dwyer, who served us well and diligently as the representative of RPANT (the Retired Police Association of the Northern Territory) on the Board of NT Police Legacy Incorporated. Welcomed, though, is Marcus Tilbrook, a recently-retired Police member, to take over where Ken left off.
Mr Marcus Tilbrook (The Retired Police Association of the Northern Territory Representative)
Marcus served in the Australian Regular Army for six years before joining the NT Police twice: from 1981 to 1992 and again from 2007 until his retirement at the beginning of 2022. During his first ten years he served in General Duties in Darwin and then the Criminal Investigation Branch in Darwin followed by Alice Springs, before becoming the Education Development Officer at the NTPFES College. Fifteen years away from policing saw him being first a community development planner in Central Australia before attending university in South Australia for six years. This was interspersed with a year as the Station Leader at Casey Station in Antarctica in 1999, time teaching Senior School at the Tatachilla Lutheran College south of Adelaide and managing the facilities for a scientific research organisation in Sydney. The last fifteen years has been spent in General Duties, Recruitment, instructing at the Police College, as a Community Engagement Police Officer across the Top End and as a Wellbeing and Health Officer. Marcus and Joanne married before they moved to the NT the first time and have settled in Marlow Lagoon, where they can be near their two adult children who still live in Darwin. Joanne was herself a police officer here for six years - serving in General Duties and Drug Squad in Darwin and Alice Springs. Please make Marcus feel welcome as we look forward to working closely with him in years to come SUPPORTING NT POLICE LEGACY Are you interested in supporting us through fundraising? Or are you keen to volunteer at events in 2024? Please contact us at secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au | PAGE 6
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
2023 HIGHLIGHTS In October Board members Superintendent Drew Slape and A/Superintendent Peter Dash organised a BBQ fundraiser at Bunnings in Alice Springs. The fundraiser was a huge success making it the highest profiting BBQ for 2023 with $2,123 raised directly going towards NT Police Legacy. Keep an eye out in 2024 for our next Bunnings event!
In October we were “Paws-itively” excited to announce the arrival of our new collectible dogs. These limited edition dog plushies consisted of a creme Labrador and a black Labrador to go with our first collectible - the well-dressed German Shepherd plush Dog in an NT Police coat. We underestimated the demand for these dogs, selling out of our Labradors in a matter of weeks! Thank you to all who supported us in the purchase of a dog. All proceeds from the sale of these dogs have gone directly to supporting our Police Legatee Families. Keep watching this space as we will be back in 2024 with another exciting plushie to add to the collection!
Dylan and Madelaine Hart from Galiwinku Police Station had their dogs arrive safely for baby Sebastian to look after. Sebastian is looking forward to adding to his collection as more plushies are released in the coming years.
Have you got a story or picture to share? Email us at secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au or DM us on Facebook! | PAGE 7
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
2023 HIGHLIGHTS The Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance is an annual charity event in commemoration of the service and sacrifice of our police and for each of the State’s to raise much needed funds in support of their respective police charities.
The Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance Ceremonial Baton
This year’s ride saw current serving, retired and past members participate in the ride departing from the Wall of Remembrance in Darwin and meeting up with members in Alice Springs to continue this very special journey to the National Police Memorial in Canberra, where they meet and join the other contingents of riders from across Australia. An important aspect to the ride provides an opportunity for riders to reflect, share and remember together, their experience and bonds of mates no longer with us who have died as a result of their service to the community.
Mildura stopover and catch up opportunity L to R: SC Craig Hamilton, SS Michael Wyatt, SS Adrian Kidney, S Tony Deutrom APM, SC Richard Cheal
The Commissioner of Police representative at this service was Acting Assistant Commissioner Hege Burns and Senior Constable Richard Cheal was given the task of placing the ceremonial baton on the memorial on behalf of all Northern Territory police. NT Police Legacy is extremely grateful to the Police Federation of Australia and the Wall to Wall ride committees for their continued support of our Police Family. For more information visit the below website: https://walltowallride.com/the-ride/about/ Imagery on this page provided by PFES Media Unit.
SC Richard Cheal laying the Commissioners Commemorative Baton at the National Police Memorial
L to R: Nathan Finn NTPA President, SC Richard Cheal, Michael Murphy APM CoP, SS Adrian Kidney, Warren Douglas NTP Chaplain
Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance, Remembering Mates and ‘Supporting Police Legacies’ | PAGE 8
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
2023 HIGHLIGHTS National Police Remembrance Day is a sacred day. Held on September 29th, it is a day dedicated to honour police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice, who have lost their lives in the line of duty or whilst serving their community. It is not only a day to commemorate this loss, but an important opportunity to acknowledge the work police do every minute of every day to keep us safe. We understand this day can be especially hard for our NT Police Legacy families who have lost a family member. Our thoughts are, and continue to be with you, as you miss those who have passed away.
