Villaraigosa should be recalled. While MJ was an amazing entertainer, etc., he was not a public official nor a cop or fireman who died in duty of service to the city. Tom Bradley, the greatest mayor in the history of our city, did not get a send off paid for like this. Why should Michael Jackson? Almost 2 million dollars could be better spent (healthcare for the poor or summer school programs, anyone?) than for the pomp and circumstance of saying goodbye to a singer...a singer. This is especially infuriating when you take into account that one, L.A. city employees, the people who serve you and me, have been forced to take 10% pay cuts via furloughs, and two, AEG will no doubt sell DVDs of the memorial service.

Do the math. 16 million people wanted to attend, 30 million watched it on TV. So, at the least, 16 million will buy the DVD, if not 30 million. Figure the price to be in the fifteen dollar range. We're talking about AEG taking in between 240 to 450 million dollars. And the mayor says that the citizens of L.A. should cover the costs, not AEG? I guess he was out in the sun too long in South Africa. With this guy steering the ship it's no wonder we've run aground. Such callous indifference should not be tolerated by the citizenry. The mayor should rethink his pledge or resign.

I just want to know if all residents of Los Angeles are now entitled to the same type of "free" funeral? I agree with Will - those funds could have been used in many different ways and could have possibly changed someones life for ever. Some things to think about.

Nobody gets it do they?
In the 40+ years that the Jackson family has paid in CA state income taxes, property taxes and all of the sales tax that was generated from album sales, concert tickets and merchandise for the State of California, and that will continue to generate. It's the least the city of Los Angeles can do.

charge aeg and or the jackson family. no city money for a pediphille weirdo

i just wanna say to will wake up ad get ur fat head from up ur bum mj was a legend and people wanted to say there goodbye's u need to learn how to respect people and if the jackson family saw wot u put they would b very upset it happened so get over it.

i just wanna say to will wake up and get ur fat head from up ur bum mj was a legend and people wanted to say there goodbye's u need to learn how to respect people and if the jackson family saw wot u put they would b very upset it happened so get over it.

First of all, people should realise the billions that the Family in general and MJ in particular, generated for the city and its image. This is the least the city can do to return the favor.

Secondly, if the whole world decided to come to a place like the Liberty bell, wouldn't that city have to manage the crowds?

People who are cribbing about public money being spent should remember that MJ was a very public, world renowned figure who, time and again, brought the spot light to LA.. something that most villages crave for...So, will the villagers please suck up their envy and go back to the holes they've come from.

With hard working people in this country dying every day, who can't afford their own funeral and end up pass the cost on to their family members, I find it ridiculous that this is even an issue. I know MJ's family is in mourning. But, they obviously can afford to foot the bill. I also agree with Will. AEG will make a fortune form dvd sales. So why can't AEG step up to the plate. Once again, tax payers are going to get the shaft!!

And this is why the state of California is in it's present demise--bankruptsy....California is a socialized state soon to receive the nation's welfare check because of this kind of thinking over the years..What can anyone say????I would hope that this once beautiful part of the Union would wise up and change its free wheeling ways...But alas California, you have become the property of the Progressive movement and you no longer have your identity or sovernity..

Just glad it was in Ca. And so fits their weird lifestyle and image. Entertain the weirdos , pedophiles, mass murderers and actors and let them have the run of the state coffers in California. Meanwhile, go broke , lay off all your state workers , find you own oil somehwree in your backyard and dig a water well. What a insane state. The "Wall" should be built around California to protect the rest of the country. Some of those people might get out and infect the rest of the US.

Just glad it was in Ca. And so fits their weird lifestyle and image. Entertain the weirdos , pedophiles, mass murderers and actors and let them have the run of the state coffers in California. Meanwhile, go broke , lay off all your state workers , find you own oil somehwree in your backyard and dig a water well. What a insane state. The "Wall" should be built around California to protect the rest of the country. Some of those people might get out and infect the rest of the US.

Everyone stop complaining. God forbid someone in this world try to help out someone else. Stop worrying about yourself and be thankful that atleast someone in this world is still willing to put someone else and his family infront of himself for once.

Just shut up and do a good deed today... help someone out that needs help.

AEG & the Jacksons are the ones who promoted such a HUGE memorial "show". I personally loved MJ and his music, have no opinion whether or not he was guilty of what he was "accused" of because he was never found "guilty" of it, so case closed.

But is the city that I live in going to pay for my funeral? My husbands? We are taxpayers just as he was, maybe not as extreme, but still...taxpayers.

AEG & the Jacksons wanted to make a big ordeal out of the Memorial, so they should at least pitch in and help with the cost...quite a bit.

But that's just my opinion.

AEG & the Jacksons are the ones who promoted such a HUGE memorial "show". I personally loved MJ and his music, have no opinion whether or not he was guilty of what he was "accused" of because he was never found "guilty" of it, so case closed.

