Sunday afternoon the Sportsman's Lodge once again hosted the 3rd Annual "Afternoon Coffee Break with Rick Hearst" in all it's glory!! After going to other cast members events all morning long it was time to have one of his own. Walking into the ballroom was like walking into a cozy Italian restaurant. Debby O'connor Rick's Fan club President had the room decorated in Italian style and placed on each table for each fan was a heart and a huge coffee cup. As well as a bag of goodies donated by Rick's mother. The heart was intended for the fans to hold up when Rick was on stage to show their love and appreciation. Rick's mother also donated her time and cooking expertise with Lasagna which was gone almost immediately.

This year Rick decided to surprise his fans with an opening act. One that was totally unexpected, enjoyable and had the crowd rolling on the floor. Rick's youngest son Nick and his classmates performed a song from Grease Lightning that they perform at The Escape Theater Production. After they finished Rick came on stage and mentioned how he practiced with these kids every day.

A fan asked if he knew the routine and the next thing we knew the music started playing and Rick joined the boys on stage and went through the entire routine. The fans were up in the seats cheering. It was the highlight of the day.

Fans who attended this fun event were enthralled with Hearst's friendliness and openness and just couldn't get enough of his candid answers to their questions. His upbeat personality kept the crowd laughing and joking. Everyone had a smile on their faces from the moment Hearst entered to the room.

Rick mentioned he had some guests on the way and that they would be joining him later. No sooner had he mentioned this but who came walking through the door, Ignacio Serricchio (Diego). Joining him onstage to the absolute delight of the crowd were some special guests but they really seemed more like special friends than

Rick continued to talk to his fans about a charity he is involved with "Children's Hospital" in Los Angeles. They have an art program for the children and many of the drawings were on display for all to see and if you bought one it would be donated to the charity.

A noise came from the back of the room and who should enter but Nancy Lee Grahan. She rushed on stage and grabbed Rick into a big hug and kiss. Nancy only stayed for a few minutes but it was enough time to answer some burning questions. Will Alexis find out that Ric and Sam slept together? Is Sam "really" Alexis's daughter? All to the answers of yes and maybe. One thing was very, very apparent, amidst all the fun and teasing and glee for each other, the actors support each other on both a professional and personal level.

                                                                                                                           Debby

This is one event I look forward every year and Debby O'Connor, the event organizer, put on a classy and outstanding afternoon as always and every detail was covered right down to the checkered table cloths. .