The Katherine morning service was held graveside of Constable William ‘Bill’ Condon at the Katherine Regional Cemetery.
Below is an excerpt from the Darwin morning service, held in Saint Mary’s Star of the Sea Cathedral. “While we as serving Officers have our own unique grief for the colleagues and friends we miss, Remembrance Day is a day for us to stand by the Police Legatees and remind them of their place at the heart of the police force, and to remember their loved ones who made sacrifice. To all of the families here with us today, I say lean on us now, we are your police family and we will hold you strong. We share your pain from your loss, we share your pride in your loved ones, and we share your gratitude for the time we had with them too. Just as we are coming together to pay tribute and support one another, so too are families, friends and police around the country and beyond.” Michael Murphy APM Commissioner and CEO
The Darwin service consisted of a Wreath laying ceremony at the NT Police Memorial Wall on the Esplanade
Bottom L & R: A March was formed outside Alice Springs Police Station followed by a service held at Sacred Heart Church
image text
| PAGE 9
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
2023 TRIPLE ZERO BALL -VARIETY NT & NT POLICE LEGACYThis year Northern Territory Police Legacy Inc teamed up with Variety Northern Territory (NT) to run the Triple Zero Ball which was held at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort early October. On arrival guests were greeted with a welcome drink and were able to soak up spectacular views of the sun setting over Darwin Harbour. On display were vehicles from the Road Policing Division, horses and their riders from the Mounted Police Unit and dogs and their handlers from the Dog Operations Unit. The dogs and horses were a huge hit with attendees who were lining up to have their photo taken with the four legged officers, before enjoying the views and heading inside for the formal proceedings. The Master of Ceremonies was comedian Shalom Kaa who had the crowd in stiches with his audacious comedic style. Presentations were given on Northern Territory Police Legacy and Variety NT and the significant impact these charities have, particularly on children’s lives. Speaking on behalf of Northern Territory Police Legacy was Mr Vince Kelly APM, who we thank especially as he took time in support of the cause close to his heart to attend the special event. The guests were treated to music by Dr Elephant with John Schumann making a special appearance and singing his legendary song “I was only 19.” Dozens of items were up for auction from hot air balloon rides to resort stays and photography packages - all raising money for two great charities and bid on by dozens of guests. Although there may have been a few sore heads the morning after, there is no doubt everyone is looking forward to the next one. Thank you to all who supported this event including sponsors Northern Territory Police Association, Northern Territory Government and Bendigo Bank Nightcliff.
| PAGE 10
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
2023 TRIPLE ZERO BALL -VARIETY NT & NT POLICE LEGACY-
FIND MORE PICS ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE!
| PAGE 11
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
EMPOWERING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT: NT Police Legacy's Commitment to Families In a world where mental health awareness and support are of increasing importance, NT Police Legacy (NTPL) takes a step forward in promoting mental wellness within its community. NTPL is proud to announce its initiative to offer fully-paid Mental Health First Aid courses, including Standard Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid, to adults in Legatee families and adults supporting those families. A Lifeline of Support The heart of this initiative lies in providing essential tools for recognising, addressing, and assisting individuals experiencing mental health challenges. These courses, typically valued at $100 to $200 per person, are a part of NTPL's commitment to fostering a resilient, informed, and compassionate community.
Who is Eligible? NTPL recognises the pivotal role adults play in supporting the mental well-being of Police Legatee families, which includes family members and vital relatives or adults integral to the family's support structure. The goal is to extend this educational opportunity as widely as practicable, ensuring that those who can contribute to the well-being of these families are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to do so effectively.
The Process NTPL's process is designed with simplicity in mind, allowing individuals to focus on learning and supporting their families. The application process requires no pre-approval, making it easy to jump right into booking a course that suits your schedule. Upon completing the chosen course and receiving a paid invoice, participants will need to provide NTPL with the invoice plus either a 'Completion' or 'Accredited' certificate from Mental Health First Aid Australia (MHFA-Australia). NTPL then processes payments to ensure reimbursement for the course fees.
Empowering with Knowledge Mental Health First Aid training has a proven track record of success globally, with over four million individuals trained worldwide, including more than a million Australians. The training equips participants with the skills to recognize common mental health challenges, offer initial assistance to someone in need, and manage crisis situations effectively. The standard, adult course has been a part of the Induction Training of all Police and Fire and Emergency Services recruits for some years now.
Course Options MHFA-Australia provides various course formats to suit diverse schedules and preferences: Face-to-face: A comprehensive 2-day Instructor-led session. Blended Face-to-face: Combining self-paced eLearning with a 4-hour face-to-face Instructor-led session. Blended Online: Flexible self-paced eLearning followed by 2 x 2.5-hour Instructor-led video conferencing sessions (3 sessions for Youth Mental Health First Aid).
| PAGE 12
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
EMPOWERING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT: NT Police Legacy's Commitment to Families cont. Continuous Growth with Refreshers NTPL's support doesn't stop at the initial course. Refresher courses are available for both Standard and Youth Mental Health First Aid, enabling participants to keep their knowledge and skills current. Accredited MHF Aiders can also extend their accreditation for an additional three years through these refresher courses.