But is the city that I live in going to pay for my funeral? My husbands? We are taxpayers just as he was, maybe not as extreme, but still...taxpayers.

AEG & the Jacksons wanted to make a big ordeal out of the Memorial, so they should at least pitch in and help with the cost...quite a bit.

But that's just my opinion.

I apologize for the double post, forgive me please. Thank you. :)

Whatever good music MJ performed in no way justifies asking taxpayers to shell out 1.4 mil for his memorial. If all you MJ lovers want to contribute , thats fine, leave me out of it. MJ left a sizable amount of money and assests. The memorial costs are a drop in the bucket for his survivors. For all you who justify the city having to pay the expenze by saying MJ put the spotlight on LA, why do you say that like its a good thing?

If the state of California is in such financial straights, why does Mayor Villaragiosa feel the city of LA should pick up the tab for this ridiculous event. It was all drama and spectacle for someone who was underserving of it all. He killed himself with all the drugs he was taking. He was nothing but a junkie and a pediophile. So why are we praising such a creature. Other celebrities died around the same time and no fanfare was given to them. Oh, could it be because of the color of their skin. Everyone thinks MJ was a god to be praised to high heaven that includes that skank Mr. Sharpton. He should go back and crawl under his rock and never be heard of again. MJ did nothing for the black people. There were many more prominent and well-respected blacks before him. I don't care what he gave to charity. Others have done alot more than he ever did. Another thing he wasn't robbed by anyone but his own family. They were the first ones in there as reported by the police. They cleaned him out to avoid tax probate. If he was nearly bankrupt, his family should never have put on that extravaganza at the Staples Center. Who ever heard of buying tickets to a funeral or memorial service. Why not ask Mr. Sharpton and all the MJ lovers to shell out for this $1.4M sendoff that they felt he was so deserving of. I don't see them reaching into their pockets to pay. I'm Mr. Sharpton can come up with the money from all he has scammmed from New Yorkers. They should have kept the funeral and memorial services simple showing more dignity. That type always has to play everything up to the hilt. He is not worthy to shine the shoes of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley (the real king of rock and roll!!!) He could never be placed on the same level with them.
Stick that in your pipe Mr. Sharpton and smoke it!!! I think the autopsies have to stop now. Creamate or bury him and be done with it already. Even that has to be drawn out to the untenth degree. Who really cares what really killed him we know it was a mixture of all the drugs he was getting from his pushers.

another one bits the dust.one more little god gives up the ghost,now he stands before the almighty,while here on earth his worshippers praise him.a pervert,a no heller,i bet he believes now.i'm glad that hollywood worshippers have to pay for it.the family could not get there fast enough,let the dead bury the dead.

I just dont get all the commotion even from supposedly intelligent people. It is not the families fault that so many people loved Michael Jackson. It was not their request to hire extra police or close highways. They had no control over the overwhelming response to his death. The mayor did the right thing.As far as those weirdo and pedo remarks the man was found innocent. However why is it an issue it is also not their fault California is in debt. Wake up we pay for people that come here and suddenly are getting it all, living off our strange system. While we work hard The Jackson family were all born and raised in this great country of ours.

I totally agree with Will.Why should the city of LA float the bill for this funeral. It shouldn't!!! Yes MJ was a talented person and was loved but tickets could of been sold to help re-coup the cost. Then the city could of spent the money on more pressing issues.

Who pay's for the soldiers funeral when he comes home from war in a coffin? He did not receive millions of dollars but simply did his job. Where is the moment of silence from Congress? Were are the fans of the brave men and women who give there lives freely so that a city can put on a spectacle and charge the tax payer for an "entertainers" funeral. Who pays the bills for to raise the children of these warriors that are left behind ? The city of Los Angeles ? I think not.

This is a sham. The family should take up the tab and so should AEG who put on this show just like any other concert. The tax payer should have to pay for this nonsense. It's bad enough in a depressed economy to make ends meet let alone paying for someone's elaborate funeral.

Who pay's for the soldiers funeral when he comes home from war in a coffin? He did not receive millions of dollars but simply did his job. Where is the moment of silence from Congress? Were are the fans of the brave men and women who give there lives freely so that a city can put on a spectacle and charge the tax payer for an "entertainers" funeral. Who pays the bills for to raise the children of these warriors that are left behind ? The city of Los Angeles ? I think not.

This is a sham. The family should take up the tab and so should AEG who put on this show just like any other concert. The tax payer should have to pay for this nonsense. It's bad enough in a depressed economy to make ends meet let alone paying for someone's elaborate funeral.

Who pay's for the soldiers funeral when he comes home from war in a coffin? He did not receive millions of dollars but simply did his job. Where is the moment of silence from Congress? Were are the fans of the brave men and women who give there lives freely so that a city can put on a spectacle and charge the tax payer for an "entertainers" funeral. Who pays the bills for to raise the children of these warriors that are left behind ? The city of Los Angeles ? I think not.

