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Richard Cochrane is trained in chemistry and metallurgy but is far more interested and practiced as a political and fund raising consultant, writer and amateur historian. He grew up in a Navy family and with his two younger brothers carried on its 500+ year tradition of naval service to Great Britain and the USA then enjoyed a career with one of the largest advertising and public relations agencies working with numerous Fortune 500 companies and many of America's premier educational institutions. He maintains friendships and acquaintanceships around the world. He lives in Santa Barbara, California.

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Towns and Residents Around Neverland Ranch Brace For Jackson Funeral

July 1st, 2009 • Richard Cochrane
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neverland-ranchBased on rumors that entertainer Michael Jackson’s body will be on view at Neverland Ranch in mid-Santa Barbara County, California has every motel and hotel room in the area booked for this upcoming Independence Day weekend.  

On May 12, 2009 a foreclosure auction was cancelled on Neverland Ranch when Colony Capital LLC, purchased the loan. Jackson was in default on the $24.5 million owed on the 2,500-acre (10 km2) property. In a press release at that time Jackson was quoted as  stating, “I am pleased with recent developments involving Neverland Ranch and I am in discussions with Colony and Tom Barrack with regard to the Ranch and other matters that would allow me to focus on the future.”

The Ranch is a shadow of its former self absent the Ferris wheel, Carousel and other rides and features but the land and what remains could be worth more than $30 million.

Some say Neverland Ranch could become a kind of Graceland that honors the memory and career of Elvis Presley. Opposition has been quick arguing that converting so much agricultural land for commercial use would forever change the nature of the sleepy valley that has tenaciously fought to retain its rural character.

The local Supervisor who represents that area pointed out that is Michael Jackson is to be buried there that would take a long process to have land designated a cemetery or part of the property could be donated to a religious organization that would OK the burial which is what happened at Graceland.

Local residents are bracing for a surge in traffic and merchants in the nearby Danish Village of Solvang are anticipating crowds.

There Is 1 Response So Far. »

  1. Comment by Richard on 1 July 2009:

    By midday confusion reigns supreme as AP is reporting the Jackson funeral and burying will be someplace in LA.

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