January 27th - January 31st

Friday January 27th

One of the world’s most famous composers, Mozart, would have been 250 years old today. Even two centuries later, his music and his legend still resonate. Considered by many to be a child prodigy, gifted with extraordinary talent by God, his compositions are some of the most recognizable. There is even an unproven scientific theory known as the “Mozart Effect” which states that children who listen to Mozart as babies will develop a higher IQ. On this momentous occasion, I am writing to five contemporary people closely connected with Mozart and his music.

Milos Forman

Mozart was famous for over two centuries, but it took an Academy Award winning film (based on an award winning Broadway play) to bring him to the masses in the 1980’s. Academy Award winning Czechloslovakian director Milos Forman (“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”) brought Mozart to life in the somewhat truthful biography “Amadeus” staring Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham. Since then, Forman has directed films like “The People Vs. Larry Flynt” and “Man on the Moon” which also portray misunderstood figures.

YoYo Ma

A world famous French-Chinese-American cellist, Mr. Ma is considered one of the best musicians in the world. He has played all types of music, from bluegrass to Mozart, and appeared on a variety of TV shows from “The west Wing” to “Sesame Street.”

Itzhak Perlman

An Israeli violinist and teacher, Perlman overcame a polio disability to gain acclaim as one of the greatest musicians of the 20th Century. Even people who don’t follow classical music know his name. He received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor in 2003.

James Levine

One of the finest conductors in the world, and an expert on Mozart, Mr. Levine was in charge of the Metropolitan Opera for years, and now conducts the Boston Symphony. He also conducted the orchestra for Walt Disney’s “Fantasia 2000.”

Sir Neville Marriner

Originally a violinist in the London Symphony Orchestra, Sir Marriner is the founder of the Academy of St. Martin In the Fields and was the conductor for the soundtrack of the film “Amadeus.”

Saturday January 28th

A record was just broken in New York City, as Billy Joel added his twelfth consecutive concert at Madison Square Garden. I’ve always been a fan of his (playing his albums non-stop during high school) but I wasn’t fast enough to buy a ticket for his show. The next best thing is to write him a letter telling him how much I admire him.

Billy Joel

Author of a staggering number of pop hit songs, Billy Joel is still going strong thirty years later. His most famous song, “Piano Man” is instantly recognizable from the first few bars. He’s sold over 100 million albums and is a member of both the songwriters and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Sunday January 29th

Happy New Year! No I’m not 28 days late, this is the start of the the Chinese New Year 4703. Each year is named for an animal, and 4703 (2006) is the year of the dog. To honor that, I’ve decided to write to some of the most famous “dog” related Americans.

Benji (Joe Camp)

Since Lassie has retired, Benji is the most famous dog in Hollywood. I remember seeing the first Benji movie in the 1970’s, and one was just released last year. I’d love to write to Benji, but I don’t think I’ll get much of a response, so I’m writing to his trainer, Joe Camp, who launched Benji’s career thirty years ago.

Frank Welker

The current voice of Scooby Doo, the most famous cartoon dog in TV history, Welker started out as Fred on that series and replaced the original Scooby voice, Don messick, when he died. Welker is alegend in the voice-over world and can be heard on thousands of cartoons.

Howard M. Lorber

Hot dogs are an American tradition, invented in 1870 by a German immigrant, Charles feltman. One of his employees, Nathan Handwerker, opened his own restaurant on Coney Island in th early 20th Century. Nathan’s is still the preeminent hot dog brand, and the current CEO, Mr. Lorber, is continuing that fine tradition.

Calvin (Snoop Dog) Broadus

A rapper, record producer and actor, Snoop Dogg is one of the most successful people in show business. His unique style of speaking (“fo-shnizzle my nizzle) has even entered mainstream culture. He even has his own channel on XM Satellite radio.

Michael O’Higgins

Michael B. O'Higgins is CEO of his own money management firm, O'Higgins Asset Management, Inc., based in Miami, which was recently rated the number one new fund by Smart Money and number five by the Wall Street Journal. He is an oft-quoted expert and is most famous for his financial system, “Dogs Of the Dow“ His theory of investing states that the 10 highest dividend paying Dow Jones Industrial Average components have consistently beaten the Dow by wide margins with below average risk.


Tracy Paige Johnson

The creator and voice of one of my son’s favorite characters, and one of the most popular in TV history, Blue the dog from “Blues Clues.” This show has been running nonstop on Nickelodeon for ten years, and shows no signs of fading away.