This is a sham. The family should take up the tab and so should AEG who put on this show just like any other concert. The tax payer should have to pay for this nonsense. It's bad enough in a depressed economy to make ends meet let alone paying for someone's elaborate funeral.

Here's a suggestion - let the media pay the bill. THey have played & played & re-played till we've have 3 weeks of burying Michael. I loved his music & he was great to watch in the 80's, but he lost me when he "weirded out" starting in the 90's. Drugs & money & more drugs cooked him! Now we have to watch as the rest of his entourage milks him for every ounce of exposure they can get!
I saw a woman paying tribute to her son and other soldiers who died in Iraq the same week. Her final remark is still in my head. She said that it was hard to bury her son, but when the entire country ignores his death and the death of the other soldiers who were killed by that same I.E.D., it was crushing to realize no-one cared - they were all too busy following the events of Michael's death. I believe they died the same day.
Maybe we should do a reality check!

Why the hell should we pay for a private citizens funeral? The Jackson family wanted to showcase what should have been a private family matter. Let them pay for the hupla!!

I think the mayor exercised sound common sense. The throngs of people were not going to go away without saying goodbye to a pop culture icon. PERIOD. Those comments about a waste of money etc. are not sound thinkers. Did they want a riot? Let's face it this is America and we can go out and show support for whomever we choose. THOUSANDS wanted to show their support for the family so should there be chaos with people on the streets by his star, at Neverland in the streets? NO! The mayor used the funds to provide police, traffic enforcement etc. so everyone could say good-bye properly. IT'S PART OF THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE TO WANT TO SAY GOODBYE THROUGH A MEMORIAL OR FUNERAL- IT's in our social genes to do this as a group.

I'm sure everyone hates to admit it, but the city did what it would normally do for funerals but on a larger scale. They provided security for a large crowd of people in this instance. All other costs were paid for by the family (city didn’t buy the casket or flowers); the Staple Center was donated as well as other things. The city made the decision to have so many employees because of safety concerns for the crowd and thankfully nothing happened. With thousands of people in attendance, I'm sure they didn’t sleep in their cars or ate their shoe strings. Profit was made somewhere. The city paid the cost when he was accused of molestation and a circus was there. That was ridiculous. And the website didn’t work as intended. Even though I didn’t have to donate, I would have and so would others. We may believe deep in our hearts that the city should not pay for things such as this, but they do because that's their role. Best I can say is to be active in your communities and go to city hall meetings to voice your opinions on how money is spent. A silent bird can’t be heard and I doubt if they read this blog. My thoughts are with all of you.

I completely agree with the folks that commented on 'does the city pay for the soldiers funeral that has given their life freely for all of our freedoms that we have' granted MJ was a good artist and did a lot for the music industry, no one is disputing that, I'm just saying simply that the freedoms that we have are hardly free! The city and it's employees that are already feeling the pain of the economy should not be held accountable for an ENTERTAINER's funeral. That is just unreasonable, the state is broke as it is, making the average citizen come up with more money they don't have or take further pay cuts is just the thinking that has caused the current state of affairs. I'll get down off my soap box now but lets put the focus back on reality and let MJ be at peace, wherever that is.

It is a shame that the Jackson family would not insist to pay for their son's/brother's funeral costs. It is ridiculous for taxpayers to fund a funeral of an entertainer. Farrah Fawcett's loved ones paid for her funeral!!!

This is an outrage!!! The coverage of his funeral was like the pope dying. I believe most Americans will agree that the death was over publicized. I feel the media was in error for the amount of air space given on this death.

Enough is enough! The Jackson family should have known the amount of people that would want to attend a ceremony AS WELL AS the cost involved. This was like having a funeral luncheon for free and letting the taxpayers foot the bill. A disgrace. Thank god I don't live in California.

Did AEG or the Jacksons ask the city to provide the police or the traffic control? Lets see NO!!!!! The city did this on their own actions.

How about the city police paying for those lunches when the policemen could have bought their own lunch? Why do the city tax payers have to pay for the lunch? My employer doesn't pay for my lunch.

How much money is the city making for all the taxes made from this event. The air fair taxes, LAX is part of the city, all the cab fair taxes, hotels taxes, food and drink taxes, memorabilia sales taxes, flower sales tax, candles sales tax, music sales tax.....shall I continue. The sales tax is paying for this by all those who came to pay respect to him.

The question is how much money did the state and city make off the Michael Jackson Death and not how much did they spend and how much more will they make off his death? Stop the whining.

My question is why is the media spending so much money covering this.... He was a man.... How about all those who die defending our country? You spend one minute or not even that covering those deaths.....

