Jacksons thank fans with souvenir

2009-07-07 21:08

Los Angeles - Michael Jackson's family thanked fans on Tuesday with a free glossy souvenir programme at his memorial service, which poignantly charts the late artist's rise to become the King of Pop.

Keenly aware that they will instantly become collectors' items, arena staff shouted, "One programme for each! Do not ask for another one," as they handed them out to the lucky few who beat nearly 200 to 1 odds to win tickets.

The front cover of the programme for "A Celebration of the Life of Michael Jackson" shows the pop star with a wide smile on his face and stretching out his open hands.

The back shows a newspaper clipping of the young Michael with his brothers as the Jackson 5 won a talent contest that sent them on their way to stardom. Juxtaposed beneath is a picture of Jackson rehearsing on June 23, two days before he collapsed and died.

The inside six pages feature tributes from family, friends and fans ending with a simple "thank you" on behalf of the Jackson family.

Neverland family

"You've done your work here, Michael, you've entertained us for decades and there's nothing else that you can prove or accomplish here on Earth," his sister La Toya wrote.

"You taught us how to laugh, how to love and how to believe," said La Toya, who had been estranged for several years from her brother after backing claims he molested children - charges she later recanted.

"Mike, I love you deeply and I can't wait to see you perform again," she said.

Another dedication is sent collectively from "Your Neverland Family", in what appears to be the former staff at his fantasy childhood-themed estate north of Los Angeles.

"Because of you, the sound of children's laughter, the whistle of a steam train or the whirl of a carousel will always bring a smile to our hearts," they wrote.

"Thank you for allowing us to be part of your dream," they said.
 

- SAPA