Michael Jackson made us all richer

To the editor:

On a cold windy day in Las Vegas, Feb. 13, 2007, I was invited to perform my magic at a birthday party. With the wind whistling outside, this surreal performance for only 10 people lasted more than an hour in front of a beautiful fireplace at Michael Jackson's home in Las Vegas.

To this day, the familiar voice of Michael Jackson -- along with his three children, Blanket, Paris and Prince -- echo in my mind. Michael applauded, laughed and made wonderful comments after every trick I performed.

I was afforded on this day a rare opportunity to spend the entire afternoon with Michael and his children, to talk about magic and how much we both loved it. He wanted to visit me and see my Houdini collection. I found him to be very open, a complete gentleman, and he was a very happy person.

It was also very clear his children genuinely loved him dearly.

As I was finally leaving, Michael was having cake and opening presents with Prince, the birthday boy. When Michael saw that I was leaving, he ran down the hall to once again shake my hand and ask me to come back and visit so we could talk magic.

I never did. But I feel I got to know a side of Michael Jackson that few people see, the off-stage Michael Jackson at home with his children, laughing and having fun.

I have known Joe Jackson, Rebe, Kate and Tito for some time, and my heart goes out to the entire family.

Entertainers are the most giving of people, and Michael gave everything and made us all richer for his efforts.

Dixie Dooley

LAS VEGAS

Loss of morality

To the editor:

I'm really amazed at all the people who are idolizing Michael Jackson. It really reflects the loss of morality of so many in society. It is sad that we place so little importance on the innocence of children.

Let us not forget that this is the man who admitted under oath that he slept with young boys and believed it to be OK. We can grieve his death but shouldn't glorify his life.

DOUG FARMER

LAS VEGAS