I AM SO GLAD I DON'T LIVE IN SUCH A DUMB STATE!!!HAHAHA CALIFORNIA IS BANKRUPT AND HAS NO MONEY, GIVING I.O.U.'S OUT, PAYING "ILLEGALS" FOR WORK WHEN THEY ARE HER ILEGALLY AND STUCK ON STUPID....AND YOU WONDER WHY THEY ARE DROWNING IN DEBT?!HAHAHAHA I WONDER IF SOME OF THOSE PROUD CALIFORNIA CITIZENS WILL GET THEIR FUNERAL BLOCKAIDS PAID FOR WHEN THEY PASS ON?! NOT!!! HOW DUMB CAN THEY BE!!!!LOL

i agree with several of you out there that the military personnel killed in action are ignored. I was born on an Air Force Base and raised in the military. I understand the feelings of the loved ones who have to bury their own.

Exactly my point made earlier. A funeral is not a made-for-profit business. It is a time for a final good-bye to the deceased. Military perosnnel killed defending the USA holds a higher priority than an entertainer that never served his country. The military protects us so we can enjoy the better life of democracy.

Who pays for security at Staples when a concert is booked? Taxpayers, I think NOT!!!!

MJ was an entertainer; but not a god that people are making him out to be. Get over themselves and move forward like in any person's death.

California needs to challenge this issue on paying for costs of an entertainer's funeral.

WITH ALL THE PEOPLE THAT WERE ON STAGE AT THE MEMORIAL YOU WOULD THINK THEY COULD PAY THE CITY.

I sure hope they saved enough money to build the illegals their little huts with bathrooms and air and running water in fromt of the Home depot.
Oh i forgot they are makeing Home Depot pay for that. I think we should make California A part of Mexico. or Africa All the same.

I agree with some of you. Where I live the police will shut down highways if the funeral possesion has to cross it, will give escort to cemetary etc. this all done without family asking for it. I am sure the city of LA has done this many a time for funerals, maybe not in this magnatude and publicity, but in order to have a safe enviroment for this to take place they had more come in. How much money do you think was brought in since MJ's death? You have had a lot of people there paying there respect, buying MJ memorablia etc. I am sure this was not all give a way items, they have to sleep, eat, get places so the money is going back into the LA system. If Staples center was donated for its use, and everyone that was on stage for MJ's memorial was not paid (most people for a memorial are not paid to get up and say something about the person, if they would I think I would become a professional and get "hired" by family to get up and say nice things about a person I may or may not know), the family paid for the casket and flowers (just like normal people have to) It is the responsiblity of the city no matter what city it happens to be to take care of the public's saftey and the family's saftey, especially when they know the funeral/memorial for a very famous person who is known world wide and the magnatude of people that will be coming to pay their respect will be of high numbers. I agree that the tax payers should not have to pay for the funeral, but when it comes to the city providing police for saftey and if that means bringing more in then so be it, it is then the responsibility of the city government to take care of it without using tax payers money.
As for the Jackson's making this a public event, I really don't think they did as much as the networks did. It was the networks that was haveing something on the Jacksons almost non stop.What do you think would have happened if the Jackson family did not go with having a "open" memorial for MJ? They did have their private time to say good bye to MJ without any cameras there, but I think they knew what could have happened if they didn't have some kind of public memorial for the public, They could have had a very bad private funeral service wher fans found out about it and all sorts of things could have happened but they also knew they couldn't let all the people that came to pay their respect for Michael not be able to in some way.

I feel that the hype of the funeral was for someone to become more rich by exploitation.
Great music, great entertainer, and a father.

I dont remember this for Ronald Regan.

Folks! It was for crowd control. They did not pay for the funeral or the Staple Center.. What do you want the city to do. Let them riot!

If MJ was so innocent of the pedo charges, why did he feel compelled to payoff the families of the victims to keep them quiet? As for the memorial, the family could very well have controlled everything by simply saying they wished to keep it a quiet, family affair, but they needed the money to payoff MJs debts and why not let others pay for them instead of reaching into their own pockets. They want to hold onto every last dollar of his money they possibly can. As for the throngs of MJ lovers, they could have gone to their own houses of worships, lit candles and said prayers for MJ. They didn't need to put on this big production and congregate all together. He would have heard their prayers from wherever. It wasn't necessary to put on that big Broadway production with all those crocodile tears, and dramatics. The family wasn't even that close. It was all put on as a public show. Wake up people he was not all that!!!! He wasted his life and killed himself! What a waste of God's gift of life and talent. He had it all and throw it in the toilet. Those truly loving fans should all reach deep into their pockets and pay the $1.4 million bill. He's been treated and revered better than a dead president or king and didn't deserve any of it. I think the Mayor of LA showed very poor judgment in saddling the citizens of LA with that sham.The Mayor needs to answer to the citizens of LA for his actions. If he still stands by his actions then he should write a blank check to cover the cost.

