Our informal group name "The Second Cup of Coffee" has an immediate attraction to new neighbours looking for a more "kicked back" and relaxing lifestyle. It reflects the idea of getting out of the house and having that second cup of coffee or tea with friends new and old.

Our motto and purpose "to do nothing and do it better each time we meet" appeals to those who have spent an entire career challenged by the ringing alarm clock, the traffic rush hours, and the work days filled with their own or someone else's busy agenda. The humour of "doing nothing" stands in stark contrast to other busy groups that sometimes place demands on member's pocketbooks, time and energy. A no strings attached recognition of everyone's right to attend a meeting or not, verbally participate or not, gives respect to the worth and individuality of each resident

In actuality, we do have a definite purpose and reason for existing. While I cannot speak of the subtle and perhaps less obvious, benefits to our community, I can speak of my enjoyment as the first leader of "The Second Cup of Coffee." Since February 2000 and over the last four years, "The Second Cup of Coffee" has grown from eleven persons to a roster of over 260 members,

I have had the experience of making many new friends that are representative of Sun City Lincoln Hills' villages. I have been allowed to share with these friends both their joy and pain. My life has been enriched from learning about the lives they have lived and the knowledge they have shared. I have mingled both with the "rich and the famous" and those who have worked hard all their lives to arrive here in this beautiful community. I have found humility and goodness in many. I have heard good jokes and bad and even told a few in both categories myself. I have been allowed to say a hearty welcome to at least a thousand new residents over the past four years. I have even told some of them where to dump a wheelbarrow load of rocks, get a good haircut, eat a delicious meal, or take a neat trip in northern California.

Next, I can speak about the testimonials of others that have appreciated the many new friends they have made and the helpful information they have gained. One resident reported that because of an introverted personality he probably would have met only a few neighbours but now he has friends throughout the community. At our recent Group Expo, one lady reported that her husband had been energized by his attendance at "The Second Cup of Coffee" meetings and was becoming active in the community.

Finally, I can speak of the array of excellent, informative and entertaining speakers we have had. Our Speaker Panel invited many of these speakers. First panel members included Chairman Wolfgang Oplesch, Vic Freeman, Mickey Haggard, Allan Kiisk, William Kitchin, Karl Openshaw, William Spellman and Joseph Wosser. It was a thrill to have famous Swimming Hall of Fame Olympic Coach George Haines attend and speak at, our meetings. It was a "kick" to have our Congressman John Doolittle speak as well as numerous local county and city leaders. I have enjoyed equally, if not more, the personal life stories from some of our own residents.

We heard from our Lincoln City Manager Jerry Johnson on November 17, 2003. Dr. Kevin Ramirez, President of Sierra College will be our keynote speaker February 2, 2004. This will be our fourth year anniversary and my last day to serve as the leader for "The Second Cup of Coffee." Our new leader should be in office at the March 1 meeting. Hats off to James Bringle who has for four years faithfully notified by Email our membership of meetings dates and events. He held us together!

Everyone, I have richly enjoyed the pleasure of your company. Always remember who we are, a great coffee and tea group that gets together to meet new and old neighbors, share and learn information and have a heap of good laughs and fun. If you ever become more or less than that, let it be by the consent of all.