Frequently Asked Questions NTPL has anticipated and addressed the most common questions: Application Form: The Mental Health First Aid Course Application Form is available through the secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au. Payment and Reimbursement: Pay the invoice, complete the course, and then seek reimbursement from NTPL. Required Submission: Submit the paid invoice and either a 'Completed' or 'Accredited' Certificate from Mental Health First Aid Australia to NTPL via email through secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au. Why Only Adults?: Adults are best suited to support young people. There are specific courses available for young people, but they are only conducted in groups within educational and club settings. Eligibility for Support: The scope of eligibility includes parents, close family, and other consistent, supporting adults who can benefit from the training. Refreshers: |These are similar to updating First Aid courses with organisations like St. Johns or the Red Cross. Refreshers ensure ongoing competence.
Be Trained NT Police Legacy's initiative to provide mental health support through training is a solid step forward. By equipping supporting adults with the tools to navigate mental health challenges effectively, we are strengthening our Legatee families. To take up this offer to impact your family's mental health, visit the below website: https://www.mhfa.com.au/ for course locations and availability.
EDUCATION GRANTS NT Police Legacy offers financial support to Police Legacy Legatees, towards education fees for children in preschool, primary and secondary school, tertiary education, apprenticeships, and TAFE. In the 2023 academic year, NT Police Legacy supported families with education grant payments to the value of $31,399 $11,808 primary schooling $14,588 secondary schooling and $5,003 for tertiary education
Education grants are available to eligible NT Police Legacy Legatee children on receipt of the completed education grant form and meeting policy requirements. Education grants are there to assist with the cost of school and course fees. Including, as part of the fees is the cost of textbooks, excursions, uniforms, and other education essentials. If you have a question or want to access the grant application forms, please contact Karen at secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au or on 0448 534 229.
“Education grants are there to assist with the cost of school and course fees” | PAGE 13
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
LEGATEES IN THE SPOTLIGHT The Maka Family Top Left: Anaise Maka 2023 Storython winner Top Right: Fiesita and Viliami Maka Bottom Left: Anaise (Y7), Diosa (Y6), Fiesita and Viliami (both Y3)
Madison Schremmer Left: Madison with her Learner profile award
Bottom Middle: Diosa 1st place shot put at athletics carnival Bottom Right: Fiesita Spelling Mastery with Viliami Spelling & Mathematics Mastery awards
Bailey Schremmer Left: Bailey at the school swimming carnival
Are you an NT Police Legacy Legatee? Send us your pictures and let us know what you've been up to. We would love to hear from you! | PAGE 14
NT POLICE LEGACY NEWSLETTER
|
DECEMBER 2023
HOW YOU CAN HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE Northern Territory Police Legacy values the contribution from founding partner NT Police Association, from police officers, supporters, and donors. All funds raised support the delivery of Police Legatee services. Donate to Legacy
NT Police Legacy is a self-supporting not for profit Incorporated Association funded by donations, kindly donated to help the Northern Territory Police Legacy Legatees. Here are some of the ways you can help.
Donate online
If you would like to donate direct to NT Police Legacy, you can go to Go fundraise. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. https://www.gofundraise.com.au/payments/d onate/beneficiary/1398
Through bank deposit
NT Police Legacy also benefits from the generosity of family members, Retired Police, club fundraisers and the public. If you would like to donate, you can deposit directly into our account: Name: NT Police Legacy Bank: Bendigo Bank BSB: 633-000 ACCT: 1700-27296
Workplace giving
Donations through the NT Police Force payroll is our main source of income. If you are a serving member or government employee the donation of $5 per pay ensures we can continue to care for the Police Legacy Family. You can start or update your deduction through myHR > My Money > Payroll Giving > CONTINUE button (bottom of the page) > click on Charities under the New Deduction option. Select ‘Northern Territory Police Legacy’ from the list of registered charitable organisations drop down list. Select ‘unlimited’ for Number of Deductions, for a fortnightly deduction. For more information, see Deductions | NTG Central
Fundraise for NT Police Legacy
There are so many ways for you to have fun and raise money for NT Police Legacy at the same time. Raffles, fun run’s, golf day or BBQ … So we can guide you through the fundraising process get in touch with us at secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au.
Make a regular donation gift
NT Police Legacy also benefits from the generosity of regular donors. Regular giving provides us with stability to continue to provide grants and services that benefit our Police Legatees.
Become a volunteer
If you would like to volunteer and help out or assist at some of our events please get in touch at secretary@ntpolicelegacy.com.au
| PAGE 15
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year