Although Michael Jackson was a great entertainer there have been better men than him that have passed on and not given the funeral coverage and protection from the L.A.P.D. There are people starving, without housing and so forth; his family should foot the majority of the bill for the funeral. Enough is enough with Michael Jackson. May he rest in peace and let's all get on with the living at hand.

It is true that the police were for crowd control but that all would have unnecessary if the family had a simple private funeral, but no, they had to exploit him even in death and make money from his death. I know his mother is a good women but she sould have insisted on a totally private ceremony and burial service. If fans wanted to remember him they could have done so in the privacy of there own homes and places of worship. Aren't the tax payer in US going through enough right now with the way the economy is? We needed this also?

I love M.J and his music. He was not just an icon in music, but he contributed millions in total to the needy out of love, not for fame. If the city of L.A loved him and is grateful for all the contributions he made during his time here on earth and wants to honor that by a donation to his memorial, I could understand and have no problem with that. However, this is not a racial issue...I am Black, neither is there any reason for name-callings nor becoming disrespectful. Therefore, let us clear the air...Let us reason...the economy is in financial strain; many are loosing their jobs, going hungry and homeless. I think the priority of the Mayor is backwards. Everyone wants to honor MJ, well, he was a giving person and give to the needy, why not donate to the needy in honor of him, something that he would do as a person. President Obama is urging moms to return to school, I am a full time employee and a full time student with student loans, why not take 1 million and put it towards education. Just do something beneficial that would benefit the living, profit the nation and honor the decease. Donating .4 million is not so bad, after all he is MJ. There was not before him, none like him, and none will be after him. He was the "King of Pop" and there will never be another that would be able to be compared to him...He is Michael Jackson...Love...R.I.P

Virragoza........you got braings??

Villaraigosa........you got brains it all??

I too paid taxes for years and years in the broke state of California, does that mean that when I kick the bucket that the city where I am living has to pick up the tab.

I think not and its ridiculous to think that the Jackson family or the corporation who is going to profit tremendously should not be expected to pay the costs

why is everybody trippin if any of your fallen stars were loved as much as they loved mj then this woujld be happening all the time someone famous die but most of yall dnt care about them like mj the jackson did not force no one to come and say goodbye they came on there own.and yall can call mj watever yall want he is still going to out sell all those so call icon that yall love so much and continue to b the king of pop. u dnt have to like it but you got to dealwit it .

I do believe he was innocent…People can be very scandalous, and envious. That was just a lie. I believe he paid them off to move ahead with his life and hope that everyone would have done the same. He was a Black person with a lot of fame, plenty money and excelling in the music industry becoming bigger and better than anyone ever know in the MUSIC business. That was a racial issue….so to speak. People say, that concert would have been a comeback, but I agree with Somkie, how could it be a comeback when all tickets were SOLD OUT SAME DAY WENT ON SALE. Where did he go???????????????????????. I grew up in South America, and there is this saying “You can’t keep a good man down”…that is for all you MJ haters……………miss coretta and will and others.

Let's be clear. These funds were not spent on Michael Jackson. The funds were spent on the public. The money was spent on the safety of the people that reside near the Staple Center. It is sickening to think that the city would even try to profit from a legends death. I am glad the Mayor is doing the right thing. As a resident of L.A., I have no problem giving my 13.5¢ ($1.4 million / 10,363,850 people), even though I know the service is actually saving me money.

These types of events happen every day in L.A. This is the same service the city provides for hundreds of less substantial people every year. Let’s not forget that this man has donated a staggering $200 million!, and paid probably $20 million in state taxes.

Additionally, let's put this into perspective. This costs the city $1.4 million. There was probably $5 million in revenue for the city, in estate taxes (from MJ), sales tax revenue (from the supporters, not to mention the additional money the city will earn for many years to come off of the Michael Jackson legacy.

This is just another reason for people who are upset that a minority has received an insurmountable level of fame, respect, and success. 40 years of dedication and sacrifice for his fans, the people, and the world, cannot be undone by the selfishness of few.

Although my Grandfather was not as publicly known as M.J. He was a war vet, and worked as a fire fighter in my hometown. When we had my Grandfathers funeral, 1000's of people showed up for the wakes and funeral. We, the family, had to pay for law enforcement to direct traffic, control crowds and overall ensure that things were under control & safe. Although my Grandfather might not have been able to sing pretty songs, he did save lots of people. We, the family, paid the bill, and to the officers who donated their time, we sent thank you notes and small gifts of appreciation. Maybe the state of CA &/or the family of M.J, should have asked for Officers to Donate their time? Is that not so realistic? Is that not American? They didn't ask, so the family aught to pay their own bills, as we paid our own bills. It is a family debt not a USA debt.

