Mayor Rudy Clay says, "The memorial celebration in Gary, Indiana will be fit for a "King" that will be presented Gary, Indiana style."
Highlights of the celebration include performances by Gary's own recording artist, Deneice Williams, Marshall Thompson and the Chilites, Kellee Patterson, the first black Miss Indiana, Gary's own Broadway star, Chester Gregory, and recording group, Blaze. Speakers include Mayor Rudy Clay, Gary's own movie actor and producer, Fred "The Hammer" Williamson and Reverend Jesse Jackson. Additionally, an airplane flyover, a special Thriller performance by the Family Christian Center and a 500 voice choir will sing "We Are The World." Other special performances from Gary artists will also be presented. Joe Jackson, the family patriarch will attend the event and special presentations will be made to the Jackson Family. Food concessions will be available and retail vendors will be on hand for purchase of memorabilia items.
Mayor Clay further stated, "Michael Jackson put Gary, Indiana on the global map and made Gary, citizens proud. His name is a household name anywher where traveled in the world. We will never say goodbye."
The home town celebration for Michael is expected to attract thousands of Michael Jackson fans from throughout the world. Seating at the stadium will be on a first-come first-served basis. The stadium is located at 5th & Pennsylvania Street. Doors open at 4pm. For more information visit our website at www.gary.in.us.
