2008 Woodie Awards
Like a Kid in a Candy Store
Liz Harris
Issue date: 3/30/05 Section: The Triangle
On March 25, 2005, Michael Jackson launched his Neverland Daycare Center, located on his ranch in Santa Maria, California. Jackson hosted a grand-opening ceremony and explained the project's mission.
The celebration took place on Jackson's estate in front of Lake Neverland, located between the ranch's Teepee Village and Flamingo Island Train Station. Jackson stood on an elevated platform and explained his ideas to a crowd of parents, children, and celebrities who rallied to show their support. The one-time-only gathering included dinner, magicians, games, and a tractor-trailer full of stuffed animals.
Jackson said, "The Neverland Daycare Center is an establishment that will serve as a haven for children everywhere. There are plenty of activities for everyone to engage in. There are amusement parks, petting zoos, and swimming pools. And if parents are called to work overtime, kids are invited to stay overnight-- free of charge!"
His statements were met with wild applause.
Jackson also announced special membership packages. He said, "Those who register today will be given a free six week membership." He also offered a two-for-one deal to boys between the ages of 10 and 15 and "special incentives for boys under ten."
Jackson emphasized the importance of educational activities during his speech. "Parents, it is my solemn promise to provide your children with a wide variety of reading materials. My libraries are stocked with books, magazines, and other publications. I have an extensive film collection, as well as special internet resources for guests to explore."
After his address, Jackson introduced two of his staff members-- Macaulay Culkin and Majestic Magnificent. Culkin will assume the position of official housekeeper; he is responsible for cleaning the ranch's interior-- including bedrooms and balconies. He will vacuum and dust while he helps Jackson entertain guests. Culkin said, "I think this is a great opportunity for everybody involved. Mikey is more than willing to spend all of his time with kids-- he wants to act like a big brother to them while their parents are at work. I'm proud to be employed by such a fine institution. Mikey is the most responsible, trustworthy guy I know, and I'm confident I can live up to his expectations."
The celebration took place on Jackson's estate in front of Lake Neverland, located between the ranch's Teepee Village and Flamingo Island Train Station. Jackson stood on an elevated platform and explained his ideas to a crowd of parents, children, and celebrities who rallied to show their support. The one-time-only gathering included dinner, magicians, games, and a tractor-trailer full of stuffed animals.
Jackson said, "The Neverland Daycare Center is an establishment that will serve as a haven for children everywhere. There are plenty of activities for everyone to engage in. There are amusement parks, petting zoos, and swimming pools. And if parents are called to work overtime, kids are invited to stay overnight-- free of charge!"
His statements were met with wild applause.
Jackson also announced special membership packages. He said, "Those who register today will be given a free six week membership." He also offered a two-for-one deal to boys between the ages of 10 and 15 and "special incentives for boys under ten."
Jackson emphasized the importance of educational activities during his speech. "Parents, it is my solemn promise to provide your children with a wide variety of reading materials. My libraries are stocked with books, magazines, and other publications. I have an extensive film collection, as well as special internet resources for guests to explore."
After his address, Jackson introduced two of his staff members-- Macaulay Culkin and Majestic Magnificent. Culkin will assume the position of official housekeeper; he is responsible for cleaning the ranch's interior-- including bedrooms and balconies. He will vacuum and dust while he helps Jackson entertain guests. Culkin said, "I think this is a great opportunity for everybody involved. Mikey is more than willing to spend all of his time with kids-- he wants to act like a big brother to them while their parents are at work. I'm proud to be employed by such a fine institution. Mikey is the most responsible, trustworthy guy I know, and I'm confident I can live up to his expectations."