I feel sorry for some of you people. Such hate for the dead. Now my question to all of you naysayers is this--What have you done in your life times that when you are dead and gone will generate this kind of love and hate? The city governments have a responsibility to its citizens--those you like and those you do not. Let's just see how the bell tolls when you are gone

I feel sorry for some of you people. Such hate for the dead. Now my question to all of you naysayers is this--What have you done in your life times that when you are dead and gone will generate this kind of love and hate? The city governments have a responsibility to its citizens--those you like and those you do not. Let's just see how the bell tolls when you are gone

No one can take away what GOd has given. God favored MJ with all that he had and still have. There is a principle.."freely give, freely receive. The measure you give is the same measure it will be given back to you" Like I said, " you can't keep a good man down" no one can stop him, even in the grave, he is the "King of Pop"..... (tke that) all you haters.

grow up and shut up.The city is to protect and serve.End of story retards

If AEG and the Jackson did not have the show at staples then there will not have been a need for crowd control. AEG sold camera locations to the media and just wait for the dvd sales. If the citozans have to pay for the police at their own funeral. Also look at Joe Jackson how he is already trying to make a fast buck of his sons death. The is going alot money out so AEG and family can pay. Like the rest

Jackson family pay for your sons/brothers memorial, like we all have to do as regular folks.

Coretta....educate yourself and know WTF you are talking about before you make yourself look like a dumbass again....please!!!!

LETS Not FORGET That GOD gave him the gift of VOICE Along with the gift of Dance. God knew what he was doing. Let the man meet his maker in peace. What about his 3 beautiful children left without their Dad. Must they listen to all this hatred. THANK GOD HE LEFT US ALL THAT MUSIC TO LISTEN TO AND ALL THOSE VIDEOS TO WATCH.WE are all here for a purpose dont let your reason be to spread hate talk. SING instead

It is amazing how we always manage to come back to the old race card. Get over it already!!! He was nothing great--just a waste of human life. Deal with that!!!

If he loved his children so much why did he ruin his life and kill himself. Didn't he want to live for his children???? He was selfish and wasn't thinking of his children, his family or his fans when he killed himself. He is the one who wanted the drugs he put in his body.

Does It Matter, you need to know WTF your talking about. I guess a nerve was struck. The truth hurts sometimes.

Yes, we all loved Michael Jackson music but is ridiculous that city is paying all cost of secuity, to control crowds and direct traffic at the Staples center. The city of Los Angeles is giving I.O.U and force state workers to go furlough just to balance the state budget.
One more strike against the city goverment that dosent know how to manage there finances.

Yes, we all loved Michael Jackson music but is ridiculous that city is paying all cost of secuity, to control crowds and direct traffic at the Staples center. The city of Los Angeles is giving I.O.U and force state workers to go furlough just to balance the state budget.
One more strike against the city goverment that dosent know how to manage there finances.

People fail to realize that when michael had his funeral and people from all over the world came they had to pay our high taxes that we had here in this state. Did they not rent cars,stay in hotels,eat fast food, pay for gas,go to grocery stores,visit amusement parks, all these things come with taxes,taxes, taxes, they paid the city back through taxes. They bought revenue to the city, fans from near and far paid for funeral through taxes. So some people need to back up, pump the brakes.

you know many people in Los Angeles have to have car washes just to pay or a coffin for their loved ones. Yes MJ was a legend, grea performer and all but 1.4 the city can't afford but the Jacksons that a drop n the bucket. the people showed how much they loved MJ now its their turn to show their grattitude for that. Help the city out. you know you can.

Jerry, it is difficult to ready you unclear post, but, yes, Joe Jackson is despicable, … you know what … you’re a freak’n retard. Stop posting, or find a high school graduate to do it for you.

Debbie, it is a shame that you don’t have the least bit of financial savvy. What part of “bottom line,” don’t you understand? The city will make money at the end of the month.

Don, you are so off topic I don’t even know why I am responding to your ridiculous comments. With that said, I am pretty sure that this was not ruled a suicide.

What to say, he was a great artist. The family should mourn. Maybe for once crowd control should have been left up to the mourners. Over a million for police protection ? It was a Lousville Parade being handled by the agreeved in LA. Pay ? of course the family should foot the bill.

First of all, the Jackson family did not need to do what they did for the fans. I felt it was quite gracious of them, as they realize many loved Michael.

I think the time to ask the family for funding would have been before the event, not after. Perhaps the tickets could have been sold then rather than raffled.

I just miss MICHAEL JACKSON.I hope that his family can get through this tough time especially his children.GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY!!!! REST IN PEACE MICHAEL JACKSON!!!!!!!

WOW! i'm glad i don't live on california these people are drownding in debt. and the city,adn the community are only worrying about some pop stars death go get a life

R.I.P Micheal Jackson

Ok, maybe I missed something over the last week or so. Did the state of CA pay for the funeral or did they pay for crowd/people control and security? I think it was the latter which is rightfully the states RESPONSIBILITY! Just as any state would have to should say, a movie project is in progress. A big game (Superbowl anyone?!). Concert. I can go on and on.

