Michael Jackson Memorial Service in Gary
Fans To Honor Jackson's Memory in the State of Indiana
Jul 7, 2009
Today the masses gathered in Los Angeles to celebrate the life of pop legend Michael Jackson. The Staples Center, (home of the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, Kings and Sparks) was selected as the venue for this grand celebration.
At the time of his death, and for the majority of his life, Michael Jackson considered Hollywood and the greater Los Angeles area home. Nonetheless, before their rise to stardom, the Jackson family made their home in the small Midwest town of Gary, Indiana.
Gary Possible Burial Place for Michael Jackson
Since his death many in the Gary area have expressed their hope that Jackson's body be returned to his hometown for burial (or at the least that he might lie in state there). To the dismay of many it appears however that the family plans to bury Jackson in California (possibly at the renowned Forest Lawn Cemetery in Hollywood Hills). It also seems doubtful that his body will return to Gary even temporarily.
Plans for a Memorial Service and Celebration Underway in Gary
Although Gary may not have the honor of being Jackson's final resting place, the city is still planning to hold a special tribute to their native son. The memorial service in Gary, Indiana is planned for Friday evening, July 10, at the U.S. Steelyard baseball stadium (home of Gary's minor league baseball team, the RailCats). Similar to that of the Los Angeles celebration, organizers have planned for guest speakers as well as special appearances by entertainers and close friends/family.
Details about the Gary Memorial Service are limited right now; however, the event is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. with admission being free and on a first come, first serve basis. Because seating is limited (the stadium is said to hold about 6,000 people), organizers are planning to open the doors on or around 4 p.m.
The Childhood Home of Michael JacksonThrongs of fans have also been gathering at 2300 Jackson Street in Gary, the former home of the Jacksons. The small lawn continues to be filled with signs, stuffed animals, flowers and other sentiments from adoring fans.
Lodging in the Gary AreaIf looking to lodge in the city of Gary, options are quite limited. In fact, Majestic Star Casino and Hotel is the only hotel within Gary's city limits. Nonetheless, lodging is widely available in various nearby cities including Merrillville (about 15 minutes away), Portage (about 13 minutes away) Munster or Hammond (about 20 minutes away). If willing to drive a little further, one might choose to stay in the Chicago area (about 40 minutes away).
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