9/14/2004 09:03:20 AM|||Chench|||I've known Neil since Pelham Rec Day camp but we became close friends in High School. Mr. Miller's Electronic Music Class. That class and Neil changed my life completely. The class gave me career direction. The career never materialized the way I hoped, but I have no regrets either. It was because of Neil I got my first guitar though. I remember vividly sitting in that class next to Neil and he has a guitar in his hand and he runs through the opening riff of "Johnny B. Goode." I'd listened to music my whole life but the people who performed were stars. They were untouchable. Then there is this kid, a friend of mine playing Chuck Berry as good as Chuck Berry! Hey, I can do that! That riff must have inspired millions of guitarist. I wonder how many were inspired by a friend playing it. I never had any dreams to be a star or anything like that, but there is no bigger stress relief for me than playing guitar or singing. I thank Neil for giving me that. The Deluca brothers were definitely born with music in their blood. That and determination. That is a credit to their parents. All three of their sons are gifted. Not just musically, but with pride, determination and thoughtfulness. In the environment they grew up in and the type of career they've persued these guys could have been real screw-ups, but that's not what they became. That is a testament to their upbringing. All three of these guys have been there for me at one time or another. From being a shoulder to cry on to moldings for my house or moving pianos. Thank you Neil, Matt and Russ. Mr. an Mrs. D. too!

Nina has been with Neil for over a decade now and they're married for just about a year. We weren't good friends until my separation and then she was there with Neil, listening and trying to understand. She's there again now always with an open ear and genuine concern. I'm lucky to have you as a friend Nina. Thank you.
|||109516712057763760|||Johnny was a school boy when he heard his first Beatles song.