I think those who are griping are just bitter over their own circumstances and can't see the forest for the trees.

And for all the folk with the,"Will the state pay for mine" comments, the answer is NO! Because no one gives a rats patooty what happens to you but you and your family. So I can pretty much guarantee your funeral won't need crowd control or security.

The city of Los Angeles has money set aside in the budget for major events such as Michael Jackson's funeral. It is the city's responsibility to pay for security. The issue should never have been raised, let alone asking Michael Jackson's fans to pay for security when the money is already in the city's budget unspent. A web site to collect donations? Come on! Regardless of whether you like Michael Jackson or not, it is the city's responsibility.

I completely agree from the bottom of my heart with people who say its the state's responsibility to pay for the protection of people who have gathered for any kind of an event.Yes i do understand those too who r cribbing as our economy's condition is downright what should i say shitty and nobody would have noticed this expense of our state if our economy was robust.But MJ or his family or for that matters AEG is not to be blamed for our polticians downright unpatriotic policies.MJ was a good citizen paid his taxes,did his job extremely well and that was entertaining us and he went beyond that he went for charity which he considered as his duty.American economy and the system set up and posed by our esteemed politicians to be as a model for the whole world is infact a complete sham and they have screwed their very own people so good.And barack 's govt is going to do it one more time.the countries which the american policy makers have dubbed as slums or third worlds have never been shown in proper light to us .They have made us work so hard and made us pay for every damn thing that we dont know when and where things went wrong.our healthcare so to speak is soooooooooooo expensive that barack should tell at least now as he goes about beating the bush in india till now called the third world since it attained independence health care is free in all the govt hospitals and dental care is soooooooooooooooo cheap inspite of that country has been not number one economy until recently.secondly he just claimed we should make our kids study as china and india would cross us come on hes screwing just like his predecessors.china has very low percentage of graduates and india does have very high level of professional but has he told u why cause higher education is so cheap in india that anyone can go and study not like here people r under debt half of their lives.thirdly why is the property tax so high in americas in india till now being bracketed as third world has just metro towns who have to pay property tax that too for commercial lots.fourth why so much aid for pakistan when our state is in debt do the pakistanis deserve more our money than we do. no the answer is simple in the aid money never shows up at the place where its supposed to be but in the pockets of those who give and those who take.and last of all why r jobs r outsourced and then we r told we take higher wages but god forbid is it our fault.i feel sorry how we claim our world to be the first world.our citizens cannot produce enough children as they r so fucked up working and paying for everything and i fail to understand how come so called 3rd world countries managed to keep healthcare and housing and education so cheap.i'm sure MJ is not to be blamed for that.he was the son of america and our state he made our country's name shine just like any other soldier who laid life for our country and i cannot shame myself or my fellow country men by saying why my state cannot pay for our very own icon.thanks for listening

Michaeal Jackson was a great singer and entertainer but everyone is so wrapped up in his legend but can't see past the fact that his death was more that likely brought on by him own doing. A drug addict so we now worship drug addicts who kill themselves because they can sing and dance. There are many people still alive in LA and they need to keep their jobs not take time off while LA waists money for dead people. DId LA spend this much for Farrah? She paid taxes also. Most of MJ's royalty money is probably set up outside of this country. I doubt that they pay much in Taxes but that would be a great survey to see how much back taxes he owed. I will give him credit for his legacy but we are worshiping a very sick person. Is this what we want our children to learn? We only see what we want and hide the facts. But if the deal was made to cover the cost and offer the services of the law enforcement that I agree that Villaraigosa should be reprimanded but a deal was a deal. I feel sorry for thoses struggling to make bills and feed their families because of one person not thinking before he spoke. This is true politics You can not charge someone after the fact if they did not know of it prior to the incident. Sorry LA

cj needs to take a chill pill. we ae discussing MJ not the world. Lighten up yur going to have a breakdown.

dont worry eyd chill pill will soon be shoved up i should'nt count how many places up your body dont worry wait and watch if u dont wake up and see beyond your nose.we'll see who breaks down and who break dances

First of all the funeral was not free! And second what was not free was the police presence that was inevidable! The city of LA had to have that many officers to keep the peace not to do a favor for the Jackson family! Imagine how much damage and clean up would of costed the city with out the careful planning of the LA police department!

