The fans of the self-proclaimed King of Pop are planning a series of rallies to show their support for Michael Jackson.
Fans' Web sites are abuzz with plans for rallies Sunday in Lompoc and Monday in Santa Maria, and a larger rally is tentatively scheduled for the beginning of March, when many trial observers believe opening arguments will begin.
The Web sites are posting messages calling for an "MJ Vigil of Faith" Sunday at Ryon Park in Lompoc, at Ocean Avenue and O Street, from 2:30 p.m. until dusk.
The posting also calls for fans to bring banners, cards and small votive candles.
The Michael Jackson Fan Club's Web site, www.mjfanclub.net, is reporting a rally planned for Monday in Santa Maria, to coincide with the start of jury selection.
The fan club is also reporting plans for a four-day rally beginning Feb. 26. Messages on the site encourage people from all over the world to attend and wear white as a show of solidarity with Jackson.
"The eyes of the world will be upon Santa Maria. These allegations are unfounded and without merit. Come together for Michael," the message states.
Santa Maria city officials said they received one inquiry from a fan asking about closing down one of the streets near the courthouse so fans could march. After a conversation, officials told the inquirer that fans could march on the sidewalk without city permission or interference.
Otherwise, officials said, the city has not had any request for parade permits.
* Staff writer Malia Spencer can be reached at 739-2219 or by e-mail at
mspencer@pulitzer.net.
Jan. 29, 2005
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