L.A. sets up Web site for Jackson memorial donations

Putting a pop star to rest comes with incredible cost

By Associated Press Tuesday, Jul 7, 2009 1:21 PM

L.A. sets up Web site for Jackson memorial donations

A hearse carrying the body of Michael Jackson arrives at Staples Center for a memorial service for Michael Jackson Tuesday, July 7, 2009, in Los Angeles.

Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The city of Los Angeles has set up a Web site to allow Michael Jackson fans to help pay public costs for his Staples Center memorial service.

Mayor's office spokesman Matt Szabo (ZAY'-boh) says the site launched Tuesday is linked to a PayPal account where donors can help defray the expected millions of dollars in costs with tax- deductible credit-card contributions.

The Web page reads: "Help the City of Angels provide the extraordinary public safety resources required to give Michael the safe, orderly and respectful memorial he deserves."

Numerous law enforcement officers and fire department resources have been involved in Jackson family motorcades through the city and in guarding a wide perimeter around Staples Center. According to several sources, the cost of all this is an estimated $4 million.