Dave Juka

     I had a dream once that I wasn't who I am.  I was not born in New Orleans, and I never lived in Baltimore, Seattle or New York.  I didn't live in Mentor, Ohio for the past 25 years.  I wasn't a business owner or a musician.  I was never a husband or a father, a brother, a cousin, a nephew, a uncle or a godfather to anyone.  I wasn't a sports fan and I didn't like the Browns, Indians or Cavs.  I was never inspired by a Bruce Springsteen song and I had never even heard of Yes or Genesis.  I didn't like playing softball and I had never snowboarded.  I was however a scratch golfer.  I had never drank alcohol or did drugs and I didn't really like to party at all.  I never laughed and I certainly never cried. 

     When I awoke I realized how lucky I have been in my life and I was thankful for all of the things I have and have done.  My 2 kids Gabrielle and Damien are my whole world and I live for every moment I spend with them.  Playing in Dave's Planet for the past 10 years has been incredible and I truly love and respect my band mates and the people affiliated with the band.  All of the people I have met and the friendships I have made have been invaluable to me.  I've come to learn who my true friends really are.  I've also learned that when you're down your family and true friends will always be there for you.  Have I made a lot of mistakes?  Of course I have.  Do I have any regrets?  Many.  Would I change anything?  Absolutely not.  To quote the great shower curtain ring salesman Del Griffith  " I like me" and I hope everyone likes Dave's Planet for a long, long time.