In this personal essay, the author chronicles her trip to Riga, capital of Latvia, a journey she undertakes in an effort to track the mysterious past of her much-maligned father.She learns much about the region—and his youth, and soon discovers that Riga, the Baltic States’ largest city rocks on with clubs, casinos and strip shows. Also cultural fests with the National Opera, Ballet and Symphony, as well as museum and gallery exhibits and gourmet shopping and dining. Then there’s the dark side….."Oh Daddy I miss you. I hardly knew you. I only wish I could have told you how much when we were together. Why did you have to leave Africa when I was 10? Why did you go to America? If you were alive today, I'd take you to concerts. I'm a journalist now you know. I only really knew you for five years. That's hardly enough time. I love you Jankela. From your Cookela."