Monday January 30th

Last night the Screen Actors Guild Awards were held (I am a voting member) and the biggest upset of the evening came when “Crash” was announced as best picture (technically “best ensemble cast”.) This thought provoking film, which examines the way racial stereotypes affect all of our lives, was, in my opinion, the best film of 2005. I’m writing to the film’s director and co-producer (who also played a lead role onscreen) to congratulate them.

Paul Haggis

Though he’s been around Hollywood for a while (winning Emmys as a writer and producer of “thirtysomething”) Haggis gained acclaim last year as the writer of “Million Dollar Baby”, which won Best Picture. His follow up effort was to direct “Crash.” He’s currently working as writer and producer on a film about the battle of Iwo Jima called “Flags of Our Fathers”, directed by Clint Eastwood (who directed “Million Dollar Baby”) Haggis’ next directorial effort is the 2006 release “Honeymoon With Harry”

Don Cheadle

An amazing actor, Cheadle has played everything from a cockney thief in “Oceans 11” to Sammy Davis Jr. in “The Rat Pack.” He is so well respected in Hollywood that when he asked A list actors like Sandra Bullock and Matt Dillon to take minimum salaries to do his film “Crash” they agreed. His efforts paid off in a magnificent film.

Tuesday January 31st

Today is one of my favorite days of the year, when they announce the nominees for the Oscars. It’s done live at 8:30AM on all the morning shows here on the East Coast. (5:30AM in Hollywood.) One of the best parts is watching the film critics give their predictions just before the announcement and then giving their opinions about the nominees afterwards. I am a big fan of film critics and I take their evaluations seriously. One of my unfulfilled career goals as a child was to be a film critic. Today I’m writing to some of my favorite ones.

Roger Ebert

The current dean of all critics, Ebert is perhaps the most famous of them all. His syndicated 1980’s PBS TV show “At the Movies” teamed him with fellow Chicago newspaper critic Gene Siskel, and a sensation was born. Ebert became an overnight celebrity and he popularized the “two thumbs up” method of rating a film. His name is still the most sought after in publicizing positive reviews, and his reviews have the power to make or break a film.

Richard Roeper

When Roger Ebert’s on air partner Gene Siskel died tragically at an early age of cancer a few years ago, he went through a series of temporary co-hosts looking for the right fit. He didn’t have to look far. He chose Siskel’s’ Chicago newspaper successor Richard Roeper to fill the aisle seat. Since then “Ebert and Roeper” have become the new standard in judging films.

Leonard Maltin

A personal favorite, Mr. Maltin has not only been reviewing films for Entertainment Tonight for over twenty years, he’s also an expert on the history of animation and Walt Disney (he’s written many books on the subject.)


Jeffrey Lyons

The local film critic for WNBC, Lyons is also a passionate baseball fan and lived just a few blocks away from me in Jersey city when I was growing up.

Joel Siegel

A fixture on ABC for three decades , Mr. Siegel has a great sense of humor and adds comic touches to his reviews. He was a close friend of Gilda Radner and helped found Gildas Place, a support center for people with cancer. When he developed cancer, Mr. Seigel wrote an incredible book, “Lessons For Dylan” full of life lessons for his young son. (I highly recommend it!)

Third reply of the year

NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg

Sent January 3rd - Replied January 31st

This reply came by phone, and was in response to the letter I sent to New York City Mayor Bloomberg on Jan. 3rd asking him if he would perforn the wedding ceremony for my father at Yankee Stadium in March:

Phone call from the NYC Mayor’s office:

Mr. Lucas,

Thank you for your inquiry about Mayor Bloomberg performing your father’s wedding ceremony.

Unfortunately, Mayor Bloomberg has instituted a policy of not performing wedding ceremonies. The only one he has conducted to date was the wedding of former Mayor Giuliani.

Mayor Bloomberg wishes your father all the best on his upcoming wedding.

Liz at the Scheduling Department,

Office of the Mayor of New York City

Reply number two

Paul Levitz (DC Comics)

Sent January 16th - Replied January 26th

This reply comes from Paul Levitz, the Publisher of DC Comics. It was written on the coolest stationery I've ever seen. (The DC Comics logo was supported on a pedestal by Superman, Batman, Plastic Man, Robin and Wonder Woman.)

I asked him, as I do all business people, for advice on advancing in my particular field. I also asked him what the challenges are of being the publisher of the oldest comic book company in the world. Here is his courteous answer:


Dear Mr. Lucas,

Thanks for the kind words.

