It appears that the game is engaging in psychological warfare. After several days of not use, went back to tend to the suggestions and discovered that the problem is currently gone. Glad it's not there, but what's with this wacko game? As a precaution sim went to the Hollow to check on plasma fruit, and was able to get some from the tree behind Vlad's house. This should help.
Speaking of Vlad, did some tinkering with the bugger. Now has black hair &c. with a handlebar mustache, which suits him quite well. Formal rig is the stereotypical black tux with tails and top hat. Now all I need is a monocle.