All these politicians all the worry about is money, A MAn just died for god sake!! a special man the public wanted to say good bye, people are morning that he is gone? there was no other place big enough to hold the amount of people who wanted to say goodbye, people from all over the world came to california, his passing alone helped the airlines, hotels, all the attractions of California etc, so why complain? and no he was not a police man, fireman, or a part of the Arm forces, he was just a man who was known for his extraodinary talent and gave us nearly 50 years of unforgetable music, his contribution to the Music, Entertainment Industry, California and the world is not to be acknowledged as just nothing, he had an impact and effected people's lives, he touched everybody!!! he contributed most of his wealth to charities, and brought a lot of money to California, and the world, even in death he gave 20% of his estate to Charities and is in the Guniess book of world record for being the only POP Icon to contribute so much to Charities he gave so much and asked for nothing back, he did it so humbly, he never did it for self praisel, he cared about people!! that is the problem with people and our world today they are so caught up with the unimportant things, they can't take a moment to just remember someone who is gone who meant so much to so many people, the Mayor doesn't care, but many people did care and just wanted to be there...The city will pay for it self and to even suggest that the family fit the bill is disgusting, California is greedy...what does the state and politicians do with all the tax payers money? they should not be in debt , all those politicians take all the money for them self, where does the money go? why do they have to be so greedy, that's Hollywood with all the tourists, and million dollar homes, great land marks, all the movie stars, I mean L.A. is one of the most expensive cities to live in, u mean to tell me they are going to act this way over the Death of Michael Jackson? A POP ICON, The home of Stars? he deserves so much respect and honor he has done so much!!! and his contribution exceeds more than an Entertainer he was a true Humanitarian and he needs to be recognized. Lay off off the rumors he was not a Pedifile! he was a good person...do not judge him the kid who accused him admitted that he lied on Michael Jackson...just Respect him he deserved the Memorial and a whole lot more, this is a huge loss! WE all Miss him... Everybody fussing over money... do something nice for someone without expecting something back... America is A very rich country, all the politicians need to stop being so greedy and fix their budgets and find out ways and solutions to create new jobs, new policies, new ways to generate money and funds, stop taxing the people so much , but actually do their jobs and stop complaining over a little memorial that meant so much to so many, they should focus on what is really important, making California a place were citizens can raise their families and not be stressed to pay their mortgage cause it's too high, or to be able to afford a home in L.A. make it so their are jobs,and great education for the children, good teachers, low crime, create new policies that work!!! so people can breath. Politicians should take responsibility for the errors they make, stop taking from the citizens , stop over taxing..fix your budgets!!!! Michael jackson deserved a whole lot more he is a great example of a human being...he was not a politician or a service worker, but he did a lot with his Career to make a difference, his work is admiral, deserving and shouldn't be forgotten!!

What i can say is that, I missed my idol..no can defeat him...

y'all bitched about MJJ when he was alive & y'all still bitching now that he is dead...for crying out loud America!!!! he is the Greatest entainer to have ever graced the world. LA city/c can & SHOULD settle the freaking bill. hell! COME raise funds from us in africa if you want. he was there for us during "we are the world" so we'll always be greatful, besides it'll be monies well spent (as compared to our fat a** politicians embezzlement of public funds)

I'm no Jackson fan but I'm quite sure that LA has generated it's fair share of revenue off Michael Jackson from all of the family, friends, and fans that were in town for the funeral. I'm sure the "King of Pop" will continue to be a revenue source for years to come. Most cities only wish they had a draw like Michael Jackson.

Regardless of what people might think about the late Michael Jackson he was a great singer and dancer, and during his lifetime, he paid more taxes than anyone you might even think it has to the state of California and to the Federal government. But, why is it that when it involves a person of color there are always the if, buts, and how comes? In reality, I think AEG should be paying the tab, since they will profit more than anyone else, and for Michael Jackson, may he rest in peace!

Regardless of what people might think about the late Michael Jackson he was a great singer and dancer, and during his lifetime, he paid more taxes than anyone you might even think it has to the state of California and to the Federal government. But, why is it that when it involves a person of color there are always the if, buts, and how comes? In reality, I think AEG should be paying the tab, since they will profit more than anyone else, and for Michael Jackson, may he rest in peace!

Regardless of what people might think about the late Michael Jackson he was a great singer and dancer, and during his lifetime, he paid more taxes than anyone you might even think it has to the state of California and to the Federal government. But, why is it that when it involves a person of color there are always the if, buts, and how comes? In reality, I think AEG should be paying the tab, since they will profit more than anyone else, and for Michael Jackson, may he rest in peace! The mayor is right; Police protection is for everyone, not just the rich and the white, or people who work for the government, and yes, that what budgets are for! Get your silly heads off of your butts and just move on with your lives!

Antoine, Just like no one would care about the average citizen when they passed but the family. Who cares about MJ. He's just another human being. He's not a God and never will be. He's not even saint material. Many people have done many charitable things for others and they aren't getting the notariety you MJ lovers are giving to him. Hang it up already!!! Let's give some attention to other pressing matters in this world. We're tired of hearing about MJ day after day. Let's move on already!!!

The family could have had a family service. Hello. Unless everyone will be given the same treatment don't expect the city to pay. What about the service men and women who protect us. They are far more important than an entertainer. What is wrong with America. The money spent on this memorial could have been put to better use. Does anyone know the meaning of poverty? We send millions of dollars to other countries before taking care of our own! The family should pay the price. They chose to make this into a show.