I don't have any singular advice to offer, particularly as the career journey of an actor is somewhat different than that of a writer. If you're managing to feed your family from a career in the arts, take great joy in that---it's no small accomplishment in modern America.

The best parts of my job are the work I get to do with creative people in so many different fields, which provides constant intellectual challenge.

The hardest parts are always working with people within the inherent challenges of a corporate environment.

Good Luck in your endeavors,

Sincerely,

Paul Levitz

President & Publisher

DC Comics


I sent him a thank you note the next day.

January 24th - January 26th

Tuesday January 24th

According to a psychological study that appeared in several papers, today is considered the most depressing day of the year. The reasons given are a variety of stress factors, including lack of light, bad weather, debt from holiday shopping, distance in days from the next holiday season, the start of tax season and self loathing from broken New Year’s resolutions. I didn’t feel depressed when I started reading the paper, but the article brought my mood way down. Luckily, I turned the page and found the section that always brings a smile to my face, the “funny pages.“ I look at most of the comics included in the section, but there are four in particular that consistently tickle my funny bone. I’m going to drop a note to their creators to say thanks for the laughs.

Bill Amend

Mr. Amend‘s “Foxtrot” has been around since 1988. It follows the exploits of the Fox family. My favorite character is Jason , the youngest son, who has a high IQ, is a computer geek, sci fi fan, and torments his teenage sister and brother. Reading this strip is a daily treat.

Lynn Johnston

Ms. Johnston‘ s award winning Canadian comic, “For Better or For Worse” has almost a documentary feel to it. While there are plenty of laughs, it sometimes has melancholy overtones, and has followed the exploits of the Patterson family in real time. When the family dog Farley died in the comic, it made national news. That’s how you know you’ve made a cultural impact.

Bill Keane

From the time I learned to read, “Family Circus” has been there for me. Unlike “For Better or For Worse”, the kids in “Family Circus” haven’t aged at all. Little Billy Jeffy and Dolly are still learning life lessons and imparting wisdom decades after they began appearing in the papers. I couldn’t imagine the comics without them.

Mike Peters

In addition to his award winning political cartoons, Mr. Peters is famous for his contribution to the pop culture world, “Mother Goose and Grimm.” his mischievous yellow dog, Grimmy, has been featured in Tv cartoons, greeting cards, parade floats, and theme parks. Every day, “Grimm” pokes holes in celebrities inflated egos, re-imagines fairy tales and classic stories, and comments on life from a dog’s perspective.


Wednesday January 25th

My brother-in-law Terry had serious back surgery this week. He is a New York Jets season ticket holder and a passionate fan. Due to the surgery, Terry will be homebound for a while, and I was trying to find a way to cheer him up. I thought maybe a phone call or a note of encouragement from some of his favorite Jets players would do the trick, so I wrote to a few, asking just them to contact him.

Wayne Chrebet

One of the most popular Jets in recent years, the diminutive Chrebet was a scrappy wide reciever who defied the odds and went from a small college like Hofstra to a starring role on an NFL team. Unfortunately, a series of concussions forced him to retire after the 2005 season.


Vinny Testaverde

An NFL legend, this Heisman Trophy winning quarterback came to the Jets in the late 1990’s and brought them back to glory. As a Long island native, he became a local hero, and threw the last touchdown in “Monday Night Football” history in December 2005. He is expected to announce his retirement this month.

Joe Klecko

A member of the Jets “NY Sack Exchange” of the 1980’s, Klecko is a Jet legend, and had his number retired just a few years ago.

Dennis Byrd

Three years into his Jets career, Byrd was paralyzed during a game. His story of recovery has become an inspiration and was the basis of the best selling book “Rise and Walk”, which was then made into a movie.

Chad Pennington

A first round draft pick of the Jets, Pennington holds the future hopes of Jets fans in his hands. The quarterback led the team to playoff appearances in recent seasons, but has also spent a majority of his time on the injury list. He is expected to return to lead the team in 2006.


Thursday January 26th

I took my three year old son to see “Disney’s Princeses on Ice” today at the Meadowlands Arena. Even hours after the show, he is recreating scenes from it, and singing the songs. (He told me he wants to grow up to be a princess. We’ll have to talk about that.) It reminded me of the first time I saw an ice show. In 1972, my grandmother and father took me to see the Ice Capades at Madison Square Garden. One of the reasons they took me was because that year’s edition featured characters from Sid and Marty Krofft’s “Lidsville”, my favorite show. (It was a live action show about a village full of talking hats. I know, people were doing lots of drugs back then.) Luckily, I still have the program from that show (I’ve always been a pack rat, much to my wife’s dismay) so I looked at it, and saw that the star of the show was Jo Jo Starbuck. I’m going to write to her and let her know how much of a lasting impact her performance from 34 years ago made on me.

