Dear Friends:

This past holiday was highlighted by my sister's wedding at the Glen Foerd Historic Mansion on the Delaware Riverfront.  From hosting the rehearsal dinner to late night cheese steaks in the groom suite - it felt overwhelming at times to absorb everything that was happening - but was an extremely beautiful, heartwarming, and consummate weekend for Jen and Josh.  With newly extended family in New York City, I took the opportunity for my first Thanksgiving on the East coast in nearly a decade.

Upon returning West, I played host to Southern California landmarks, such as Santa Monica's Pacific Park, Griffith Park's Hollywood Sign, the boardwalk at Venice Beach, the California Design exhibit at LACMA, the new Star Tours at Disneyland, and Six Flags Magic Mountain.  Nonetheless, I couldn't resist my urge to get out of the city, departing on a weekend cruise to Baja Mexico for New Years where I indulged in more than my share of 24-hour buffets, rode horseback through Salsipuedes Bay, and toasted champagne alongside the captain in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

A weekend in Philadelphia over President's Day allowed me to revisit American classics like the Liberty Bell, Jim's Steaks, and the Philadelphia Flyers.  However, it was only a short break before returning to Disney to continue pushing "Wreck-It Ralph" towards our Fall release.  This project, albeit very challenging, is developing into a notably original and purely entertaining film I am excited to share.  Our trailer will be featured on Pixar's "Brave" (June 2012).

After 8 seasons in the Burbank Men's Open Basketball League, this summer I begin a new era as the manager of my own Disney-exclusive roster.  In addition, once "Ralph" wraps later this year I plan to not only travel coast to coast, but also pay a visit to America's breadbasket.

Sincerely,
-Mike