The Mayor of Los Angeles, where the Michael Jackson memorial was held, has asked fans of the singer to donate and help pay for the pricey event. The city, which is deep in debt, would like people to give either PayPal or cheque (check) donations to pay for the $2.5-$4 million public memorial.
Yesterday (July 7, 2009), millions of people worldwide watched the televised memorial (see whole video). There were many singers who gave emotional performances, and the event was also attended by Jackson’s family.
The costs involved stem from most of the city being on pause for the whole day, then being forced to shut down traffic and flood Downtown Los Angeles with local police.
On Tuesday, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa added a page to the City of L.A.’s website, with a PayPal link, asking fans to “help give Michael the world class memorial he deserves.”
“Help the City of Angels provide the extraordinary public safety resources required to give Michael the safe, orderly and respectful memorial he deserves. If you’re a Michael fan, considering giving a small donation to help us celebrate his extraordinary life and music,” the mayor’s statement reads.
[...] Asking for money to cover a memorial is just what I’d expect for Michael Jackson – Amy Grindhouse [...]