JoJo Starbuck

One of the most famous names in ice skating, she won the 1970 and 1972 U.S. Figure Skating Pairs Championships. I also remember her from commercials in the 1970’s and 1980’s.

January 21st - January 23rd

Saturday January 21st

My three year old son is obsessed with McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets and French fries. Every time we pass one of the “golden arches” he begs my wife and I to stop and buy him a happy meal. (Maybe it’s the toy he’s interested in.) We give in to him (OK, we spoil him) because it’s great to see such a big smile come over his face. I eat McDonalds as often as I can (my 30 year plus body has some dietary restrictions now) and I still enjoy their food. I can recall when I was younger and a McDonalds opened up right down the block from us. My Dad’s Friday treat was to take my brother and I for a meal there. Ronald McDonald has been like a family friend ever since. It’s about time I let the current CEO of McDonalds know how much the company means to me.

Jim Skinner

Jim Skinner was elected McDonald’s Chief Executive Officer in November 2004. He continues the legacy of the company’s legendary founder, Ray Kroc. Mr. Skinner is truly an American business success story, as he rose through the ranks of McDonalds to become CEO. (Skinner began his career with McDonald's in 1971 as a restaurant manager trainee in Carpentersville, Illinois.)

Sunday January 22nd

Today marks the 25th anniversary of the debut of “Hill Street Blues”, a show that changed the look of television. Regarded as a hallmark in American dramatic television, it was the first dramatic series to incorporate long shots and handheld shots and continuous storylines. Nominated for 21 Emmys for its first season - a record despite having low ratings, the show was almost cancelled and NBC had faith, bringing it back for a second season. It went on to win more Emmys than almost any other show in TV history. I remember where I was when I watched the first episode, and the show was one of my favorites throughout high school. I’m writing to a few of the key cast members and creative staff to congratulate them on the anniversary.

Steven Bochco

The brains behind “Hill Street”, he was a student at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, in “The Hill” district, which inspired the show (although they never mention what city they are in, most people think it’s Chicago.) after “Hill Street Blues”, Bochco became one of the most powerful men in show business, creating classics like “LA Law”, “Doogie Howser MD” and “NYPD Blue.” In 2005, he took control of one of the hits of the new season, ABC’s “Commander In Chief.”

Daniel J. Travanti

The face of “Hill Street Blues”, he played Captain Frank Furillo for six seasons and won two Emmy awards. He mostly does theater work now.

Veronica Hamel

A native of Philadelphia, she played DA Joyce Davenport, the love interest to Captain Furillo. In recent years, she’s made appearances on hot TV shows like “Third watch” and “Lost.”

Charles Haid

A college roommate of Bochco’s, Haid played the controversial cop Andy Renko, who was supposed to die in the first episode, but was so popular he was brought back and lasted the duration of the show. Haid has won awards for his direction of current shows like “ER.”

Robert Prosky

Had a tough job, taking over the desk sergeant’s role after the original actor, Michael Conrad, died. Post “Hill Street”, he appeared in popular movies like “Mrs. Doubtfire” “Rudy” and “Broadcast News.”

James Sikking

Had the scene-stealing role as the gung-ho, often volatile and emotionally unpredictable Lt. Howard Hunter. Later worked on another Bochco show as the father of Doogie Howser.

Joe Spano

Played the pacifist Detective Henry Goldblum. Is a well respected actor in Hollywood. No less than Tom Hanks credits Joe Spano as his first serious role model and source of inspiration as an actor.

Betty Thomas

Won an Emmy award for her role as Sgt. Lucy Bates. After “Hill Street” she turned to directing, helming such films as “The Brady Bunch Movie”, “Private Parts” and “28 Days.”

Bruce Weitz

He played the crazy cop Mick Belker, the most famous character on “Hill Street“. Weitz has made appearances on other TV shows in recent years, but is currently the mayor of Reseda, California.

George Wyner

Played District Attorney Bernstein on the show, but has been a steadily working character actor in both film and television since the early 1970s, with over 100 guest appearances and several regular roles in various TV comedies and dramas. Easily recognizable with his bald head, nervous demeanor and oversized glasses.

Monday January 23rd

They cancelled “The West Wing”!! One of my all time favorite shows, NBC moved it from Wednesdays to Sundays, and the ratings dropped. Even though the critics said that the seven year old show about the inner workings of the White House was hitting its stride again, yet NBC pulled the plug. I’m upset! It was intelligently written, well acted and deserved a few more years. To commiserate I’m writing to the actor who played my favorite character.

Richard Schiff

Toby Ziegler, the head speechwriter for the President, was considered a morose and depressing character, but still extremely likeable. I think that’s due to the genius of the actor who played him, Richard Schiff. He won an Emmy for the role, and has since played big roles in films like “Ray” and “I Am Sam.”

My first reply of 2006!!

Dave Smith (official Disney archivist)

Sent January 5th - Replied January 19th

Hooray! After 19 days of writing letters, I got my very first reply. It was from the letter I wrote two weeks ago to the curator of the Disney Archives, Dave Smith. In my letter, I asked for his input on my one man show about Walt Disney, and what he thought Mr. Disney's reaction might be.

This was his courteous reply..

Dear Chris:

Thank you for your letter, and for letting me know about your one-man show about Walt Disney. I am not aware that anyone has ever done one before, other than high school students who have portrayed Walt Disney in their classrooms and for National History Day projects. It is an intriguing idea, and I hope that you do well.

When you ask what Walt might have thought of your project--he would probably be embarrassed. He was a modest man who was embarrassed taking credit for his work. I wonder if there would even have been a Disney Archives if he had lived--I am told he had little interest in his history, but was always moving on to the next project.

I assume you have obtained a copy of the book I compiled, The suitable Walt Disney." One can learn a lot about the man from his quotes.

I am pleased that you have enjoyed my work through the years. Be on the lookout for a new edition of Disney A to Z in the Fall.

Sincerely,

Dave Smith

Archives Director - Walt Disney Archives

Burbank, CA

I immediately wrote a thank you note to Mr. Smith. Hopefully this is the first of many replies I am to receive.

January 17th - 20th

Tuesday January 17th

One of the greatest Americans, Benjamin Franklin was born on this day 300 years ago. This founding father, probably most famous for his theories using a kite to explore electricity, was many things in his lifetime: scholar, author, postmaster, inventor, publisher, ambassador, scientist, philosopher, architect, visionary, entrepreneur.. I could go on and on. If anyone knew how to live a full life and not waste a moment, it was Ben Franklin. Of course I can’t write to him, but I can write to a man who was inspired by him and established a company to honor Franklin’s memory.

Dr. Stephen R. Covey

The best-selling author of “The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People” , Dr. Covey founded a company called Franklin Covey to honor his hero, Ben Franklin. All of Dr. Covey’s books and products promote Ben Franklin’s message of harnessing time effectively. I have used many of Franklin Covey’s products the past, and they’ve helped to keep me focused.

Wednesday January 18th

“American Idol” returned to the airwaves tonight for the second show of its fifth season. As an actor, I’m not a big fan of reality television, but this show has always appealed to me (as it has to the rest of America, if you look at the smash hit ratings.) One of the things that makes this show a success is the acerbic wit of the lead judge, Simon Cowell, a British producer. He is considered rude by some critics, but I think he’s just giving the contestants constructive advice. Now I want to ask him for advice.

Simon Cowell

Born into the recording industry, Simon Cowell has been an extremely successful producer in his native UK, but struck it big in the US with “American Idol.” He has made such an impression that he’s often been named one of “the most hated men in America.” No matter what people say about him, the critique he dispenses is grounded in a knowledge gained from over twenty years in the business. I respect his opinion and would like to hear from him personally.

Thursday January 19th

I read in the paper today that the owner of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team, Mark Cuban, realized that the music and sound effects played during games was too loud, so he banned them for one game, until the players complained and said it drained the energy from the building. I’m an “old school” sports fan who grew up going to games where the only background noise was an organ played at normal levels. I admire the stand that Mr. Cuban took, so I let him know it.

Mark Cuban

A self made billionaire, who rose from selling garbage bags door to door on the streets of Pittsburgh to founding an internet company called Broadcast.com (later sold for an incredible sum to Yahoo!) Mark Cuban is the epitome of the American Dream come true. At the age of 40, he bought the Dallas Mavericks from Ross Perot for $285 million. Since then, his antics have gotten him in trouble, costing him over $1 million in fines from the NBA (which, in his unique style, was paid entirely in pennies.) Say what you like about him, Mark Cuban is exactly what today’s fans are looking for, a deeply passionate owner, committed to winning at all costs.

Friday January 20th

This afternoon, the New Horizons spacecraft was launched from Cape Canaveral in Florida. The mission for this rocket is to get to the planet Pluto, the outer reaches of our Solar System, by 2016. This is the fastest spaceship ever built by man (it will pass the moon shortly after midnight, whereas the Apollo missions took over three days to get there.) I’ve always been fascinated by astronomy. (One of my favorite places to visit as a kid was NYC’s Hayden Planetarium.) I think this accomplishment should be noted, so I’m writing to the head of NASA.

Dr. Michael Griffin

Nominated by President Bush in April of 2005, Dr. Griffin took over NASA at an exciting and challenging time. While most politicians are cutting budgets and shying away from space exploration, Dr. Griffin is trying to encourage he next generation to become excited about science. I want to thank him for that, and to congratulate him on the launch of New Horizons.

January 13th to January 16th

Friday January 13th

As an actor, I observe a lot of superstitions. (“break a leg” don’t say the name of Shakespeare’s “Scottish play” etc.) Friday the 13th is a day I always take note of. On this day, I’ve decided to write to a man who is associated closely with the otherworldly, the paranormal, and the macabre.

Stephen King

In 1980, I was allowed to read my first ‘adult’ book, Stephen King’s “Firestarter.” I immediately became a fan. His literary output since then has become too great for me to keep up with his works, but he’s still one of my favorites.

Saturday January 14th

Today marks the 222nd anniversary of the end of the US Revolutionary War. My choice for a letter today is a man who has lived up to the ideals set forth by our founding fathers, and one of the most decorated US soldiers in our history.

General H. Norman Schwarzkopf

A New Jersey native, like me, “Storming Norman” became famous during his leadership in the first Gulf war (which began 15 years ago this week.) His military career started long before that. After the war, he wrote an autobiography called “It Doesn’t Take a Hero”, which I read and was inspired by. (One of my big regrets is that I never served in the military myself.)


Sunday January 15th

Today would have been the 77th birthday of the great American civil rights leader the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. (who unfortunately was assassinated in 1968, the year I was born.) in 1993, Dr. King was given the honor of having all 50 United States observe the third Monday in January as a holiday to remind people of his contributions. On this day of remembrance, I’ve decided to write to a man who was a close associate of Dr. King, and has carried on his legacy.

The Reverend Jesse Jackson

In 1984, the Reverend Jackson became the highest profile African American to run for the office of President of the United States. Though he didn’t win the Democratic nomination in 1984 or 1988, his electrifying speeches inspired many people of all colors (myself included) to become better citizens. I want to let him know that I appreciate his contribution to the works of Dr. King.

Monday January 16th

67 years ago an American icon, Superman, was born. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster sold the character to DC Comics, and he’s lived on ever since. I’ve always been a comic book fan (mostly Batman) and I’m writing to the current President of DC Comics to thank him for continuing the heritage of comic book heroes.

Paul Levitz

The President of DC Comics, the oldest comics company in the US, Mr. Levitz has previously served as a writer, editor, vice president, and executive vice president at DC, overseeing the fortunes of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the Flash, among others. In the Summer of 2006, the release of “Superman Returns” should bring even more attention to DC’s oldest character.

January 1st - January 13th

OK, so I've got some catching up to do. Here are the letters I've written for the first 13 days of the year.

January 2006

Sunday January 1

Happy New Year! This is the day to start resolutions, and my number one resolution is being put into action by this very journal that you’re reading. My first letters of the New year will go to people involved in the areas I want to concentrate on.

Tom Galantich -

An actor who I saw filling in for the lead role in “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” on Broadway (usually played by John Lithgow) and also in “Mamma Mia” a few years ago. I aspire to do what Mr. Galantich does, perform night in and night out on the Broadway stage, so I wrote to him and asked for advice.

Art Linkletter-

An entertainment icon. This man created and hosted two long running shows, “People are Funny” and “Kids Say the Darndest Things.” In addition, he’s written over twenty best selling books. Mr. Linkletter was a personal friend of Walt Disney and the TV host of the opening day ceremonies at Disneyland in 1955. I am writing him for advice on both getting ahead in show business and advice on a one man tribute show about Walt Disney that I am hoping to perform Off Broadway by the end of 2006.

James Downey-

“Saturday Night Live” helped to form my comic sensibility, and I’ve been an avid fan since it began in the mid 1970’s (though I was too young to get most of the jokes back then.) James Downey has been a key player, both as writer and performer, on the show from the very beginning. One of my life’s ambitions is to appear on “SNL” as host or player, so I wrote to Mr. Downey for advice.

Jennifer LeRoy-

In my capacity as a NYC tour guide, I am called upon often to give tours of a landmark restaurant, The Tavern on the Green. The owner of the Tavern for years was Warner LeRoy, grandson of the founder of Warner Brothers, an son of a legendary Hollywood director/producer. Mr. LeRoy bought the tavern in the 1970’s and made it one of the most profitable restaurants in the world. He passed away a few years ago, but his daughter Jennifer has continued the tradition. I wrote to her to thank her for keeping her father’s legacy alive and asked for some anecdotes about her dad and the Tavern that I can add to my tour as well as advice on running a business.

Monday January 2nd

Procrastination has always been a big character flaw of mine, so I’m spending the second day of the new year writing to a famous Doctor who specializes in helping people correct unwanted behavior.

Dr. Phil McGraw -

Though he’s only had a TV show for a few years, this man has quickly become America’s self help guru and a man that I admire. I wrote to Dr. Phil letting him know how much his books and show have meant to me and asked him for advice on keeping my goals in sight.

Tuesday January 3rd

Today is my father’s 67th birthday, so I thought I’d send a letter dedicated to him. On March 10th, he is getting married at home plate in Yankee Stadium (the only person in the eight decade history of the landmark Stadium to be allowed to do so.) I’m writing a letter to the Mayor of NYC in my father’s behalf to ask him to perform the wedding ceremony.

Mayor Mike Bloomberg -

A self made billionaire who took office in tough circumstances (just after 9/11/2001) Mayor Bloomberg has kept the City on the same even keel that his predecessor, Rudolph Giuliani started. In a city this large, that’s no small task, especially for a man who previously held no political office. I wrote to him to congratulate him on his success, ask him to marry my dad, and thank him for his stewardship of the City.

Wednesday January 4th

If I’m going to start a project involving the use of the US Postal System, I figure that I’d better inform the current Postmaster General.

Postmaster General John E. Potter

An incredible story, Mr. Potter rose through the ranks of the Postal System, from clerk in the Bronx, to the esteemed position of Postmaster General. He took office just before September 11, 2001. He’s done an amazing job of dealing with more challenges (post 9/11 shutdown of air traffic, anthrax scare, rise in email and instant messaging, etc.) than any other Postmaster General in history

Thursday January 5th

As mentioned, I’m planning a one man show on Walt Disney, who is my personal hero. (You’ll see many letters throughout 2006 that deal with this topic.) I chose to write to a man who knows more about Walt Disney than anyone else.

Dave Smith

For almost forty years, this man has been head of the Disney Archives, the keeper of the collection of all things related to the Disney company. He’s written many comprehensive books on the subject, including “Disney A to Z”, the definitive Disney guide. If I’m going to seek advice from anyone about my proposed show, Dave smith is the guy.

Friday January 6th

This is the twelfth day of Christmas, Three Kings Day. Supposedly this is the day that the three wise men, Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar arrived in Bethlehem to visit baby Jesus. While not widely celebrated in the US, this is a huge day in many other countries, and for many the official end of the Christmas season. (I know that this has always been the day when my family takes down the tree and the decorations.) Who better to write to on this day than three reigning monarchs? Definitely a rarity in the 21st Century.

Mohammed VI - King of Morocco

One of the youngest monarchs, King Mohammed was in his 30’s when he ascended to the throne in 1999. He has helped to modernize Morocco’s infrastructure.

Harald V - King of Norway

From the “old school” of monarchs (he is related by blood to the King of Sweden and the Queen of England) King Harald has had some health issues in the past few years but is still a guiding light of this beautiful country.

Malietoa Tanumafili II -King of Western Samoa

In his 90’s, King Malietoa is still going strong as leader of this small island nation in the South pacific. My wife and I are fans of Polynesian cuisine, so I feel a connection to Western Samoa, though I’ve never actually been there.

Saturday January 7th

For Christmas, my dad gave me the deluxe wide screen edition of the summer 2005 hit “Batman Begins.” I’ve always been a big Batman fan. (The 1989 version with Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson as the joker will always be my favorite, but this is the best version of Batman since then.) My wife and I watched the movie tonight (eating popcorn made with the gourmet popcorn maker that our neighbors gave us for Christmas.) I decided to write letters to two of the people who helped to make the movie such a success.

Christopher Nolan

The director of “Batman Begins”, he also was at the helm for two of the most interesting movies of the recent era, “Insomnia” and “Memento.” I’m writing to him to thank him for getting the Batman movie franchise back on track.

Michael Caine

Mr. Caine’s book and video “Acting on Film” has been a great influence on me, and has helped me in many on-camera situations. To see him play Alfred, Bruce Wayne’s butler in “Batman Begins” was a big surprise, but added gravitas to a movie that could have been taken lightly. I wrote to this multiple Oscar winner to ask him for advice and to congratulate him on his work.

Sunday January 8th

I watched “King of the Hill” tonight and realized how underrated and overlooked this long running Fox series has been, compared to its contemporaries “The Simpsons and “South Park.” It’s better than most live action family sitcoms, but gets ignored because it’s animated. I thought I might write to the creator of the show.

Mike Judge

He started out by teaching himself animation techniques and submitting short films to “Saturday Night Live.” Within a few years, Mike Judge was world famous as the creator of MTV’s most successful show, “Beavis and Butthead.” after making a classic film based on his “SNL” shorts, called “Office Space” he moved to Fox, where he launched his series about hank hill and his family, set in Mr. Judge’s home state of Texas. In my letter, I asked Mr. Judge for advice on getting ahead in show business.

Monday January 9th

“Phantom of the Opera” set the record tonight for the longest running show in Broadway history (with no signs of slowing down.) I’ve seen it five times (most recently in the fall of 2004.) I’ve enjoyed it every time. In its entire 18 year run, there is one actor who has been there, in a lead role, the whole time.

George Lee Andrews

A Broadway legend, this man is currently playing the role of Monsieur Andre in ”Phantom.” and has been with the show, in a variety of roles, since the beginning. I wrote to him to congratulate him, and to ask for advice on a show business career.

Tuesday January 10th

Today was decision day for the newest class of the Baseball Hall of Fame. One of my all-time favorite players, Goose Gossage, has been mentioned as a possible inductee for the past few years, and I was hoping he would get the call today. Unfortunately, he didn’t, so I decided to send him a letter to let him know how much he means to me.

Goose Gossage

One of the best closers in baseball history, Rich “Goose” Gossage distinguished himself with the NY Yankees of the late 1970’s. Unlike today’s closers, Gossage would routinely pitch three innings to finish a game and his scowl struck fear into the hearts of opposing batters. He was my baseball hero growing up, and I wanted to let him know that even if he didn’t get the call, he’s still in my Hall of Fame.


Wednesday January 11th

Today marks the 35th anniversary of one of the most groundbreaking TV shows in history, “All In the Family.” I grew up in the 1970’s, so I remember watching this show with my family, and it brings back nothing but good memories. I chose to mark the anniversary by writing to the remaining cast and creator to let them know what their show meant to me.


Norman Lear

The man who started it all. He not only created “All In the Family” but was responsible for “The Jefferson’s”, “Maude”, “Good Times” and “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.” A true genius who cares deeply about his country, he also bought an original copy of the Declaration of Independence and sends it on tour around the country so American citizens can see it up close and be inspired by it.


Rob Reiner

Played Mike Stivic (AKA “Meathead” ) on the show, is now one of the most acclaimed directors (“When Harry Met Sally”, “A Few Good Men”, “Stand By Me”, “The Princess Bride”, “Misery”) in Hollywood.

Jean Stapleton

A legendary actress before “All In the Family” she turned Edith Bunker into a fully rounded character, rather than the one note portrayal lots of other actresses might have gone with.

Sally Struthers

Archie’s little daughter Gloria, more famous in recent years for her efforts in eradicating third world hunger.

Thursday January 12th

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the debut of one of my favorite shows as a kid (of course, I saw it in reruns, as I was born two years after it came on the scene) “Batman” this campy show redefined the image of Batman and changed the way people watched TV (two consecutive nights, “same bat time, same bat channel”) just like all in the family, I’ve decided to write to all the remaining major cast members of the show.

Adam West

Batman himself. No matter who came after him in the cape and cowl, Adam West IS Batman. He was my earliest hero, and I wrote him to tell him as much. ( I named my first son Adam, is that a coincidence or not?)

Burt Ward

The man who played Robin was my favorite. I met him when he came to Jersey City to make a personal appearance. Last year I took my two year old son to a comic book convention in Secaucus to meet him and have a photo taken. I wrote him to thank him for being so gracious in meeting us.

Yvonne Craig

Batgirl herself. I wrote to her because she’s just as much a part of my childhood memories as Adam West or Burt Ward.